If you dream of wide open skies with no tall buildings, watching the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean, or walking through rice fields and forests in the afternoon, then an Eastern Taiwan trip is exactly what you should look forward to in 2025!
In this guide, you’ll discover the best places to visit in Hualien and Taitung, exciting 2025 events, must-try local foods, hidden spots off the beaten path, and helpful tips for easy private car travel. Plan it all in one go—this article has everything you need to start your perfect East Coast adventure!
Top Events in Hualien
Every spring in Guangfu Township, Hualien, the Matai’an Wetland Firefly Dinner lights up the night! Surrounded by twinkling fireflies, you can enjoy a beautiful outdoor meal made with fresh local ingredients—no menu needed, just surprises from the land. It’s a magical eco-dining experience, perfect for couples and families.
The location is a bit off the beaten path, so we recommend booking a private car tour, and stopping by the nearby sugar factory or indigenous cultural village on the way.
📅 Dates: March 15 – May 18
Get ready for two exciting outdoor challenges on Taiwan’s East Coast!
In May, the Shuanglang King Kong Marathon in Changbin takes you running between golden rice fields and the Pacific Ocean, with the warm cheers of local indigenous communities along the way.
Then in June, the Xiuguluan River Triathlon brings a fun twist—you don’t even need to swim! This rare “tourist-style” triathlon mixes rafting and cycling into a thrilling, beginner-friendly competition.
📅 Dates: May 4 & June 8
This summer-only event at Liyu Lake features the biggest water and light show in Taiwan! During the day, you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and at night, watch colorful lights and music bring the lake to life.
It’s the perfect cool-down trip for families or couples on a hot summer day. You can also explore nearby spots like Yunshanshui and Shoufeng Old Street for a full day of fun.
📅 Dates: July – August
Every July, Hualien Summer Love Carnival lights up the city with a huge outdoor music festival! Top Taiwanese pop stars take the stage night after night, drawing massive crowds to sing and dance under the summer sky.
Spend the day exploring Hualien City, then head to Dongdamen Night Market Square in the evening for the ultimate concert experience. It’s the best way to enjoy the modern, energetic side of Hualien!
📅 Dates: July 9–13 (tentative)
A must-visit for fans of indigenous culture! This lively celebration takes place right in Hualien City and features traditional singing, dancing, rituals, and a colorful craft market.
It’s the perfect chance to experience Austronesian culture without needing to travel deep into the mountains—just come and feel the rhythm of the islands!
📅 Dates: July 18–20
This is the biggest indigenous food market in all of Hualien and Taitung! With over 20 tribes joining, you’ll discover everything from mumu-style open-fire cooking to unforgettable valley feasts.
It’s more than just eating—it’s a chance to taste the philosophy behind indigenous life. We recommend setting aside a full day to really enjoy this slow food experience.
📅 Date: To be announced
Top Events in Taitung
Once a political prison during Taiwan’s martial law era, the Green Island Reform and Reeducation Center is now a space for thought, memory, and art.
The Green Island Human Rights Art Festival invites local and international artists to use film, sound, and installations to explore human rights and history.
If you’re interested in culture and deeper stories, this is a powerful and meaningful stop—perfect to combine with a full-day island tour and overnight stay.
📅 Dates: May 17 – September 21
When night falls, Taitung shows you what true peace looks like—under a sky full of stars.
This summer stargazing series includes guided tours, music under the stars, expert talks, and visits to low-light areas perfect for sky watching.
It’s ideal for families, photographers, and anyone looking for a calm, magical escape. With a private car tour, you can visit top stargazing spots like Jialulan, Duli, or Zhiben, all at your own pace.
📅 Dates: June 7 – August 30
Every summer, the coastline of Taitung transforms into an open-air gallery and stage.
The Moonlight Sea Concert lets you sit by the ocean, enjoying live music as the waves gently roll in. Meanwhile, the Land Art Festival brings artists to places like Duli and Chenggong, creating outdoor installations that blend perfectly with nature.
Explore hidden coves and charming coastal villages with the help of a private car tour—it’s the best way to fully enjoy this artistic and scenic journey.
📅 Dates: June 21 – September 9
This is a dream come true for travelers around the world!
Every summer, Luye Highland becomes a colorful stage for hot air balloons rising at dawn and glowing at night. It’s a must-see event for photographers, couples, and families alike.
Traffic can get very busy, so we recommend a private car tour—head there early in the morning to beat the crowds, then explore nearby areas like Luye and Guanshan at your own pace.
📅 Dates: July 5 – August 21
One of Taiwan’s rare nighttime events that blends light art with hot spring healing.
Artists create dreamy installations across forests and open fields, turning every step into a piece of poetry.
For the best experience, pair your visit with a one-night stay at Zhiben Hot Springs, and enjoy a full evening of soaking, lights, and local dining—a truly relaxing slow travel combo.
📅 Dates: To be announced
PASIWALI means “to the east” in the Amis language, and this vibrant festival celebrates the spirit of Austronesian music and culture.
You’ll enjoy powerful performances, tribal markets, big group dances, and hands-on cultural workshops—it’s one of the most energetic indigenous events in Taiwan!
We recommend planning a 2-day trip: join the festival during the day, then spend the night at a local indigenous-style guesthouse to truly connect with the heart of Taitung’s culture.
📅 Dates: To be announced
Book Your James Private Car Tour Now!
Whether you're visiting from Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, or anywhere in the world, just tell us where you want to go—and the James Travel Team will help you plan a fun, relaxing, and truly local 3-day, 2-night trip in Taiwan. Let’s make your journey easy and unforgettable!
Must-Eat Foods in Eastern Taiwan – What to Try in Hualien & Taitung
Rice Noodles Under the Banyan Tree
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This decades-old shop is a beloved local breakfast spot in Taitung. Their mi tai mu (thick rice noodles) are perfectly chewy and smooth—not too soft, not too firm.
The real magic? It’s topped with freshly shaved bonito flakes that literally dance from the steam when the bowl arrives.
The broth is light yet flavorful, and both the dry and soup versions are so tasty you’ll find yourself finishing it before you know it.
It’s a must-stop spot when exploring the food scene in downtown Taitung!
Yeh’s Seafood Sashimi
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Locals and travelers alike rave about this hidden gem for super affordable sashimi. For just NT$250, you get a generous variety of fresh fish—like swordfish, salmon, sweet shrimp, and scallops—thick-cut, sweet, and incredibly fresh.
The best part? The owner often throws in a little extra, just because!
It’s the perfect first stop on your Eastern Taiwan private car tour—especially before heading out to scenic coastal spots like Xiaoyeliu or Jialulan Recreation Area for a full seafood-themed adventure.
Wang’s Fried Mahi-Mahi
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In Taitung, mahi-mahi (鬼頭刀) is a local favorite, and this shop knows exactly how to fry it to perfection—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with a special marinade and coating that fills the air with irresistible aroma.
They also serve squid balls and calamari, making it a true showcase of Taitung’s everyday seafood culture.
It’s the perfect snack stop after exploring Sanxiantai or strolling through Chenggong Township—tasty, quick, and full of local flavor.
Deli Tofu & Magao Sausage Platter
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In Hualien, you’ll find the true flavor of indigenous cooking in magao, a fragrant mountain pepper. When it’s blended into juicy sausages and paired with a plate of braised tofu, you get a salty, savory combo that’s perfect with local rice wine.
We recommend grabbing this platter after visiting the Hualien night market—it’s the perfect way to wrap up your night with some bold, unforgettable local flavor.
OOA General’s House × Chen Yao-Hsun Croissant Bakery
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Beyond traditional eats, Hualien also offers cozy, design-forward cafés for a relaxing break.
Chen Yao-Hsun’s croissants are crisp on the outside, soft and layered inside—perfect for a peaceful afternoon treat.
Paired with the vintage vibes of OOA General’s House, it’s a lovely way to enjoy the modern, slower side of life in Hualien.
Local Breakfast Near Chingxiu Temple
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Around the Chingxiu Temple, a century-old Japanese-style shrine, you’ll find plenty of no-name yet wildly popular breakfast spots.
From rice noodle soup, pork blood soup, to handmade savory rice puddings, the dishes are simple but full of heart.
It’s the perfect way to start your day after visiting the temple—slow down, sit down, and enjoy a true local breakfast ritual.
Must-Visit Attractions in Eastern Taiwan
Qixingtan Coastal Bike Path｜Write Your Story with the Pacific on Two Wheels
▶️ Google Maps
Ride along a never-ending coastline where one side glimmers with ocean waves, and the other brushes you with soft grass and salty sea breeze.
It’s one of the most romantic ways to experience morning light or sunset in Taiwan—on two wheels, with the Pacific by your side.
Yunshanshui Dream Lake｜A Glassy Forest Lake Straight Out of a Fairytale
▶️ Google Maps
Hidden in Shoufeng Township, this dreamy lakeside park is a favorite for photographers and couples. Whether it’s the reflection of bald cypress trees on still waters or the morning mist drifting through the forest, every corner feels like a scene from a fairytale.
Luye Highland × Hot Air Balloon Ride
▶️ Google Maps
Lifting off at 5 AM, this hot air balloon ride is a bucket list moment for many travelers.
Float high above tea fields, rice paddies, and distant mountains—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Taiwan.
Sanxiantai Arch Bridge｜A Sunrise Walk Across the Sea
▶️ Google Maps
Cross the iconic eight-arch bridge at dawn and stand at the cape to watch the sun rise slowly over the Pacific. With rocky reefs beneath your feet and the endless ocean ahead, this isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a moment of quiet reflection.
Tiehua Music Village｜A Stage of Indigenous Soul in the Heart of the City
▶️ Google Maps
At night, music fills the air, handmade crafts line the stalls, and travelers gather to share stories.
You don’t need to understand the Amis language—just listen, move to the rhythm, and you’ll find the heartbeat of your Taitung journey right here.
Hidden Gems in Eastern Taiwan｜Secret Spots Off the Beaten Path
If you want to explore deeper, beyond the popular tourist stops, Eastern Taiwan is full of hidden gems tucked away in the mountains and along the coast—the kind locals quietly keep to themselves.
These spots may not be the easiest to reach, but they offer untouched beauty, peaceful vibes, and almost no crowds. They’re the perfect match for a private car tour that takes you off the typical tourist trail.
Baibao Creek Canyoning｜A Hidden Summer Water Adventure
▶️ Google Maps
Take off your shoes, put on some water-grip sandals, and step into a crystal-clear stream.
You’ll wade through caves, hop over rocks, and pass mini waterfalls—this secret spot is a summer favorite for water lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Si-Pa Heights (Behind Qixingtan)｜The Best Ocean View You’ve Never Heard Of
▶️ Google Maps
Few people know this hidden trail behind Qixingtan Beach, but if you follow the quiet path uphill, you’ll reach a stunning lookout.
From here, you can see the vast Pacific Ocean stretching out in front of you, waves rolling in endlessly—it’s so grand and peaceful, it makes you fall silent.
Wuhe Tea Plantation｜A Postcard-Perfect View of the East Rift Valley
▶️ Google Maps
Mist dances through the tea fields, while rolling hills and rows of tea trees form waves of lush green.
Sit down for a cup of hot tea, and you’ll feel the calm of the mountains settle in—it’s the most peaceful way to enjoy a slow moment in the valley.
Lidao Village (Central Mountain Range Edge)
▶️ Google Maps
An old Bunun tribe village nestled on the edge of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Lidao is free from phone signals and city noise.
At night, the stars shine brighter than any streetlight. In the morning, you’re gently woken by birdsong and drifting mountain mist.
It’s the kind of place that heals your soul without saying a word.
Huayuan Bay｜Taiwan’s Maldives-Inspired Sunset Paradise
▶️ Google Maps
A straight road lined with palm trees leads you to the Pacific.
The beach is clean and quiet, the waves gently whisper, and all you need is a hammock to spend the whole afternoon in peace.
It’s a dream location for photographers, and a hidden gem for anyone seeking tropical vibes without the crowd.
Jinlun Wild Hot Spring｜Soak by the Stream, Let the Mountains Sing
▶️ Google Maps
No tickets, no crowds—just slip on some river shoes and walk into the gorge.
Find a natural hot spring pool, dip your feet, and unwind as the mountain breeze sings through the trees.
This is real hot spring culture, raw and peaceful, just the way nature intended.
The Benefits of Private Car Tours in Eastern Taiwan
When planning a trip to Eastern Taiwan, many travelers face the same challenges: scattered attractions, limited public transportation, and tight schedules.
In places like Hualien and Taitung, some of the best hidden gems—like Matai’an Wetland or the Jinlun Wild Hot Spring—are tucked away in rural or mountainous areas.
If you’re not familiar with local roads or don’t want to deal with complicated transit, a private car tour becomes the easiest and most efficient way to explore more in less time.
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No transit gaps-smoother, smarter travel
Attractions across Hualien and Taitung are far apart, making it hard to visit even 2–3 spots in a day by bus or train. With a private car, you can move freely between sites without wasting time on transfers. -
Flexible schedule – stop when and where you wantl
Unlike group tours, a private car lets you decide how long to stay at each stop. Want to take extra photos or enjoy a slow meal? No problem—you set the pace. -
Access hidden spots and indigenous culturel
Experienced local drivers know the back roads and lesser-known attractions. They can take you to off-the-map nature trails or indigenous villages, giving your journey a deeper, more authentic touch. -
Safe and stress-free – save your energy for the fun partsl
No need to worry about driving mountain roads or getting lost. Let a professional handle the road while you relax. It’s especially ideal for families, seniors, or anyone looking for a worry-free adventure.
James Private Car Travel Team｜5-Star Service from Taipei to Eastern Taiwan
If you're looking for more than just a ride—and want a comfortable, worry-free travel experience—the James Private Car Travel Team, highly recommended by past travelers, offers the following premium services:
- All vehicles are less than 3 years old, regularly maintained and fully insured for passenger safety.
- Licensed, friendly, and knowledgeable drivers who understand travel, love sharing local tips, and are happy to help take photos.
- Perfect for small families, friend groups, and even extended 5+ day round-island trips.