Kenting Hot Air Balloon Carnival Kicks Off in July – Watch Taiwan’s Only Airship Soar Across the Skies

▲ Hot air balloons are all the rage across Taiwan this year, and Kenting is launching its first-ever “Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival”! (Photo / from2014 Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival Fan Page)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Kenting, a renowned tourist destination, is also joining the hot air balloon craze this summer. The “2014 Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival,” to be held at Kenting Xiaolenyuan Resort on July 5, will not only feature sizzling samba dancers parading on-site, but also offer hot air balloon tethered flight experiences, music and light shows. Most notably, it will introduce Taiwan’s only “hot air balloon airship,” making it the most unique highlight in the southern skies this summer.

Not to be outshined by Taitung’s hot air balloon events, this year’s Kenting will bring together land, sea, and sky activities to satisfy all visitors in one go. The newly launched “Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival” allows guests to take to the skies with the “Hot Air Balloon Tethered Flight” experience, ascending 60 meters above ground to enjoy a whole new perspective of Kenting. The “Walk-In Hot Air Balloon Exploration Tour” lets participants step inside the balloon envelope — normally reserved only for pilots — and discover the secrets of ballooning through guided tours.

▲ Taiwan’s only hot air balloon airship will be the most eye-catching attraction soaring over the sun-drenched skies of Kenting this summer. (Photo / Provided by organizer Happy White Sand)

The biggest highlight of the event is undoubtedly the introduction of Taiwan’s only hot air balloon airship. Organizers revealed that after obtaining approval from the Civil Aeronautics Administration, the airship will circle within a one-kilometer radius of the event site. However, despite being able to carry passengers, it is limited to just two people, including the pilot, and due to airspace restrictions, no paid flights can be offered. Therefore, the airship will not be open to the general public, and only VIP guests can board it for free. Visitors can still enjoy the rare sight of the airship soaring through the skies.

The organizers have also come up with a special plan for couples looking to pop the question this year, curating a “Hot Air Balloon Proposal” event. They’ll help prepare flowers, wine, proposal banners, and assist with the proposal itself, while a photographer will be on hand to capture the romantic moment when the answer is yes. Couples can book their proposal slot up to three days in advance.

%伎讯∪绕?蚣文昊?锬愠稣校?妹慷孕氯硕寄芰粝履淹?那蠡槔寺?匾洹（示意图／取自2014 Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival Fan Page)

The “2014 Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival” will run from July 5 to August 31 at Kenting Xiaolenyuan Resort. In addition to the main activities mentioned, there will also be giant inflatable displays, Kenting night runs, a balloon-themed pavilion showcasing the history of hot air balloons, technical kite performances, Segway experiences, and more. An imported Western high-altitude parachute simulation machine will let visitors experience the thrill of skydiving inside a powerful vertical wind tunnel. On the evenings of July 26 and August 16, there will also be “Hot Air Balloon Music and Light Shows,” where balloons are illuminated in vibrant colors set to music, showcasing a completely different look from their daytime appearance. Extra shows may be added depending on the situation, ensuring non-stop excitement both day and night at Kenting Xiaolenyuan Resort.

For detailed event information and reservations, visitthe “2014 Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival” official websiteorthe fan page.Search.

【2014 Kenting International Hot Air Balloon Carnival】

Dates:July 5 to August 31, 2014
Location:Kenting Xiaolenyuan Resort (No. 205, Zhongshan Rd., Manzhou Village, Pingtung County)

“Hot Air Balloon Tethered Flight Experience”:

Times:Daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM during the event period; limited to 200 participants per day
Registration Method:Online booking is tentatively scheduled to open on June 20. Visitors can book online first and then pay on-site; those who don’t secure a spot can queue up an hour before each daily session for on-site ticket purchase.
Cost:NT$500 per person
Experience Duration:about 5 minutes each time