Tour de Taiwan Returns to Eastern Taiwan After 15 Years: The Significance of the "Highway of Happiness" Stage on Provincial Highway 9

The Return After 15 Years

The most exciting news for cycling fans regarding the 2026 Tour de Taiwan is undoubtedly the return of Stage 5 to Provincial Highway 9 in eastern Taiwan—a route known as the “Highway of Happiness.” It has been 15 years since the Tour de Taiwan last held a stage in eastern Taiwan. This return is not just a change in the route; it also symbolizes a major breakthrough in the scale and internationalization of Taiwan’s cycling events.

The Historical Significance of Provincial Highway 9

Why Is It Called the “Highway of Happiness”?

The Suhua Highway section and the East Rift Valley section of Provincial Highway 9 are nicknamed the “Highway of Happiness” by locals due to the magnificent Pacific Ocean views and lush green mountains along the way. For cyclists, this route combines:

The vast Pacific coastline: An endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean on your left as you ride
Steep cliffs and tunnels: Rich terrain variation with a high technical demand
Indigenous tribal culture: Passing through multiple Amis and Taroko tribal communities
Unique climatic conditions: The eastern region’s distinctive sea breeze and humidity

The History of the Tour de Taiwan and Eastern Taiwan

In its early years, the Tour de Taiwan frequently held stages in eastern Taiwan. The races were smaller in scale back then, but the eastern stages often produced the most dramatic results. The terrain of alternating mountains and sea gave climbers the opportunity to gain a decisive advantage in the general classification, while also delivering breathtakingly beautiful broadcast footage.

Analysis of the 2026 Provincial Highway 9 Stage

Route Overview

As the final stage of this year’s Tour de Taiwan, Stage 5 follows Provincial Highway 9, passing through classic sections of Hualien and Taitung. The route includes several significant climbs, with enough total elevation gain to make this stage the decisive battleground for the overall title.

Key Climbs

First Climb:

Location: First third of the stage
Feature: Progressively increasing gradient, serving as the first filter for the peloton
Tactical significance: GC teams will begin applying pressure here

Second Climb:

Location: Middle of the stage
Feature: A steeper, shorter climb that could trigger a decisive attack
Tactical significance: This could be where overall title contenders launch their attacks

Coastal Section:

Location: Connecting section between the climbs
Feature: Runs along the Pacific coastline, with possible strong sea winds
Tactical significance: Crosswinds could split the peloton, making it difficult for dropped riders to chase back

Weather Factors

March weather in eastern Taiwan is changeable, with potential influencing factors including:

Remnants of the northeast monsoon: May bring intermittent rainfall
Sea breeze: Strong crosswinds on coastal sections
Temperature variation: Temperature differences of up to 8-10°C between sea level and mountainous areas
Humidity: Higher humidity in the east affects heat dissipation

Why Is This Return So Significant?

A Milestone in the Internationalization of the Event

This year’s Tour de Taiwan features the strongest international field in its history—23 teams, 34 nations, and 193 riders. With this level of international attention, the stunning scenery of eastern Taiwan will be broadcast to audiences around the world. This holds incomparable value for Taiwan’s tourism promotion.

Impact on the Local Economy

The eastern towns along the Tour de Taiwan route will welcome a large influx of race-related visitors, including:

Team staff and support crews
Domestic and international media journalists
Cycling fans following the race
Tourists drawn by the broadcast coverage

Inspiring Local Cycling

Eastern Taiwan boasts a rich cycling culture, from the East Rift Valley bikeway to Taroko Gorge—all coveted riding destinations for cyclists. The return of the Tour de Taiwan will further inspire the development of local cycling.

How to Watch the Race

Best Viewing Spots

Location	Feature	Suggestion
Start line	Experience the tense atmosphere of the departure	Arrive 1 hour early
Top of the first climb	Watch the state of the peloton at the summit	Bring binoculars
Coastal viewpoint	Capture classic shots of riders with the Pacific Ocean	Bring a telephoto lens
Finish line	Witness the crowning of the champion	Secure a spot 2 hours early

Watching Online

Official YouTube live stream
Broadcast on major sports channels
Real-time tracking via the official Tour de Taiwan app

Conclusion

The return of the “Highway of Happiness” stage on Provincial Highway 9 is not only the biggest highlight of the 2026 Tour de Taiwan but also a significant moment in the history of Taiwan’s cycling sport. This route carries the natural beauty and cultural richness of eastern Taiwan. When 193 elite riders from around the world race here, the world will see the most beautiful side of Taiwan. Let us look forward together to this historic moment.