Luye Highland (Gaotai) Guide
Luye Highland: Soar Above the Valley and Embrace the Tea! Guide
Welcome to Luye Highland, also known as Gaotai, a breathtaking plateau offering panoramic views of the Rift Valley and a chance to immerse yourself in Taiwan's tea culture. Imagine standing atop a verdant hill, the wind whispering through the tea bushes, as you gaze upon a patchwork of rice paddies and distant mountains. Luye Highland is more than just a scenic overlook; it's an experience that engages all your senses. Historically, Luye Highland played a significant role in the development of tea cultivation in Taiwan. During the Japanese colonial period, the area was recognized for its ideal climate and soil conditions for growing black tea. The Japanese introduced Assam tea varieties, and Luye quickly became a prominent tea-producing region. Today, you can still find remnants of this history in the tea plantations and processing facilities scattered across the highland. The area is also famous for paragliding, taking advantage of the unique wind conditions created by the valley. For tourists, Luye Highland offers a variety of activities. Take a leisurely stroll through the tea plantations, learn about the tea-making process, and sample different varieties of locally grown tea. Paragliding is a must-try for adrenaline junkies, offering unparalleled views of the valley below. You can also visit the Gaotai Tea Factory to learn more about the history of tea production in the area. Don't forget to indulge in some local delicacies like tea-infused snacks and meals. The local restaurants often incorporate tea into their dishes, creating unique and flavorful culinary experiences.
Transportation
From Taitung City, take the Taitung County Bus (鼎東客運) towards Luye. Get off at the Luye Highland (高台) stop. The bus ride takes approximately 40-60 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or rent a scooter from Taitung City for more flexibility.