List of Indigenous peoples of Taiwan

Traditionally, the Taiwanese indigenous peoples are usually classified into two groups by their places of residence.

Research on ethnic groups of Taiwanese indigenous peoples started in late 19th century, when Taiwan was under Japanese rule.

However, after World War II, the government refused to recognize the plains indigenous peoples.

The Taiwanese government officially recognises 16 ethnic groups of mountains indigenous peoples.

Kavalan and Thao are disputed to be part of mountains or plains indigenous peoples.

Families of Formosan languages before Chinese colonization, per Blust. [ 1 ] Malayo-Polynesian (red) may lie within Eastern Formosan (purple). Note that the white section in the northwest of the country does not indicate a complete absence of aboriginal people from that part of Taiwan.
Young residents in the Bunun village of Lona, Taiwan dress up for the traditional Christmas holiday (not an official holiday in Taiwan ).