Yilan Creole in Taiwan
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| People Name: | Yilan Creole |
| Country: | Taiwan |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 3,100 |
| World Population: | 3,100 |
| Primary Language: | Chinese, Mandarin |
| Primary Religion: | Ethnic Religions |
| Christian Adherents: | 10.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 5.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Taiwan Indigenous |
| Affinity Bloc: | East Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Yilan Creole people are a small ethnic group residing in Yilan County, Taiwan. Their language, Yilan Creole, is the world’s only Japanese-based creole, formed through contact between Japanese colonists and speakers of the Atayal and Seediq indigenous languages during Japan’s colonial rule of Taiwan (1895–1945). Though the language was only formally identified in 2006 by Professor Chien Yuechen, it has been spoken for generations in the villages of Aohua, Chiyang, Hanhsi, and Tungyueh.The Taiwanese government does not officially recognize Yilan Creole, and it is not taught in schools. It is now spoken mainly by the elders and is considered endangered.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Yilan Creole people live in rural communities along Taiwan’s east coast. Their lifestyle is modest, often centered around agriculture, fishing, and local crafts. The lack of government recognition for their language and culture has contributed to social marginalization. Younger generations are increasingly shifting to Mandarin or other dominant languages, leading to a decline in intergenerational transmission of Yilan Creole.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The majority of Yilan Creole people practice ethnic religions, with spiritual traditions rooted in nature worship, ancestor veneration, and tribal rituals. A small minority identifies as Christian, and among them are disciples.
What Are Their Needs?
Language preservation is critical, as Yilan Creole is endangered and lacks institutional support. Educational resources in their language are nonexistent, contributing to cultural erosion.Spiritual outreach is limited, and few have access to discipleship or contextualized Christian teaching.Community development efforts are needed to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Prayer Points
Pray for discipleship programs that equip new believers to grow in faith and disciple others.Pray for revitalization efforts to preserve and promote the Yilan Creole language.Ask God to raise up Taiwanese Christians who will share the gospel with the Yilan Creole in culturally sensitive ways.Pray for unity and hope among the Yilan Creole people as they navigate cultural and generational transitions.