Luye Highland is a plateau on the western side of the Coastal Range in Taitung's Rift Valley, at an elevation of about 350 meters with open views over the valley floor and the Central Mountain Range. It has hosted the Taiwan International Balloon Festival every July and August since 2011, making it the most iconic scenic plateau in the Taitung Rift Valley.
Luye Highland sits at an elevation of about 350 meters and has been the main venue of the Taiwan International Balloon Festival since 2011. The 2026 festival runs from July 4 to August 20, with tethered balloon rides offered in two daily sessions: 5:30–7:00 a.m. and 5:00–6:30 p.m.
Highlights of Luye Highland
Luye Highland is located in Longtian Village, Luye Township. The plateau sits at around 350 meters above sea level. Looking out from the plateau's edge, the Central Mountain Range unfolds to the west and the Rift Valley farmland stretches endlessly below. The flat grass slopes and favorable wind conditions make the area ideal for hot air balloon launches. Since 2011, it has been the main venue for the Taiwan International Balloon Festival. Outside the festival period, the grassy plateau remains open for visitors to stroll and enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley.
During the Hot Air Balloon Carnival (approximately July to August each year; exact dates are subject to official announcements by the Tourism Administration and Taitung County Government), multiple shaped hot air balloons ascend simultaneously in a spectacular scene. Activities are divided into two types: tethered rides (the balloon ascends on a cable without flying freely) and free flights (requires separate reservation; higher cost). Tethered balloon rides operate multiple times daily during the festival.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- By car: From the Luye section of Highway 9, turn onto Longtian Road toward the highland. The road winds; allow approximately 10 to 15 minutes. There is a parking lot on the plateau.
- Public transport: Take Taiwan Railways to Luye Station, then take a taxi up to the highland, approximately 10 minutes. Shuttle buses may be available during the carnival period — check official announcements.
- The exact dates and ticket prices for the Hot Air Balloon Carnival (July–August) are adjusted slightly each year. Check official announcements from the Taitung County Government or the Tourism Administration.
Nearby Connections
- Heading north about 20 to 30 minutes leads to Guanshan Township, connecting to Guanshan Waterfront Park and Guanshan rice bento for a Rift Valley north–south day itinerary.
- Heading south about 30 minutes reaches Taitung City, connecting to Beinan Cultural Park or Taitung Railway Arts Village.
Source: Public documents on Luye Highland and Taiwan International Balloon Festival related information. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Luye Highland balloon festival held?
It has been held every July and August since 2011, with the 2026 edition running from July 4 to August 20.
How high is Luye Highland?
Luye Highland sits at an elevation of about 350 meters overlooking the Rift Valley.
How many tethered balloon sessions run per day?
During the festival, tethered rides run in two daily sessions, 5:30–7:00 a.m. and 5:00–6:30 p.m.
Sources
- 臺灣國際熱氣球嘉年華 官方網站 — 2026年活動期間、體驗時段
- 鹿野高台｜台東觀光旅遊網 — 海拔與地理資訊