The relaxed coastal city of Taitung (台東 or 臺東; Táidōng) is a highly likeable transportation hub from which travellers access Green Island, Lanyu and Taiwan's southern east coast. On Taiwan’s southeastern coast, the alluring, snail-shaped county of Taitung is Taiwan’s wonderful secret. Taitung escapes mass tourism, despite having some of the island’s most stunning geography and being a hub for its deeply rooted cultural traditions. [Balloons, beaches and fiery festivals in Taitung](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/balloons-beaches-and-fiery-festivals-in-taitung-taiwans-secret-destination)