With breathtaking ocean views, majestic mountains, lush rice fields, and rich indigenous culture, Taitung, Taiwan, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, before embarking on this unforgettable journey, careful planning is often necessary. To help you enjoy a hassle-free trip, we’ve put together the ultimate Taitung itinerary guide, covering transportation, must-visit Taitung attractions, local cuisine, and accommodations. With just one read, you’ll have everything prepared, allowing you to explore Taiwan Taitung with ease and fully immerse yourself in its stunning landscapes!
Best Seasons for Taitung Travel | A Year-Round Guide
With its mild climate throughout the year, Taitung, Taiwan, offers unique charm in every season, making it a perfect destination no matter when you visit. However, three standout periods make Taitung travel seasons even more captivating: the Taitung International Balloon Festival, the Golden Daylily Blooms, and the Chishang Autumn Harvest Festival. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Taitung, here are some seasonal highlights and events to help you explore this breathtaking region.
📅 December 31｜Witness Taiwan’s First Sunrise
📍 Taimali, Sanxiantai, Millennium Sunrise Memorial Park, Seaside Park, and more
📅 December – January｜Blooming Rapeseed Flower Fields
📍 Chishang, Guanshan
📅 Late June｜Golden Rice Fields
📍 Chishang
📅 June – October｜Taitung’s Most Beautiful Starry Sky & Music Events
📍 Various locations in Taitung (Check the official Most Beautiful Starry Sky website for details)
📅 July – August｜Taiwan International Balloon Festival
📍 Luye Highland (Event details and hot air balloon rides available on the official website)
📅 August – September｜Golden Daylily Blooming Season
📍 Taimali (Check the Jinzhen Mountain official website for event updates)
📅 August – October｜East Coast Land Art Festival & Moonlight Sea Concert
📍 Various locations in Taitung (More info on the East Coast Land Art Festival official website)
📅 Late October｜Golden Rice Fields & Chishang Autumn Harvest Festival
📍 Chishang (Festival details on Chishang Cultural & Art Association’s Facebook page)
No matter which season you visit, Taitung’s landscapes, cultural festivals, and natural beauty ensure a trip full of unforgettable moments. Plan your Taitung travel season wisely and experience the magic of this beautiful coastal paradise!
How to Get to Taitung? | Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Taitung, a land blessed with azure coastlines, lush mountains, and rich cultural heritage, has long been a dream destination for travelers. Before embarking on your journey, understanding the best ways to get to Taitung is essential. Whether you’re an adventurer eager for a road trip to Taitung or prefer the convenience of trains, buses, or flights, this guide provides everything you need to know about transportation to Taitung, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to this breathtaking paradise.
Domestic Flights, Trains, Buses, and Driving: How to Get to Taitung
Domestic Flights to Taitung
If you’re planning a multi-day trip to Taitung and prefer to minimize travel time, flying is the fastest and most comfortable option, despite its higher cost and limited flight availability.
| Departure Airport | Airline | Schedule | Flight Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taipei Songshan Airport | UNI Air | Daily: 09:35, 13:30, 16:50 | 1 hr 5 min |
| Mandarin Airlines | Daily: 07:45, 17:45 (extra flight on Sundays at 19:10) | 1 hr 5 min |
Trains to Taitung
Taking the train to Taitung is the most widely available transportation method from various parts of Taiwan. The Taroko Express and Puyuma Express are the fastest train options. Below is a comparison of train travel times from Taiwan’s major railway stations:
| Departure Station | Train Type | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei Station | Taroko Express | 3.5–4 hours |
| Puyuma Express | 4–4.5 hours | |
| Tze-Chiang Limited Express | 4–4.5 hours | |
| Taichung Station | Tze-Chiang Limited Express | 3.5–4.5 hours |
| Puyuma Express | 3.5–4.5 hours | |
| Kaohsiung Station | Tze-Chiang Limited Express | 2.5 hours |
| Puyuma Express | 3 hours |
Buses to Taitung
Currently, there are no direct long-distance buses from northern Taiwan to Taitung. The available bus routes are:
- From Hualien: Take Hualien Bus or Dingdong Bus (3–4 hours)
- From Kaohsiung: Take Kuo-Kuang Bus (about 3.5 hours)
Since bus routes take longer and involve detours, taking the train is the recommended option for reaching Taitung.
Driving to Taitung
With the completion of the South-Link Highway, the drive from Pingtung to Taitung is now approximately 30 minutes faster than before! Travelers from southern Taiwan can consider this route for a more efficient journey.
| Starting Point | Route | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei | Provincial Highway 9 | 335 km |
| Hualien | Provincial Highway 11 | 170 km |
| Pingtung Fenggang | South-Link Highway | 96 km |
Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or drive, Taitung is waiting to welcome you with its breathtaking coastlines, vibrant culture, and incredible natural beauty!
Getting Around Taitung: Local Transportation Guide
When traveling in Taitung, understanding the local transportation options is key to ensuring a smooth journey. Whether you prefer the flexibility of renting a scooter, the comfort of a private car, or the convenience of public transport, there are multiple ways to explore this beautiful region.
Scooter Rental in Taitung
For small groups or travelers who want to avoid parking hassles, renting a scooter is the most flexible option. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a companion, riding a scooter along Taitung’s stunning east coast is an exhilarating way to explore.
👉 Online Scooter Rental Booking Available
Car Rental in Taitung
With Taitung’s vast landscape and attractions spread across the region, renting a car is a convenient choice, especially for those planning to visit multiple towns or carry outdoor gear like swimming and camping equipment.
🚗 One-Way Rental Available via Klook
Private Car Charter in Taitung
For a stress-free and comfortable experience, consider a private car charter. With a professional driver, you won’t have to worry about unfamiliar roads or navigating between attractions. Private car tours offer flexible schedules ranging from half-day to multi-day trips, making them an excellent choice for in-depth exploration.
Buses in Taitung
Taitung Bus Services
Taitung’s bus network connects the breathtaking east coast, charming old towns, and stunning natural scenery, making it a great option for travelers who want to explore at a leisurely pace. Taking a Taitung bus isn’t just about transportation—it’s an immersive cultural journey through the heart of Taiwan’s east coast.
🚌 Dingdong Bus
If you plan to visit multiple towns across Taitung, Dingdong Bus operates two routes—coastal and mountain lines—with stops covering the entire Hualien-Taitung region. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers heading north to Hualien.
🚌 Puyuma Bus
For those seeking a comfortable and efficient travel experience, Puyuma Bus offers modern, high-quality services connecting major cities in Taiwan to Taitung. Whether you’re heading for the coastal scenery or exploring Taitung’s unique cultural sites, Puyuma Bus ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride.
| Route | Starting Point | Destination | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Sightseeing Loop | Taitung Bus Terminal | Taitung Bus Terminal | Two-section fare, NT$25 per section (Taitung Train Station is the dividing point) |
| Land, Sea & Air Express | Taitung Airport | Fugang Fishing Port | – |
🚏 Taitung Bus Terminal
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Taiwan Haoxing)
The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle provides a hassle-free way to explore Taitung. Designed specifically for travelers, it links Taiwan’s stunning east coast landscapes and cultural gems. Whether you prefer slow travel or thrilling adventures, Taiwan Haoxing is your ideal partner for discovering Taitung’s beauty.
| Route | Starting Point | Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Rift Valley Luye Line | Taitung Bus Terminal | Luye Highland |
| East Coast Line | Taitung Bus Terminal | Taitung Bus Terminal |
From scooters and rental cars to public transport, Taitung offers diverse transportation options for every type of traveler. Plan your journey wisely and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in Taiwan’s beautiful southeast! 🚀
Must-Visit Attractions in Taitung
Located on Taiwan’s eastern coastline, Taitung is a land of unspoiled natural beauty. From its azure coastlines and rolling mountains to its lush green fields, this region offers breathtaking landscapes that captivate travelers. Taitung is home to must-visit attractions that feel like gifts from nature, leaving visitors enchanted. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the wonders of nature or experiencing the deep-rooted indigenous culture, Taitung offers an unforgettable journey filled with beauty and charm.
Let’s explore Taitung’s must-visit attractions and experience the magic of nature and cultural heritage.
Brown Boulevard, Chishang (池上伯朗大道)
One of Taiwan’s most famous scenic destinations, Brown Boulevard in Chishang Township, Taitung, is a stunning 4-kilometer road flanked by rows of trees and golden rice fields. Often regarded as a poetic rural paradise, this picturesque landscape attracts countless visitors and photographers.
📍 Best Time to Visit: September to October is the harvest season, when the rice fields turn a brilliant golden hue, creating a mesmerizing sight. As the sunlight filters through the trees and reflects off the golden grains, the entire boulevard feels like a dreamlike oil painting.
Apart from its breathtaking scenery, Brown Boulevard is also a culturally significant location, offering visitors a peaceful countryside retreat where they can slow down, embrace nature, and enjoy an unforgettable travel experience.
Jingang Boulevard, Changbin (長濱金剛大道)
For those drawn to rugged coastal beauty, Jingang Boulevard in Changbin Township, Taitung, is a must-visit attraction. Stretching 20 kilometers along the eastern coastline, this road is known for its dramatic rock formations, lush green surroundings, and spectacular ocean views, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
🛤 Scenic Highlights:
- Surrounded by dense tree tunnels, creating a sense of mystical adventure
- Lined with unique rock formations, sculpted by time and nature into towering, statue-like figures
- Offers breathtaking sunset views over the Pacific Ocean, painting the sky in vibrant colors
Walking along Jingang Boulevard feels like stepping into a living masterpiece of nature. Whether you’re admiring the geological wonders or simply enjoying the fresh sea breeze, this coastal road promises a memorable and picturesque Taitung experience.
📍 Location: Dong 13 Township Road, Changbin Township, Taitung County (忠勇自行車道)
Taitung University Library (台東大學圖書館)
Standing majestically in eastern Taiwan, the Taitung University Library is a landmark that draws visitors from far and wide. Nestled beside Jingxin Lake, its grand architectural design seamlessly blends with the surrounding mountains and sea, embodying the essence of nature and culture. More than just a repository of knowledge, this stunning library is an architectural gem, showcasing artistic beauty and modern aesthetics.
This five-story, mountain-shaped structure resembles a pyramid of knowledge, offering a visually captivating experience. Both its exterior design and interior spaces reflect a deep appreciation for Taitung’s natural landscapes. Inside, the library houses an extensive and diverse book collection, providing a serene reading environment that feels like stepping into a temple of literature.
Located beside Jingxin Lake, the library is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, enhancing the sense of peace and tranquility. Whether you seek intellectual inspiration or simply wish to enjoy the natural beauty, the Taitung University Library is an unmissable destination. A visit to Taitung would not be complete without experiencing this harmonious blend of knowledge and nature.
📍 Address: No. 369, Section 2, University Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
Duoliang Train Station (多良車站)
Often hailed as the most picturesque train station in Taiwan, Duoliang Train Station is also one of the closest stations to the Pacific Ocean. Although trains no longer stop here, it remains a beloved tourist attraction, drawing countless visitors eager to admire its breathtaking coastal scenery.
The station’s rooftop has been transformed into a viewing platform, allowing visitors to witness passing trains as they traverse the railway tracks against the backdrop of the vast ocean and endless sky. With its red station building, railway lines, and stunning ocean view, Duoliang Train Station is more than just a former transit hub—it is a soul-soothing scenic spot.
📍 Address: No. 8-1, Longxi Road, Duoliang Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Pisilian Tribe (比西里岸部落)
The Pisilian Tribe, whose name derives from the Amis word “pisilian,” meaning “a place for herding sheep,” is a coastal indigenous village with a rich cultural heritage. Historically, the Amis people lived by the sea, practicing self-sufficient lifestyles, including sheep farming on offshore islets. Today, the tribe continues to preserve its indigenous traditions, while also developing unique tourist attractions, including the famous Jimmy Art Park (幾米園區).
Hidden within the Pisilian Tribe are eleven Jimmy-themed art installations, each offering a whimsical artistic experience. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a fusion of art and indigenous culture. Additionally, large-scale art installations enhance the coastal scenery, blending the vast ocean views with creative human expression. Walking through Pisilian feels like stepping into a poetic world of art and tradition.
📍 Location: Bailian Road, Sansian Community, Chenggong Township, Taitung County
🕗 Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00
Duli Beach (都歷沙灘)
Located along Taiwan’s east coast, Duli Beach is a serene and scenic coastal paradise. Known for its fine golden sand stretching for kilometers, this beach offers stunning views of waves crashing onto the shore and swaying coconut trees.
Duli Beach is not only perfect for strolling and sunbathing, but also an ideal spot to witness a breathtaking sunrise. As dawn breaks, the sun gradually rises over the horizon, casting a mesmerizing golden glow across the calm ocean waters.
This beach is also home to a diverse coastal ecosystem, making it an excellent site for environmental education and nature exploration. Visiting Duli Beach feels like stepping into a natural seaside sanctuary, where one can escape the hustle and bustle and fully embrace the beauty of nature.
📍 Location: Duli Village, Chenggong Township, Taitung County
Taitung Forest Park (台東森林公園)
Taitung Forest Park is a breathtaking natural retreat, featuring picturesque lakes and lush greenery. Within the park, you’ll find three unique lakes, each with its own distinctive charm.
- Pipa Lake (琵琶湖): Formed by underground springs, this lake boasts crystal-clear waters that reveal the serene beauty of the landscape.
- Egret Lake (鷺鷥湖): Originally a wetland area, it has been transformed into a birdwatching paradise, attracting various species of water birds.
- Flowing Lake (活水湖): An artificial rectangular lake, Flowing Lake frequently hosts water sports events and exudes a romantic European ambiance.
Strolling along Flowing Lake, visitors can admire the mirror-like waters reflecting the azure sky and lush greenery, creating an idyllic setting perfect for leisure walks, cycling, and photography. The lake is also a popular venue for water sports competitions, adding a lively atmosphere to this peaceful sanctuary. With its scenic beauty and vibrant activities, Taitung Forest Park has become a well-known Instagram hotspot in the region.
📍 Address: No. 300, Huatai Road, Taitung City, Taitung County
🕖 Opening Hours: 07:00 – 17:30
🎟 Admission: NT$30 (full ticket), NT$20 (half ticket) (On Chinese New Year’s Eve, tickets are available until 12:30 PM)
Luye Highland (鹿野高台)
Perched on an elevated plateau, Luye Highland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hualien Rift Valley and its meandering rivers. This destination is best known as the host of the Taiwan International Balloon Festival, held annually from June to August. During this time, the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons, creating a spectacular and vibrant landscape. Visitors can even take a hot air balloon ride, enjoying a 360-degree aerial view of the breathtaking plains and mountain ranges.
In addition to hot air ballooning, Luye Highland also offers thrilling activities such as grass sledding and paragliding, allowing visitors to experience exhilarating adventures surrounded by coastal mountain ranges. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Luye Highland is a must-visit destination, promising unforgettable memories.
East Coast Surfing Paradise | A Haven for Wave Riders
For surf enthusiasts, Taiwan’s East Coast is undeniably a surfing paradise. From Jiqi in Hualien to Baxian Cave, Wushibi, Yiwang, Chenggong Township, Duli, Donghe River Mouth, Jinzun Bay, and Xingchang in Taitung, the coastline is dotted with exceptional surf spots. In particular, the stretch from Donghe to Changbin benefits from an extended continental shelf of 50 to 60 meters, creating a gently sloping seabed that results in consistent and stable waves—an ideal setting for surfers of all levels.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, the diverse surf breaks along the East Coast offer the perfect waves for every style. Come ride the waves and embark on your ultimate surfing adventure on Taiwan’s East Coast! 🌊🏄♂️
Taitung Travel Itinerary Recommendations
One-Day Trip Suggestions
🔹 Route 1: Taimali One-Day Tour
Duoliang Train Station → Xiangyang Woodwork Workshop → Taimali Sunrise Park → Huayuan Bay
🔹 Route 2: East Coast One-Day Tour
Jialulan → Sanxiantai → Taiyuan Valley → Jinzun Lookout → Xindong Sugar Factory Cultural Park
🔹 Route 3: East Rift Valley One-Day Tour
Brown Avenue → Dolimi Story House → Guanshan Rice School → Wuling Rehabilitation Center Café → Luye Highland Tea Plantation
Three Days, Two Nights Itinerary
📍 Day 1: Beinan Township
Chulu Ranch → Zhiben Hot Spring Area → Zhiben Forest Recreation Area
📍 Day 2: Taimali Township
Millennium Sunrise Memorial Park → Slam Dunk Railway Crossing → Jinlun Bridge → Duoliang Train Station
📍 Day 3: Donghe Township
Jinzun Recreation Area → Jinzun Fishing Harbor → Dulan Tribe
Four Days, Three Nights Itinerary
📍 Day 1:
Pinwei Rest Stop (Lunch) → Nantian Viewing Platform → Duoliang Train Station → Taimali Train Station → Slam Dunk Railway Crossing → Xiaoyeliu → Jialulan Recreation Area → Dulan Cottage B&B → Dulan Courtyard (Dinner)
📍 Day 2:
Dulan Cottage B&B → Fushan Fish Reserve → COCONA Café (Lunch) → Water Running Uphill Scenic Spot → Dulan Viewing Platform → Marino’s Kitchen → Donghe Bun → Duli Beach → Sanxiantai → Pisilian Tribe → Naruwan Hotel → Rongshu Xia Mitaimu Noodles (Dinner) → Lihou Ice Shop → Bingcheng Eatery
📍 Day 3:
Naruwan Hotel → Dachi Tofu Skin Shop → Brown Avenue → Dapo Pond → Quanmei Bento (Lunch) → Guanshan Stinky Tofu → Chulu Ranch → Fun Taitung Hotel → Ahong Fried Chicken (Dinner)
📍 Day 4:
Fun Taitung Hotel → Taitung Station Souvenirs (Chenji Mochi, Lao Dongfang Herbal Tea, Liancheng Sweet Potato Crisps) → Special Seafood Restaurant (Lunch) → Chen Family Mochi → Huayuan Sky Mirror → Huayuan Coconut Boulevard → Huayuan Ocean Viewing Platform → Taichung
Explore the best of Taitung with these recommended routes and enjoy the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and local delicacies! 🌊🏕✨
