Things To Do
in Taitung
Taitung is a charming coastal city located on the eastern coast of Taiwan. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush mountains, scenic beaches, and crystal-clear water. The city is also home to many indigenous tribes, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience their rich cultural heritage.
Taitung is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, surfing, and hot air ballooning available year-round.
- "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 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a sunrise at Sanxiantai. Enjoy the picturesque views and take some photos on the iconic bridge.
Visit the Taitung Art Museum to appreciate local art and culture. Take a stroll in the park nearby for some relaxation.
Dinner at a local night market where you can indulge in various Taiwanese street foods. Enjoy the vibrant night atmosphere and shop for souvenirs.
Set out early for a hike in the East Coast National Scenic Area. Take in the stunning coastal views as you explore the trails.
Stop by the Sanxiantai Scenic Area and visit the unique rock formations. Enjoy a picnic with local snacks while soaking in the scenery.
Return to Taitung city and have dinner at a traditional restaurant. Try local dishes like braised pork rice and Taitung's famous millet wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastline
- Rich indigenous culture and heritage
- Less crowded than other tourist destinations in Taiwan
- Access to hot springs and outdoor activities like hiking and surfing
- Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional dishes
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Fewer amenities and services for tourists
- Potential language barrier as English is not widely spoken
- Can be more prone to typhoons and heavy rainfall
- Some areas may be less developed, impacting accessibility and infrastructure
Best Activities in Taitung
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the waves and beautiful scenery at one of Taitung's most popular surfing spots.
Explore the stunning coastal views and cycling paths that Taitung has to offer, such as the famous 9-tribes trail.
Discover the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes while hiking through the East Rift Valley, home to many scenic trails.
Experience the underwater world and vibrant marine life by scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Green Island, located off the coast of Taitung.
Places to Visit in Taitung
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its dragon bridge and stunning coastal views, offering great photo opportunities.
Beautiful natural scenery with hot spring pools providing a serene setting for photography.
Scenic island with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Taitung
Taitung Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Hakka dish featuring ground tea leaves, herbs, and nuts served over steamed rice. Try it at Ah Li Hakka Lei Cha in Taitung City.
Must-Try!
Savor the renowned flying fish, a local delicacy, prepared in various ways such as grilled, steamed, or stewed. Visit a local seafood restaurant for an authentic Orchid Island culinary experience.
Enjoy delicious rice noodles in a flavorful broth topped with fresh local toppings like seafood or pork. Don't miss the Taitung Cheng Gong Rice Noodles stand in the Cheng Gong Night Market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling night market for an array of fresh seafood, street snacks, and local specialties like grilled squid, oyster omelets, and seafood hotpot.
Discover unique street food options and artistic ambiance while strolling through this market. Indulge in creative snacks and beverages as you immerse yourself in Taitung's culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Taitung, people value their personal space, so it's important to be mindful of this and avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home in Taitung as a sign of respect for their living space and to keep the floors clean.
Taitung has rich indigenous cultures, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions, such as participating in rituals or ceremonies with an open mind and showing reverence for sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Taitung
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taitung, Taiwan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or for taxi services.
In Taitung, Taiwan, cash is widely used for daily transactions. However, major credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in more touristy areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Taitung, Taiwan is in spring (March to May) when the temperature is mild and flowers are in bloom. Expect lively festivals and cultural events during this time.
Summer (June to August) in Taitung brings hot and humid weather, but it's also the best time for beach activities and water sports. Expect occasional typhoons during this season.
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Taitung as the weather begins to cool down. Expect stunning fall foliage and outdoor recreational activities.
Winter (December to February) in Taitung is cool but not freezing, making it a good time for outdoor excursions and exploring the hot springs. Expect occasional rainfall during this season.
Taitung at Night
Hiking in Taitung
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park featuring Taiwan's tallest mountain, Yushan, and various hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
A picturesque coastal trail that offers scenic ocean views and lush vegetation, perfect for a leisurely hike and taking in the natural beauty.
A collection of stunning natural landscapes along Taiwan's east coast, with numerous hiking trails that highlight the region's diverse flora and fauna.
An accessible park with well-marked trails for hiking and biking, providing a peaceful environment amidst lush forests and lakes.
A unique hiking opportunity through the lush grassy hills and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A moderately challenging hike that leads to panoramic views from the summit, combining natural beauty with cultural significance.
A scenic trail that offers glimpses of local wildlife and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, ideal for nature lovers.
Aiports
How to reach Taitung by plane.
Located approximately 200 km west of Taitung, Kaohsiung International Airport is one of the largest airports in Taiwan, serving both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 350 km northwest of Taitung, Taoyuan International Airport is the main international airport in Taiwan and serves as a major hub for international air traffic.
About 130 km north of Taitung, Hualien Airport primarily serves domestic flights with some seasonal international flights, making it the nearest airport with significant international connections.
Located in Taipei, approximately 360 km northwest of Taitung, Songshan Airport operates mainly domestic flights but has limited international connections, primarily to nearby regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Taitung, constituting the majority of the population.
Includes various indigenous tribes such as the Amis, Paiwan, and Rukai, who have distinct cultures and languages.
A significant minority known for their unique cultural practices and language.
A growing community due to immigration and marriage with locals.
Includes a variety of nationalities working in agriculture and other sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Taitung is known for its beautiful coastline and great surf spots, making surfing a popular sport among locals and tourists.
With its scenic landscapes and dedicated bike paths, cycling is a favored activity for both recreation and transportation in Taitung.
The mountainous terrain and national parks of Taitung provide ample opportunities for hiking, attracting outdoor enthusiasts.
Baseball enjoys significant popularity in Taiwan and Taitung is no exception, with local teams and youth leagues promoting the sport.
Archery has gained popularity as a sport in Taitung, influenced by local traditions and modern sporting events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taitung.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Taitung provides vegetarian-friendly options, especially in Buddhist temples and certain local eateries. Look for dishes featuring tofu, vegetables, and soy-based products.
While vegan options may be more limited, some restaurants and markets offer plant-based dishes such as stir-fried veggies, tofu dishes, and fruit-based snacks.
Inform restaurants about gluten intolerance, and they can often accommodate by suggesting rice-based dishes, fresh seafood, and dishes without soy sauce or wheat-based ingredients.