From long sandy beaches to jungle-covered mountains, Taitung County is known for its pristine natural landscapes. The region is perched on the southern tip of Taiwan and charms with its beautiful scenery and a laid-back lifestyle. Explore scenic cycling trails, escape to offshore islands and visit picturesque rural villages surrounded by rice paddies and tea plantations.
Things to do in Taitung County
Relaxed and low-key, Taitung City is a gateway to the county. It’s worth spending a few days exploring this charismatic coastal city, where centuries-old Taoist temples and shrines stand alongside trendy cafes and boutiques. The Railway Art Village district has a bohemian feel and is filled with hip bars and bistros.
The Guanshan Bicycle Trail winds through Taitung County and treats you to the staggeringly beautiful scenery. The route through Longtian Village takes you past emerald-green rice paddies, while the trails around Chishang skirt the foothills of rugged mountains.
Every year, hundreds of colourful balloons take to the skies for the annual Taiwan Hot Air Balloon Festival held in Luye. Scenic flights unlock a bird’s eye perspective of the East Rift Valley. If you miss balloon season in July and August, the Luye Plateau commands stunning views over the valley. You can also get your pulse racing with tandem paragliding flights.
Across Taitung County, you’ll find restaurants specialising in locally caught seafood. Save your appetite for sailfish, skipjack tuna and other speciality dishes. Bubble tea is a Taiwanese classic and is a great way to cool down on a hot day.
Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, Green Island is a paradise for snorkelers. Day trips to the island take you to historic lighthouses, hidden caves and steaming saltwater hot springs. Nearby Orchid Island will enchant you with its turquoise bays, rocky beaches and lush mountains reminiscent of a Jurassic Park film set.
Getting around Taitung County
Local buses and taxis are a quick and easy way to get around Taitung City while buses also run to towns and villages across Taitung County. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the county at your own pace. Ferries to offshore islands depart from Fugang Harbor near Taitung City.