Discovering the Peach Blossoms of the Rift Valley – Low-Carbon Tourism in Luye Township

If a lost city in the high mountains fascinates you, you must plan to visit the Palan Site and put it on your bucket list for the Rift Valley. The Palan Site is classified as a third-class monument in Taiwan, which means it is believed by residents to have local historical importance. It is located 600m above sea level in the mountains southwest of Chulu Village, Beinan Township. This is a sacred land where the Beinan people would pray for the rainy season to come. Experts estimate that the site is around 1000 years old. The stone houses were built out of stone slate, leaving the integrity of the building still being preserved to this day.
A short hike is required to reach the site, but the path is well maintained. A QR Code can be found about 300 meters from the entrance that when scanned, has a guided tour that will explain how the site came about. The path that flourishes with a wild profusion of lush vegetation, natural habitats, and shade, will take about an hour. Upon getting to the top, you’ll be greeted by an ocean and mountain view that warms the heart and delights your eyes with ancient mystical ruins.

Address: The Palan Site is located approximately 3 kilometers southwest of Chulu Village, Beinan Township, Taitung County, Taiwan. (As this is a general area, there is no specific address.)
Suggested visit time: 2 hours

After a tiring hike, you will head down to Luye Village to taste delightful aboriginal dishes, visit the Bunun Tribes, and experience the different cultures. The Bunun Leisure Farm is the first of its kind to combine tourism, dining, and housing. There is a farm where the tribal people grow their own fruits and vegetables, raise chickens, cows, and sheep, and make their own juice, jam, fruit vinegar as well as other food products. The specialty meals on offer include grilled mountain boar, millet rice, roselle tea, and millet wine. If you would like to experience more of the tribe’s culture, you can make an appointment to experience archery and traditional handcrafts.

Address: No. 191 Shengping Rd. Yanping Township, Taitung County
Phone Number: 089-561-211 (reservation required)
Operation Hours: Mon-Sat 08:00–17:00; Sun 08:00–12:00
Suggested visit time: 2 hours

Many people came to know the Xinliang Wetlands from the art piece Pink Hippo showcased in the 2021 East Rift Valley Land Art Festival. This fun artwork led us to rediscover this natural gem.
The full name of the Xinliang Wetlands is “Xinliang Drainage Wetlands” and it is a tourist water park whose goal is purifying water and increasing the education around ecology. Four partitions have been made at the junction of the Beinan Township and Luliao river. Rafflesia, Egeria Densa, Pygmy Water-lily, and other aquatic plants are grown in the partitions to naturally purify the water upstream. The park is quiet, spacious, surrounded by mountains and lovely waters making it the perfect place for your backdrop for your photos.

Address: No. 449-67 Dayuan section, Ruilong Village, Luye Township, Taitung County
Suggested visit time: 2 hours

The moment you enter the Shinto Village, you will feel its tranquil and auspicious atmosphere. There are no sounds of whistles or horns, no rushing cars, and the village is surrounded by large tea fields. This location is known as Taitung’s most beautiful Japanese Village as it was once an immigrant village during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan. Japanese-styled buildings and a century-old shrine have been left behind, allowing you to gain an idea of what this historic village once was. If you have the time to walk around the village, you must not miss the 1-kilometer-long Luye Green Tunnel. The branches of the trees overlap to form an arch. Walking through this comfortable path while hearing the chirping birds is a great way to relax.

Address: Guangrong Rd, Shinto Village, Luye Township, Taitung County
Suggested visit time: 2 hours

Many people know of Luye Highland because of the Taiwan International Balloon Festival. The sight of colorful hot air balloons taking flight is memorable and an event not to be missed! When the hot air balloon festival is not taking place, the highlands are a popular destination for paragliding and grass skiing. To get there, follow the signs in Luye Shinto Village, walk through the grassy hills, and walk up the viewing deck. From here, you’ll be able to take in the entire view of the Rift Valley — a masterpiece of nature.

Address: No. 46 Gaotai Rd, Yongan Village, Luye Township, Taitung County
Suggested visit time: 2 hours