Zhiben “Breathe in the Forest Trip” – Low-Carbon Tourism in Zhiben Township

For those of you who have been trapped in the concrete jungle, when was the last time you were able to take a good deep breath? Besides having one of the top hot springs in Taiwan, Zhiben boasts the best air quality in Taitung. Why not take a low-carbon tour and ride an electric bike around Zhiben’s grand nature? The ultra-low noise and lack of air pollution, paired with the freedom to zigzag through the greenery, will allow you to relax and enjoy the splendid views and fresh air.

Charging stations along the tour: Toyugi Hot Spring Resort, Taimali CPC Gas Station, and Taimali Taiwan Power Company

1st Stop: Zhiben Forest Recreation Area

1st Stop: Zhiben Forest Recreation Area

The Zhiben Forest Recreation Area is surrounded by mountains and the park spans over 110 hectares of land with a rich ecosystem. A walk through the forest will relax and calm your soul. There are many points of interest in the recreation area, including a botanical garden, forest classroom, foot massage creek trail, and more. Visitors can take a stroll, go bird watching, have a picnic, and do many other activities perfect for everyone in the family. The famous Haohanpo Trail and Forest Showers Trail don’t have many steep inclines. They lead and open up to a breathtaking view that will refresh your mind and soul. This is a perfect destination for an outing. (Photo Credit:Taitung County Government)

Address: No. 290 Longquan Rd., Beinan Township, Taitung County
Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Duration: 3 hours

2nd Stop: Monkey Dist. Kitchen Hot Spring Poached Eggs

2nd Stop: Monkey Dist. Kitchen Hot Spring Poached Eggs

Do you wish to have a taste of Zhiben’s local produce and specialty dishes? Monkey Dist. Kitchen Hot Spring Poached Eggs is your best choice! The restaurant is located right next to the Zhiben Forest Recreation Area. It is decorated with aboriginal designs and themes. The restaurant serves common Taiwanese household meals, but the use of fresh ingredients paired with the owner’s exquisite kitchen skills and hearty servings always makes their patrons come back for more! Their highest-rated dishes include stir-fried wild greens, boiled chicken, steamed grouper, and hot spring poached egg. First-time visitors not knowing what to order can try out these popular dishes! Take in the beautiful views, listen to the trickling waters, enjoy the delicacies, and enjoy the slow and good life. (Photo Credit:FB@ Monkey Dist. Kitchen Hot Spring Poached Eggs

Address: No. 18 Alley 376 Wenquan Rd., Beinan Township, Taitung County
Phone Number: 089-516-111
Hours of Operation: 7 AM – 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2 PM and 5 PM – 8 PM
Suggested Duration: 1 hour

3rd Stop: Taitung County Cereal Processing Center

3rd Stop: Taitung County Cereal Processing Center

After the healthy homemade meal, we will travel from the dining table to the produces’ origin: The Taitung County Cereal Processing Center. It is the first and only fully automated cereal processing center in Taiwan. The center can process red quinoa, millet, pigeon pea, and other grains, as well as process and package roselle, chrysanthemum, and other produce. The center also has DIY courses that will show you how to clean and cook the ruby of the plant kingdom, red quinoa, while sharing the aboriginal spirit of respecting the gods and the land. There are other courses such as bark lantern making, millet shelling, millet mochi making courses, and other introductory courses to help you experience the diverse tribal beauty. (Please kindly note that DIY courses are only by appointment only.) (Photo Credit:FB@newttmall

Address: No. 1 Alley 376 Wenquan Rd., Beinan Township, Taitung County
Suggested Duration: 2 hours
Click here to make a reservation

4th Stop: Zhiben Hot Springs

4th Stop: Zhiben Hot Springs

The Zhiben Hot Springs are located in the valleys of Zhiben. The Beauty Hot Spring is known all around Taiwan and the valley is filled with unique views that give the mountains and waters a hint of poetic charm. The spring water is a mildly basic sodium bicarbonate spring that is rich in minerals. It is soothing, gentle, and promotes blood circulation. Why not make the Zhiben Hot Springs your final stop on your low-carbon tour? Spend the night at an Onsen hotel or enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural springs to renew and refresh your body and soul! (Photo Credit:Taitung County Government)

Address: Zhiben Hot Spring Scenic Area, Beinan Township, Taitung County
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours