Explore the Forest Tribe in Darjen to the Fullest – A Super Fun One-Day Town Adventure

Nestled at the southernmost part of Taitung, Darjen is home to abundant natural virgin forests and traditional Paiwan culture, while its stunning coastline draws numerous backpackers. The century-old Tusbay Suspension Bridge within the area is a must-see attraction. Set aside some time to explore Darjen with your family!

Taiwan keteleeria is an endemic species of Taiwan. It grows slowly, has dense wood with beautiful grain, and is a great building material. When the trunk is injured, it secretes an oily sap, hence the name "oil fir." The Dawu Taiwan Keteleeria Nature Reserve spans 5.04 hectares and hosts a diverse array of animals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plant species.
 
Address: Mountainous area of Xinhua Village, Darjen Township, Taitung County

Nantian Coast Aquatic Park is a seaside park built along the Pacific coast. Stretching from the road to the shoreline, the park features an ocean-view platform where visitors can gaze at the Pacific Ocean. The park is lush with flowers and trees, and covered in green grass. From the road to the coast, the ground is covered with smooth and jagged rocks of various shapes, many marked with white quartz lines – a signature trait of Nantian stones.
 
Address: Seaside, Nantian Village, Darjen Township, Taitung County

The Qinchuiying Ancient Trail was historically a trade route between indigenous tribes and Han Chinese, as well as the path used by the Makatao people of the Pingpu tribe when migrating to Taitung. The trail is about 15.4 kilometers long and not accessible by vehicle; it takes roughly one day to hike the entire distance on foot. The elevation along the trail ranges from 200 to 1,450 meters, offering views of both the northern and southern Dawu Mountains. Hikers wishing to enter the regulated area above the checkpoint must obtain a mountain entry permit in advance.
 
Address: Jialuoban Tribe, Darjen Township, Taitung County

Known as the hometown of the hairy crab, Tusbay Tribe hosts an annual Hairy Crab Festival every March and April when the crabs are large and their meat is especially tender. Although the hairy crab is a local specialty, what truly captivates visitors is the strong Paiwan cultural atmosphere that permeates the entire tribe. The walls along the tribal streets are adorned with traditional Paiwan patterns, and many homes feature Paiwan wood carvings. With a guided tour by tribal members, every sculpture, building, and even plant in the village comes alive with stories.
 
Address: Tusbay Village, Darjen Township, Taitung County