Ring in 2014: A Complete Guide to New Year’s Eve Events at Taiwan’s Top 10 National Scenic Areas

▲2014 is just around the corner—have you decided where to welcome the first light of dawn? (Photo provided by Wu Dongjun)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

As 2013 comes to an end, it’s time once again for the world to welcome 2014. The Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications has specially compiled information about activities such as sunset farewells, New Year’s Eve parties, and sunrise welcomes held in 10 national scenic areas. There are wonderful arrangements across Taiwan, and the public can participateTourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications Taiwan Tourism Information Websitefor inquiries, or contact the management offices of each national scenic area.
 

Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan Coastal National Scenic Area 　“Sunset at Beimen”

Using the traditional industry of “salt” as the theme, this event creates a white Christmas scene, as well as showcases the sunset beauty at Taiwan’s oldest “Jingzijiao Tile-pan Salt Field.” A carefully arranged band performance celebrates the splendor of the afterglow; this is followed by a dance of ribbons as the sun sets. As the sun gradually sinks and night falls, the “Dance of Flames” and a salt-scattering ceremony light up the sky once again.

Northeast Coast & Yilan Coast National Scenic Area — “2014 Northeast Coast Welcoming the First Light: Win at the Start”

The music concert runs from 3:30 AM to 7:30 AM on the green lawn of Fulong Beach, featuring performances by renowned artists and bands such as Yu Bingyuan, Chen Jielun, OVDS, Lin Xinyi, Guan Shimin, Zhu Lijing, Bii Bi-shu-jin, and Chen Shian. These artists will welcome the first light together with the public. Additionally, the light show at the event venue offers visitors a unique visual experience.

Shanlin National Scenic Area — “Welcoming 2014: Lishan-Guguan New Year’s Eve Gala”

The event will be held in two locations: Lishan (in front of Lishan Hotel Plaza) and Guguan (in front of Guguan Hot Spring Cultural Center Plaza). Both New Year’s Eve galas feature performances by famous artists and local indigenous performance groups, bidding farewell to 2013 alongside local residents and tourists. With passionate indigenous song and dance, tasting of roast pig and indigenous cuisine, everyone can celebrate the arrival of the 2014 Golden Horse Year.

Siraya National Scenic Area — “2014 Siraya Erliao Welcoming the First Light”

At Erliao in Zuozhen, Tainan, standing at an elevation of 193 meters, it is the lowest-altitude sunrise and sea of clouds viewing spot in Taiwan. The sunrise here spans a breathtaking width of one hundred meters, with layers of peaks creating a majestic view reminiscent of traditional Chinese landscape paintings. It is truly awe-inspiring. Being only a 40-minute drive from downtown Tainan, visitors don’t have to climb high mountains to witness this spectacular sight.

Maolin National Scenic Area — “Maolin Purple Butterfly Biennial Butterfly-Watching Events – New Year’s Eve & Cross-Year Hiking Activities”

In the joyful atmosphere of the year’s end, immerse yourself in nature by joining the New Year’s Eve campfire party at Lover’s Plaza. Sing along with alpine music, enjoy passionate dance performances, and gather around the warm bonfire to count down to the final moments of 2013. The next day, go hiking together to watch the sunrise. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, let the green mountains, rivers, and indigenous charm accompany you for a unique New Year celebration.

Alishan National Scenic Area — “Alishan Sunrise Impression Concert”

The long-running Alishan “Sunrise Impression Concert” is held at the Zhushan Sun Viewing Platform in the Alishan Forest Recreation Area at an altitude of 2,500 meters. Amid the soothing melodies, experience spiritual tranquility and deep emotion. At the break of dawn, greet the first light of the new year amidst the ever-changing sea of clouds and sunrise, stepping into new heights in life.

East Coast National Scenic Area — “Sanzhentai New Year’s Day Sunrise Welcoming Event” and “Green Island Low-Carbon Island Hiking Activity”

Watching the sunrise over the eastern coast is the most meaningful way to ring in the new year. Tides, ocean waves, sunsets, starry skies, moonlight, sunrise, and first light — celebrate this eternal serenity and the joy of renewal through music and dance, and begin a healthy new year with a hiking activity.

▲ The beautiful scenery of Sun Moon Lake in Alishan. (Photo by Reporter Huang Yuqi)

Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area — “Sun Moon Lake Welcoming the First Light Event”

Surrounded by lake views, mountain scenery, and fresh air, give your body the healthiest start to the year. The sunlight reflecting on the lake surface is sure to bring visitors an extraordinary experience.

Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area — “Donggang New Year’s Eve Gala”

Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and ecological exploration during the day, then savor delicious food and watch exciting New Year’s performances at night. Artists such as Huang Wenxing, Lantian, Fang Jiongbin, Kaidi, and Xiang Huiling will take turns performing, counting down to the new year with you.

Matsu National Scenic Area — “Dongju Welcoming the First Light Event”

Together, welcome the first light under the second-grade historic lighthouse. There will be saxophone performances and warm-up dance activities, followed by a flag-raising ceremony and a hiking/running event, providing you with a fulfilling New Year journey.