Taitung Coastal Highway Cycling: The Most Beautiful Ride on the East Coast

Taitung’s coastline is the essence of cycling travel in Taiwan. Riding south from Hualien to Taitung along Provincial Highway 11 (the Coastal Highway), the Central Mountain Range’s steep peaks rise on your left, while the boundless Pacific Ocean stretches out on your right. This route spans approximately 183 kilometers (Hualien to Taitung) and is one of the most coveted stretches for long-distance cyclists and island-rounders alike.

This article focuses on the most spectacular coastal section within Taitung County: from Chenggong Township south to Taimali, about 75 kilometers—the most diverse and culturally rich stretch of the entire East Coast.

Route Overview

Item	Details
Starting Point	Chenggong Township, Taitung County
End Point	Taimali Township, Taitung County
Total Distance	Approximately 75 km
Cumulative Climb	Approximately 500 m
Route Feature	Provincial Highway 11 coastal road
Difficulty	Easy to Moderate (some rolling terrain)
Suggested Riding Time	5–7 hours

Section Highlights

Departing from Chenggong Township (0 km)

Chenggong is a major fishing port at the northern end of Taitung, famous for bluefin tuna. Before setting off, it’s recommended to fill up at a local breakfast shop or the fish market in town—the seafood here is extremely fresh, and a sashimi set meal is an excellent choice before a ride.

Sansiantai (Approx. 8 km)

Sansiantai is a landmark of the Taitung coast. Three massive rocky islets stand in the sea, connected to the shore by an eight-arch pedestrian bridge. This is a sacred site for the Amis people and the most renowned scenic viewpoint on the East Coast. When you stop to take in the view, it’s worth walking onto the bridge to see the rocks and the Pacific from different angles.

Stone Umbrella (Approx. 12 km)

These limestone pillars along the shore are erosion formations that resemble open umbrellas. This type of landscape is a unique marine-erosion geological wonder of eastern Taiwan, visible throughout the ride.

Changbin Township (Approx. 25 km)

Changbin is Taiwan’s easternmost township. It is home to the famous “Changgung Tribe” terrace landscape—overlooking the mountain rice terraces and the coastline from above offers a rare sight in Taiwan where agriculture and the ocean coexist.

Changbin’s town center has convenience stores (7-Eleven) and a traditional market, making it an important resupply point.

Baxian Caves (Approx. 30 km)

One of Taiwan’s most important prehistoric sites. Excavations in this group of sea caves have uncovered evidence of Taiwan’s oldest human habitation (approximately 15,000 years ago). The caves now house temples, giving the site a mysterious atmosphere well worth a brief stop.

Gangkou Tribe (Approx. 40 km)

Gangkou is an Amis tribe known for “Gangkou Tea”—the easternmost tea-growing region in Taiwan. Grown on hillsides at 50–100 meters above sea level and influenced by sea breezes, the tea leaves carry a distinctive marine mineral character. It can be purchased at small shops in the tribe.

Duli Beach (Approx. 50 km)

With well-developed beach facilities, this is one of the most popular swimming spots on the East Coast. It’s a great place to pause during the ride, soak your feet, and shake off the summer heat.

Donghe Bridge (Approx. 55 km)

Donghe Bridge spans a tributary of the Xiuguluan River. The red arch bridge against the lush green river valley makes it an excellent photography spot. Beside the bridge is the famous “Donghe Baozi” (steamed buns)—one of the must-eat resupply stops on any Taitung ride.

Fushan Fish Conservation Area (Approx. 65 km)

One of Taiwan’s most successful marine conservation projects. Schools of fish can be seen with the naked eye in the clear waters. This site represents the fusion of traditional Amis fishing culture with modern marine conservation.

Taimali (Approx. 75 km)

Taimali is famous for “Taiwan’s First Dawn,” drawing large crowds every New Year’s Eve. The daylily flowers in Taimali (blooming every August) are the most spectacular flower season of summer in eastern Taiwan. Taimali Railway Station is a good option for connecting back to Taitung City.

Amis Cultural Experiences

The Taitung coast is the traditional territory of the Amis people, and the ride offers many opportunities to engage with Amis culture:

• Tribal Kitchens: Several tribes offer traditional dining experiences open to the public
• Wild Vegetable Market: Taitung City hosts a weekly Amis wild vegetable market where various mountain greens can be purchased
• Harvest Festival (July–August annually): Held in rotation by each tribe; keep an eye on event schedules
• Cultural Crafts: Shell ornaments, leather carving, and wood carving are distinctive Amis crafts

Riding Environment

Item	Details
Road Surface	Provincial Highway 11 is generally in good condition, though some sections have potholes—stay alert
Traffic	Vehicle traffic increases during the summer tourist season; an early morning start is recommended
Resupply	Convenience stores in Chenggong and Changbin; tribal shops elsewhere along the route
Shade	Limited shade on coastal sections; bring sun protection gear
Water	Drinking fountains are available at most scenic area parking lots

Best Months to Ride

• April–June: Most comfortable climate; the plum rain season does not affect Taitung (the east coast’s rainfall is mainly concentrated in autumn)
• August: Daylily season—mountains and sea at their finest together
• October–November: The northeast monsoon gradually arrives, but Taitung sees relatively less rain
• Avoid: Typhoon season from July–September, and the northeast monsoon period in January–February

Conclusion

The Taitung Coastal Highway is one of the closest routes to “perfect” in Taiwan’s cycling travel: gentle gradients, magnificent scenery, rich culture, and reasonable resupply points. You don’t need to be a strong climber—just bring curiosity and an open mind, and you’ll discover new surprises around every bend.

Add Taitung’s Coastal Highway to your riding list, then pick a day when you’re not in a hurry—and go.

Related Reading

• Chenggong Township and Sansiantai, Taitung: A Cycling Exploration of East Coast Fishing Village Culture
• Changbin to Chenggong Fishing Port, Taitung: The Complete Guide to Riding the Beautiful East Coast Highway
• Hualien Coastal Highway Cycling Journal: Blue Skies, Blue Seas, and Tribal Charm on Provincial Highway 11
• Dulan to Chenggong Township, Taitung: A Must-Ride Scenic Section of the East Coast Highway