Most Gaoshan people live in the mountainous areas and valleys along the eastern coast of Taiwan Island and on the Isle of Lanyu. Rather than retaining one cohesive language, the Gaoshan people have a total of 22 languages divided into many branches. Each one differs in vocabulary and grammar. Because of the different dialects and different locales, the Gaoshan are divided into many sub-groups.

Some Gaoshan tattoo their faces, limbs or sometimes the entire body. The designs are objects found in nature or legendary creatures. In some sub-groups, women must tattoo their bodies before they can marry. This tradition has been passed down through generations, and despite the pain involved, it remains a part of their culture.

The Gaoshan are also expert carvers. Carved designs appear on personal ornaments, musical instruments, doors, windows, ceilings, beams, weapons, and religious paraphernalia, among other things. The designs often include human figures, animals, flowers, plants, or geometrical designs, but most prominent is the serpent. Likewise, the carved wooden jar is a favorite. The houses of some sub-groups have elaborate decorations on the pillars, beams, rafters, and lintels of both doors and windows.