MileHacker Logo
Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

East Coast, Taiwan

Accommodation Types

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels

    For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a social atmosphere, hostels in Taitung City have dormitory beds or simple private rooms. Backpackers and solo travelers often pick these, as shared common areas promote meeting other guests.

  • Minshu (B&Bs)

    These Taiwanese-style guesthouses are a charming choice in Taitung. Minshus are often family-run, providing personalized service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. They range from simple, homey establishments to elaborately designed properties. Many are in scenic areas outside the city center, for a peaceful retreat amidst nature. This option offers an authentic local experience.

  • Hotels

    Taitung City has hotels from budget-friendly options with basic amenities to comfortable mid-range establishments. These hotels have standard services and are often convenient for accessing city attractions and public transportation.

  • Resorts

    Mainly around the famous Zhiben Hot Springs or along the coast, resorts in Taitung feature extensive amenities. These include various hot spring pools (public and private), spas, multiple dining options, and recreational facilities. They cater to travelers seeking relaxation and a comprehensive leisure experience.

Other Lodging Styles

  • Unique Local Options

    Minshu guesthouses stand out with unique architectural designs, themed rooms, or settings in beautiful natural surroundings.

  • Vacation Rentals

    While less common than in major cities, some vacation rentals or apartments appear through platforms like Airbnb. However, direct bookings with Minshus or hotels remain more prevalent and often reliable in Taitung.

  • Homestay & Community Tourism

    Some Minshus offer a homestay-like experience, where you can live with a local family. These initiatives feature homestays and cultural activities, allowing visitors to learn directly from tribal members.

  • Camping & Outdoor

    Official campgrounds are limited in Taitung. Some guesthouses or recreational areas might have designated spots for camping. For serious campers, research specific sites in advance.

Neighborhood Guide

Taitung has distinct areas, each with its own character and advantages for travelers.

Taitung City Center

Benefits
  • Easy access to Taitung Train Station and bus routes.
  • Near attractions like Railway Art Village and Forest Park.
  • Many dining and shopping choices.
  • Good for first-time visitors seeking ease.
Considerations
  • Can be busy with typical city noise.
  • Less direct access to vast natural scenery.
  • The most urbanized area.
  • Connections to the city by bus or taxi.

Zhiben 知本

Benefits
  • World-renowned for its hot springs.
  • Ideal for relaxation and wellness.
  • Many hot spring resorts.
  • A calming atmosphere surrounded by mountains.
Considerations
  • Can feel isolated from the main city.
  • Less variety in dining and entertainment outside resorts.
  • Dedicated transport needed to explore other parts of Taitung.
  • A destination focused on wellness.

Dulan 都蘭

Benefits
  • Known for its bohemian and artistic vibe.
  • Attracts surfers and artists.
  • Laid-back charm with stunning coastal views.
  • The Dulan Sugar Factory is a cultural landmark.
Considerations
  • Independent transportation (scooter or car) is best due to limited public transport.
  • Fewer traditional amenities compared to the city.
  • Situated along the scenic East Coast.
  • Popular surfing spots here.

Chishang 池上 / Luye 鹿野 Overview

Character & Benefits

These inland areas are in the Taitung Longitudinal Valley, famous for picturesque rice paddies (like Brown Boulevard in Chishang) and Luye Gaotai, the Hot Air Balloon Festival site. They offer a rural, tranquil, and beautiful experience, ideal for cycling. Incredibly scenic and peaceful, they offer agricultural experiences.

Considerations

More remote from the coast and Taitung City amenities. Independent transport best for exploring these areas effectively. Limited dining and shopping options. All areas in Taitung County are generally very safe for travelers. Standard precautions regarding personal belongings always apply.

Booking Strategies

Seasonal variations significantly influence availability and prices for lodging.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • Peak Season (Oct-Apr, Lunar New Year, Hot Air Balloon Festival in Jul-Aug): Book your accommodation several months ahead. Popular Minshus, boutique hotels, and hot spring resorts can sell out rapidly, especially during public holidays and the festival.
  • Shoulder Season (May-Jun, Sep): Booking 1-2 months in advance is advisable to get a good selection of properties and preferred room types.
  • Low Season (Jul-Aug, excluding Hot Air Balloon Festival): You will have more flexibility, but it remains wise to book at least a few weeks ahead, particularly for highly-rated places or if you have specific preferences.
  • Accommodation prices are notably higher during peak seasons, major holidays, and the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival. For budget travel, consider visiting during the shoulder or low season (excluding the festival) for better value.

Platforms & Policies

  • International Platforms: Websites like Booking.com and Agoda are widely used and reliable for finding hotels, resorts, and many Minshus in Taitung. They feature user reviews and various filtering options.
  • Local Platforms/Direct Booking: Many Minshus have their own websites, Facebook pages, or use local systems. Booking directly with the property can sometimes mean better rates, special packages, or more personalized communication.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies differ by property. Check deposit needs and cancellation terms carefully before confirming your booking. Deposits are common, especially for Minshus, and are often needed to secure your reservation.
  • Vrbo offers vacation rentals. TrustedHousesitters for house/pet sitting exchanges. Hostelworld for budget stays.

Additional Accommodation Resources

General Platforms
  • For global hotel chains like IHG Hotels, check their official websites.
  • These platforms make finding diverse options easier.
  • Compare prices across different sites for the best deal.
  • User reviews on these platforms offer helpful insights.
Direct Booking Benefits
  • Direct contact with property staff for special requests.
  • Some properties offer loyalty programs for direct bookings.
  • Direct booking can sometimes support smaller, local businesses more directly.
  • Always verify the legitimacy of direct booking websites.

Tip for Festivals

Hot Air Balloon Festival

During the Hot Air Balloon Festival, accommodation near Luye Gaotai sells out months in advance. Consider staying in Taitung City and commuting.

Lunar New Year

This major holiday sees Taiwanese traveling domestically, causing all lodging types to fill quickly and prices to rise significantly. Book very early.

Weekend Trips

Weekends, especially long weekends, also see higher occupancy. Booking at least a few weeks ahead for weekend stays is a good practice.

Accommodation Recommendations

Taitung has excellent options across all budget levels, along with properties tailored for families, solo travelers, or those seeking unique cultural experiences.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget Options NTD 500-1000/night

Hostels and basic Minshus offer dorm beds or simple private rooms. They often feature shared bathrooms and a social atmosphere with basic amenities. Ideal for backpackers and those on a tight budget.

  • Look for hostels near Taitung Train Station for urban convenience.
  • Many provide communal kitchens.
  • Some have common areas for meeting other travelers.
  • Online reviews can help with specific hostel choices.
Mid-Range Choices NTD 1500-3000/night

Boutique Minshus and mid-range hotels have comfortable rooms, often with unique designs or themes. They come with good amenities, personalized service, and private bathrooms. A balanced choice for comfort and local feel.

  • Many Minshus in scenic areas for a peaceful retreat.
  • Some include breakfast.
  • Excellent for a more personal experience.

Luxury & Specialized Stays

Luxury Options NTD 4000+/night

High-end hotels and hot spring resorts feature full amenities like pools, spas, and multiple dining venues. They often have scenic views, exceptional service, and private hot spring baths, especially in Zhiben.

  • Ideal for relaxation and a comprehensive leisure experience.
  • Resorts in Zhiben have direct access to natural hot springs.
  • Many feature refined dining options.
  • Reservations well in advance are wise for these properties.
Family-Friendly & Solo Traveler

Many Minshus are family-run and feature spacious family rooms or properties with gardens, suitable for children. Resorts in Zhiben with hot spring pools or recreational facilities are also excellent for families, with on-site entertainment. Hostels in Taitung City are good for solo travelers for social interaction and budget. Minshus offer comfortable private rooms for a peaceful retreat.

  • Inquire about child-friendly amenities.
  • Hostels often organize social events.
  • Resorts simplify family vacation planning.
  • Solo travelers also consider Minshus for privacy.

Long-Stay & Cultural Picks

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    For extended visits, some Minshus or guesthouses may have discounted weekly or monthly rates, specifically outside of peak season. Inquire directly with properties for such arrangements.

  • Cultural/Historical Properties

    Some Minshus are beautifully converted traditional Taiwanese homes, offering a glimpse into local architecture and lifestyle. In the Taitung Railway Art Village area, renovated Japanese-era dormitories transformed into unique lodging options, with a distinct historical ambiance.

  • Artistic Minshus in Dulan

    Dulan is home to Minshus reflecting its artistic vibe, some even double as art spaces or galleries. These properties suit travelers looking for a creative, laid-back atmosphere.

  • Eco-Friendly Stays

    A few properties in Taitung focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Look for these if environmental impact matters to your travel choices.

Considerations for Your Stay

  • Transportation Needs

    While Taitung City has public transport, venturing to areas like Dulan or Chishang often means renting a scooter or car for optimal movement.

  • Connectivity

    Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi, but rural Minshus might have slower speeds. Confirm internet access if it is critical for your trip.

  • Service Levels

    Service ranges from basic (hostels) to highly personalized (Minshus) to full-service (resorts). Align your choice with your service expectations.

  • Language Barriers

    In smaller Minshus, English might be limited. Have a translation app or basic Mandarin phrases ready.

Price Range NTD/night

Budget

500-1000 NTD: Hostels, basic Minshus. Dorm beds or simple private rooms, shared bathrooms, social atmosphere, basic amenities.

  • Best for backpackers and solo travelers.
  • Good for short stays.
  • Often near public transport.
  • Common areas for interaction.
Mid-range to Luxury

1500-3000 NTD (Mid-range): Boutique Minshus, mid-range Hotels. Comfortable rooms, often unique design/theme, good amenities, personalized service, private bathrooms.
4000+ NTD (Luxury): High-end Hotels, Hot Spring Resorts. Full amenities (pools, spas, multiple dining), often scenic views, exceptional service, private hot spring baths.

  • More comfort and style.
  • Full service amenities available.
  • Hot springs a feature in luxury resorts.
  • Private facilities common.

Why Taitung is a Great Stay Destination

Diverse Choices

From cozy Minshus to lavish resorts, your preference and budget will find a match here.

Scenic Beauty

Many accommodations offer views of mountains, rice paddies, or the Pacific Ocean, enhancing your stay.

Local Connection

Especially in Minshus, experience true Taiwanese hospitality and local culture firsthand.