Melo Villareal
What are the top tourist attractions in Pingtung, Taiwan?
Pingtung County may not be a familiar name for international tourists, as more often than not, cities like Taipei or Kaohsiung are always the top choice of destinations. But for those who want to see other places in Taiwan for a slow, serene vacation, Pingtung County is one to watch out for.
Blessed with abundant scenic areas, Pingtung County is a hidden gem where you embark on quiet explorations in its beautiful town. It’s located in the southern part of Taiwan, with mountainous borders and charming overlooks of the sea, perfect for ecological experiences you’ve never done before. Besides the famous Kenting National Park, there are many places to visit and learn from. Here are some of them!
Taste fresh seafood in Donggang Hua Qiao Fish Market
The coastal view of Pingtung is unmatched. And along with this, Pingtung is known for its seafood. As one of the major tuna sources in Asia, Taiwan’s very own Donggang is where the best tuna comes from. Hua Qiao Fish Market is a must-visit for all things seafood– this large market sells all kinds of fresh seafood and food products. Hua Qiao, which translates to “overseas compatriots,” was once where wealthy foreigners came to spend and trade for seafood back in the day.
Now, the market has 400 stalls divided into zones. There’s an area dedicated to fresh fish, raw food, cooked food, gourmet cuisine, and specialty items. On top of the stalls, there’s a spot to see beautiful coastal views. Come here and taste delicious seafood, shop for products, and admire incredible views in one place!
Go on an adventure at Dapeng Bay Ren Peng Boat Tour.
Discover Dapeng Bay via a boat tour! Known to be Taiwan’s largest bag-shaped lagoon, this national scenic area offers a fantastic ecological trip through the mangrove forest. Learn more about Donggang’s fishery and local culture with a professional tour guide who will take you through the lagoon’s beautiful sceneries.
Aside from the view, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal at Ren Peng to get a taste of fresh and roasted oysters. You can also have fun with friends as you sing your hearts out at their karaoke!
Visit the Donglong Temple
Donglong Temple is dedicated to Lord Wen, built in 1706 in Yanpu, a fishing village. Damaged by flood in 1790, it was relocated to Donggang until it was flooded again in 1877. It was rebuilt and finished construction in 1887 and is now known as one of the most prominent temples in Pingtung. See its marvelous architecture, but more importantly, come here to pray and pay respects to one of the best spiritual sites you can see in Taiwan.
Dine in a camping-style restaurant at Liang Tian Ji Shih
Pingtung’s natural scenery calls for a dining experience that will make you appreciate its outdoor views. A unique dining adventure awaits you at Liang Tian Ji Shih, a camping-themed restaurant where you can try dining inside a tent. Its camp-style setting makes guests want to try their restaurant, which serves meals in military food containers. Complete with meat, vegetables, egg, and rice, you can have a filling lunch or dinner with your friends in this fun restaurant. Some of their tents can be used as accommodations too!
Stroll around Pingtung Park
This family-friendly park is one of the best attractions of Pingtung County. Situated on Gongyuan Road, Pingtung Park has many areas for everyone to enjoy. One can stroll along its walkways and open fields. There’s also a playground for kids. If you want to swim, there’s also a pool where you can take a dip. Pingtung Park is also more beautiful during the Christmas season when it’s illuminated at night with colorful decorations making it a must-visit holiday destination.
Read a good book at Pingtung Public Library.
Pingtung Public Library is a must-see attraction not only for its collection of books but because of its striking architecture and stunning outdoor views, gaining the nickname “Forest Library.”
Established in 1983, it was then the Pingtung County Cultural Affairs Bureau Library. It was renovated in 2018 with a vision of sustainable architecture in mind. Gone are the days when the library felt like an enclosed, unwelcoming space. Now incorporating the surrounding beauty of nature in its architecture. Pingtung Public Library aims to connect the outdoor elements to its building. While in the library, you have a great view of its tree-lined pathways while enjoying a good book in its sunken seating areas, mezzanine, and coffee shop for everyone to enjoy.
Immerse yourself in creative hubs at Victory Star VIP Zone
Formerly a military dormitory, Victory Star VIP Zone is a hangout place filled with several bookstores, restaurants, cafes, craft specialty stalls, and little inns. It’s a creative community where tourists can learn about Pingtung’s history through exhibition halls showcasing its glorious past. It’s also called Shengli Star Village Creative Life Park VIP Zone, representing a victory star lifestyle. You can visit the famous General’s House, Shengli No. 139, and General Sun Li-Jen Residence if you’re a history buff who wants to immerse yourself in its historical past. There’s also a Japanese costume shop where you can rent traditional Japanese attire and roam around the villages to take many photos.
The Victory Star VIP Zone is Taiwan’s largest heritage building revitalization project, where one can enjoy a cultural experience through the different creative hubs. You can glimpse Pingtung’s creative community, from food to books, performance arts, accommodation, and fashion. Tip: head to Bi Sheng Bakery after a day tour here and taste their bread, cakes, and pastries best paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
How to get to Pingtung
You can go to Pingtung by bus. You can take long-distance buses from Taipei or Taoyuan International Airport to Pingtung County.
You’ll never run out of unforgettable experiences to try at Pingtung County in Taiwan! If you’re planning to visit Pingtung, many activities and outdoor adventures await you. Come here and see the beauty of Pingtung on your next Taiwan trip!
Follow the Out of Town Travel Blog on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest if you want more travel and tech-related updates.
Read:
- Top 20 Best Tourist Attractions in New York City
- Top 10 Things to Do in Metro Manila that are Free (Nearly Free)
- UNESCO Names Baguio City As The First Creative City in the Philippines
- The Top 10 FREE Things to Do Near Central Park, New York City
