With the surrounding mountains frequently covered by a blanket of mist, Meinung is famous for its scenic beauty. As a community in which 95% of its residents are of Hakka descent, Meinung has also been an important enclave of Hakka culture in Taiwan. The relative isolation from urbanization and industrialization has allowed much of its Hakka cultural heritage to remain relatively intact, including its language, architecture, and many traditional customs, till recent years. The relative isolation has also allowed the township to maintain its lush agricultural landscape consisting mainly of tobacco farms. Started during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, tobacco production has been an important part of the local economy. In addition, the labor-intensive practice required for tobacco production has further reinforced the traditional social and cultural ties in the community. However, behind the scenic landscape and cultural heritage is a community in struggle and facing crisis. Like many of Taiwan's agricultural communities, Meinung also faces the problems of rural exodus, stagnant local economy and declining agriculture profits. Many of its residents now live or commute to work in the nearby Kaohsiung City. Valued-added agriculture and cultural tourism are now seen as alternatives for local economic development.