Things To Do
in Dongshan
Dongshan Township sits on Taiwan's northeast coast in Yilan County, known for its broad river plains, coastal scenery, and easygoing pace. The Dongshan River runs through the area, offering scenic cycle paths and water activities near Luodong town. Its proximity to both mountains and the sea makes it a gateway for seafood feasts and tranquil nature escapes.
Travelers will find a mix of traditional markets, nearby hot springs in Jiaoxi, and family-friendly coastal outings around Suao and Nanfangao.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Dongshan and check into your accommodation, soaking in the serene landscapes that surround. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café featuring fresh Taiwanese produce. Venture out for a stroll through the picturesque countryside to acclimatize to the laid-back ambiance of the area.
Visit the Dongshan River Water Park, where you can engage in various outdoor activities like cycling or kayaking along the beautiful river. After exploring, stop by the nearby craft shops that showcase local artisans and their unique creations. Experience the vibrant culture of the town through its unique products and friendly interactions with the locals.
Dine at a renowned restaurant that specializes in regional delicacies, immersing yourself in Taiwan's culinary richness. After dinner, enjoy a relaxing walk along the riverside, where the sunset casts a magical glow over the landscape. End your day by unwinding at your accommodation, reflecting on your first experiences in Dongshan.
Start your day with a hike in the nearby Dongshan Mountain, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning vistas. Pack a hearty breakfast to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint, where you can appreciate the tranquility of the mountains. The fresh air and beautiful scenery will invigorate you for the adventures ahead.
Explore the captivating terraced rice fields that adorn the mountainside, capturing breathtaking photographs and learning about the local farming practices. You can also interact with local farmers, who are often eager to share their stories and insights. Take time to appreciate the harmony between nature and agriculture that defines the region.
Return to the village for dinner at a traditional Taiwanese eatery, sampling local specialties cooked in authentic styles. Later, visit a nearby night market to browse the various stalls offering street food, crafts, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant nighttime atmosphere, filled with laughter and local chatter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🐟Seafood dish at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🧋Bubble tea or street snack | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transit (bus/train ride) | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and family-friendly attractions
- Excellent seafood and fresh markets
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Public transport can be slower between distant spots
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問這裡怎麼走？" - How do I get here?
- "多少錢？" - How much is it?
- "廁所在哪裡？" - Where is the restroom?
- "我們要這個" - We will have this
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "請慢用" - Please enjoy your meal
- "天氣怎樣？" - How's the weather?
- "我不吃辣" - I don’t eat spicy
Places to Visit in Dongshan
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset perspectives over the river with long cycling paths and a wide, open sky—great for wide-angle shots.
Vibrant night scene with colorful stalls, steam, and crowds—perfect for candid street photography and food shots.
Traditional fishing boats and harbor activity with Pacific light; best for harbor silhouettes and moody seascapes.
Food in Dongshan
Dongshan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Local catches from the coast, often prepared simply to showcase the seafood’s natural flavors. Look for small seafood shacks near Suao and Nanfangao.
Must-Try!
A popular coastal snack featuring small oysters with eggs and starch batter, commonly found in night markets and seaside eateries.
Thin wheat noodles served in a light broth with seafood toppings—comforting and staple in Yilan.
Sweet pastries that pair well with Taiwan tea, showcasing Yilan’s agricultural produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling night market offering a wide array of local snacks, grilled skewers, and sweet treats, perfect for an evening culinary stroll.
Seafood-forward market near the harbor with fresh catches and seaside snacks, great for trying immediate-market specials.
Coastal fish market where you can sample and buy fresh seafood and prepared dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings and addressing elders with respect are valued; a brief nod or bow is common when greeting locals.
Queue politely, avoid loudly discussing sensitive topics in public, and handle food with care at markets.
When visiting temples, behave quietly, dress modestly, and follow local norms for offerings and incense.
Safety
Tipping in Dongshan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, including Dongshan. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely accepted, and credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments. Mobile payments (e.g., LINE Pay, Apple Pay) are increasingly available at shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; comfortable for outdoor markets, riverside walks, and coastal trails.
Warm to hot and humid; expect occasional typhoons. Ideal for beach visits, seafood feasts, and indoor markets during peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures and clearer skies; excellent for photography along the coast and river paths.
Cool and damp at times; layers recommended. Coastal scenery can be dramatic with overcast days and choppy seas.
Dongshan at Night
Hiking in Dongshan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
High-elevation forest with cool climate, scenic trails, and viewpoints; a day trip option from Dongshan for more rugged hiking.
Gentle, forested trails around Jiaoxi with opportunities to enjoy hot springs after a hike.
Airports
How to reach Dongshan by plane.
Approximately 1.5–2 hours by car/train from Dongshan; convenient for domestic and some international flights.
Major international gateway; about 2.5–3 hours by road/train from Dongshan, with good connections to regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Han Chinese (Hokkien and Hakka), with a growing number of migrant workers and a steady stream of tourists visiting for markets and coast.
Domestic travelers from Taiwan and international visitors attracted by seafood, markets, and riverside scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in Taiwan enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, with games often playing in parks and school facilities.
Riverfront and coastal routes around Dongshan are ideal for casual cycling and family outings.
Flat trails along the Dongshan River and market areas attract walkers and joggers year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dongshan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many markets have vegetarian options. Look for rice bowls with vegetables, tofu dishes, and egg-free seaweed salads; ask vendors about ingredients and use of fish sauce.