2 minute read
Special Feature
hot springs in Taiwan but Lisong is the most stunning and unique I've ever seen. Its exquisite beauty and the experience it gives you is something I never expected and never had anywhere else in Taiwan. You see plenty of photos of it on Google but these are nothing compared to the reality. The hike begins with a descent that includes rappelling, then crossing the river/cold spring and climbing huge rocks, followed by swimming to get to the other side where the hot spring is. This is all part of the fun and the effort and exhaustion are worth it once you reach the hot springs and soak in the hot water—all the while admiring the beauty around you, staring at the gorgeous colored rock wall that looks surreal, and listening to the melody of nature. You can stay here overnight but if you decide to go back on the same day, you should start to hike back up before it gets dark.
If you'd prefer a less physically challenging adventure (or if you have kids that are too young for this), there are other options for you. Hongye Hot Springs is also a natural hot spring next to a cold spring and is very accessible and close to the road. An easy hike along the Malalou Trail towards Xingang Falls is also great for a family, and you can bring your pets, too! Why would you pay for a resort if you can have all these for free and in a more enjoyable way? Now if hiking isn't your thing, there are several other activities you can do, too, such as cycling, swimming, bodyboarding, camping, surfing, sailing, SUP, or snorkeling—name any outdoor activity, Taitung has it!
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Apart from the recreational activities that I’ve mentioned, Taitung is also rich in social and cultural events. For instance, the East Coast Land Arts Festival is held annually in summer and allows you to satisfy your palate with different kinds of food (prepared by locals and foreigners in Taitung) whilst watching a live concert under the full moon—something you should go to at least once in your summer stay in Taitung. Another one is the Taiwan International Balloon Festival. Some camp here overnight to be the first ones to ride the balloon as the rides are limited, or if you want to release your artistic creativity, you can make a hot air balloon lantern (they provide all the materials), later to be displayed in public parks in Taitung City. These are just a few of my favorites of the many events you can attend in Taitung County.
Do residents of Taitung ever get tired of living here? Definitely
not!
socially active way. If you think alike, Taitung is the best place to be.
Some people we know (outside Taitung) said we are too young to enjoy countryside living and that the younger generation usually prefers the city life, but moving back to the city never crossed my mind in the (almost) 5 years of living here. I envision my son growing up to love and value nature, play sports, know different cultures, and learn how to have fun in a physically and Facebook Instagram
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