Located in Jialan Village, Jinfeng Township, Taitung, “Original Corner” is founded by Ms. Yu-Lan Ke, a woman of the Rukai tribe. She was originally a pediatric physical therapist in Taichung. After Typhoon Morakot caused devastating mudslides in Jialan Village, the government expropriated most of the land. Only a small corner and a simple hut beneath a large tree remained, carrying her deepest memories. In 2019, she established “Original Corner,” where the hope of preserving tribal culture began from this small place and gradually expanded.
Introduction
Originally created as a space to reconnect with her maternal cultural roots, “Original Corner” transformed in 2023 from a simple home kitchen into a culinary classroom offering agri-food experiences that introduce forest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Ms. Ke has not only crafted a sustainable and friendly space for food and agricultural education but also actively promotes the preservation of tribal culture. One of the signature dishes she often mentions is “Laglag,” made by wrapping pork belly with taro powder, seasoned simply with salt, and then wrapped in wild leaves such as shell ginger and false roselle leaves before steaming. This dish is traditionally served only during weddings or harvest festivals, making it a cherished delicacy. She has therefore incorporated this Rukai dish into hands-on experiences, making it a key part of her food education programs.
Features of Agricultural Tourism
Vegetable
ialan Village, nestled beside pristine mountain areas, offers a complete farm-to-table experience, making it an ideal destination for agri-food education.
The area is rich in diverse crops and wild plants. Indigenous spice plant (Makau) features fragrant young leaves with citrus notes. Bitter nightshade is often used by Indigenous people to make soup believed to relieve hangovers. Shell ginger’s underground rhizome can substitute for ginger, while its leaves are used for wrapping and serving food. Most unique is the false roselle leaf, whose large tender leaves are perfect for wrapping and preserving food, making it an essential edible plant in the tribe. When combined with chili, it can be made into a spicy sauce that is a must-buy souvenir for visitors.
Through immersive agri-food activities, Ms. Ke skillfully passes down traditional knowledge of wild plant gathering and seamlessly connects it with modern culinary practices. With well-equipped kitchens, visitors can experience cooking techniques and ingredients in harmony, falling in love with “Original Corner” through taste.
