Chishang

Chishang is the soul of Taiwan's rice culture, positioned in the scenic East Rift Valley between the Central and Coastal mountain ranges. Its primary draw is Bolang Dadao (Mr. Brown Avenue), a scenic road cutting through vast, emerald-green rice paddies entirely devoid of utility poles, creating an uninterrupted landscape of rural beauty. Cycling is the preferred way to explore, with the 'Takeshi Kaneshiro Tree' serving as a popular photo stop. The rice grown here is esteemed as Taiwan's finest, having been historically exported to the Japanese Emperor. A visit is incomplete without tasting a 'Chishang Bento' (lunch box), traditionally served in wooden boxes at the local station. Nearby Dapo Lake provides a serene habitat for lotus flowers and diverse birdlife, excellent for a leisurely stroll or boat ride. The town reflects a blend of Hakka heritage and indigenous traditions. The scenery undergoes a dramatic transformation twice a year: in late June and November, the fields turn a brilliant golden hue just before harvest, while spring brings an animated green reflection on the flooded paddies. Accessible by train, Chishang is a champion of the 'Slow Living' movement, offering a peaceful escape into Taiwan's agricultural heartland.

Nearby cities

Taitung

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

Sanxiantai

A striking island featuring an iconic eight-arch bridge, famous for its unique rock formations and local legends.

Zhiben

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

Green Island

A volcanic island off the east coast, famous for saltwater hot springs and world-class diving sites.

Ruisui

A hub for adventure and wellness, famous for Xiuguluan River rafting and rare iron-rich 'golden' hot springs.

Qixingtan

A scenic pebble bay near Hualien, famous for its deep blue waters and views of the Central Mountain Range.

Lushan Hot Spring

A scenic mountain village in Nantou, famous for its healing alkaline hot springs and picturesque alpine setting.

Wushe

Wushe is a picturesque mountain village in central Taiwan, known for its history and magnificent cherry blossoms.

Maolin

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

Hualien

The gateway to the spectacular Taroko National Park, known for its marble industry and beaches.

Orchid Island

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

Xiulin

Xiulin is the gateway to the majestic Taroko Gorge, offering pristine pebble beaches along the Pacific.

History & landmarks

Alishan National Scenic Area

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

Sun Moon Lake

The largest natural lake in Taiwan, famous for its picturesque scenery and the rich culture of indigenous tribes.

Taroko Gorge

An impressive marble gorge carved by the Liwu River, offering spectacular hiking trails.

Nature

Xiuguluan River

The Xiuguluan River winds through the deep gorge of the eastern mountain range and is famous for rafting adventures.

Liyu Lake

Liyu Lake is the largest inland lake in eastern Taiwan and is surrounded by lush green hills.

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Alangyi Coast

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

More places

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Dulanshan

A prominent mountain on the east coast with spiritual significance for the indigenous Amis and Puyuma people.

Liji Badlands

A surreal moon-like landscape composed of eroded mudstone near Taitung.

Chulu Ranch

A sprawling dairy farm in Taitung, famous for its fresh milk and green hills.

Beinan Cultural Park

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

East Rift Valley

A fertile valley located between the Central and Coastal mountain ranges.

Ruisui Ranch

A well-known farm in the Hualien Valley, popular for its fresh dairy products and idyllic scenery.

Xiuguluanshan

The highest point of Yushan National Park outside of the main Yushan peak itself.

Yushan National Park

Yushan National Park contains Taiwan's highest peak and is noted for its rich alpine flora.