Taitung history

Origins and Foundation of the City

The history of Taitung begins long before modern administrative boundaries appeared on maps. Initially, this territory, situated on the picturesque south-eastern coast, was home to indigenous peoples of the plains, predominantly the Puyuma and Amis tribes. For a long time, the region developed in isolation thanks to natural physical barriers.

The official administrative establishment of the city is associated with the late 19th century. In 1875, during the Qing Dynasty rule, the Beinan district (named after the local river and one of the tribes) was established here. Later, as the settlement grew and territories were reorganised, the city received its current name, which literally translates as "East of Taiwan".

Key Development Factors

The formation of Taitung as an important urban centre was driven by several factors:

• Geographical Isolation: The Central Mountain Range separates the city from the western part of the island. This slowed early urbanisation but allowed for the preservation of unique nature and local identity.
• Strategic Location: The city became a natural gateway to the east coast and a departure point for maritime transport to nearby islands (Green Island and Lanyu).
• Land Development: The migration of settlers across the mountains and by sea contributed to transforming wild lands into agricultural grounds.

Early Culture and Economy

Since its foundation, Taitung has been distinguished by a unique cultural landscape. This place became a meeting point for indigenous traditions and settler customs, forming a special atmosphere of tolerance and multiculturalism.

The economy of the early period was based primarily on agriculture. Thanks to the warm climate and fertile valley soils, the cultivation of rice, sugar cane, and tropical fruits flourished here. Trade was conducted both with mountain tribes and through a small port, providing the city with necessary resources for gradual growth.

Major Historical Milestones

The history of Taitung is a journey from isolated indigenous settlements to a modern tourism hub. Below are the key dates that defined the city's development.

• 1636: The Dutch East India Company first mentions the settlement of Pimaba (the historical name of the area) in its reports on gold exploration.
• 1875: Imperial Commissioner Shen Baozhen establishes the Beinan administrative unit, officially including the region in the governance system.
• 1896: At the beginning of the Japanese rule period, the Taito Subprefecture is created, launching systematic urban planning.
• 1913: Opening of the Taitung Sugar Factory, which became the engine of the local economy and industry for many years.
• 1926: Completion of the East Coast Line railway, connecting Taitung with the city of Hualien.
• 1946: After the reorganisation of administrative divisions, the settlement receives the status of Taitung Township.
• 1976: Taitung is officially upgraded to a County-administered City, becoming the main administrative centre of the region.
• 1980: Massive archaeological sites of the Beinan culture are discovered during the construction of a new railway station.
• 1992: Opening of the South-Link Line, connecting the city with the western coast of the island and significantly reducing its isolation.
• 2002: Opening of the National Museum of Prehistory, created to preserve the region's unique finds.
• 2011: Hosting of the first International Balloon Festival, which turned the city into a popular world-class tourist destination.
• 2014: Completion of railway electrification in the Huadong Valley, allowing for the launch of high-speed trains from the capital.

Stages of Development and Their Significance

The evolution of Taitung is the story of transforming an isolated agrarian outpost into a dynamic centre of cultural tourism. Several key processes can be highlighted that shaped the modern appearance and atmosphere of the city.

• Urban Planning Reform of the Early 20th Century. During the period of Japanese administration, a clear block layout of streets ("grid system") was introduced, and basic infrastructure was created: administrative buildings, schools, and bridges. This laid the foundation for turning scattered settlements into a unified urban organism.
• Overcoming Transport Isolation. The construction of railways (first the East Line, and later the South-Link Line through the mountain range) became a crucial economic driver. The appearance of reliable connections with the densely populated west of the island opened markets for local farmers and ensured the influx of the first travellers.
• Transformation of Industry into Art. The Taitung Sugar Factory, which was the economic heart of the region for most of the 20th century, was not demolished after closure. Its revitalisation and conversion into a Cultural and Creative Park became a symbol of the city's transition from an agrarian-industrial model to a creative economy.
• Archaeological Renaissance. The accidental discovery of the ancient Beinan culture site during station construction stopped the building work but gave the city something greater — the National Museum of Prehistory. This event cemented Taitung's status as the guardian of the island's ancient history and added educational value to the city.
• Development of Event Tourism. The launch of the International Balloon Festival radically changed the region's tourism image. From a quiet place for "slow travel", Taitung turned into an arena for world-class events, stimulating rapid growth in the hotel base and service sector.
• Cultural Integration of Indigenous Peoples. In recent decades, the city has reimagined its heritage, making tribal culture (predominantly Amis and Puyuma) part of the urban brand. This is reflected in the architecture of public spaces, the music scene, and gastronomy, making Taitung a unique ethno-cultural centre.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of Taitung differs from the densely populated metropolises of Taiwan's west coast. Here you will not find glass and concrete skyscrapers reaching into the clouds. The city's appearance was formed under the influence of its isolation, frequent typhoons, and rich cultural heritage. It is an eclectic mix of Japanese colonial style, practical post-war functionalism, and bold modern eco-projects.

Japanese Heritage and Industrial Style (Early 20th Century)

The period of Japanese administration (1895–1945) laid the foundations of urban planning. It was then that the regular street grid was formed and key infrastructure facilities were built. This period is characterised by the use of wood (cypress) in residential buildings and brick or concrete in industrial ones.

• Style: A blend of traditional Japanese architecture and Western classicism, adapted for the tropics.
• Iconic Sites:
  • Taitung Railway Art Village: A former railway station preserving the atmosphere of the 1920s. Low wooden warehouses and platforms now serve as art spaces.
  • Taitung Sugar Factory: An example of industrial architecture from the turn of the century. Massive structures, tall chimneys, and spacious workshops were reconstructed, preserving the "rugged" aesthetic of the past.

Post-War Functionalism and Traditional Shophouses (Mid to Late 20th Century)

With population growth and economic development, the city began to be built up with more practical buildings. The main task was to create structures resistant to earthquakes and typhoons. Reinforced concrete dominates this period.

• Style: Functionalism and local vernacular architecture ("Tou Tian Cu").
• Features:
  • Arcades (Qilou): A characteristic feature of Taiwanese cities. The ground floors of buildings are recessed, creating covered galleries for pedestrians that protect against the sun and tropical downpours.
  • Tile Cladding: Facades of residential houses are often clad in small ceramic tiles of various shades, which protects the walls from humidity.

Modernity: Eco-Architecture and Land Art (21st Century)

In recent decades, Taitung has become a platform for architectural experiments harmoniously integrated into the landscape. Modern architects focus on eco-friendliness, the use of natural forms, and the integration of indigenous motifs.

• Style: Organic architecture, green design, postmodernism.
• Iconic Sites:
  • National Taitung University Library: A building recognised as one of the most unique in the world. It is designed in the shape of a green pyramid or hill, merging with the surrounding landscape. This is a vivid example of green architecture.
  • TTstyle Center (The Wave): A creative cluster built using shipping containers. Its wavy roof symbolises the ocean and mountains surrounding the city, while the bright colours reference the aesthetics of local tribes.
  • National Museum of Prehistory: A postmodernist complex designed by the renowned architect Michael Graves. The building uses symbolism and materials reflecting the ancient history of the region.

Distinguished Figures of Taitung

Taitung is the birthplace of many talented individuals whose achievements have brought fame to the region far beyond the island. A special place among them is held by representatives of indigenous peoples, who have made invaluable contributions to culture and sports.

• Yang Chuan-kwang (C.K. Yang)
  Athlete, Decathlete
  A legendary athlete from the Amis tribe, known as the "Iron Man of Asia". In 1960, at the Olympic Games in Rome, he won the silver medal in the decathlon, becoming the first Olympic medallist in Taiwan's history. His achievements drew global attention to the sporting potential of the region's indigenous peoples.
• Zhang Hui-mei (A-Mei)
  Pop Singer, Music Producer
  A native of a Puyuma tribe settlement in Taitung County. She is considered the "Queen of Mandopop" and one of the most influential performers in Asian show business. A-Mei actively popularises the culture and music of her people, often using her native language and traditional motifs in her work.
• Chen Jian-nian (Pau-dull)
  Musician, Folk Performer
  A renowned singer from the Puyuma tribe. He is unique in that he received the prestigious Golden Melody Award while working as an ordinary police officer in Taitung. His music, filled with the sounds of the ocean and mountains, has become a symbol of the relaxed and soulful rhythm of life on the east coast.
• Kuo Hsing-chun
  Weightlifter
  Olympic champion and multiple world record holder. Although born in another county, her development as an athlete and her life are closely linked to Taitung and the local university. She is a national hero and a role model for youth, actively participating in charity work in the region.
• Chiang Hsun (Paul Chiang)
  Writer, Artist, Educator
  Although not born in Taitung, Chiang Hsun became a key figure in the region's cultural revival. Residing in Chishang Township (Huadong Valley), he turned local rice fields into an art space and inspired the creation of the famous open-air arts festival, attracting connoisseurs of aesthetics to Taitung.
• Suming Rupi
  Musician, Actor, Social Activist
  A representative of the Amis tribe from Dulan Township. Founder of the Amis Music Festival, which introduces the world to modern and traditional aboriginal culture. His activities have transformed Dulan into a popular centre of attraction for creative youth and international tourists.