By MOOK Scenic Spots Chen Wenlin, compiled and reported
Every summer, the biggest highlight in Eastern Taiwan is undoubtedly the highly anticipated “Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival”! In recent years, it has attracted millions of international visitors from around the world who come to experience this event, while domestic travelers also flock here in great numbers. This year, thanks to positive feedback, the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival will extend its duration to 45 days, taking place from June 30 to August 13—something to look forward to.
The Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival attracts numerous domestic and international visitors every year (Photo / Taitung County Government)
This year, due to the impact of the Hualien earthquake on East Rift Valley tourism, Taitung County has decided to extend the originally planned 38-day hot air balloon event to 45 days, hoping to attract more tourists and boost local tourism. Additionally, the festival has invited various internationally renowned themed hot air balloons to soar above Taitung, including the world-famous landmark “Christ the Redeemer,” the immensely popular Minions from global animated films, the “Up” balloon that won both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature, and last year’s visual sensation at Luye Gaotai, the Noah’s Ark “Arky”—all set to make an appearance at this year’s event.
This year’s hot air balloon event features many internationally recognized balloon designs, including the beloved Minions and the world-famous Christ the Redeemer (Photo / Taitung County Government)
At the same time, to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Dog in 2018, the British Bulldog “Buster” will make its debut this year. Also appearing will be Taiwan’s tourism ambassador “Oh Bear,” the hugely popular PX Mart “FuLi Bear,” and a total of 39 themed hot air balloons that will grace the skies above Luye Gaotai in Taitung this year.
As many as 39 themed balloons from around the world will make their debut at this year’s festival (Photo / Taitung County Government)
Now in its eighth year, the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival has been selected by Travel Channel as one of the world’s 12 most amazing hot air balloon festivals. With attention from travelers worldwide, those eager to experience the wonder of hot air ballooning should consider a trip to Taitung this summer to join in the festivities alongside visitors from all over the globe.
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