Located in Taitung’s Luye Township, Luye Highland (鹿野高台) is a breathtaking natural plateau standing 350 meters above sea level. Famed for its unobstructed views of the lush East Rift Valley and the winding Beinan River, it has become Taiwan’s premier destination for aerial sports. Whether you are coming for the world-renowned Hot Air Balloon Festival or to try paragliding, Luye Highland offers a sense of freedom that is hard to find anywhere else.
In 2026, Luye remains the heart of Taitung’s "Slow Economy," blending high-adrenaline adventure with the serene tradition of tea culture.
Top Things to Do in Luye Highland
1. Taiwan International Balloon Festival (July – August 2026)
Luye Highland is the official home of this world-class festival. Every summer, dozens of giant, colorful hot air balloons from across the globe take flight at dawn and dusk, creating a fairytale landscape.
- 2026 Dates: The festival is scheduled to launch on July 5, 2026, and run through late August.
- Key Experiences: * Tethered Rides: Experience the lift-off sensation (approx. 5–7 mins) for a bird's-eye view.
- Night Glow Concerts: A spectacular show where balloons light up in rhythm with music and laser lights.
2. Paragliding & Grass Boarding
Due to its unique rising air currents, Luye is Taiwan’s top spot for paragliding. If you’re not ready to take to the skies, the vast, sloping grass fields are perfect for Grass Boarding (grass sledding)—a favorite activity for families.
- The View: As you glide down (or fly over), you’ll see the patchwork of tea plantations and pineapple fields that define the valley below.
3. Red Oolong Tea Tasting
Luye is the birthplace of Red Oolong, a unique tea that combines the fermentation process of black tea with the roasting style of Oolong.
- Must-Visit: Head to the Luye Tourist Tea Garden or local tea farms like New Yuanchang to learn about the "honey-scented" aroma that comes from leaves bitten by leafhoppers—a sign of organic, pesticide-free farming.
2026 Visitor Essentials: Logistics & Tickets
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Summer (July-Aug): For Balloons.
Spring/Autumn: For clear paragliding weather. |
| Admission | Free to enter the Highland.
Balloon/Paragliding activities require separate fees. |
| Balloon Ride Cost | Tethered: NT$550–$650 <br>**Free Flight:** Approx. NT$9,000 (Advance booking required). |
| How to Get There | Train: To Luye Station, then take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Luye Line). |
Nearby Gem: Longtian Green Tunnel
At the foot of the highland lies Longtian Village, a former Japanese immigrant settlement. Cycle through the Longtian Green Tunnel, a 1.2km stretch of road shaded by dense Madagascar Almond trees. It is a local tradition to lie down on the road (carefully!) to see the "upside-down" world through the leaves.
Expert Tips for 2026 Travelers
- The Early Bird Catch: For the Balloon Festival, the morning session starts at 5:30 AM. Arriving early is essential to avoid traffic and to see the balloons when the wind is most stable.
- Tethered Ride Booking: In 2026, online reservations for tethered rides usually open 1–2 months in advance on the official website. On-site tickets are limited and sell out instantly.
- Check the Wind: Flying activities are highly weather-dependent. Always check the "Hot Air Balloon LIVE" camera or the official app before making the trip.
- Local Market: If you visit on a Saturday of an even-numbered week, stop by the 2626 Market in Wuling Green Tunnel nearby for local crafts and organic snacks.
