Taipei, Tainan, Taichung, Kaohsiung… For those who have conquered Taiwan’s captivating cities, how about Taitung next?
“Taitung sounds kind of rural, doesn’t it?” You might think so. Actually, I thought the same at first. But this city is packed with surprising discoveries. Especially recently, with art, cafes, and even nightlife culture, it’s secretly becoming a popular spot among young people.
This time, I want to introduce Taiwan enthusiasts to Taitung’s new charms that you should know about.
Taitung Is Actually Hot Right Now
There aren’t modern cityscapes like Taipei or Taichung. But that’s precisely what creates its special atmosphere. Cafes in renovated old buildings, cultural spots where young artists gather, markets integrated into local life… Taitung continues to evolve with an exquisite balance – not over-developed yet not stagnant – making now the perfect time to visit.
Youth Culture Hub: The Old Station Area
The area around the old Taitung Station is gaining attention as Taitung’s cultural center. Particularly, “Tiehua Village” is known as the launch pad for Taitung’s new culture.
Taitung’s cultural hub, Railway Art Village
At night, music events are held on the outdoor stage where local young people gather. There are live performances by Taiwanese indie bands and sometimes outdoor movie screenings. With no tourist-oriented presentations, you can experience authentic Taiwanese culture alongside local youth.
The sight of young people sitting on the grass, enjoying music with beer in hand, creates a unique atmosphere you won’t find in Taipei. On weekends, people even travel from Taipei specifically for music events.
Taitung Tourist Night Market Bustling with Locals
Compared to Taipei’s famous night markets, this one is compact, but that’s precisely its charm. Without flashy tourist-oriented signs, the simple atmosphere bustling with local youth is delightful.
Local students hanging out while enjoying grilled skewers and bubble tea drinks – this is everyday Taiwan at its finest. Particularly recommended are “fried taro cakes” (crispy fried taro mochi) and Taitung’s specialty “Guanshan rice sausage” (chewy rice-stuffed sausage). You can enjoy local flavors without tourist pricing.
In one corner of the night market, there’s also a retro Taiwanese game area. Traditional stall games like shooting and ring toss are lined up. Playing games with locals naturally sparks conversations – that’s part of Taitung’s charm.
Bar Scene Where You Can Experience Modern Drinking Culture
What makes Taitung nights more attractive is the presence of “Mixx Bar.” Located in an alley near downtown, this bar operates from 8 or 9 PM until 2-3 AM every night except Tuesday. It’s a hip space where local youth gather, different from the daytime tourist-oriented face of the city.
While based on dark tones, indirect lighting built into the bar counter and bottle shelves creates an atmosphere that’s both modern and nostalgic. Noteworthy are the creative cocktails using “xiaomi jiu” (millet wine), a traditional indigenous Taiwanese alcohol unique to eastern Taiwan.
Cocktails start from 300 Taiwan dollars, which is somewhat pricey, but considering these unique flavors, it’s well worth it. There are no tourists – most customers are stylish local Taitung residents. This can be called a hidden gem where you can experience Taitung’s new culture.
New Generation Cafe Culture Hidden in Back Alleys
In Taitung’s back alleys, there are “third spaces” that have definitely increased in recent years. Stylish cafes in renovated old buildings. In alleys one block from the main street, cafes converted from traditional houses over 50 years old are scattered, and on holidays, you can spot young people visiting from Taipei.
After 2 PM, locals returning from school or work gradually gather, and a leisurely pace begins to flow. You can enjoy Taitung’s unique slow time, completely removed from the hustle and bustle of Taipei or Taichung.
Morning Market: Taste Local Life
Taitung Central Market is exactly where local people’s lives are concentrated. Around 8 AM is when it’s most lively. There are no tourist souvenir shops whatsoever. Instead, chance encounters await with traditional side dishes made by local grandmothers and Taiwanese sweets you can only find in markets.
Particularly recommended is the nameless douhua (tofu pudding) shop in one corner of the market. There are no queues, but local regulars never stop coming. The traditional style with brown sugar syrup and peanuts has a simple deliciousness different from Taipei’s famous shops.
Comfortable Base to Enjoy Taitung Life
For accommodation selection in Taitung, I’d like to recommend Road International Youth Hostel Taitung Branch 2. The exterior is urban and stylish, but inside, a comfortable space with abundant warm wood materials spreads out.
Particularly impressive is the common space with a tea room-like atmosphere. Natural light streams through glass windows, and you can enjoy authentic Taiwanese tea by walls decorated with local artists’ works. It’s the perfect spot to heal your body tired from sightseeing.
For breakfast, they’ve adopted a voucher system usable at surrounding restaurants. You can enjoy leisurely morning meals at local cafes or use them at night markets. It’s a stylish service that lets you enjoy Taitung’s food at your own pace.
Little Tips for Enjoying Taitung
– A minimum 2-night stay is recommended. Day 1 for standard spots, Day 2 for back-alley exploration – this way you can slowly become familiar with the city’s atmosphere.
– For Tiehua Village events, check the latest information on social media. Popular local band performances can fill up surprisingly quickly.
– For bar and cafe hopping, asking local young people is the right approach. You might be introduced to hidden gems not mentioned in tourist information centers.
– For morning market shopping, approach with smiles and basic Chinese. Casual conversations with locals might lead to unexpected shop recommendations.
Summary: A Place to Encounter Taiwan’s New Charms
Precisely because you’re Taiwan enthusiasts, having Taitung as an option will broaden your travel horizons. Not over-touristified, yet not inconveniently underdeveloped. And most importantly, today’s Taitung, where Taiwan’s new culture and traditions harmonize appropriately, will surely provide fresh discoveries.
New Taiwan charms different from Taipei or Taichung – that’s what exists in Taitung now. Why not aim for Taitung on your next Taiwan trip? You’re sure to encounter unknown faces of Taiwan.
