Yuanli Township in Miaoli County is known as the "Granary of Miaoli," with the largest rice cultivation area and yield in the county. The rice field painting technology developed by the local Farmers’ Association has become a prominent tourist attraction throughout Taiwan. This year’s second-phase rice crop painting features the themes of “Dajia Mazu Ritual” along with cat and dog patterns, using regenerated rice for the first time to showcase faster growth. The Farmers’ Association has also released aerial footage of the entire scene for the first time, inviting the public to visit and enjoy the view.
The first-phase rice painting earlier this year was themed “Heavenly Empress Rice Ride,” combining the Mazu belief with a blessing parade around the villages, garnering attention and praise from residents and tourists alike. The second-phase painting continues the Mazu culture, using regenerated rice for the first time to depict the lively images of “Dajia Mazu Ritual” along with adorable cat and dog motifs. The painted rice field is designed with green and red rice areas, and while the full picture cannot be seen from the ground, it comes to life vividly when viewed from above.
The design of the painted rice field consists of green and red rice areas. (Image/Source: FTV News website)
The Yuanli Township Farmers’ Association stated that the grand jiao ritual (daoism exorcism) will be held at Dajia Jenn Lann Temple at the end of the year. Given the frequent exchanges between Yuanli and Dajia, the association has chosen to continue using the remaining rice stalks from the first-phase crop to create a Q-version Mazu image with regenerated rice, symbolizing blessings for a bountiful harvest for farmers.
Additionally, the other side of the rice painting draws inspiration from the modern trend of pet ownership, using cats and dogs as the theme. Combined with the scenic views of the Love Orchard, when viewed from the observation deck, the cat and dog images sway with the rice waves, making them appear more lively and vibrant.
The painted rice fields in front of the Love Orchard feature cat and dog motifs. When viewed from the observation deck, the cat and dog images sway with the rice waves, making them appear even more lively. (Image/Source: United Daily News, photo by Wu Jiemu)
This painting activity combines local beliefs with modern pet culture, showcasing the unique charm of Yuanli Township’s rice field art. It not only promotes agriculture but also enhances local tourism development.
