Pingtung County
Pingtung County is a large area of green mountains and historic treasures in southern Taiwan. Its main highlight is Kenting National Park. In this scenic area, move between tropical forests, farms and beaches in your exploration of Taiwanese culture and terrain. Visit the markets of Pingtung City to experience the urban culture. Then travel south to Kenting National Park. In this region of varied terrain, spot monkeys in the forests, exotic birds in the sky, and lakes and views of the Taiwan Strait and the Pacific Ocean.
In the park, visit Eluanbi Lighthouse, known as “The Light of East Asia” because of its brightness. It dates back to the 1800s, a remnant of the Qing dynasty, and has suffered damages from several wars.
The park and neighboring town of Kenting have plenty of hotels and restaurants. Find the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium here. Admire the large sections that specialize in varying marine themes, from local fish to coral treasures and a history of the oceans.
See the preserved city walls of Hengchun and visit the natural fires that flame from beside the Chuhuo Bridge.
During the first half of the 20th century, the region was under Japanese rule, with whaling off the south coast.
The county is among the hottest parts of Taiwan because it is in the south and near the equator. It is driest from November to April.
To arrive, get a flight to Kaohsiung International Airport, which is just across the river from the county’s capital of Pingtung City. Take buses and taxis around the city to discover its markets and other attractions. Use a long-distance bus to travel 62 miles (100 kilometers) south to reach the national park. The journey should last several hours, depending on the bus company.
Learn about the culture of the local people across the extensive farmland and serene countryside in Pingtung County.