Located on the banks of the Beinan River, Luye Township is a rural settlement in the lush Huadong Valley. It’s famed for its annual hot air balloon festival, herb-filled garden and easy access to Dulan’s cultural attractions, indigenous forest and black-sand beaches.
Things to do in Luye Township
Green thumbs shouldn’t miss a visit to the Yuan Sen Garden, a 5,000-square-metre botanical garden that’s home to more than 200 native herbal plants. Follow the walking trails that meander through the gardens to learn about Taiwan’s unique flora, then dine at the all-you-can-eat hot pot restaurant that serves locally-grown vegetables.
Rising above Luye is the Gaotai, a hill that offers magnificent views across the surrounding mountain ridges. You can pick up Taiwanese tea in one of the souvenir stalls or coincide your visit with the International Balloon Festival, which sees dozens of hot air balloons take to the skies. Ever wanted to try paragliding? Visit the launch point at the southern end of the Gaotai’s plateau or test your skills “grass skiing” on its northern edge.
Luye Township also serves as the gateway to the Dulan Forest, a sprawling protected area that has historically been home to the indigenous Ami people. Live concerts and art events are regularly held at the Dulan Sugar Factory Café and Art Gallery while surfing is popular at the black-sand Dulan Beach.
Getting around Luye Township
Luye Township is a 45-minute drive from Taitung City and Taitung Airport, which has flights to destinations across Taiwan. Trains connect from Taitung City to the Ruiyuan railway station in Luye. The township is compact enough to explore on foot, although hiring a motorbike or car is best for accessing the surrounding sights.