Taitung: Taiwan’s Peaceful Coastal Escape for Nature and Culture Lovers
If you’re looking to experience Taiwan’s untouched natural beauty, deep-rooted indigenous traditions, and a pace of life that truly allows you to slow down, then Taitung (台東) is where your journey should lead. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, this often-overlooked destination is a hidden gem known for its stunning coastline, lush mountains, artistic soul, and spiritual calm.
Taitung is a place where the Pacific Ocean kisses rolling green hills, and where colorful hot air balloons float over rice paddies during sunrise. It’s home to Taiwan’s most diverse indigenous communities, unspoiled landscapes, and healing hot springs. With fewer crowds and a deep cultural heartbeat, Taitung invites you to travel not just across a region—but into a different rhythm of life.
📍 Where Is Taitung?
Taitung County sits along Taiwan’s southeast coast, facing the Pacific Ocean, and is bordered by the Central Mountain Range to the west. Its unique geography makes it one of the most naturally diverse areas in Taiwan.
Getting There:
By Train: Take the TRA (Taiwan Railways) from Taipei, Hualien, or Kaohsiung. The ride is long (3–6 hours) but scenic.
By Plane: Flights from Taipei to Taitung Airport take about 1 hour.
By Car/Scooter: If you’re road-tripping down the east coast, Taitung is a fantastic stop between Hualien and Kenting.
🌟 Why Visit Taitung?
🏞️ Nature Without the Crowds – Mountains, valleys, rivers, and the ocean, unspoiled and peaceful
🌿 Indigenous Culture – Home to over seven tribal groups, with rich traditions, festivals, and crafts
🪂 Hot Air Balloon Festival – One of Asia’s most famous and colorful sky festivals
🚲 Scenic Cycling Trails – Ideal for slow, immersive travel through the countryside
🧘 Relaxed, Artistic Vibe – Think surf towns, yoga retreats, and indie coffee shops
🌄 Top Attractions in Taitung
1. Luye Highland (鹿野高台)
This highland area is famous for hosting the Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Festival every summer. The stunning green hills are a launching point for balloon rides and also offer views over the East Rift Valley.
Don’t Miss:
Hot air balloon rides (June–August)
Paragliding and sunrise views
Tea plantations nearby
2. Sanxiantai (三仙台)
A dramatic arched footbridge connects the mainland to a small offshore island filled with unique rock formations, sea breezes, and panoramic ocean views. The name means “Terrace of the Three Immortals” and the area is steeped in myth.
Perfect for:
Sunrise photography
Coastal walks
Tidepool exploration
3. Taitung Forest Park (台東森林公園)
Just outside Taitung City, this sprawling natural park is filled with bamboo groves, lakes, and peaceful bike paths. It’s a great place to relax and spot local wildlife.
4. Tiehua Music Village (鐵花村音樂聚落)
This creative space in downtown Taitung showcases local musicians, artists, and indigenous performers. Visit in the evening to enjoy live music, artisan markets, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Vibe: Bohemian night market meets tribal soul
5. Dulan (都蘭)
A coastal village turned cultural hub, Dulan is beloved for its surfing beaches, independent art scene, and creative community. The nearby Sugar Factory Art Center has become a space for exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events.
Top experiences:
Surf or chill at Dulan Beach
Visit tribal art galleries
Hang out at laid-back cafés with ocean views
6. East Rift Valley Scenic Area (花東縱谷)
Stretching from Hualien to Taitung, this area offers rolling rice paddies, mountain backdrops, and hot springs. Rent a scooter or bike and wander through villages like Chishang, known for its famous rice and Mr. Brown Avenue.
7. Green Island (綠島) & Orchid Island (蘭嶼)
Off the coast of Taitung are two of Taiwan’s most unique islands:
Green Island – Hot springs by the ocean, diving spots, and prison history
Orchid Island – Home to the Tao (Yami) people and traditional boat-making culture
Ferries or short flights make them accessible for adventurous side trips.
🍱 What to Eat in Taitung
Taitung’s cuisine is fresh, earthy, and rooted in its indigenous and agricultural traditions.
Local Delicacies:
Millet wine – A ceremonial drink made by indigenous tribes
Flying fish – Especially from Orchid Island
Aboriginal BBQ – Smoked meats and mountain vegetables
Chishang bento (池上便當) – Famous railway boxed meals made with local rice
Cactus ice cream – Bright purple and unique to the region
Makauy (馬告) – A native spice with citrus-pepper flavor, used in meats and soups
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Taitung
Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather, perfect for hiking and biking
Summer (June–August): Hot, but perfect for beach trips and the Hot Air Balloon Festival
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Great time for festivals, food, and exploring the valleys
Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild weather with fewer crowds, though cooler at night
🚴 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Taitung City & Tiehua Vibes
Explore Taitung Forest Park
Visit Tiehua Music Village in the evening
Try local aboriginal dishes and stroll downtown
Day 2: Luye Highland & Rift Valley
Hot air balloon ride or tea tasting in Luye
Cycle through Chishang and eat a famous bento
Sunset at Mr. Brown Avenue
Day 3: Dulan & Sanxiantai
Morning surf or chill in Dulan
Explore Sanxiantai and walk the legendary bridge
End the day with seafood by the coast
Optional Add-on: Take a 2-day side trip to Green Island or Orchid Island
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Taitung
Taitung isn’t about checking off sights — it’s about immersing yourself in a lifestyle. Here, days start with the sun rising over the Pacific and end with music under the stars. Between those moments are winding trails, ancestral songs, and quiet moments by the sea.
If you’re seeking an authentic, soulful experience that connects you with Taiwan’s nature, indigenous roots, and creative spirit, Taitung will speak to your heart.
Top Tips for Visiting Taitung: Taiwan’s Tranquil East Coast Escape
If you’re looking to experience a different side of Taiwan — one that’s rich in indigenous culture, wild landscapes, and a slower pace of life — Taitung is calling your name. Located on Taiwan’s lesser-traveled east coast, Taitung offers a breathtaking mix of ocean views, rice paddies, hot springs, and mountain serenity. Whether you’re a nature lover, surfer, or just seeking some peace and quiet, here are the top tips for visiting this hidden gem of Taiwan.
🚆 1. Getting There: Scenic Routes Are Part of the Experience
Taitung is remote — and that’s part of its charm! There are a few ways to get there:
Train: Take the TRA (Taiwan Railways) from Hualien, Kaohsiung, or Taipei. The ride along the coast is stunning.
Plane: Daily flights from Taipei Songshan to Taitung Airport take just under an hour.
Drive: Rent a car or hire a driver if you want to stop at coastal viewpoints and small towns along the way.
✅ Pro Tip: Book train tickets early, especially on weekends and holidays.
🏡 2. Stay in a Homestay or Rural Guesthouse
To really feel Taitung’s spirit, skip the big hotels and stay in a minsu (民宿) — a local guesthouse. Many are family-run and surrounded by rice fields, mountains, or ocean views.
✅ Recommended Areas:
Taitung City – for convenience
Chishang & Luye – for rural vibes
Donghe & Dulan – for beach and surf culture
🌾 3. Slow Down and Embrace the Pace
Taitung isn’t about rushing. It’s about enjoying the moment — sipping tea while watching the clouds roll over the hills, biking through rice paddies, or listening to waves crash on quiet beaches.
✅ Mindset: Take it easy. The slower rhythm is part of the magic.
🚴 4. Explore by Bike or Scooter
The open landscapes and light traffic make Taitung perfect for cycling or scootering. Rent a bike to explore places like:
Chishang Rice Fields – picture-perfect paddies and the famous Mr. Brown Avenue
Luye Highland – rolling hills and paragliding views
Taitung Seaside Park – a peaceful oceanfront ride
✅ Pro Tip: Rent an electric scooter if you’re not used to riding in Taiwan’s sun and heat.
🌊 5. Visit the East Coast’s Natural Wonders
Taitung is packed with unique natural landscapes. Don’t miss:
Sanxiantai (三仙台) – a dramatic arch bridge and coastal rock formations
Xiao Yehliu – a mini version of Yehliu with fewer crowds
Dulan Coastline – great for beach walks and sunrise views
Jhiben Hot Springs – soak your stress away in mountain hot spring resorts
🎶 6. Feel the Indigenous Culture
Taitung is home to several indigenous tribes, and their traditions, music, and art play a big role in local life.
Visit the National Museum of Prehistory
Join an indigenous cultural tour or workshop
Time your visit for the Amis Music Festival or Harvest Festival
✅ Be respectful: Many villages welcome visitors, but always ask before entering homes or taking photos.
🌈 7. Enjoy the Festivals and Hot Air Balloons
If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the Taitung International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Luye. Watching the balloons rise over the highlands at sunrise is unforgettable.
✅ Tip: Go early to catch sunrise launches, and bring a picnic blanket!
🐟 8. Eat Fresh, Local, and Seasonal
Taitung is known for its organic farming and fresh seafood. Top things to try:
Millet wine – a traditional indigenous drink
Flying fish – especially along the coast
Rice dishes from Chishang – the rice here is among Taiwan’s best
Handmade mochi and brown sugar treats
✅ Markets to Visit: Taitung Night Market, Donghai Night Market, and Dulan Saturday Market for crafts and snacks.
🏄♂️ 9. Surf or Chill in Dulan
Dulan is Taitung’s artsy beach town — part surf spot, part backpacker hangout, and full of creative energy.
Chill at a local café or beach bar
Take a surf lesson
Explore art studios and handcraft shops
✅ Fun Fact: Many expats and local artists call Dulan home — it has a very international yet laid-back vibe.
🌤️ 10. Be Weather-Ready
Taitung has a tropical climate, so weather can be sunny one minute and rainy the next — especially in summer and typhoon season.
✅ Pack: A lightweight rain jacket, sunblock, hat, and mosquito repellent if you’re heading into nature.
Final Thoughts
Taitung is a place to disconnect and reconnect — with nature, with culture, and with yourself. It’s raw, real, and deeply rewarding for those who take the time to explore it fully. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, pedaling through rice paddies, or dancing at a festival under the stars, Taitung offers a kind of peace that’s hard to find elsewhere.
So take a breath, slow your steps, and let Taitung guide you back to what really matters.