Chenggong Township and Sanxiantai in Taitung: A Cycling Exploration of East Coast Fishing Village Culture

Chenggong Township and Sanxiantai: A Fishing Village Ride on Taitung’s East Coast

Chenggong Township in Taitung County is the most important fishing port town on Taiwan’s east coast. Its maritime culture runs deep, with Amis traditions coexisting alongside modern fishing industry practices, creating a unique East Coast coastal character. Setting out from Chenggong Township and heading north along Provincial Highway 11 to Sanxiantai, this cycling route immerses riders in the vast Pacific seascape and the simple beauty of fishing village life.

Route Basic Information

Chenggong Fishing Port: A Fishing Industry Hub on the East Coast

Every early morning is the liveliest time at Chenggong Fishing Port, as fishing boats return fully loaded and the fish market on the pier buzzes with activity. From 4–6 AM is the best time to watch the fish market auction, where you can see Taitung’s specialty catches such as tuna, marlin, and mahi-mahi being sold off one by one.

Chenggong’s tourist fish market is open to regular visitors for purchasing fresh catches at prices far lower than in the city. Along the ride, you can pick up some fresh sashimi as provisions—this is the most indulgent cycling experience Chenggong has to offer.

Coastal Riding on Provincial Highway 11

Departing from Chenggong Fishing Port and heading north along Provincial Highway 11, this stretch hugs the Pacific coastline, with the sound of waves, sea breeze, and azure ocean views accompanying the entire ride. Provincial Highway 11 is renowned along the east coast for its spectacular seascapes; some sections of the road hang above sea cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the Pacific.

Sanxiantai: The Wonder of a Coral Reef Island

Sanxiantai is one of Taitung’s most famous attractions. This small coral reef island is known for its eight-arch pedestrian bridge spanning the coral reef waters. After cycling to Sanxiantai, you can park your bike and walk across the bridge to the island to admire the coral reef formations and the expansive Pacific views.

The coral reef waters around Sanxiantai are among the most ecologically rich marine areas on Taiwan’s east coast. In the clear water, you can spot various tropical fish and corals. If you bring snorkeling or diving gear, you can experience the underwater world in the nearby bays.

Amis Culture

Several Amis tribes are located near Chenggong Township. The Amis are the largest indigenous group in Taitung. The tribes preserve a rich heritage of Amis traditional culture:

• Harvest Festival (Ilisin): Held annually in July–August, it is the most important traditional celebration of the Amis people
• Traditional Ocean Fishing and Hunting Culture: The Amis have excelled at ocean fishing and hunting since ancient times, with unique fishing gear craftsmanship
• Indigenous Cuisine: Millet rice, wild boar meat, and wild vegetable dishes are key elements of traditional Amis food

Best Riding Seasons

• Autumn and Winter (October–March): Cool and comfortable weather makes this the peak season for east coast cycling
• Spring (April–June): Pleasant climate with clear waters, ideal for snorkeling
• Summer Typhoon Season (July–September): Taitung faces the Pacific, so typhoon impacts are greater; extra attention to weather conditions is required

East Coast Sea Wind Riding Tips

Strong northeasterly or southerly winds are common on Taiwan’s east coast:

1. Check the local wind direction before departure and choose a tailwind direction for the outbound leg
2. When riding into a headwind, lower your center of gravity and use a lower pedaling cadence
3. Crosswinds are common on the east coast in the afternoon; pay special attention to bike stability when descending at high speed

Related Reading

• Taitung Coastal Highway Bike Tour: The Most Beautiful Cycling Scenery on the East Coast
• Taitung Changbin to Chenggong Fishing Port Route: A Complete Guide to Riding the Beautiful East Coast Highway
• Taitung Dulan to Chenggong Township Route: A Must-Ride Scenic Section of the East Coast Highway
• Complete Guide to Taiwan’s Northeast Coast Golden Coastline Cycling Route