Sanxiantai

Sanxiantai, meaning 'Terrace of the Three Immortals,' is one of the most iconic landmarks along Taiwan's East Coast. Its centerpiece is the magnificent eight-arch cross-ocean footbridge, completed in 1987, which resembles a dragon leaping across the Pacific waves. The bridge connects the mainland to a small offshore island composed of volcanic rock and coral reefs, featuring diverse geological wonders like sea trenches and potholes. The site gets its name from a legend that three of the Eight Immortals once rested on the island's prominent rocks. A well-maintained boardwalk circles the island, leading visitors past a small lighthouse and through unique coastal vegetation. Sanxiantai is a premier location for viewing the first sunrise of the year in Taiwan. It is easily accessible via Coastal Highway 11 and provides ample parking and visitor facilities. Visiting during dawn or dusk provides the most dramatic lighting for photography and cooler temperatures. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for the rocky island trails, and sun protection is vital as the area is quite exposed. Sanxiantai beautifully combines mythological charm with striking modern architecture and raw coastal beauty.

Nearby cities

Taitung

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

Green Island

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

Zhiben

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

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.

Hualien

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

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.

Xiulin

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

Orchid Island

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

Chongde

A spectacular village at the foot of the Qingshui Cliffs, ideal for kayakers and nature lovers.

Maolin

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

History & landmarks

Chishang

A picturesque township in the East Rift Valley, famous for its premium rice and endless paddies without power lines.

Taroko Gorge

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

Sun Moon Lake

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

Alishan National Scenic Area

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

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.

Qingshui Cliff

Spectacular cliffs that drop almost vertically into the Pacific Ocean.

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.

Farglory Ocean Park

A theme park right on the Pacific coast, focusing on marine life, shows, and amusement rides.