Things To Do
in Dongshan
Dongshan is a charming rural township located in Yilan County, Taiwan. Known for its beautiful landscapes and agricultural scenery, Dongshan offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore lush rice paddies, serene temples, and traditional villages while enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty of the area.
Dongshan is also famous for its delicious local produce, such as tea, rice, and seafood.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the Dongshan River Water Park. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river and take in the natural beauty.
Visit the local markets and enjoy some delicious street food. Try the famous Taiwanese bubble tea for a refreshing treat.
Head to the Dongshan Night Market for a vibrant atmosphere. Explore the stalls and experience the local nightlife.
Visit the Dongshan River Ecological Park to immerse yourself in nature. Walk along the trails and observe the local wildlife.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverbank. Relax and take in the serene surroundings.
Explore a nearby hot spring for a wonderful relaxation experience. Unwind in the thermal waters and enjoy the tranquility.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional Taiwanese elements.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Good availability of fresh local produce and seafood.
- Laid-back lifestyle with a slower pace of living.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities in Taiwan.
- Potential language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Less access to modern amenities and services.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Vulnerability to typhoons and extreme weather conditions.
Best Activities in Dongshan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural surroundings and enjoy the various trails for hiking, with stunning views of the landscape.
Enjoy a scenic biking experience along the Dongshan River, with designated bike paths and picturesque views of the countryside.
Experience water-based activities and family-friendly fun at the Dongshan River Water Park, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dongshan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dongshan
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic temple with a hilltop location offering panoramic views of Dongshan and its surroundings.
A popular spot known for its stunning landscapes, including a coastal view and picturesque rice fields.
An ideal location for capturing views of the Dongshan River and the surrounding natural scenery.
Food in Dongshan
Dongshan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Hakka dish consisting of ground tea leaves, herbs, nuts, and seeds served over rice. It can be found at various local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
These thick rice noodles are a local specialty, often served in a flavorful broth with fresh vegetables and your choice of meat or tofu. Try them at Lao Dongshan Rice Noodle Shop for an authentic experience.
Tofu is stuffed with a savory mixture of pork, mushrooms, and spices, then braised to perfection. Look for this dish at traditional Hakka restaurants like A-Ho Hakka Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dongshan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant night market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Sample a variety of street food offerings, from grilled skewers to fresh seafood, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere.
For farm-fresh produce and local specialties, head to the Dongshan Farmers' Market. Enjoy exploring the stalls and discovering unique ingredients to create your own culinary adventures.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dongshan, Taiwan, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal language and gestures of deference.
When eating in Dongshan, it is customary to wait for the elders to begin eating before starting your own meal, and to use chopsticks and spoons politely.
Politeness and modesty are highly valued in Dongshan, so it is important to use polite language and avoid boasting or speaking loudly in public.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dongshan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dongshan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Dongshan, Taiwan, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for most services. However, some high-end establishments may include a service charge in the bill.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Dongshan, Taiwan. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, but it is still advisable to carry cash for smaller local businesses. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also starting to gain popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dongshan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Dongshan, Taiwan as the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Expect vibrant natural scenery and local festivals.
Expect hot and humid weather, with occasional typhoons. It is a good time to enjoy water activities along the coast.
Another great time to visit with pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage. Local food festivals and cultural events are also common during this season.
Cool temperatures make it a great time to explore the hot springs and enjoy seasonal delicacies. Dongshan is also known for its winter honeysuckle flowers during this time.
Dongshan at Night
Hiking in Dongshan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that runs along the Dongshan River, offering beautiful views and easy access for both hikers and cyclists.
A popular hiking spot known for its diverse flora and fauna, along with panoramic views from the summit.
This trail leads to Baiwei Mountain, renowned for its lush greenery and challenging paths, making it perfect for experienced hikers.
Features a network of walking trails through lush landscapes and wetlands, ideal for leisurely hikes and birdwatching.
A scenic and relatively easy trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is suitable for families.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dongshan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dongshan by plane.
The largest airport in southern Taiwan, serving Kaohsiung and the surrounding areas.
An airport located in Taitung County, serving domestic flights and some international connections.
An international airport serving Taichung and surrounding areas, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
The main international airport serving Taipei and the largest in Taiwan, handling a vast majority of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Dongshan, representing the majority of the population.
Comprising various indigenous tribes, they represent a smaller percentage of the population.
Includes individuals from various countries who work in the region, contributing to the local economy.
The Soul of Dongshan
Discover the essence of Dongshan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport among the youth in Dongshan, often played in local schools and community centers.
A favorite pastime in Taiwan, baseball has a strong following in Dongshan, with local teams participating in various leagues.
Soccer is increasingly popular in Dongshan, with many children and teenagers participating in organized leagues.
Practiced by many for its health benefits, Tai Chi is a common activity in parks and public spaces in Dongshan.
Volleyball is played in schools and community events, especially among the younger population in Dongshan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dongshan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan variations of classic dishes, such as vegetable-based Lei Cha or tofu substitutions in noodle soups. Look for '斋' (zhāi) or '素' (sù) on menus to find meatless options.
While gluten-free awareness is growing, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly at restaurants. Some dishes, like grilled meats and stir-fried vegetables, can often be prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dongshan with these cultural adventures.
