The tradition of "Chiang Ku" involves hanging an assortment of sacrificial gifts atop a very high "solitary platform" and a competition of allowing crowds of people to vie for. It is said that the original purpose of this activity was to scare away any remaining spirits that have not returned to the underworld. Because of the high danger involved, this activity was prohibited for a long period during the Ching Dynasty. In 1991, this tradition was revived in the village of Toucheng in Ilan County. The platform tent poles are erected in accordance with the old custom, but the method of competition has been improved.

      When building the platform tent poles, there are several taboos that must be followed. For instance, the major prayer personnel must abstain from eating meat; persons who are in mourning and women who have recently given birth are forbidden from being nearby; and women shouldn't come into contact with ritual implements associated with the platform tent poles. Failure to observe these taboos could result in misfortune.

      The "Chiang Ku" event is held on the last day of the 7th month. Prior to the competition, the poles are heavily greased with cow fat. The competing teams then try to propel one of their members to the top of the platform by forming a human pyramid. After reaching the platform, the team members keep climbing onto the "solitary poles" and retrieve items attached to the poles and throw them down to the people underneath. The final item is the "Tail Wind Flag" on top of the pole, the capture of which represents the final victory. People believe that the holder of this flag will obtain the protection by deities and spirits from misfortune, and that any ship hoisting it will encounter smooth voyages and return home with bountiful gains.