The 2-Day “Big Skies” Tour: The South Link Highway
Post date: 2025-06-24
477
Day 2 Days
Category South Link
Transport Drive
Highlight
Itinerary
Anchor
The South Link Highway, which connects Taitung to Pingtung County and Taiwan’s southern tip, is a great way to access coastal and mountain areas that offer everything from hiking trails and hot springs to seaside stargazing and social media check-in spots.
The tour’s first stop is the Fuxing Temple in Taimali, an Earth God temple famous for its giant “fortune cat.” Further along, head to Qingshan Farm, which is 30 minutes into the mountains by car. At around 800 meters above sea level, the farm blooms with hydrangeas in early summer and daylilies in midsummer. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate at the Jinlun Hot Springs.
On day two, explore a forest trail with ocean views at Dawu. Then continue on down this romantic stretch of coastline to a scenic spot that’s become a favorite of lovers. From there, make your return towards Taitung City on the old highway and stop at Huayuen Sunrise Observation Deck.
If you’re traveling between June and August, be sure to check out “Taitung’s Most Beautiful Starry Sky” summer event series. Events combine open-air concerts and stargazing, allowing visitors to admire the Milky Way as they enjoy music under pristine night skies. It’s a unique way to experience the distinctive romance of Taitung after dark.
Recommended Itinerary:
Taimali Fuxing Temple →Qingshan Farm → Overnight at Jinlun Hot Springs → Dawu National Forest Trail → The Heart of Dawu: South Link Highway Service Area → 9420 Coastal Park → Taimali’s “Sakuragi” Railroad Crossing → Huayuen Sunrise Observation Deck
Stop 1: Taimali Fuxing Temple
Taimali’s Fuxing Temple has recently gone viral as the “Cutest Earth God Temple in Taiwan.”It’s known for its giant red lantern and an oversized statue of a “fortune cat” that is two-meters tall, weighs more than 200 kg and is super cute.
The temple is a long-established Earth God (tudigong) shrine, but it has updated its image in several ways. In 2023, the temple redesigned its annual festival by incorporating elements from Japanese temple fairs and dispensing with Taiwan’s traditional puppet shows, making for a highly distinctive temple celebration.
【Taimali Fuxing Temple】
Address: No. 32, Nanli St., Taihe Vil., Taimali Township, Taitung County
Tel: +886-928-350-920
Facebook: Taimali Fuxing Temple
Getting there: Take the East Taiwan Bus (formerly the Diing Dong Bus Mountain Line) to the Taimali stop.
Stop 2: Qingshan Farm
Located in Taimali on Jinzhen Mountain, Qingshan Farm is a recreational mountain area surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The site was once a daylily drying factory but has since been transformed into a recreational farm.
The farm cultivates a variety of flowers, including cherry blossoms and hydrangeas, which bloom seasonally. From August to October, the farm is covered with vibrant golden daylilies, creating a breathtaking sea of flowers across the mountain.
【Qingshan Farm】
Address: No. 196, Jialun, Dawang Vil., Taimali Township, Taitung County
Tel: +886-89-781677
Facebook: Qingshan Farm
Getting there: By car. Take Provincial Highway 9 and follow signs to Jinzhen Mountain (Jinzhenshan).
Stop 3: Jinlun Hot Springs Scenic Area
Jinlun Hot Springs, located in Jinlun Village, Taimali Township, is one of several well-known hot spring areas in Taitung. In the mountains above the South Link Highway, it is easily accessible via a short, 30-minute drive off the highway or by train to Jinlun Station, then shuttle bus. There are plenty of accommodations within a ten-minute drive of the hot springs, making it an ideal stop an overnight stay.
【Jinlun Hot Springs Scenic Area】
Address: Jinlun Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Getting there: Take the train to Jinlun Station, then transfer to the local hot spring shuttle bus, or walk.
Tip: Observe safety precautions, as some of the waters can be extremely hot, especially at natural springs.
Stop 4: Dawu National Forest Trail
The Dawu National Forest Trail is an excellent way to immerse yourself in nature on a short hike. The trail is approximately 1.3 kilometers long and climbs at a gentle grade.
Also known as the “Dawu Ocean View Trail,” this route passes through a tropical, mountainside jungle rich in biodiversity. Placards along the trail offer information about local flora and fauna. From an observation pavilion at the trail’s midway point, you can enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and the Dawu Creek mouth. On clear days, you can also see Green Island and Orchid in the distance.
【Dawu National Forest Trail】
Tel: +886-89-791016 (Forestry Conservation Department, Dawu Station)
Getting there: Take the Eastern Top Transportation bus (formerly the Diing Dong Bus Mountain Line) to Dawu Street Station.
Stop 5: The Heart of Dawu: South Link Service Area
The Heart of Dawu–South Link Service Area is a highway rest stop along the South Link Highway. It’s unique architecture takes inspiration from lighthouses and incorporates local cultural motifs.
An observation deck provides stunning panoramic views of mountains and sea. A gift shop offers a variety of local specialty products and souvenirs.
【The Heart of Dawu: South Link Service Area】
Address: No. 56, Huangang Rd., Shangwu Vil., Dawu Township, Taitung County
Opening Hours: 08:00 AM–08:00 PM
Tel: +886-89-790075
Facebook: The Heart of Dawu: South Link Service Area
Getting there: Take the Eastern Top Transportation bus (formerly the Diing Dong Bus Mountain Line) to the Huangang Rd stop.
Stop 6: 9420 Coastal Park
The 9420 Coastal Park, located at the 420 km marker of Provincial Highway 9, has become a favorite social media photo spot for its spectacular sea view, its art installations, and most of all its name--in mandarin Chinese, “9420” is a homonym for “Just love you.”
By day, the site offers wonderful views of both mountains and ocean. At night, the area transforms into a serene stargazing spot. Its remote location, far from the light pollution of Taiwan’s urban areas, allows for clear views of a star-filled sky. It’s a romantic location worth visiting at any hour of the day.
【9420 Coastal Park】
Address: Dawu Seaside Park, Dawu Township, Taitung County (Located at the 420 km mark of Provincial Highway 9)
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Getting there: For those driving, follow Provincial Highway 9. The destination is located on the roadside.
Stop 7: Taimali’s “Sakuragi”Railroad Crossing
This railroad crossing has become a popular internet sensation due to its resemblance to a scene from the famous Japanese anime, Slam Dunk. Located near Taimali Railway Station, the spot’s nickname comes from the anime’s star character, Hanamichi Sakuragi.
Trains on the South Link Railway Line run infrequently, so if you want to capture a photo of a train passing by, it is recommended to check the railway schedule. When taking photos near the tracks, remember, safety always comes first! Keep a lookout for trains!
【Taimali’s “Sakuragi”Railroad Crossing】
Address: East 63 Township Road, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Getting there: By car, follow Provincial Highway 9 and turn onto East 63 Township Road.
Stop 8: Huayuan Sunrise Observation Deck
Taimali’s Huayuen Sunrise Observation Deck is located along the old route of the South Link Highway. Since most vehicles now travel by on the new elevated highway, traffic on the old road is relatively light. The observation deck offers expansive views of the surrounding coastline and mountains, making it a popular spot for photos and social media check-ins.
Visitors come at sunrise to greet the first light of a new day. By night, the location transforms into a stargazing haven, far from city lights, where the star-filled sky provides a serene and enchanting experience.
【Huayuan Sunrise Observation Deck】
Address: Huayuen Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Getting there: By car
The tour’s first stop is the Fuxing Temple in Taimali, an Earth God temple famous for its giant “fortune cat.” Further along, head to Qingshan Farm, which is 30 minutes into the mountains by car. At around 800 meters above sea level, the farm blooms with hydrangeas in early summer and daylilies in midsummer. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate at the Jinlun Hot Springs.
On day two, explore a forest trail with ocean views at Dawu. Then continue on down this romantic stretch of coastline to a scenic spot that’s become a favorite of lovers. From there, make your return towards Taitung City on the old highway and stop at Huayuen Sunrise Observation Deck.
If you’re traveling between June and August, be sure to check out “Taitung’s Most Beautiful Starry Sky” summer event series. Events combine open-air concerts and stargazing, allowing visitors to admire the Milky Way as they enjoy music under pristine night skies. It’s a unique way to experience the distinctive romance of Taitung after dark.
Recommended Itinerary:
Taimali Fuxing Temple →Qingshan Farm → Overnight at Jinlun Hot Springs → Dawu National Forest Trail → The Heart of Dawu: South Link Highway Service Area → 9420 Coastal Park → Taimali’s “Sakuragi” Railroad Crossing → Huayuen Sunrise Observation Deck
Stop 1: Taimali Fuxing Temple
Taimali’s Fuxing Temple has recently gone viral as the “Cutest Earth God Temple in Taiwan.”It’s known for its giant red lantern and an oversized statue of a “fortune cat” that is two-meters tall, weighs more than 200 kg and is super cute.
The temple is a long-established Earth God (tudigong) shrine, but it has updated its image in several ways. In 2023, the temple redesigned its annual festival by incorporating elements from Japanese temple fairs and dispensing with Taiwan’s traditional puppet shows, making for a highly distinctive temple celebration.
【Taimali Fuxing Temple】
Address: No. 32, Nanli St., Taihe Vil., Taimali Township, Taitung County
Tel: +886-928-350-920
Facebook: Taimali Fuxing Temple
Getting there: Take the East Taiwan Bus (formerly the Diing Dong Bus Mountain Line) to the Taimali stop.
Stop 2: Qingshan Farm
Located in Taimali on Jinzhen Mountain, Qingshan Farm is a recreational mountain area surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The site was once a daylily drying factory but has since been transformed into a recreational farm.
The farm cultivates a variety of flowers, including cherry blossoms and hydrangeas, which bloom seasonally. From August to October, the farm is covered with vibrant golden daylilies, creating a breathtaking sea of flowers across the mountain.
【Qingshan Farm】
Address: No. 196, Jialun, Dawang Vil., Taimali Township, Taitung County
Tel: +886-89-781677
Facebook: Qingshan Farm
Getting there: By car. Take Provincial Highway 9 and follow signs to Jinzhen Mountain (Jinzhenshan).
Stop 3: Jinlun Hot Springs Scenic Area
Jinlun Hot Springs, located in Jinlun Village, Taimali Township, is one of several well-known hot spring areas in Taitung. In the mountains above the South Link Highway, it is easily accessible via a short, 30-minute drive off the highway or by train to Jinlun Station, then shuttle bus. There are plenty of accommodations within a ten-minute drive of the hot springs, making it an ideal stop an overnight stay.
【Jinlun Hot Springs Scenic Area】
Address: Jinlun Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Getting there: Take the train to Jinlun Station, then transfer to the local hot spring shuttle bus, or walk.
Tip: Observe safety precautions, as some of the waters can be extremely hot, especially at natural springs.
Stop 4: Dawu National Forest Trail
The Dawu National Forest Trail is an excellent way to immerse yourself in nature on a short hike. The trail is approximately 1.3 kilometers long and climbs at a gentle grade.
Also known as the “Dawu Ocean View Trail,” this route passes through a tropical, mountainside jungle rich in biodiversity. Placards along the trail offer information about local flora and fauna. From an observation pavilion at the trail’s midway point, you can enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and the Dawu Creek mouth. On clear days, you can also see Green Island and Orchid in the distance.
【Dawu National Forest Trail】
Tel: +886-89-791016 (Forestry Conservation Department, Dawu Station)
Getting there: Take the Eastern Top Transportation bus (formerly the Diing Dong Bus Mountain Line) to Dawu Street Station.
Stop 5: The Heart of Dawu: South Link Service Area
The Heart of Dawu–South Link Service Area is a highway rest stop along the South Link Highway. It’s unique architecture takes inspiration from lighthouses and incorporates local cultural motifs.
An observation deck provides stunning panoramic views of mountains and sea. A gift shop offers a variety of local specialty products and souvenirs.
【The Heart of Dawu: South Link Service Area】
Address: No. 56, Huangang Rd., Shangwu Vil., Dawu Township, Taitung County
Opening Hours: 08:00 AM–08:00 PM
Tel: +886-89-790075
Facebook: The Heart of Dawu: South Link Service Area
Getting there: Take the Eastern Top Transportation bus (formerly the Diing Dong Bus Mountain Line) to the Huangang Rd stop.
Stop 6: 9420 Coastal Park
The 9420 Coastal Park, located at the 420 km marker of Provincial Highway 9, has become a favorite social media photo spot for its spectacular sea view, its art installations, and most of all its name--in mandarin Chinese, “9420” is a homonym for “Just love you.”
By day, the site offers wonderful views of both mountains and ocean. At night, the area transforms into a serene stargazing spot. Its remote location, far from the light pollution of Taiwan’s urban areas, allows for clear views of a star-filled sky. It’s a romantic location worth visiting at any hour of the day.
【9420 Coastal Park】
Address: Dawu Seaside Park, Dawu Township, Taitung County (Located at the 420 km mark of Provincial Highway 9)
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Getting there: For those driving, follow Provincial Highway 9. The destination is located on the roadside.
Stop 7: Taimali’s “Sakuragi”Railroad Crossing
This railroad crossing has become a popular internet sensation due to its resemblance to a scene from the famous Japanese anime, Slam Dunk. Located near Taimali Railway Station, the spot’s nickname comes from the anime’s star character, Hanamichi Sakuragi.
Trains on the South Link Railway Line run infrequently, so if you want to capture a photo of a train passing by, it is recommended to check the railway schedule. When taking photos near the tracks, remember, safety always comes first! Keep a lookout for trains!
【Taimali’s “Sakuragi”Railroad Crossing】
Address: East 63 Township Road, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Getting there: By car, follow Provincial Highway 9 and turn onto East 63 Township Road.
Stop 8: Huayuan Sunrise Observation Deck
Taimali’s Huayuen Sunrise Observation Deck is located along the old route of the South Link Highway. Since most vehicles now travel by on the new elevated highway, traffic on the old road is relatively light. The observation deck offers expansive views of the surrounding coastline and mountains, making it a popular spot for photos and social media check-ins.
Visitors come at sunrise to greet the first light of a new day. By night, the location transforms into a stargazing haven, far from city lights, where the star-filled sky provides a serene and enchanting experience.
【Huayuan Sunrise Observation Deck】
Address: Huayuen Village, Taimali Township, Taitung County
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Getting there: By car
2 Days
