Tataka Complete Guide: One of Taiwan's Highest Roads, Arguably Harder Than Wuling

Why Is Tataka Considered Harder Than Wuling?

Wuling (3,275m) is Taiwan’s highest paved road point, but many riders regard the Tataka challenge with equal or greater dread, for these reasons:

1. Greater total climbing: The Xinzhongheng (New Central Cross-Island Highway) Tataka section is about 70 km long with total elevation gain of 2,912 meters
2. No flat sections to recover on: Unlike the westward approach to Wuling, which has an easier rolling section between Wushe and Cingjing, Tataka is climbing almost the entire way
3. Fewer supply points: Convenience stores and resupply points along the route are sparse
4. Traffic control: Some sections have construction control zones, so timing needs attention

Route Overview

Starting from Chiayi (Provincial Highway 21)

• Starting point: Chiayi City (elevation approx. 30m)
• Alishan Highway (Provincial Highway 18): About 66 km, climbing to 2,200m
• Xinzhongheng (Provincial Highway 21): Continues climbing to Tataka Saddle at 2,610m
• Total distance: About 100 km
• Total elevation gain: About 2,600m

Starting from Shuili (Provincial Highway 21, northern section)

• Starting point: Shuili (elevation approx. 300m)
• Via Xinyi and Tongfu: Climbing along the Chenyoulan River valley
• Total distance: About 70 km
• Total elevation gain: About 2,300m

Segment Analysis

Segment 1: Flatlands to Chukou (0-34km)

• Gentle gradient, a warm-up section
• Ample resupply, the last convenience store

Segment 2: Chukou to Shizhuo (34-50km)

• The real climbing begins
• Average gradient 5-6%
• A few steep pitches reaching 8-10%

Segment 3: Shizhuo to Alishan (50-66km)

• Sustained climbing, breaking past 2,000m elevation
• The air starts to thin
• Temperature drops noticeably

Segment 4: Alishan to Tataka (66-100km)

• The final push
• Some sections dip downhill before climbing again
• Spectacular scenery, but massive energy expenditure

Pacing Strategy

Using a rider with FTP of 250 watts (body weight 70 kg) as an example:

Key principle: Ride the first half conservatively — having strength left for the second half is the correct approach.

Fueling Strategy

• Before departure: A substantial carbohydrate breakfast (3 hours before start)
• Every 30 minutes: Consume 60-90g of carbohydrates (energy gels, bananas, red bean mochi)
• Hydration: 500-750ml per hour, with electrolytes
• Bring your own supplies: Carry the equivalent of at least 3-4 water bottles (resupply points along the route are limited)

Gear Recommendations

• Windbreaker jacket: Summit temperature can be 15-20°C lower than the lowlands
• Sun protection: UV exposure is stronger at high altitude
• Spare inner tube/repair kit: You’ll be far from any town or shop
• Front and rear lights: Some sections pass through tunnels
• Phone charging: Make sure you have battery to call for help if needed

Best Time to Attempt

• October through April: Weather is more stable
• Avoid plum rain season (May-June) and typhoon season (July-September)
• Departure time: Recommended to start at 5-6am

Related Reading

• Tataka’s 20km Long Climb Complete Guide: Fully Handling the High Altitude of Xinzhongheng
• Tataka Xinzhongheng Climb Complete Guide: Data Analysis of Taiwan’s Summit — 70km, 2,517m of Elevation Gain
• Tataka vs. Wuling Difficulty Comparison: An In-Depth Analysis of Gradient Curves and Total Elevation Gain
• Taking On Taiwan’s Five Classic Climbs: Wuling, Tataka, Alishan, Hehuan North Peak, and Taiping Mountain