Travel around eastern Taiwan via the South-Link Line, admire the flower seas of the East Rift Valley, and stay at a VILLA resort

Departing from Fangliao, head south along the west coast, then turn east after Fangshan, cross the Central Mountain Range to Dawu, and then continue north along the east coast all the way to Taitung—the South-Link Line. Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful ocean and the magnificent landscapes of the East Rift Valley. This nearly 100-kilometer-long railway was disrupted after Typhoon Morakot in 2009 but resumed full operations on December 30, 2009, after more than four months of repairs. To enjoy a relaxing journey along this railway, you can plan a flower-viewing trip during the current flower sea season of the Huatung Valley.

To celebrate the reopening of the South-Link Railway, the Ri Hui International Resort in Chishang, Taitung, has also launched special offers, allowing the public to once again experience the beautiful scenery of eastern Taiwan. The Ri Hui International Resort in Chishang not only boasts the largest collection of villas in the Asia-Pacific region but also offers high-quality hot springs throughout the resort—known as “beauty springs,” these sodium bicarbonate hot springs are perfect for soaking in during the cold weather to relieve physical and mental fatigue. In addition to taking the train and soaking in the hot springs, the Huatung Valley is currently in the midst of a stunning flower sea season, where you can admire the carefully arranged floral displays by various farmers' associations.

The “Happiness for a Long Time” package offered by Ri Hui includes stays in the entire 102 Presidential Villa from now until February 12. For weekdays (Sunday to Friday), a 2-day-1-night stay for a group of 4 costs just NT$2,499 per person. You can enjoy top-tier villa accommodations, including a buffet breakfast and an East Rift Valley-style dinner. Each room also features a private hot spring bath for a relaxing soak, with a limited quantity of 5 villas available per day. For details, please visit the Ri Hui website.

The Ri Hui International Resort in Chishang, Taitung, is located in the boundless Huatung Valley, breathing in the fresh green air of the countryside, making it a must-visit destination when exploring Taitung. Dapo Pond, situated at the foot of Dapo Mountain in the Coastal Mountain Range, is a natural lake formed by accumulated wetland water. In the past, Dapo Pond was abundant in fish, shrimp, and shellfish, and although it no longer serves a productive role, it now attracts tourists with its beautiful lake and mountain scenery. The recreational landscape around Dapo Pond is rich, with the Chishang Township Office having planned amenities such as a sports park, observation pavilion, scenic walking trails, a water-friendly area, and a bird-watching pavilion. Cycling around the nearby attractions is simply delightful.

Read more: Phoenix Seagaia Resort (provided by Tripass Attractions)