Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant

The Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant, also referred to as Taiwan's Third Nuclear Power Plant, is located in Hengchun, Pingtung County, at the southern tip of the island. It was initiated in the late 1970s as part of the Ten Major Construction Projects aimed at securing Taiwan's energy future. The facility operates two Westinghouse pressurized water reactors (PWR), which commenced commercial operations in 1984 and 1985, respectively. Maanshan plays a vital role in providing electricity to Southern Taiwan and ensuring the stability of the national power grid. Because of its proximity to Kenting National Park, the plant adheres to rigorous environmental regulations, particularly concerning thermal discharge to protect nearby coral reefs. In recent years, Maanshan has been central to Taiwan's nuclear phase-out debate, with plans to decommission the reactors by 2025 as their operating licenses expire. The plant remains a significant industrial landmark reflecting the nation's 20th-century technological and economic transformation.

Nearby cities

Chaozhou

A vibrant township in southern Taiwan, famous for cold shaved ice and fried spring rolls.

Donggang

A major fishing port in Pingtung County, famous for bluefin tuna and temple festivals.

Hengchun

Taiwan's southernmost township, home to historic city walls and Kenting National Park.

Xiaoliuqiu

Taiwan's only coral island, famous for its high density of green sea turtles and year-round warm waters.

Pingtung

A tropical city in the south, characterized by a rich agricultural culture.

Maolin

A nature lover's paradise, famous for the winter migration of millions of Purple Crow butterflies.

Orchid Island

A remote volcanic island, home to the indigenous Tao people, known for flying fish and traditional underground houses.

Zhiben

East Taiwan's premier hot spring destination, nestled in lush forests and steeped in indigenous Puyuma culture.

Taitung

A relaxed coastal city in eastern Taiwan, strongly influenced by indigenous cultures.

History & landmarks

Kenting National Park

A popular national park located at the southern tip of Taiwan, known for its white sandy beaches and tropical climate.

Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

A massive Buddhist temple complex and museum that houses a significant tooth relic of the historical Buddha.

Pier-2 Art Center

Former abandoned warehouses in Kaohsiung transformed into a vibrant hub for modern art and design.

Lotus Pond

An artificial lake in Kaohsiung, surrounded by numerous colorful temples, pavilions, and statues.

Nature

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Alangyi Coast

One of Taiwan's few remaining pristine coastlines, famous for its round pebble beaches.

Gaoping River

The Gaoping River is the longest river in southern Taiwan and supplies water to a large agricultural plain.

More places

Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park is located at the southern tip of Taiwan and offers white sandy beaches and tropical coral reefs.

Dajianshan

A distinctive rocky peak in Kenting National Park, often referred to as the Matterhorn of the South.

Eluanbi Lighthouse

One of the few armed lighthouses in the world, located at the southernmost point of Taiwan.

Beidawushan

Taiwan's southernmost 3,000-meter peak, famous for its dense seas of clouds.

Linyuan Petrochemical Park

One of the most important centers for petrochemical production in southern Taiwan.

E-DA Theme Park

A Greek-inspired theme park in Kaohsiung with numerous rides and entertainment options.

Weiwuying Metropolitan Park

A massive park in Kaohsiung on a former military base, ideal for walks and nature observation.

Beinan Cultural Park

The largest and most intact prehistoric excavation site in Taiwan, where thousands of slate tombs were found.