Hunting in the mountainous regions could be very challenging but they developed methods to make it easier and more efficient. The easy access to the ocean from most parts of the island also meant that many tribes could fish for a source of protein.
Many of these methods have evolved over the years with new technologies but the traditions and customs remain. Today, you can still find many places using terraced farming and lots of seafood in any seaside city or town.
Today, the main challenges people face are the weather and natural disasters. Being located on the edge of two tectonic plates, Taiwan is known for large earthquakes. On April 3rd, 2024, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake happened on the east coast of the island. This large earthquake caused lots of damage to roads and buildings. It has really affected that part of the island and led to limited access to Taroko National Park as they repair the significant road damage.
Since I moved here, I have felt many earthquakes. None of them have been large enough to cause damage to buildings and I have always been safe and sound. Growing up near Seattle, Washington, I had regular earthquake drills in school so I was well prepared. I also have an emergency backpack in case I ever have to evacuate from my apartment. Because of the regularity of earthquakes, when people are designing and constructing buildings here, they take into consideration how the building will be affected by an intense earthquake. This way, most of our buildings are incredibly safe!
Another natural disaster we have to be careful of is typhoons. Fortunately, these are far more predictable than earthquakes but they can be just as damaging.
