Article & Photos / Lee Hsin-yi
Luye Gaotai is situated in Longtian Village, Luye Township, Taitung County. Owing to its distinctive geography, it has long been a well-known paragliding destination in Taitung. From April to October each year, paragliding enthusiasts can be spotted here, gliding above the Huatung Valley and hovering over the patchwork of farmland below — an exhilarating experience indeed.
Those wishing to try paragliding must register in advance with the Taitung County Soaring Sports Association. Even if you’re not paragliding, visitors love coming here for photos and sightseeing. From Luye Gaotai, you can clearly see the boundary between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, witnessing how tectonic movements have collided and uplifted to form this spectacular landscape.
Experiencing the thrill of paragliding requires prior registration. (Photo / Travel Site Lee Hsin-yi)
Even when it’s not paragliding season, you can enjoy grass sledding year-round at the nearby Gaotai Prairie. Originally a tea plantation, it was converted into a vast grassland to promote tourism. This endless prairie offers breathtaking views overlooking the surrounding mountains. Grass sledding costs NT$100 per sled — fun and thrilling, it's great for families, though children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Grass sledding on Gaotai Prairie is perfect for family outings. (Photo / Travel Site Lee Hsin-yi)
The first-ever Paragliding Carnival held at Luye Gaotai this July and August was an unprecedented success. The tethered hot air balloon experience alone attracted 8,800 participants. Taitung County plans to hold the event again next year, letting hot air balloons once again float across Taitung’s skies.
The hot air balloon carnival will return to Luye Gaotai next year. (Photo / Travel Site Lee Hsin-yi)