Taiwan Food Atlas

Luye Highland

A hot air balloon base atop a Rift Valley plateau with panoramic views — the grand event runs each July and August
📍 Taitung · Luye Township · Longtian Village🏞️ Nature🔖 Hot Air Balloon Carnival · Rift Valley panorama · Plateau views

Luye Highland is located on a plateau on the western side of the Coastal Range, at an elevation of about 350 meters. The terrain is flat and open, with views spanning the entire Rift Valley plain and the ridgeline of the Central Mountain Range. The Taiwan International Balloon Festival is held here each year from July to August, making it the most iconic scenic plateau in the Taitung Rift Valley.

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

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Carnival tethered balloon rideDuring the July–August carnival, tethered balloon rides operate multiple times daily. Check the current year's official announcements for fees. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance — weekends are crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
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Early morning plateau view of the Rift ValleyThe sunrise view from the plateau is impressive. When thin morning mist has not yet lifted, the Rift Valley plain appears dreamlike and still — a golden time for photography and contemplative walks.
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Longtian Village cycling pathA cycling path in Longtian Village, Luye Township winds through tea gardens and farmland. You can cycle down from the highland for a tour lasting approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
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Visit Luye tea gardensLuye Township is known for Red Oolong tea. There are tea gardens and tea factories around the plateau; some offer visits and tea tastings, which can serve as an extension experience beyond the highland itself.

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.

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