Overview of Taitung

Location
Taitung City lies on the southeast coast of Taiwan facing the Pacific Ocean. It is home to the largest aboriginal population in Taiwan.

Due in part to its remote location and isolation by mountains from Taiwan's main population centers, Taitung was the last part of the island to be colonized by Han Chinese immigrants (late 19th century). Throughout the 20th century, Taitung remained an economic backwater. Sparsely populated even today, this isolation may have been a blessing in disguise, as Taitung mostly escaped the urbanization and pollution that have come to plague other parts of Taiwan.

Taitung is a place of many outdoor adventures. Plan a weekend getaway to Green Island or Orchid Island nearby, bathe in the hot springs in Zhiben, take a stroll across the Sanxiantai Bridge, or enjoy the panoramic views from Luye Plateau. In Taitung, you are bound to meet its natural beauty and hospitable people

Population
212,824 (2023)

Weather
Taitung has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging 25°C and 75% humidity. During the dry season, beautiful fog can be seen rolling off the mountains.

Number of ETA/ETFs
2022-2023: 13 ETAs + 1 ETF
2023-2024: 13 ETAs + 2 ETFs

Number of Schools
2022-2023: 16 Elementary+ 3 Junior High Schools
2023-2024: 17 Elementary + 5 Junior High Schools

Class sizes in Taitung vary from 3 to 25 students but most will be smaller class sizes. Taitung has a large aboriginal population and students will often have the opportunity to learn about their native heritage at their schools.

With its rolling mountains and perpetual coastal breeze, Taitung is for the adventurous ETA. Many schools have mountains right in their backyard and Taitung is best known for its lush environment. Be sure to check out the Hot Air Balloon festival in the summer!

Coordinators

Ina Wu

Hi! My name is Ina Wu. I graduated from National Dong Hwa University. I have been with Fulbright since 2017.

Advice for Incoming ETAs
Welcome to the most beautiful place in Taiwan! We have awesome beaches and mountains and super friendly people that you can make friends with to enrich your life in Taitung. I'm sure you will love the environment and the lovely kids here.

Email: iwu@fulbright.org.tw

Ray Chen

My name is Ray. I graduated from Tamkang University.

Words for Incoming ETAs
Welcome to Taitung! The place gathers magnificent natural wonders, surrounded by mountains and ocean with a variety of activities and rich cultures. You won't regret coming here and exploring Taitung yourself!

Email: rchen@fulbright.org.tw