Donghe Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Donghe, Taiwan with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Donghe

Located on the southeastern coast of Taiwan, Donghe is a charming township that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and natural wonders in the country. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking scenery, and captivating outdoor adventures, Donghe is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Taiwan.

List of Places to Visit in Donghe

Here are the must-visit places in Donghe:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Donghe Memorial Hall: A museum honoring late General Donghe, one of the most respected generals in Taiwan’s history.
  • Xiaoyeliu Historical Site: A historical site with remnants of a Qing Dynasty-era sugar mill.

Natural Attractions of Donghe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jhiben Hot Springs: Known for its mineral-rich hot springs, Jhiben Hot Springs is a perfect place to rejuvenate your mind and body.
  • Sanxiantai Island: A unique island with an eye-catching arch bridge, fascinating coastal rock formations, and scenic hiking trails.
  • Longtian Mountain: A great spot for hiking and camping that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding countryside.
  • Dulan Mountain: This mountain is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Donghe

Donghe is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with several scenic routes that offer stunning mountain views and spectacular nature scenery, such as:

  • Donghe - Dulan Trail: This 12-kilometer hiking trail takes you through breathtaking mountain terrain, as well as rugged coastline and beautiful greenery.
  • Xiaoyeliu Trail: This trail is a great option if you want a shorter hike, as it is only about 2 kilometers in length. The trail showcases the unique coastal rock formations and stunning ocean views of the area.

Best Things to Do in Donghe: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing: Donghe is famous for its world-class waves and is a popular surfing destination in Taiwan.
  • Rafting: The Xiuguluan River, which runs nearby Donghe, offers an exciting rafting experience for adventure seekers.
  • Cycling: A great way to explore the area’s natural beauty is by taking a cycling tour around the township.
  • Stargazing: With clear skies and little light pollution, Donghe is a great place to witness the beauty of the stars at night.

Week-Long Itinerary for Donghe

Day 1: Arrive in Donghe and visit the Donghe Memorial Hall and Xiaoyeliu Historical Site.

Day 2: Take a tour of the Jhiben Hot Springs and spend some time relaxing in the mineral-rich hot springs.

Day 3: Hike the Donghe - Dulan Trail and visit the Dulan Mountain.

Day 4: Take a cycling tour around the township and explore the local food scene.

Day 5: Go surfing at Donghe Beach and enjoy the local nightlife.

Day 6: Take a rafting trip on the Xiuguluan River.

Day 7: Visit the Sanxiantai Island and enjoy the stunning arch bridge and unique rock formations.

Food and Drink Scene of Donghe

Donghe is well-known for its fresh seafood, but here are some other must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Aboriginal Millet Wine Chicken: A traditional dish of Donghe made with local millet wine and chicken.
  • Mochi: A chewy and sweet rice cake that is a popular snack in Donghe.

Local Beverages

  • Jhiben Hot Springs Water: This mineral-rich water is a great thirst quencher and has a host of health benefits.
  • Luye Tea: A high-mountain tea that is grown in nearby Luye.

Where to Stay in Donghe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Bayview Bed and Breakfast: A cozy and comfortable bed and breakfast that offers great ocean views at an affordable price.
  • Donghe Surf Hostel: A hostel that caters specifically to surfers, located just a few minutes’ walk from Donghe Beach.
  • Donghe Guest House: A guesthouse that is located in a quiet area, offers simple rooms and great hospitality.

What to Buy in Donghe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Aboriginal Handmade Crafts: Donghe is home to several aboriginal tribes who sell handmade crafts, such as bracelets, necklaces, and woodcarvings.
  • Sea and Beach-Related Souvenirs: Collect some sea shells or bring home some beautiful stone pebbles from Donghe’s scenic beaches.

Local Culture and Customs of Donghe

Donghe is home to several aboriginal tribes, each with their own unique customs, music, and art. As a visitor to Donghe, it’s important to respect and appreciate the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Donghe

The best time to visit Donghe is from April to June and from October to December, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Donghe

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture of the aboriginal tribes.
  • Try some of the local dishes and beverages.
  • Take a cycling tour around the township.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the local customs and culture.
  • Swim in prohibited areas on the beaches.

Safety and Health

Safety in Donghe

Donghe is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should still exercise caution and take necessary precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and adhering to local customs and laws.

Health in Donghe

Donghe is a relatively healthy destination but it’s recommended to bring some mosquito repellent during the summer months when mosquitoes can be more prevalent.

Getting to Donghe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Donghe

The nearest airport to Donghe is Taitung Airport, which is approximately 25 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Donghe

Regular buses run from Taitung to Donghe and the trip usually takes about an hour.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are also available, but it’s recommended to book in advance.

How to Get Around in Donghe

There are several transportation options for getting around Donghe, such as:

  • Rental Cars: Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore the area independently.
  • Scooters and Motorcycles: Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a popular option in Donghe and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the township.
  • Buses: Regular buses run between the major attractions in Donghe and the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Donghe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Taitung City: A city that is worth exploring with its local markets, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery.
  • Green Island: A stunning island located just off the coast of Taitung, known for its beaches and world-class diving opportunities.
  • Hualien: A neighboring county with some of the country’s most stunning natural landmarks and hiking trails, such as Taroko Gorge.

Conclusion

Donghe is a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Taiwan. With its breathtaking scenery, captivating outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage, Donghe promises to deliver a memorable and enriching travel experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.