Wandan Township is Taiwan's largest red bean growing area. From November to February each year, the harvest peak fills the fields with swaths of ripe russet-brown pods spreading across the Pingtung Plain in a distinctive agricultural scene. This place is not only first in production figures — it is also where Taiwanese rural scenery is well preserved.
Highlights of the Wandan Red Bean Fields
Wandan Township is located in the central Pingtung Plain, with a warm climate and soil well suited to red bean cultivation. Farmers typically plant red beans in the autumn-winter window after the rice harvest, creating a two-crop rotation model. From late November through December, the red bean plants turn yellow and the pods become plump — the period of strongest color contrast and best viewing.
The local red bean processing industry in Wandan has a long history; red bean cakes, red bean shaved ice, and red bean soup made fresh from local beans can be found in the market. Some farms open during the harvest season for visitors to experience picking; for fees and access information, contact the farm directly to avoid outdated information.
How to Make the Most of It
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- By car, enter Wandan from Provincial Highway 1. Farm roads extend in all directions and can be explored freely.
- Public transport: take a bus from Pingtung City to Wandan — service is limited; check Pingtung Bus timetables.
- The agricultural landscape varies by year and weather. From late November, check the Wandan Farmers' Association for seasonal forecasts.
Nearby Connections
- Xinyuan Township is to the south of Wandan; stop by the Xinyuan Zheng Clan Temple to experience Hokkien settlement culture.
- Pingtung City center is about 15 minutes from Wandan; plan a city lunch and then return.
Sources: Wandan Township Farmers' Association; Pingtung County Government Agriculture Bureau information; facts provided by context. Photos pending Dio's on-site photography.