Taitung unfolds along Taiwan’s serene southeast coast, where emerald mountains meet the Pacific in a sweep of untouched beauty. This laid-back county invites travelers to wander through lush greenery at the Yehliu-like coastal formations of Xiaoyeliu, or find stillness amid the terraced paddies of the East Rift Valley. The vibrant Amis culture thrives here, celebrated in the annual Harvest Festival, while hot springs in Zhiben offer rest steeped in nature. Ride a bicycle along the quiet loop from Taitung City to Jinzun, or pause beside the reflective waters of Luye Highland. With its open skies, indigenous heritage, and access to wild landscapes like the dramatic Dulan Mountain, Taitung remains a compelling retreat for those seeking authenticity beyond the usual path.