Pingtung

Pingtung is the southernmost major city in Taiwan and the administrative capital of Pingtung County, which encompasses the island's southern tip. Geographically, it sits on a wide, fertile plain at the foot of the majestic Mount Beidawu, providing a dramatic backdrop to the urban skyline. With a population of around 195,000, Pingtung is a cornerstone of Taiwan's agricultural sector, particularly famous for tropical fruits such as wax apples and pineapples. The city retains a laid-back, subtropical charm and is a melting pot of cultures, including strong Hakka and indigenous influences. A key landmark is the Shengli Star Village, a former Japanese military housing complex that has been revitalized into a creative district featuring cafes, boutiques, and galleries. Pingtung serves as a primary transit point for travelers heading to Kenting National Park and the far south. In recent years, the city has undergone significant urban renewal, emphasizing green spaces and public art to enhance its modern identity while honoring its historical roots.

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.

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.

Kaohsiung

A major port city in the south, known for the Love River and the Pier-2 Art Center.

Tainan

The oldest city on the island, rich in historic temples and traditional food culture.

Chiayi

A historic city in central Taiwan, serving as the gateway to the scenic Alishan mountain region.

Taibao

A quiet county seat in Chiayi County, home to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum.

Puzi

A traditional coastal township in Chiayi, known for its ancient Peitian Mazu Temple.

Budai Township

A charming port town in Chiayi, famous for its 'High-Heel Wedding Church' and top-quality oysters.

Dongshi Township

Taiwan's oyster capital features a colorful fisherman's wharf and family-friendly water attractions.

Huwei

A culturally rich city in Yunlin, known for traditional glove puppetry.

Douliu

The administrative capital of Yunlin County, famous for pomelos and historic streets.

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.

Lotus Pond

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

Pier-2 Art Center

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

Chimei Museum

An impressive private museum in Tainan, exhibiting European art, musical instruments, historical weapons, and natural history.

Alishan National Scenic Area

A high-altitude mountain resort known for its breathtaking sunrises, seas of clouds, and historic forest railways.

Nature

Gaoping River

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

🗺️

Alangyi Coast

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

More places

Beidawushan

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

Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant

Taiwan's third nuclear power plant, located at the southernmost tip of the island.

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.

E-DA Theme Park

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

Linyuan Petrochemical Park

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

Weiwuying Metropolitan Park

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