· TW

Taitung

Taitung, Taitung, Taiwan

Escape to Taitung: Where Taiwan's Mountains Meet the Sea Craving an authentic Taiwanese experience brimming with natural beauty, indigenous culture, and laid-back charm? Look no further than Taitung, a hidden gem nestled…

#scenic#coastal#cultural#outdoor activities#night market

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Taitung.

Top Hotels in Taitung

Top Flights to Taitung

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Taitung.

Tours

Taitung Forest Park Exploration

Discover the natural beauty of Taitung Forest Park, known for its serene lakes and lush greenery. Perfect for a peaceful walk or a bike ride.

Shopping

Taitung Night Market Shopping

Explore the bustling Taitung Night Market, offering a variety of local foods, crafts, and cultural items.

Outdoor

Hot Air Balloon Ride over Luye Plateau

Experience breathtaking views of Taitung's landscapes from a hot air balloon. A must-try for adventure seekers.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Taitung.

Currency

NT$ | TWD | New Taiwan Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Taitung, Taitung, Taiwan is around '0.1 million'.

Languages

Mandarin, Mandarin, Taiwanese Hokkien

Average weather

Taitung

Jan

23°16°

Feb

23°16°

Mar

25°18°

Apr

27°20°

May

29°23°

Jun

31°25°

Jul

32°26°

Aug

32°26°

Sep

31°25°

Oct

29°23°

Nov

27°21°

Dec

24°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Taitung.

What people love

Taitung, located in the southeastern part of Taiwan, offers a unique travel experience with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to Taitung:

Natural beauty: Taitung is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, coastline, and hot springs. Visitors can explore the East Rift Valley, hike in the Taitung Forest Park, relax on the beautiful beaches, or visit the famous Green Island for snorkeling and diving.
Indigenous culture: Taitung is home to several indigenous tribes, such as the Amis and the Paiwan. Travelers can learn about the rich indigenous culture by visiting tribal villages, attending cultural performances, and trying traditional food and crafts.
Local cuisine: Taitung is famous for its fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Visitors can savor delicious local dishes at night markets, street stalls, and restaurants. Be sure to try specialties like flying fish roe, rice noodles, and millet wine.
Outdoor activities: Taitung offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. From cycling along the coastline on the Huadong Coastal Highway to paragliding over the mountains, there are plenty of options for outdoor fun in Taitung.
Festivals and events: Taitung hosts various cultural festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Taiwan International Balloon Festival, the Hot Air Balloon Night Glow, and the International Land Art Festival. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.

Overall, Taitung is a great destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature, culture, and outdoor adventures.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Taitung, Taiwan, include:

Limited transportation options: Taitung is located on the southeastern coast of Taiwan, which means it may be less accessible compared to other popular tourist destinations in the country. This could result in fewer transportation options and potentially longer travel times to reach Taitung.
Language barrier: While many people in Taiwan speak English, there may be instances in Taitung where English is not as widely spoken or understood. This could potentially make it challenging to communicate and navigate the area for travelers who do not speak Mandarin or Taiwanese Hokkien.
Limited tourist infrastructure: Taitung is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, but it may have less developed tourist infrastructure compared to other more well-known destinations in Taiwan. This could mean fewer accommodation options, restaurants, and tourist services available to visitors.
Weather considerations: Taitung is prone to typhoons and heavy rainfall during certain seasons, which could impact travel plans and outdoor activities. Travelers should consider the weather patterns in Taitung when planning their trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Taitung is a more laid-back and relaxed destination, so travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or bustling entertainment options may find the city lacking in these aspects.

It's important to note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel experiences. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead when visiting a new destination to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Taitung, located on the southeastern coast of Taiwan, is a region rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity. Its history is shaped by indigenous cultures, colonial influences, and modern development.

Indigenous Heritage

Taitung has been home to several indigenous groups, including the Amis, Puyuma, Rukai, and Bunun peoples. These communities have deep-rooted traditions and a strong connection to the land, which is reflected in local festivals, crafts, and music.

Colonial Era

During the 17th century, Taiwan was a site of interest for various colonial powers. The Dutch briefly controlled parts of Taiwan, followed by the Spanish. However, it was during the Qing Dynasty (1683-1895) that Taitung began to see more structured development, especially with the migration of Han Chinese settlers.

Japanese Rule

In 1895, after the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan. Under Japanese rule (1895-1945), Taitung saw significant infrastructure development, including roads, railways, and schools. The Japanese also undertook efforts to assimilate indigenous peoples, which had lasting effects on local cultures.

Post-War Era

After World War II, Taiwan was returned to China under the Republic of China government. Taitung, like other parts of Taiwan, underwent modernization and economic development, but it remained more rural and less industrialized compared to the western part of the island.

Modern Taitung

Today, Taitung is celebrated for its natural landscapes, including the East Rift Valley and the Pacific coastline. The region is known for its hot air balloon festival, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival, which attracts tourists from around the world.

Significant Landmarks

Taitung Forest Park: Often referred to as the "Lungs of Taitung," this park offers expansive green spaces and scenic bike trails.
National Museum of Prehistory: This museum showcases the rich prehistoric and indigenous history of Taiwan, with a focus on the cultural heritage of the island's indigenous peoples.
Sanxiantai: A geological formation and tourist attraction featuring a long footbridge to a small island with interesting rock formations and diverse marine life.
Luye Highlands: Known for tea plantations and as a site for paragliding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Festivals

Harvest Festival: Celebrated by indigenous communities, this festival is a vibrant display of traditional music, dance, and rituals.
Makapahay: A traditional Amis festival that celebrates the millet harvest with songs, dances, and feasting.

Taitung continues to be a region where traditional and modern influences coexist, offering both residents and visitors a unique perspective on Taiwan's cultural and natural heritage.