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Nearby Destinations

Nearby Destinations

East Coast, Taiwan

Island Escapes

Green Island (綠島) is known for hot springs, clear waters for snorkeling and diving, and unique rock formations.

Orchid Island (蘭嶼, Lanyu) is a larger, culturally distinct island with exceptional diving.

Green Island Highlights

  • Ferry from Fugang Fishery Port (50 min)
  • Scooter rental for island travel
  • Zhaori Saltwater Hot Spring
  • Snorkeling & Diving

Inland & Coastal Drives

Discover scenic beauty on the mainland.

Chishang & Luye Valleys

These inland areas of the Taitung Longitudinal Valley are perfect for a scenic day journey.

Valley Activities

  • Brown Boulevard rice paddies
  • Luye Gaotai (Hot Air Balloon Festival)
  • Bicycle rental for exploration

East Coast Scenic Drive

Highway 11 north or south from Taitung City offers continuous stunning coastal scenery.

Coastal Discoveries

  • Rental car or scooter flexibility
  • Numerous viewpoints & rock formations
  • Charming coastal towns (Dulan, Chenggong)

Travel Styles

Organized Tours

  • Convenience for reaching multiple spots
  • Worry-free navigation
  • Less flexible scheduling
  • Fixed duration at stops

Independent Travel

  • Maximum pace flexibility
  • Discover hidden spots
  • Requires self-driving comfort (permits)
  • Navigating local transport

Recommended Time

  • Green IslandFull day or overnight
  • Orchid IslandMinimum 2 days / 1 night
  • Chishang/LuyeHalf-day to full-day
  • East Coast DriveFull day or shorter segments
  • Book ExperiencesGetYourGuide
  • Explore Ethical ToursG Adventures
  • More OptionsCheck local tour operators
  • Start Your AdventurePlan your perfect trip

Plan Ahead

Booking tours or transport in advance, especially during peak seasons, is advisable.

Natural Escapes

Taitung and its surroundings abound with opportunities for natural escapes.

Taitung Forest Park

Accessible city park with lakes, forests, and cycling paths.

East Coast Scenic Area

Stunning coastal ecosystems along Highway 11.

Longitudinal Valley

Serene rice paddies framed by distant mountains.

Diverse Landscapes

Rugged coastal cliffs, expansive ocean views, and verdant rice paddies.

Nature's Beauty

  • Dramatic coastal scenery
  • Tranquil agricultural heartland
  • Hiking opportunities in mountains

Coastal & Highland Retreats

Quiet beaches along Highway 11 offer relaxation or surfing.

Outdoor Pursuits

  • Numerous quiet beaches
  • Mountain hiking paths
  • Rural area tranquility

Seasonal Wonders

Hot Air Balloon FestivalJuly to August at Luye Gaotai
Daylilies (August-September)Fuli, Hualien (nearby)
Migratory Birds (Winter)Coastal wetlands
Fireflies (Spring)Mountainous regions
Whale Watching (Spring/Summer)Offshore tours
StargazingClear night skies abound

Leave No Trace

  • Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints.
  • Stay on marked paths to protect delicate ecosystems.
  • Dispose of waste responsibly in designated bins.
  • Respect local flora and fauna.
  • Minimize noise to preserve tranquility.

Cultural & Longer Journeys

Taitung offers cultural richness and connections for extended travel.

Local Culture

Cultural Depth

  • Historical sites outside Taitung
  • Rural villages and agricultural heartlands
  • Pilgrimage sites for spiritual insight

Authentic Experiences

  • Traditional music and dance performances
  • Sampling authentic tribal cuisine
  • Handicraft workshops and artisan markets

Next Destinations

Taitung connects well to other parts of Taiwan for longer trips.

Regional Connections

  • North to Hualien for Taroko Gorge
  • South to Kenting National Park
  • East Coast Loop for diverse scenery

Transport Links

Efficient TRA train connections link Taitung to major cities.

Travel Time

  • Taitung to Hualien: 2-3 hours by TRA train
  • Taitung to Kaohsiung: 2-3 hours by TRA train
  • Kaohsiung to Kenting: Frequent bus services

Suggested Itineraries

Hualien & Taroko Gorge

2-3 days for exploration of marble cliffs and canyons.

Kenting National Park

2-3 days for relaxing beach-focused activities.

Taiwan East Coast Loop

Combines mountains, coastlines, and city life for a comprehensive journey.

Extended Exploration

Consider a multi-day hike or visits to more remote areas for regional engagement.