Diary of a Sleeping Angel, Awake Demon
“Taitung,” a beautiful pristine land in eastern Taiwan. Worried about hard-to-get train tickets? No worries, we’ll just head out a bit later. Train tickets during off-peak hours are indeed much easier to get. Travel is about relaxation—battle is what requires meticulous planning. Besides, we’re traveling with kids, so taking it slow is definitely the best strategy.
When visiting Taitung, plan for at least three days and two nights. Slowly explore Taitung, savor its local cuisine, and also pay a visit to the world’s top-ranked “Taitung University Library,” one of the world’s 8 most beautiful libraries. You’ll find that Taitung is truly beautiful.
■ Address: No. 145, Lane 42, GaoTai Road, Yong’an Village, Luye Township, Taitung County
■ Note: The Hot Air Balloon Festival is usually held from late June to mid-August each year. Please keep an eye on the Taitung Tourism Website.
The Taitung Hot Air Balloon Season from late June to mid-August always makes us want to rush back to Taitung to see the valleys filled with colorful hot air balloons. The “Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Festival” was selected as one of the 12 most amazing hot air balloon festivals in the world by Travel Channel in 2018. Watching the magnificent ascent of the vibrant balloons at Luye Highland is a truly moving experience.
■ Address: Dapochi Scenic Area, Dapu Township, Taitung County
Besides the Kimura Tree, if you come to Dapu Township’s Dapochi during July to August, you must try rowing your own raft to pick lotus seeds. Our group of kids went out around noon to pick lotus and didn’t even get sunburned because the bamboo rafts all have sunshades. It’s a unique leisure activity in the Huatung Valley that you can try with your kids (100 NTD per person). You can enjoy the beautiful summer lotus blossoms in the pond, but as soft city folks, we could paddle over alright but not back. Don’t worry—the bamboo rafts have rescue hotlines. As long as you can get through… ha ha.
■ Address: Provincial Highway 13, Changbin Township, Taitung County (Changguang Industrial Road)
The “Diamond Boulevard” on Provincial Highway 11 is likened to the East Coast’s Brown Highway. The sea-and-sky view is truly stunning, with no power poles lining the straight road. The end of the road seems to lead into the ocean, and on the other side is the “Diamond Mountain” of the Coastal Range. This is a popular IG photo spot—you must take a jump shot here.
■ Address: No. 500, Section 1, Songjiang Road, Taitung City, Taitung County (Km 159, Provincial Highway 11)
■ Phone: (089) 281136
Xiaoyeliu is adjacent to Fugang Fishing Port. It gets its name because its varied eroded rock formations resemble those of Yehliu on the northern coast. Here you’ll find a variety of fantastically shaped rocks, such as monocline ridges, honeycomb rocks, turtle formation rocks, tofu rocks, mushroom rocks, and more, resembling a natural sculpture park. The rich coastal landforms result from alternating deposits of thick sandstone and thin mudstone layers. Due to geological shifts and years of wave erosion, the area has taken on diverse and peculiar shapes, like a natural stone sculpture garden.
■ Address: Km 157.5, Provincial Highway 11, Donghe Village, Donghe Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089) 841520
Kaluluan features a large expanse of lawn, rest pavilions, interpretation stations, and viewing platforms. It not only serves as an ideal rest stop for travelers on the East Coast but is also a great photography spot. Visitors can listen to the waves, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy the warm sunshine while spending a relaxing time by the sea.
In addition to enjoying the natural scenery, the area also features many driftwood art installations. Among them, two fish standing by the sea make up an installation artwork named “My Good Friends,” which reads: “Welcome, traveler, to a pleasant and relaxing journey!” Even the decorations in the rest pavilions feature driftwood.
Every summer and autumn, the Kaluluan Handicraft Market gathers a group of East Coast art enthusiasts who come together in a market-style gathering. The event emphasizes creations using natural materials, including open-air film screenings and performances by local bands, allowing visitors to the East Coast to stroll through the market, share experiences, and immerse themselves in the island’s natural, simple, creative, and passionate maritime vibes.
■ Address: Datong Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089) 325301
Beautiful mountains and waters don’t always require strenuous hiking. That perfectly describes “Taitung Forest Park.” Just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Taitung, you can easily reach this earthly paradise. It’s the largest park in Taitung City, covering about 300 hectares (approximately 11 times the size of Taipei’s Da’an Forest Park). The park is planted with a large number of casuarina trees for windbreak purposes. From afar, they look black, hence it’s also called the “Black Forest.” Calling it the “Black Forest” may sound a bit heavy, but nature is easily accessible here, making it a place well worth exploring—a perfect spot to unwind.
On the left side of the park entrance, there’s a bicycle rental station. Rentals are limited to 3 hours at a time. Regular bikes cost between 1,000–200 NTD, while family and tandem bikes are around 2,000–300 NTD.
■ Address: No. 300, Huatai Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089) 362025
The most beautiful part of the Black Forest is the path through the casuarina forest that connects three lakes—Pipa Lake, Huoshui Lake, and Egret Lake. The forest park has bike trails, and riding through it feels like being in a hidden paradise within the city.
Riding a bike is the most comfortable way to explore the forest park. Leisurely weaving through tree-lined paths, you’ll pass under a flower arch tunnel before arriving at Pipa Lake. Get off the bike, stand on the wooden boardwalk or lakeside path to closely admire the lake’s pipa-like shape, the underwater plants, and the natural ecology of the fish. Next, you’ll see Huoshui Lake and Mandarin Duck Lake. Throughout the ride, you’ll keep stopping—wetland ecology, lakes, forests... surprises abound, and the beautiful scenery will make it hard to leave.
■ Address: No. 22, Shan Yuan, Fushan Village, Bei Nan Township, Taitung County
■ Note: “Shan Yuan Marine Ecological Park” is located near the Fushan Marine Protected Area. Guided tour services are available upon request. Please call Mr. Chen Shiyue at 0919-173056.
Gazing at the azure seawater, how could it not be enchanting? The instructor brought along a big bag of seaweed steamed buns and led everyone to a safe, fish-filled area. First, they used small bits of the bun to attract fish. During this time, everyone had to stay perfectly still—not only to avoid startling the fish but also to let them get used to your presence. Only when the fish felt at ease would they come closer. This process takes nearly half an hour, which is why I say it’s a great activity for cultivating children’s patience.
Under the instructor’s gentle guidance, once the fish became comfortable, they actually started coming up to eat the buns right from the kids’ hands. This hands-on feeding method brought them so much joy and a strong sense of accomplishment.
There’s no need to worry about little ones getting bored either—the beach by the shore lets them dig to their heart’s content, and there are plenty of hermit crabs around. Then the instructor took everyone to find larger sand crabs. With hundreds of holes on the beach, he could instantly spot which ones belonged to the big sand crabs. And digging for them meant going deep—sometimes so deep you’d practically have your whole head in the hole. When they finally caught a sand crab, the surprised expressions on everyone’s faces made it a truly unique experience. The Sanyuan Conservation Area is great fun for feeding fish by the sea, and the baked pizzas outside are delicious.
■ Address: No. 11, Qili Bridge, Donghe Township, Taitung County (located along Provincial Highway 11)
■ Phone: (089)841520
The East Coast’s Jintun area is famous for its tombolo landform. Anchor-shaped reefs divert tidal currents, allowing seafloor sand to gradually accumulate into a long sandbar. At low tide, the small island connects to the mainland, forming a clearly visible tombolo—a rare and unique sight that is currently the only island in Taiwan still “growing.”
Standing at the Jintun Recreation Area, you can overlook the full panoramic view of the coastline, with stunning scenery laid out before you, including the Jintun Fishing Harbor, Baisha Bay Beach, and the mountain valleys nearby. It’s the only tombolo in Taiwan still in formation. Shaped like a wine glass, it’s named “Jintun” (Gold Cup), and because it resembles an anchor, it’s also called “Anchor Island” or “Anchor Reef.”
Recommended Reading:
■ Located beside Provincial Highway 11 at the 131 km mark, Donghe Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)280313
Donghe Bridge spans the mouth of the Mawulu River, connecting Chenggong Town and Donghe Township. Both the new and old bridges over it feature distinctive designs that showcase architectural beauty. Set against the blue sky and lush Taiyuan Valley, it resembles a breathtaking landscape painting.
The old Donghe Bridge was retired after the new one opened but remains open for pedestrians. Walking across it offers views of Taiwan’s only enclosed basin terrain, surrounded by mountains and flanked by steep cliffs on both riverbanks—an awe-inspiring sight. Below the bridge, you can see dolomite stones reflecting off the emerald-green river water, along with many oddly shaped white limestone rocks, creating a beautiful natural landscape.
The new Donghe Bridge has a simple design, with its structure painted in a bright red favored by the Amis people, presenting an impressive and bold masculinity. Paired with the emerald-green river below, white imperial stones, and the surrounding verdant mountains, it forms a stunning scenic picture.
■ Address: Entrance to Taiyuan Village along Northbound Taifu Highway, Donghe Township, Taitung County
■ Transportation: From Provincial Highway 11, turn onto Provincial Highway 23 at the 131.7 km mark and continue for about 5 km to reach the site.
Dengxian Bridge Recreation Area is located at the entrance of Provincial Highway 23 (Taifu Highway). Nearby attractions include Taiyuan Valley and Donghe Bridge Recreation Area. It’s a paradise for Formosan macaques, which appear fearlessly all around the bridge—in corners, perched, crawling, or even scratching each other’s backs. Their adorable antics keep visitors’ cameras busy nonstop. However, wild macaques can be aggressive, so for safety and to avoid accidents, please be cautious when taking photos and do not feed them.
■ Address: Chenggong Town, Taitung County
Duli Beach, known as the “Sky Mirror,” is a recently popular photo spot. Capturing the mirror-like beach isn’t just about luck—the key is timing. The best conditions occur under calm weather, when the tide is low. The few hours just before sunset are the most likely times to catch the beach reflecting the sky perfectly, offering a truly complete and stunning view.
■ Address: No. 61, Dulan, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)531212
■ Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
■ Admission: Free / Parking: Available
To outsiders, the “New East Sugar Factory Cultural Park” might seem like just a place for wood carvings, handicrafts, and Dulan schoolbags—but having been here, you’ll find it’s much more. The park is expansive, not overly crowded, and offers an authentic taste of local culture and community, making it a great place to bring kids and experience tribal atmosphere.
Strolling through the serene park, admiring historic buildings while listening to nostalgic little stories, time seems to stand still. In the past, when tribe members returned home, they could tell they were back just by the smell—the sweet aroma of brown sugar wafting through the air. That scent guided them home and carried the essence of their roots. Though the brown sugar industry has declined, the existing “Dulan Little Houses,” art studios converted from old warehouses,” and “driftwood architecture from eastern Taiwan” have transformed the site into the “Dulan Brown Sugar Cultural Art Museum,” keeping that passionate heritage alive. A wonderful place like this should never be forgotten.
■ Address: Dulan Village, Donghe Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)280313
The Water Flowing Upstream Recreation Area is right next to the sugar factory, just a 5-minute drive away. This attraction is a geographical wonder of Taiwan’s east coast, where an optical illusion caused by the sloping terrain makes it look like the water is flowing uphill. It’s a must-see mini spot along the east coast. Walking up to the rest area at the top, you’ll find lawns and seating, as well as opportunities to buy local specialties and enjoy Indigenous cuisine.
■ Address: No. 7, Lane 200, Section 2, Zhongxing Road, Taitung City
■ Transportation: Located at the former site of Taitung Sugar Factory, at the 375.5 km mark on Provincial Highway 9. Nearby landmarks include the Taisugar Supermarket and Ice Cream Shop.
■ Phone: (089)228107
■ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00–17:30 (closed on Mondays)
Located in a huge white warehouse within the Taitung Sugar Factory park, this is the former She She Creative Life Museum. As soon as you step into the She She Creative Life Museum, a large bamboo-woven installation art greets you. The museum houses a collection of stunning indigenous handicrafts such as glass beads, leather carvings, pottery, stone paintings, handbags, and bedding—all vibrant in color and bursting with unique creativity. Outside the museum, enjoy the beauty of the installation art; inside this spacious venue, let children run freely while admiring the indigenous people’s imaginative artifacts, and even try your hand at glass bead firing to create your very own one-of-a-kind bead.
■ Address: No. 26, Lane 135, Xinxing Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Regular performances are held every Thursday to Saturday from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and on Sundays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Have you ever felt that instant rush of emotion when hundreds of sky lanterns soar into the sky together? At Tiehua Village, you’ll experience just that. The beauty of Tiehua Village reveals itself only when the moon rises—it’s the kind of beauty that gives you goosebumps.
Here, thousands of hot-air balloon-shaped lanterns hang throughout the village, each painted with various designs or wishes. When night falls and these balloon lanterns light up, be careful not to get lost in this sea of lights. Aside from the endless beautiful lanterns, there are also a few simple shops where you can take a break at an open-air café, sip a drink or coffee, and listen to the melodious sounds of grassland music. Nearby, you can also explore creative market stalls selling handmade goods or postcards. This place is really great—a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
■ Address: No. 369, Tiehua Road, Taitung City (within the old Taitung Railway Station area)
■ Transportation: Turn onto Tiehua Road from Section 1, Zhonghua Road to arrive. The Tiehua Art Village is located behind the Taitung Tourist Service Center.
■ Phone: (089)320378
A must-visit for railway enthusiasts, the Railway Art Village won’t let you down with its trains and tracks. It was formerly the Taitung Railway Station and has been repurposed into a multifunctional space for history, art, architecture, and leisure.
The early typical appearance of a TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) station is well preserved here, including the platform, engine shed, triangular loop line, turntable, and freight warehouses—all maintained in their original state. [There are many creative art installations around this historic spot, making it a fantastic place for families and kids. You can visit the Tiehua Village at night and the Railway Art Village during the day—this place is really [charming] and perfect for bringing children along. Whether it’s day or night, it’s a great way to share some childhood memories of train stations with your little ones.]
■ Address: No. 478, Bo’ai Road, Taitung City
■ Transportation: Taitung Story House is located near the intersection of Bo’ai Road and Xinxing Road—you can search for “Eslite Bookstore” or “Starbucks” on Google Maps.
■ Phone: (089)330388
Just across the street from Tiehua Village is the Taitung Story House. In fact, the Story House, Tiehua Village, and Railway Art Museum are all interconnected. In addition to art and cultural performances, there’s also a creative market, somewhat similar to Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. The Taitung Story House, built around the core of Eslite Bookstore and Starbucks, combines the aroma of books with the scent of coffee.
Its former use was as the Taitung Land Administration Office. The building itself is a historical structure with nearly 50 years of history from the Japanese colonial period. With a design that blends old and new, it exudes a rich cultural atmosphere and stands as a fine example of revitalizing Taitung’s old buildings. The space [with its charming layout] can be used for exhibitions, performances, music events, DIY interactive teaching, and has become an excellent platform for promoting creative industries in eastern Taiwan. After walking through the Railway Art Village and arriving here, feeling tired? Take a break with a cup of coffee, or bring your kids to browse books in the bookstore for a truly cultural journey.
■ Address: Belong Township, Taitung County (between kilometers 368.5 and 370.5 on Provincial Highway 9)
■ Transportation: The Green Tunnel is located on Provincial Highway 9 between Nanwang Village and Binlang in Belong Township, spanning kilometers 368.5 to 370.5.
■ Phone: (089)381368
Taitung’s “Green Tunnel” was under reconstruction last year due to a typhoon, but the lush hundred camphor trees are still growing. However, walking along this green-lined road, the phytoncides refresh your mind, allowing you to leisurely bike or stroll while enjoying the natural beauty of this scenic highway.
■ Address: No. 369, Section 2, University Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)318855
Topping the list of the world’s 8 most beautiful libraries, the “Taitung University Library” has caught the eye of many international architects and even features a parent-child reading room. Located between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the Taitung University library is a landform building that connects the campus with a lake, evoking the image of mountain ranges. Costing NT$460 million and covering 13,000 square meters across six floors (including the basement), its eco-friendly design has earned it the prestigious “Diamond-Level Green Building Certification.”
■ Address: By the river across from Taitung East Railway Station
■ Transportation: Approximately 5.5 km along Provincial Highway 11B, turn under the Taitung Bridge onto East Township Road 45 and go straight for about 3 km to arrive.
■ Phone: (089)326100
If you enjoy cycling or viewing geological formations, check out the “Beinan Canal Water Park.” The Beinan Canal is considered Taitung’s largest water conservancy project, located in the same region as the nearby Liji Badlands and Little Huangshan. The canal diverts water from the Beinan River to irrigate the entire Taitung Plain, stretching over 9 km in a “comb-tooth” distribution structure, serving both irrigation and flood control.
The Beinan Canal Water Park is also one of the attractions along the Taitung Mountain-Sea Cycling Trail, located approximately between kilometers 8 and 9 when traveling clockwise from the Taitung Railway Art Village.
■ Address: Liji Village, Belong Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)551637
The Liji Badlands are known as the "Geological Treasure of Taitung." Due to their unique geology and years of erosion by rainwater, they have formed a barren, rugged surface with numerous small gullies. The gray, vegetation-free landscape resembles the desolate surface of the moon, earning it the nickname "Liji Moon World."
The management office has built wooden boardwalks that allow visitors to explore deep into the Liji Moon World, as if walking through a natural geological history exhibition corridor. Alternatively, you can admire this 2-kilometer-wide, approximately 1-kilometer-deep geological wonder from the Pinan Bridge or the Liji Bridge.
■ Address: No. 1, Pasture, No. 28, Mingfeng Village, Pinan Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)571002
■ Business Hours: 08:00–17:00
■ Admission: Weekdays – NT$100 (full price), NT$80 (discounted), NT$50 (half price); Weekends/Public Holidays – NT$200 (full price), NT$180 (discounted), NT$120 (half price) (Admission tickets cannot be used for purchases)
A uniquely blessed destination for family outings in nature—come to Chulu Ranch and you’re sure to fall in love with it. The ranch’s pristine environment allows the cattle to happily grow up on lush green pastures, feeding on nutritious grass and drinking clean water, ensuring a supply of fresh dairy. Here, you can enjoy Chulu Fresh Milk and related dairy products, savoring their pure, authentic flavors. The scenic restaurant offers healthy and delicious meals and snacks, making dining here feel like being in an exotic estate, where you can relax freely amidst breathtaking views.
Endless fields offer endless joy—whether you want to run freely or stroll leisurely, it’s a true delight. When you’re tired, lie down on the grass for a rest or play a little game with your kids. Don’t forget to say hello to the friendly animals—get up close with the calves and ponies. There’s also a grass-sledding area (additional fee: NT$100 per ride, two rides allowed). Additionally, there’s a DIY painting classroom where you can paint cute little animals.
■ Address: No. 7-4, Shanli, Jiafeng Village, Pinan Township, Taitung County
■ Transportation Guide: Trains still stop here, so you can take the train to get there.
■ Driving Guide: Behind the station, on the Binnan Mountain Range, you’ll find the famous Chulu Ranch and the newly established Native Applied Botanical Garden. Follow the small road east of the botanical garden, head downhill for about 5 minutes, and you’ll reach Shanli Station.
PS: Visits are now by reservation only. Travelers planning to visit should call ahead to make a reservation. Reservation phone: (089)322063
Shanli Station is a must-visit spot for railway enthusiasts, boasting a mysterious title—"The Peaceful Station That Can’t Be Reached." Shanli is primarily home to the Amis people. With significant population outmigration, there isn’t even a school anymore. Only about fifty or sixty people live in the village, and aside from the livelier summer harvest festivals, it’s usually very quiet—hence its reputation as the "Peaceful Station That Can’t Be Reached" among railway fans.
Surrounded by mountains, Shanli Station is truly serene—even the sound of trains arriving can’t break its tranquility. Watching the train slowly pull in without any noise, you can quietly enjoy this rare moment of peace. Outside the station stands a small white chapel, the Gospel Church, with a bright red cross, quietly guarding Shanli. Nestled in the embrace of the mountains, it looks especially beautiful.
■ Address: No. 109, Banjiu, No. 23, Meinong Village, Pinan Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)570399
■ Business Hours: 08:00–17:30
Driving straight north along Provincial Highway 9 in Pinan Township, Taitung County, and following the signs for Banjiu Ice Cream will lead you into a mountain road. Wild boars occasionally appear here, but please keep your distance. The establishment of Banjiu Ice Cream was born out of a need to solve an overproduction issue with pineapple passion fruit (a type of fruit) one year, leading to the creation of ice cream and popsicles that became an instant hit.
They also offer other agricultural products such as fruit vinegar, dried fruits, and handmade cookies and steamed buns. Flavors like roselle ice pops and pineapple passion fruit ice are rich and aromatic, with an incredibly smooth texture—you can even taste the fruit bits. For just NT$50 a box, it’s great value. It’s said the savory popsicles are even better. Next to the ice cream stand, there’s also a two-story spiral slide to keep kids entertained if you’re worried about waiting too long.
■ Address: No. 112, Longguomai, Mingfeng Village, Pinan Township, Taitung County (360.6K on Provincial Highway 9)
■ Phone: (089)571179
Hidden beside an inconspicuous mountain path in Taitung is a coffee shop at the Shanzhuang Enclosure, which also produces Taiwan’s only “civet coffee.” It has now also adopted “marine biotech extraction.” Park your car and walk into the enclosure, where the barefoot owner will guide you—also barefoot—through how civets select coffee beans.
The owner says, “Coffee should have five layers of flavor—bitterness, richness, aroma, acidity, and sweetness.” That’s what makes coffee that “dances on your tongue.” The farm sells bamboo-aroma coffee, Taiwanese deep-sea coffee, filter coffee packs, and civet ear-hook coffee packs. The most unique offering is whole-bean ground instant coffee, which still has some grounds and is health-oriented—dubbed “coffee that isn’t coffee.”
Another special spot is “San San Wu Xiang,” a brand that supports local social welfare groups. San San Wu Xiang helps local children with disabilities make handmade soap, giving them a sense of accomplishment. They also collaborate with local small farmers to incorporate elements like Taitung’s Chihshang rice, turmeric, daylilies, roselle, and passion fruit into their soap recipes. This has led to the development of unique soap travel kits that are non-sticky, lightweight, and eco-friendly for when you’re on the go.
■ Phone: (089)896200, (089)896183
■ Note: Please call ahead to make a reservation
The Mawuku River is the most important river in Donghe Township, Taitung County. For the Amis indigenous people who have lived in Donghe for generations, the Mawuku River is a life-giving river, where they have passed down the art of net fishing through the ages.
Do you envy how indigenous people live under the open sky, on the bare earth, fishing and hunting in the wild with rugged boldness?
In recent years, the tribal development association has worked to let visitors experience Amis fishing and bamboo raft life by developing the “Donghe Bridge Mawuku River Aquatic Ecotourism – Indigenous Traditional Bamboo Raft Tour.” When you visit the Donghe Tribe, don’t miss the chance to ride these seemingly simple yet very stable bamboo rafts. Experience the Amis way of life, including casting nets from the rafts, and admire the majestic beauty of the Mawuku River, which has a flavor reminiscent of the Central Cross-Island Highway canyon. Also, check out the old and new Donghe Bridges that span the river—especially the old Donghe Bridge built in 1930 (Republic of China Year 19), whose rare asymmetrical design at both ends is particularly intriguing.
■ Address: Chihshang Township, Taitung County (follow signs after arriving in Chihshang to reach the Chihshang Dapo Pond Scenic Area)
■ Phone: (089)862041
The Chihpin Dapou Pond Scenic Area, located at Dapou Pond at the foot of Dapou Mountain in the Coastal Mountains, derives its water from rainfall runoff and springs. In the past, Dapou Pond was so expansive that it earned the name "Chihpin" (meaning “above the pond”).
Covering an area of 53 hectares, Dapou Pond teems with fish, eels, shrimp, and is covered in lotus flowers and water chestnuts. Many local residents make a living from fishing. On the shimmering, misty waters, you often see poetic scenes of fishermen in small boats casting nets. Boating is also available here. The lakeshore is dotted with anglers quietly fishing—perfect for fishing enthusiasts to add to their must-visit list.
■ Address: No. 1-12, Lane 1, Wanan Village, Chihpin Township, Taitung County
■ Telephone: (089)863689
■ Note: Large bowl meals must be reserved in advance
Following Provincial Highway 9 from Guanshan toward Chihpin, turn onto County Road 197 after crossing the Chihpin Bridge to reach Bylan Boulevard. Not far from the entrance of Bylan Boulevard, the Hometown Rice Museum offers bicycle rentals at an affordable price of NT$100 per ride.
After biking back to the Hometown Rice Museum, you’ll find plenty of Chihpin specialties. Of course, after sweating it out on the ride, you can freshen up briefly here, enjoy a mouthful of homemade shaved ice, and if you’re hungry, don’t miss their signature “Big Bowl of Chihpin Rice.”
■ Address: Drive along Provincial Highway 9 and turn onto County Road 197 (just follow the crowd)
■ Note: Please do not interfere with farmers working in the fields. Cars are now prohibited from entering, so please follow the parking instructions of volunteers. Let’s all protect the environment together, ensuring the beauty of Bylan Boulevard remains untouched by human damage.
Bylan Boulevard, named after a commercial shoot by Bylan Coffee years ago, has recently gained immense popularity thanks to a commercial featuring Takeshi Kaneshiro. It is truly so beautiful it feels like stepping into heaven.
This road is also affectionately known as “Heaven’s Road.” A straight path devoid of any power poles, it stretches all the way into the embrace of the majestic Central Mountain Range. The view ahead is like paradise, making “Heaven’s Road” a well-deserved title.
■ Address: No. 259, Zhongxiao Road, Chihpin Township, Taitung County
■ Telephone: (089)862326
■ Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
The Chihpin Rice Box Cultural Story Museum is entirely built from driftwood. Don’t miss it when passing through Guanshan—it’s where they’ve brought a train inside the museum for an immersive dining experience. The iconic pork, tofu, cabbage, and marinated eggs in the lunchbox, paired with tender ginger, create a classic old-school rice box flavor.
■ Address: No. 46, Gaotai Road, Yong’an Village, Luye Township, Taitung County
■ Note: Hot air balloon ride fees are subject to event announcements.
During summer vacation, train tickets to Taitung are often sold out within seconds, mainly due to the booming new wave of tourism in Taitung. The thrilling Hot Air Balloon Festival is held grandly at Luye Gaotai. At an altitude of about 350 meters, Luye Gaotai offers limitless views and has long been a favorite spot for paragliding enthusiasts. Now, with the addition of hot air balloons, the sky above Luye has become even more spectacular.
What used to only be seen on TV—foreign skies filled with a dazzling array of hot air balloons taking off in a lively scene—is now something you can experience firsthand without traveling abroad. A dream come true. But riding a hot air balloon as a sky adventurer also requires good weather luck, with the right wind direction and temperature for safe takeoff and landing. Too much heat on the ground can cause the balloon to overinflate, so flights are scheduled only in the early morning and dusk.
The night hot air balloon light and sound show is another unmissable highlight. Watch various balloons come alive under music and lights, presenting a completely different charm from daytime.
■ Address: Inquire at Yanlu Sightseeing Orchard, Luye Township, Taitung County
In the crystal-clear summer of Taitung Luye, besides the adorable and colorful Hot Air Balloon Festival, the most enchanting sight is the endless fields of sweet pineapples stretching as far as the eye can see.
When visiting Taitung, don’t miss the Luye Gaotai area in Longyong’an Village. Aside from tea plantations, you’ll often see vast pineapple fields. Here, you can also experience picking pineapples in the summer. There are DIY experiences for making savory-sweet pineapple sauces to go with meals, as well as producing crispy and sweet dried pineapples. Other farm produce includes banana and pineapple chips made over charcoal fires.
■ Jinfeng Township Office Address: No. 665, Lane 12, Jialan Village, Jinfeng Township, Taitung County
■ Jinfeng Township Office Telephone: (089)751144
■ Admission: NT$100 (full price) / NT$70 (discounted)
■ Bicycle Rental: NT$200 per bike (unlimited time, no admission fee), rental location is at the container house in front of the trail.
The Skywalk officially opened in 2016. It not only makes transportation more convenient for local residents but also allows visitors to stroll amidst green mountains and clear waters, with hopes of boosting local tourism. Along the steep cliffs, the yellow railings of the Skywalk are highly visible, and the cantilevered parts are thrilling—you might feel like it could collapse at any moment.
Jialan Village, once devastated by Typhoon Morakot, has undergone six years of reconstruction, completing permanent housing, the Lawan Bridge, and the Lalen Bridge. With the addition of a 6.7-kilometer village-loop cycling path, the entire scenery of Jialan Village can now be fully appreciated. Roselle is a specialty of Jinfeng Township, and in the future, the path will also be adorned with roselle and red quinoa flower seas. Don’t forget to visit in November during the flowering season to admire the breathtaking craftsmanship of the Skywalk and the beauty of the flower seas.
■ Address: No. 4, Jizhiufan, Sanxianli, Chenggong Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)854097
Located in the northeast of Chenggong Township, Taitung County, Sanciandao (Three Immortals Platform) is composed of offshore islets and coral reef coasts. The island is scattered with peculiar rocks, among which three huge rocks are said to have been visited by the legendary immortals Lü Dongbin, Li Tieguai, and He Xiangu, hence the name. The smooth pebbles on the shore are for admiration only—please do not take them away.
Although it can get really, really hot here in the summer, it’s also thanks to that passionate sun that the sea shines so brilliantly blue and enchanting. But the water is very cold, so consider taking off your shoes and letting the kids dip their feet and play with stones along the shallow shore to enjoy this incredibly beautiful Pacific Ocean. There are no lifeguards in this area, so please be extra cautious when wading in the shallows.
■ Address: No. 21, Gangbian Road, Chenggong Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)854702
■ Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00 (ticket sales stop at 16:30), closed on Mondays
Taitung, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, boasts abundant marine life resources. The Clownfish Theme Museum in Chenggong Township (formerly the National Taitung Marine Biology Exhibition Hall) primarily showcases the ecology and species of clownfish from oceans around the world. It is the largest clownfish-themed exhibition hall in Taiwan and an ideal place for family-friendly marine education.
Here, besides seeing the success of the Eastern Marine Biology Research Center in breeding various types of clownfish, the museum also screens clownfish ecology introduction films on the hour—simple and easy to understand, helping children quickly dive into the world of clownfish. Don’t miss the touch pool, a favorite among kids, where the colorful starfish “Patrick Star” is sure to leave lasting memories for visitors of all ages. Before you leave, don’t forget to paint your own personalized clownfish postcard.
■ Address: No. 8-1, Longxi Road, Duoliang Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)781301
■ Note: Trains still run on the railway track, so please stay safe; the most beautiful station needs everyone’s care—please take your trash with you.
Duoliang Railway Station no longer serves as a stop due to population decline, and now houses important mechanical and electrical facility rooms. However, built against mountains and by the sea, the station is renowned for its naturally stunning beauty and hailed as the most beautiful station in legend—it has also become a highlight of the South-Link Railway in recent years.
It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from downtown Taitung. Though it’s a bit of a distance, it can’t dampen the longing for this legendary spot. In the early days, some visitors left disappointed after failing to find the entrance. But now, signs along the way help ensure a smooth journey for travelers.
Duoliang Railway Station isn’t just a legend—it’s a beautiful poem. A long red railing cuts across the blue ocean, creating a striking visual, while the weathered, patchwork walls hold stories of the Pacific and the trains.
Though trains no longer stop here, that doesn’t mean none pass by. South-Link Line trains may be infrequent, but it’s still important to stay alert while taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
■ Address: Dawang Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)781301
August to October is the blooming season for daylilies. During this time, Taitung’s Taimali is in full production of daylilies, with vast fields stretching as far as the eye can see—hence it’s also called Golden Needle Mountain. Every year during this period, the mountain is crowded with visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the “beauty of a day” (daylilies bloom for just one day, opening in the morning and wilting by evening, hence the nickname).
Golden Needle Mountain sits at an altitude of over 1,300 meters, where the weather changes rapidly—sunny one moment, misty the next. On sunny days, admire the smiling blooms of daylilies; when shrouded in mist, the scene becomes even more romantic and poetic. Each different look of the daylilies offers a unique kind of beauty, and you’ll definitely be snapping photos non-stop without ever getting tired of it. With winding mountain roads and high altitudes, while enjoying the scenery, remember to prioritize safety—take your time going up and down and bring some warm clothing.
■ Phone: Seaside at Dawn Boulevard in Taimali Township, Taitung County, crossing Provincial Highway 9
■ Address: (089)781301
The “Millennium Dawn Memorial Park” got its name because, on January 1, 2000, a Millennium Dawn Concert was held on this beach. At the time, it was broadcast live in sync with 25 other countries to welcome the first dawn of the new millennium. The global spotlight was on this stretch of sea in Taimali, and the park continues to host New Year’s Eve events every year.
The park features parking lots, performance stages, rest pavilions, walking trails, beach volleyball courts, as well as the highly commemorative “Dawn Memorial Wall” and “Dawn Monument.” The eastern coast of Taiwan is clear and azure, and with the brilliant sunshine, the beautiful seascape is truly unforgettable.
■ Address: No. 2, 39-2, Dapu Road, Dapu Village, 4th Neighborhood, Chihshang Township, Taitung County
■ Business Hours: 06:00–18:00
■ Phone: (089)862392
Dachi Tofu Skin Shop is a tofu skin factory that also offers factory tours. With a 40-year history, you can enjoy delicious pan-fried tofu pouches, tofu pudding, and fresh soy milk—all made on-site and incredibly tasty. Of course, you can also take a tour. Witness the traditional tofu skin-making process, and after the tour, take home plenty of soy product souvenirs.
■ Main Store: No. 420, 15th Neighborhood, Nan Donghe, Donghe Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)896369
■ New address: No. 420, Nan Donghe, Donghe Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)896369
■ Business hours: 06:00–17:00
Located on Provincial Highway 11, Donghe Baozi is a well-known local delicacy in Taitung, famous for its signature pork buns, pickled vegetable buns, and bamboo shoot buns. Both the old and new locations are still in operation. The old location is favored by locals, while the new one attracts visitors with its convenient parking. If you’re passing by Provincial Highway 11, stop by Donghe Baozi for a quick break, grab a bun as a snack, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery of eastern Taiwan.
■ Address: No. 436-3, Dulan Village, Donghe Township, Taitung County (Km 145, Provincial Highway 11)
■ Phone: (089)531848
■ Business hours: Monday–Friday 09:30–18:30, Saturday–Sunday 09:30–19:00
David & Rolly moved from Tianmu in Taipei to the beautiful Dulan Village in Taitung County. With gratitude for the joy of the East Coast, they developed natural and healthy pasta sauces and handmade bread.
Marino Kitchen on Provincial Highway 11 doesn’t have an eye-catching storefront—if not for its tall signboard, you might easily drive right past it. The bread here isn’t cheap, but it’s healthy and delicious. First-time visitors might be surprised by the prices, then again by the solid weight of the bread. But once you take a bite, the natural aroma and texture will win you over. It’s a must-visit every time you’re in Taitung.
The shop also sells Italian sauces that pair perfectly with the bread. True to form, they’re all natural, with no additives—their guiding principle. Once you try them, you’ll fall in love with these natural flavors.
■ Address: No. 669, Section 2, Jilin Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)281062
■ Business hours: 11:00–14:00, 17:00–21:00
Mei’e Seafood is a renowned seafood restaurant in Taitung, located near Fugang Fishing Port. Our editors have visited several times—when you come here, you must try their fresh and delicious seafood.
■ Address: No. 138, Zhengqi Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)318753
"A Cup of Herbal Tea" is part of the legacy of "Lao Dongfang," a historic herbal medicine shop. Through the third-generation owners, it connects the herbal shop, herbal tea, and Taitung. The brand emphasizes natural herbs, health, wellness, and no additives—all products are kept refrigerated at low temperatures, with no extra ice added. A famous herbal tea spot in Taitung, where you can savor the deep nostalgia for Taitung rooted in this old shop.
■ Phone: No. 358, Zhengqi Road, Taitung City
■ Address: (089)328023
Located on Zhengqi Road in Taitung City, the decades-old ice shop "Jinfang Ice City" has been around for 40 years. It’s a must-try local delicacy when visiting Taitung. The shop’s most famous offering is the owner’s homemade "salty popsicles," which even won awards in the 1970s. Just look at the medals and plaques in the store to know this is a must-order item. The mung bean milk ice and red bean milk ice are made with generous portions, and when paired with snowflake ice, they’re irresistible.
■ Address: No. 76, Gengsheng North Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)229043
■ Business hours: 10:30–17:00 (closed on Tuesdays)
Pilan Pig Blood Soup is a must-try snack in Taitung. The pig blood has a Q (chewy) and bouncy texture, making it great as a snack or paired with sticky rice sausage for a light meal. Other innards like intestines and liver are also available.
Must-try signature dishes:
1. Pig Blood Soup: This soup differs from others—it includes satay flavor. Here, it’s made with rich bone broth, loaded with chopped leeks and pickled vegetables, making it refreshingly tasty. The pig blood is firm yet tender, complemented by soft and tender pig intestines, adding layers of texture to the soup.
2. Handmade Sticky Rice Sausage: Made fresh daily using locally grown white rice from Taitung. The Q and soft sticky rice sausage is delicious on its own—or, if you prefer a stronger flavor, dip it in spicy soy sauce.
3. Other Side Dishes: In addition to pig blood soup and sticky rice sausage, there are generous portions of various pork innards. For a small family, ordering 1–2 side dishes is enough. Most dishes are simply blanched without added seasonings, with just a light drizzle of oil before serving—letting the freshness of the ingredients shine.
■ Address: No. 9, Lane 32, Section 109, Gaotai Road, Luye Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)550678
■ Business Hours: 11:30 AM–2:00 PM, 5:30 PM–8:30 PM
A must-try delicacy when you visit Luye Gaotai. This place combines tea with meals—even rice pairs wonderfully with black tea. So creative. My favorite is their peeled chili chicken soup—just a little spicy but super warming and comforting.
■ Address: No. 214, Datong Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)310869
■ Business Hours: 10:30 AM–11:00 PM
■ Closed every Monday
A must-eat in Taitung. The popular Taiwanese fried chicken from “Blue Dragonfly Fast Food” is a top-rated queue-worthy snack. Watching those freshly fried chicken legs come out of the oil is enough to make your mouth water. Verdict: The chicken legs are amazingly juicy—must-order. Fries are okay, can skip. Burgers are pretty good—worth trying.
■ Address: No. 205, Zhongshan Road, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)330999
■ Business Hours: 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM
A large, eye-catching sign reading “Seaweed” hangs prominently over the shop entrance—you might easily walk right past this hidden gem. Though not commonly used in everyday cooking, seaweed transforms into a series of healthy and delicious dishes here. Word of mouth has made seaweed synonymous with great food at this spot. Popular dishes can sell out, so come early.
The chef mixes seaweed into flour to make the dough, then stuffs it with a savory pork and chicken broth filling—creating the shop’s signature and wildly popular “Seaweed Chicken Broth Soup Dumplings.” With minimal seasoning, the natural flavors shine. Be careful—the burst of hot, flavorful broth inside can scald. Their other seaweed-based pasta dishes also follow a healthy, low-calorie philosophy. The owner pays meticulous attention to both taste and health, ensuring every bite is both satisfying and wholesome.
■ Address: No. 176, Datong Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)339759
Business Hours: 7:30 AM–2:30 PM
Not far from Blue Dragonfly, the “Banyan Tree Rice Vermicelli” is another essential dish. The broth, loaded with a generous amount of dried bonito flakes, is simply divine.
■ Address: No. 37, Renhe Street, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)331726
■ Business Hours: 4:00 PM–7:00 PM
■ Must-order: Basil Scallion Pancake
When you arrive at Seaside Park, the aroma wafting through the air is irresistible. The much-loved and highly recommended scallion pancake draws long queues—but it’s absolutely worth the wait.
■ Address: No. 130, Zhengqi Road, Taitung City, Taitung County 95044
■ Phone: (089)334637
■ Business Hours: Monday–Friday 2:00 PM–10:30 PM, Saturday–Sunday Midnight–10:30 PM
■ Parking: None available
■ Address: No. 115, Zhengqi Road, Taitung City, Taitung County 950
■ Phone: (089)347213
■ Address: No. 189, Zhengqi Road, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)328888
■ Business Hours: 3:00 PM–11:30 PM
■Address: No. 7, Lane 385, Zhengqi Road, Taitung City
■Phone: (089)334615
Stinky tofu from Lin's: The crispy outer layer of the stinky tofu gives way to rich, savory bean aroma inside. Its porous surface, filled with tiny and large holes, soaks up the sauce drizzled on top, resulting in an incredibly flavorful bite that keeps you coming back for more.
Tofu pudding from Baosang: A must-try dessert for sweet lovers. You can order just the tofu pudding on its own — it has a delicate, silky texture and is served with moderately sweet brown sugar syrup that's not cloying, making it very refreshing. You can also pair it with other ingredients (like tapioca pearls or peanuts). The peanut tofu pudding is highly recommended — the creamy peanuts complement the smooth tofu perfectly.
■Address: No. 11, 28-1, Lane 2, Jialan Village, Jinfeng Township, Taitung County
■Phone: (089)751009 Mobile: 0921-297346
■Business Hours: 10:00–21:00
When in Jinfeng, be sure to try the Aboriginal-style meal featuring roselle flavor. This highly recommended local eatery is located not far from the Skywalk. There’s no fixed menu here — the owner will serve dishes based on your group size. It's advisable to call ahead for reservations if you're in a larger group. The prices are moderate, and you'll get a true taste of the Aboriginal people’s cheerful and laid-back spirit. Not recommended for those who prefer a more structured dining experience or have high expectations for ambiance.
■Phone: 03-8787041
■Fax: 03-8781508
Shitiping on the East Coast boasts azure sea views and a rich variety of seafood. The Koufu Seafood Restaurant is located right next to Shitiping Harbor, the largest harbor in southern Hualien, and also serves as the registration point for the Eastern Taiwan Whale Watching No. 1 tour. The restaurant specializes in local lobsters and deep-sea fish caught by its own fishing boats, as well as offering a range of stir-fried seafood dishes. With indoor seating for over 200 people, it caters mainly to passing tourists during the off-season and to local residents and nearby communities. In peak season, it mainly serves tour bus groups. It's a great spot for both dining and whale watching.
Every morning, their own fishing boats go out to catch the freshest seafood. Signature dishes include sashimi, a variety of fresh fish preparations, live lobsters from the East Coast, fresh abalone, and a range of mountain and seafood dishes. Not only is the quality excellent, but the prices are also very reasonable, and the food comes out quickly, guaranteeing a satisfying meal. Please note that they close at 19:30 — come too late and you’ll miss out.
■Address: No. 167, Section 1, Linhai Road, Taitung City
■Phone: 0952-179-165
■Business Hours: (Monday–Friday) 17:30–21:00; (Saturday–Sunday) 11:30–15:00, 17:30–21:30
The owner of Pizza Grandpa is a handsome American who fell in love with Taitung and decided to open his dream shop here. All pizzas are handmade and made to order — the delicious taste is worth the wait. Especially loved is the thin, crispy crust that gets more flavorful the more you chew.
■Address: No. 42, Dajia Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
■Phone: (089)781677, (089)782078
Qingshan Leisure Farm is located in the Daylily Mountain Leisure Agriculture Area of Taimali Township, Taitung County — a resting spot on the way to Daylily Mountain. You can dine here, and the menu is quite good, especially the cold daylily flower salad, which is absolutely delicious and pairs wonderfully with rice. It's a pity no photos were taken, but the joy of the kids remains.
■Address: Next to the FuGang Gas Station on Provincial Highway 11, Taitung City
■Phone: (089)280436
■Note: One basket for NT$100
■Address: No. 149-1, Datong Road, Taitung City
■Phone: 0935-404-004
■Note: xx roasted sweet potatoes, sweet potato crisps, sweet potato honey
■Address: No. 166, Bo'ai Road, Taitung City
■Phone: (089)353286
■Note: Handmade peanut, sesame, and black sesame... (text truncated)
■Phone: (089)3572178
■Note: No. 112, Experimental Farm, Mingfeng Village, Beitun Township, Taitung County
When it comes to Taitung souvenirs, you absolutely must try this one—don’t miss the following!
■ Address: No. 43, Heping Road, Guanshan Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)812602
■ Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
This pumpkin rice cake (low sugar, low calorie, low cholesterol) is really delicious, made with Guanshan rice and pumpkins from Nanheng. Since it’s rice-based, it has a rich pumpkin aroma and tastes amazing. The 6-inch size is 200 NT dollars and should be eaten within two days!
■ Address: No. 23, Lane 113, Longquan Road, Wenquan Village, Pingtung Township, Taitung County 954
■ Phone: +886-89-510-666
■ Note: The hotel is entering its 26th year, with 183 newly renovated rooms
2018 Summer Activity Plan: Little Chiefs Camp, Summer Challenge
Chihpen Royal is the first five-star resort hotel in Eastern Taiwan. Last year, it celebrated its 25th anniversary and renovated 183 rooms to offer guests a completely new look!
For a 2018 summer family trip in Taitung, relax at Chihpen Royal. There are three hot spring zones alone, including indoor and outdoor baths, plus another area that combines a children’s pool, slides, and a variety of soaking tubs so the whole family can enjoy together. The facilities inside and outside the hotel are abundant, with special activities all day long—and they’re all free!
In summer, there’s nothing better than soaking in a cool swimming pool, playing sports like outdoor badminton and golf putting greens, or trying the indigenous barbecue area where you can mash your own millet dumplings, make rice balls, and more. There are also indoor activities, and even if you’re not into sports, the cultural performances and elegant piano music create a wonderful ambiance. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends, or with family, it’s the perfect place to make beautiful memories.
■ Address: No. 66, Lianhang Road, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)239666
That’s over the top!! The “Oolong Courtyard Themed Room” at Taitung Naluwan Grand Hotel features four double rooms, two bathrooms, and a massive walk-in closet big enough to play hide-and-seek. It sleeps six people from three generations, and there’s still an extra bed left—it’s really extravagant!
A trip to Taitung isn’t complete without staying at least three days!! The basement of the hotel alone has a shopping street, a warm-water pool, and a hot spring house. Plus, the “kids’ play area” feels like bringing an arcade into the hotel. It’s fun for grandparents too, who end up raving about it to family and friends when they get home. Most importantly, the local cuisine and buffet here are absolutely worthy of a thumbs-up.
■ Address: No. 200, Section 1, Zhonghua Road, Luye Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)550888
Want to take a hot air balloon ride anytime? Taitung Luming Hotel is the only hotel in Taiwan with its own hot air balloon—you don’t have to fight crowds or wait in line, it’s seriously cool!
■ Address: No. 107, Xinxing Village, Chishang Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)861111
Taitung Chihshang Rihpy International Resort is located in the heart of Taiwan’s eastern Huatung Valley, where mountains and ocean blend seamlessly into the pristine landscape—their beauty is impossible to hide. Looking out from your room, wow… just look at that pool, it looks amazing!! The play area has ball pits, slides, and arcade games. These little ones can’t wait to rush here from check-in to check-out as long as they’re at the hotel!
Rihpy International Resort offers stunning views and premium hot springs. To meet different guest needs, rooms are divided into two areas: the “Chihshang Hot Spring Hotel Zone” and the “102 Presidential Villa Zone.” There are 102 villas in total, making it one of the top villa complexes in Southeast Asia.
Rihpy has arranged many DIY activities, some free and some paid. Upon check-in, you’ll receive an activity schedule, so you’ll never be bored even if you stay at the hotel all day. The play area has ball pits, slides, and arcade games—kids can’t wait to head here from check-in to check-out as long as they’re at the hotel!
■ Address: No. 30, Longquan Road, Pingtung Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)515688
Opened in 2014, Chihpen Jinyin Century Hotel is a brand-new hot spring resort. Its minimalist style is crafted from stone, and the high-ceilinged lobby features a grand crystal chandelier that makes a strong impression. Throughout the hotel, you’ll find traditional Tao boat models, especially the eye-catching one placed in the center of the lobby.
The hotel’s hot springs are certified by the Tourism Bureau’s hot spring label, ensuring that water quality, spring type, and hygiene standards all meet regulations—providing the safest and highest-quality soaking experience. Plus, the moment you turn on the tap in your room, you’ll get clear, colorless, weakly alkaline sodium bicarbonate hot spring water from Chihpen.
There are various room types to suit couples, families of four, or even three generations under one roof. The buffet here is excellent, with generous portions of high-quality ingredients—it’s highly recommended to go for the one-night-two-meal package. There’s also free access to bicycles and an archery practice range!
■ Address: No. 36, Lane 376, Section 1, Zhonghua Road, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)34573 Mobile: 0963-466-782
Montana Hotel, located in the urban area of Taitung where transportation and food are both convenient, offers budget-conscious travelers yet another great option for a high-quality sleep experience.
It takes only about 5–10 minutes by car to reach attractions such as Taitung Forest Park, Carp Mountain, and Seaside Park, making it easy to plan your itinerary. It’s also very convenient to grab late-night snacks nearby, with popular queue-worthy eats like Rongshu Xia Mi Tiao Mu and specialty snack shops just around the corner.
Both double and quadruple rooms feature larger-sized beds, ensuring comfort even for families. For groups of friends or multiple families traveling together, Montana Hotel also offers entire-building rentals. Enjoy a starlit lounge in the evening to enhance camaraderie. (Breakfast is included, with a selection of American-style breakfast options available.)
■ Address: No. 56, Lane 632, Kaifang Street, Taitung City
■ Reservation Hotline: (089)352258 Mobile: 0972-182827
Xiangxiang Forest is a three-story detached house managed and operated by three siblings. Opening a homestay was their dream, and they even considered turning it into their own residence if things didn’t go well. With this philosophy, they run it just like “their own home,” which is, in my opinion, the essence of a homestay. Nowadays, many homestays are run by wealthy investors who renovate properties beautifully and hire managers—hired staff usually do their jobs without much interaction with guests, leaving the place feeling more like a business transaction than a home.
The first floor has an entire area designed just for kids, bursting with vibrant colors. In addition to a wooden slide, there are three huge cabinets filled with an overwhelming number of toys: RODY jumping horses, plush toys, building blocks, wooden trains, play kitchens, toy cars—you name it, it’s all here, like a mini Toys "R" Us.
They even have essentials for little babies, such as sterilizers, bottle cleaners, and even diapers. Xiangxiang Forest doesn’t have many rooms—just two double rooms and two quadruple rooms—but they’re very spacious, decorated in a simple style that’s cute and cozy. However, the owner says they aim to give guests a “[feeling of] a real home,” so they don’t cram too many furnishings inside. As a result, the rooms may not feel as “boutique” but are definitely more homely.
■ Address: No. 68, Lane 85, Xin Yuan Road, Luye Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: 0917-514812
Luye Senhuo (Luye Forest Life)! You’ll soon realize this is a well-chosen name. You’re literally in the forest, living life to the fullest. Endless greenery stretches out before you with no other houses in sight, and the distant Coastal Mountain Range looms faintly on the horizon. You can watch the mist slowly dance above the Beinan River Valley right before your eyes. It’s an overwhelmingly moving experience—the pinnacle of happiness and joy in life.
■ Phone: 0925-995080 (Mr. Lin Xinhai)
■ Address: No. 7, Lane 36, Alley 275, Section 3, Zhongxing Road, Taitung City
(A thoughtful homestay is warm / prices are very reasonable / has an elevator so no need to worry about carrying luggage)
What makes this homestay special isn’t the room decor or facilities, but the absolute dedication of the owner. The owner, Brother Hai, is a man of rich life experience and a great conversationalist. Due to his previous work, he’s traveled every corner of Taitung and knows all the best food and fun spots like the back of his hand, sharing everything freely (if you get the chance to stay here, don’t miss out on this living travel guide).
He supervised the construction daily from the start. There are two 600-liter heat pumps, totaling 1.2 tons, plus a pressure pump. Each room has an independent hot water pipe—no competition for hot water. Although the setup cost is high, the owner’s original intention was to ensure that tired travelers could return to their rooms and enjoy a steaming hot shower. The mattresses were custom-ordered—they’re not from a luxury brand, but they’re definitely comfortable (really!). The first floor is his residence, which he says allows him to respond promptly when guests need help. He mentioned how last time a guest’s child vomited at night, they immediately changed the sheets.
Also, they wash their own sheets themselves. He says sending them out to be laundered involves chemicals, which is terrifying—he insists that only self-washed sheets can smell like sunshine. If you like a homestay with warmth, this is the place to stay.
■ Address: No. 55, Lane 133, Binlang Road, Beitun Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)328111
■ Parking: Available
Filled with a rustic grocery store vibe, “Taitung Rainbow 55 Homestay” offers room types for 2–4 people, as well as entire-building rentals (accommodating up to 18 people). Each room has a unique style but is all spacious and comfortable. Though the furniture is simple, nothing feels neglected. Guests arriving from afar are greeted with a refreshing vibe. Soft tones and playful patterns make the space extra cozy, sure to be a hit with kids.
Nearby attractions include Chulu Ranch and Luye Plateau, making it very easy to plan your itinerary. While enjoying the beautiful mountains, waters, and fun that Taitung has to offer, choose a homestay that adds extra value, creating even more wonderful memories for your trip.
■ Address: No. 6, Lane 6, Lane 51, Lianhang Road, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)236731
Kids and adults alike are tired—kids who fall asleep the moment they get in the car come alive again once they enter the hotel. Cola Inn Branch 2 also offers entire-building rentals, ready to party into the night. The walls are a soft daisy-yellow paired with white wooden-framed paintings, giving the space an elegant and warm feel. The bathrooms feature a dry-wet separation design.
Recommended Reading:
■ Address: Tai’an Industrial Road, Beitun Township, Taitung County, 954
■ Phone: 0905-367538
Most people who choose to visit “Taitung Secret Camping Area” are drawn by its stunning night and sea views, and we’re no exception. Taitung Secret Camping Area is located in Tai’an Village, Beitun Township, Taitung County, at an altitude of about 2,800–3,000 meters. It’s just a 20-minute drive from downtown Taitung and is the only campsite in eastern Taiwan that offers simultaneous views of both the city and the Pacific Ocean.
■ Address: No. 15, Dafengfeng, Changbin Township, Taitung County
■ Phone: (089)881400
Located in Changbin, Taitung, the Baganlang Boat House Camp is one of the must-visits on the eastern bucket list for camping enthusiasts. Turning off Highway 11 at the 72.5K mark and entering a small path, you’ll be surprised to find an entirely different world inside. The campsite isn’t very large, but it boasts an unbeatable seascape facing the Pacific Ocean directly. Coupled with the creatively designed boat-house-style accommodations, it has become a unique landmark in Changbin. “Baganlang” means a celebration or victory feast in the Amis language.
■ Address: No. 500, Section 1, Songjiang Road, Taitung City
■ Phone: (089)281500
Each campsite at Xiaoyeliu Camp comes with a set of fixed wooden tables and chairs (one long table and two benches), saving you the hassle of bringing your own. However, although tap water is available throughout the site and there is a water supply post in front of each campsite, it’s not a sink—so washing up while squatting or sitting isn’t very convenient. There is a barbecue grill though, so do consider what you plan to cook here.
Just the thought of traveling from Taipei to Taitung via the east coast → around the Su-Hua Highway is enough to discourage many. But the beauty of Taitung is unforgettable, and the journey there is equally daunting. Driving is definitely out of the question for me. Taking the train + renting a car is the most relaxing and cost-effective way to explore. Thanks to the electrification of the Taitung railway, the Taroko Express and Puyuma Express now run all the way to Taitung. The trip from Taipei to Taitung now only takes 3.5 hours—it suddenly doesn’t feel so far away. Sitting comfortably on the train, enjoying a bento box, and taking a nap before arriving in Taitung? Why not enjoy such an easy trip?
RememberSnagging TRA tickets requires time synchronization.Taiwan Railways Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications
After entering the official website system, select “General Online Ticket Booking” → “One-way Ticket” OR “Round-trip Ticket”
It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the ticket booking system operation instructions in advance.
Number of Tickets Available for Booking
1. Each person (identified by ID number) can book up to 6 tickets per travel date.
2. When booking a round-trip ticket at the same time, a maximum of 12 tickets can be booked at once (6 for the outbound trip and 6 for the return trip).
3. This system only allows for the reservation of the number of tickets; when collecting tickets at stations, convenience stores, or post offices, or using online credit card payment, the specific type of ticket (adult, child, senior, or disabled) must be selected based on the passenger’s identity.
Ticket Collection Locations, Times, and Fees After Booking
Tickets can be collected at any computerized TRA ticketing station, 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart, or any computer-linked post office nationwide (at the savings window).
Available Booking Dates
1. Booking on the day of travel: Tickets can be booked up to one hour before departure on the day of travel.
2. Booking before the day of travel: Tickets can be booked starting two weeks (14 days) in advance. That means on Monday, you can book tickets for the following Monday; however, every Friday you can book an additional two days, up to the following Sunday (i.e., on Friday you can book for the following Friday, Saturday, and Sunday).
For example, if you’re going to Tainan this time and need to take the “Puyuma train departing 4/22 (Sat) and returning 4/23 (Sun),” you’ll need to “snag tickets starting 4/7 at 00:00”!
To put it more clearly, at 23:00 on 4/6, the system will generate new booking dates (as shown in the image below, displaying 4/21–4/23); after confirming the dates are correct, you can try operating the system and review all the fields again.
Don’t underestimate these few fields—they can easily trip you up during the rush, especially the “verification code.”
Ticket-snatching Tips
1. Pay attention to the snatching time (as illustrated in the example above).
2. Calculate the exact time down to the second (use the 117 time announcement service—if it announces 00:00, immediately press ENTER to submit your information).
3. Booking as a group minimizes missed opportunities. (More people can choose several more train times to spread out the chances and increase probability).
[Sleeping Angel Waking Demon Growth Log] Authorized Repost | Original Source [Taitung Attractions Lazy Pack – 82 Kid-Friendly “Fun, Delicious, Comfortable” Attractions, Food Recommendations]