Hidden gems, flower seas + breathtaking sea views all in one — Recommended “4 Spring Outing Routes in Taitung”

▲ Taitung’s Luye Gaotai has become a must-visit spot for hot air balloon experiences. (Photo / From the Facebook page of the Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Festival)

Reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Comprehensive report

Want to breathe in Taiwan’s fresh air and enjoy its beautiful mountains and waters? Head to Taitung — you won’t regret it. Make the most of the six-day Lunar New Year holiday by visiting Taitung. It boasts the most stunning sunrise in Taiwan and the only place where you can experience a hot air balloon ride in open skies. This article compiles the “4 Recommended Spring Outing Routes in Taitung.” Seize your holiday and go on a spring adventure in Taitung.

Route 1: Flower seas + free hot air balloon rides + hidden gems
▪ Taitung’s Luye is the only place in Taiwan where you can experience a free hot air balloon ride. From Lunar New Year’s Day (1/28) to the fifth day (2/1), it remains open daily. As long as the weather permits, you can book a hot air balloon ride every day. During the holiday period, there will also be tethered hot air balloon experiences at 16:00 daily at Luye Gaotai. Soar above with the breeze and enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the beautiful Lanyang Plain.

▲ Red quinoa flower sea in Taitung. (Photo / From the Taitung Tourism website)

In addition, spring flower seas stretching from Zhiben, Guanshan, and Chihshang all the way to the coast at Chenggong will gradually bloom one after another. But don't just admire the sights — experience rural life you can’t find in the city. Visit Taitung’s Golden Harvest Pavilion or Guanshan Rice Country School to learn about rice production, then savor delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients. With food, sights, and fun all rolled into one, it's satisfaction guaranteed. Plus, this is the time when Taitung’s red quinoa flowers are at their most beautiful, forming a unique natural hidden gem and a key highlight of your spring trip.

▲ Zhulang Sea View Coffee in Taitung, where you can enjoy endless ocean views. (Photo / By reporter Tsai Wen-jun)

Route 2: Endless sea + indigenous cultural experience
▪ The East Coast stretches 176 kilometers, and the vast Pacific Ocean is perfect for relaxation. For those not wanting to venture too far, you can visit nearby Little Yehliu to see its spectacular rock formations or head to Jialulan to admire driftwood art installations — both are great choices. Or visit the Sanxiantai Recreation Area to watch the sunrise or walk across the eight-arch bridge and feel like you’re strolling in the middle of the sea — a truly unique experience.

▲ Sanxiantai offers the most beautiful sunrise in Taiwan. (Photo / Authorized by Chen Yan-yu, please do not reproduce without permission)

The indigenous culture here is equally captivating. The Amis Folk Center offers a Lunar New Year package from 1/28–2/1, featuring activities such as bamboo cannon firing, archery, and indigenous cuisine waiting for everyone to enjoy. The Amis tribe on the north side of Sanxiantai is also worth exploring, as its walls feature adorable Jimmy Liao illustrations. Moreover, the PAW-PAW Drum Troupe, made up of enthusiastic and innocent children who craft their drums using recycled fishing buoys for the body, bamboo roots for the base, and sheepskin for the drumhead, performs with powerful beats that showcase the creative vitality of the tribe — a sight not to be missed.

Route 3: When it’s cold in winter, it’s time for a hot spring soak
▪ Taitung’s hot spring development boasts a century-long history, with a rich variety of spring types. For example, Zhiben Hot Springs and Jiaoxi Hot Springs are the so-called "beauty springs" — weak alkaline carbonic acid springs. Red Leaf Hot Springs are neutral carbonic springs, while Green Island’s Sunrise Hot Springs are weakly acidic sulfur springs. There’s nothing better than soaking in a warm hot spring during the chilly winter in Taitung.

▲ Star Tribe Landscape Restaurant offers stunning night views of Taitung. (Photo / Authorized by netizen ___jojoe, please do not reproduce without permission)

Route 4: Taitung — more beautiful as the night falls
▪ Taitung becomes even more enchanting at night. In the city’s Tiehua New Village, colorful painted hot air balloons light up the evening. Or head to Taitung Night Market to sample a wide range of street snacks. For a bird’s-eye view of the city’s sparkling lights resembling a starry river, visit the Star Tribe Landscape Restaurant. For just a NT$50 minimum spend, you can quietly enjoy the night view here.