Latest news with #TaiwanTourismAdministration
Cision Canada
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
Taiwan's International Balloon Festival Soars Again
Canadians Invited to Experience a Summer of Skybound Magic in Taitung VANCOUVER, BC, July 18, 2025 /CNW/ -- The Taiwan Tourism Administration warmly invites Canadian travelers to experience one of Asia's most breathtaking summer spectacles: the 2025 Taiwan International Balloon Festival, running through August 21 in Taitung County, eastern Taiwan. Now in its 15th year, this world-renowned event combines vibrant hot air balloon displays, immersive cultural programming, and the stunning natural beauty of Taiwan's East Rift Valley. With tethered balloon rides, special-shaped balloons from around the globe, and dazzling night glow concerts, it's a must-visit for families, photographers, and adventurous travelers alike. A Decade and a Half of Aerial Wonder Since its humble launch in 2011 with just 13 balloons and a single mural balloon made from local children's art, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival has grown into a global celebration of flight and culture. It holds the distinction of being one of the longest-running hot air balloon festivals in the world, with a record-setting 66-day event in 2013. Over the years, Taitung has introduced the world's first Hello Kitty, OhBear, Mazu, and now Doraemon-shaped balloons, blending pop culture with global aviation artistry. The event also champions accessibility and innovation with custom balloons designed for passengers with disabilities, tethered rides, and collaborations with international artists and designers. 2025 Highlights: Balloons, Concerts & Drones Daily morning and afternoon balloon flights at sunrise (5:30–7:00 a.m.) and sunset (5:00–6:30 p.m.) Tethered rides available online or onsite (NT$550–650; approx. CA$23–28) A record 12 Night Glow Concerts this year, including multimedia shows combining music, projection mapping, and the return of the Doraemon-themed drone displays A new stamp-collecting adventure via the festival's official LINE app encourages exploration of nearby townships like Yanping and Luye Exclusive hot air balloons from Canada, Brazil, and beyond join Taiwan's iconic fleet Taitung's festival remains closed on Tuesdays, with ride reservations limited to two tickets per person. Tickets can be purchased from EZTravel's dedicated page. Why Taitung? Tucked along Taiwan's less-traveled southeast coast, Taitung is known for its lush landscapes, friendly Indigenous communities, and laid-back pace of life. This year, the Luye Highland serves as the main launch site, while satellite events and "check-in" tourism spots are scattered across the county—encouraging travelers to explore beyond the balloons. With over a million visitors annually, it's good to plan your trip to and around Taitung early. To get to and from Taitung, it's recommended to use the Taiwan PASS, which has several different versions offering discounted unlimited rail travel. The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle which runs from Taitung Bus Station to Luye Highland, while the Taiwan Tour Bus has a range of different tour options for other things to do in the area. Plan Your Balloon Adventure "Taiwan's balloon festival offers more than just a scenic flight—it shows off the creativity, resilience, and hospitality of Taitung's people," says Sylvia Lee, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration's San Francisco Office. "From the cool morning ascents over rice paddies to the glowing spectacles under the stars, it's an unforgettable summer journey we're excited to share with our Canadian friends." For more information on the Taiwan International Balloon Festival, visit the official website: For related photos and files, please click here. To plan your trip to Taitung for the International Balloon Festival, visit the Taiwan Tourism Information Centre in Vancouver at Unit 626, 6081 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC V6Y 2B2. ABOUT TAIWAN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION The Taiwan Tourism Administration is the official government agency of Taiwan (R.O.C.) responsible for domestic and international tourism policy development and execution. The Western Canada market is managed by the San Francisco office of TTA. The marketing slogan currently in use for Taiwan is "Waves of Wonder." The official ambassador of the TTA is OhBear, a cartoon Formosan Black Bear, the national animal of Taiwan. +1 (672) 202-8988 SOURCE Taiwan Tourism Administration
Cision Canada
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
Taiwan's Solar Festival Invites Canadians to Experience the Island's Vibrant Summer Celebrations
VANCOUVER, BC, June 25, 2025 /CNW/ -- The Taiwan Tourism Administration is proud to present the 2025 Solar Festival, a series of events celebrating Taiwan's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Running until September, travelers from around the world are invited to experience a season filled with music, art, tradition, and community spirit across the island. Highlights of the 2025 Summer Festival Series Solar Festival in Dapeng Bay This year's Solar Festival launches at the scenic Dapeng Bay Binwan Pier with an exciting mix of water activities, icy treats, and immersive travel experiences, built around the themes of aquatic adventure, chilled indulgences, and scenic railway journeys. A destination known for its thrilling water sports like windsurfing, the site also offers 13 distinctive icy desserts, each representing a unique tourism region in Taiwan. The festivities also feature a lively stamp rally zone, pop-up performances, and an interactive travel wall that engages all five senses—sight, taste, touch, sound, and movement—highlighting the vibrant essence of summer in Taiwan. Summer Refreshments for Every Palate Situated along the Tropic of Cancer at 23.5°N, Taiwan is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a climate that spans tropical and subtropical zones—making it one of the most mountain-dense and flavor-rich islands in the world. This natural bounty has fostered internationally acclaimed high mountain teas, award-winning coffees, and an iconic culture of shaved ice and soft-serve treats. As temperatures rise, the island comes alive with refreshing flavors—from cold-brewed teas and aromatic iced coffees to fruit-infused soft serves and shaved ice topped with local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy these delights while exploring a lineup of signature summer events, including: Yehliu Stone Light - Night Visit to the Queen from June 28 to July 13, at Yehliu Geopark Tri-Mountain Cool - Off Festival taking place from July 1 to July 31 at various visitor centers across the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Alishan Four Seasons Tea Journey - Summer Tea Gathering on July 5 at Dinghu Ecological Park Additional Summer Events Across Taiwan Beyond the major highlights, Taiwan's summer calendar is packed with other regional festivals, activities, and special offers: Dadaocheng Summer Festival — Fireworks and concerts in one of Taipei's most historic neighborhoods. Penghu Wind Chasing Music and Light Festival — A blend of live music and light installations, offering nights filled with starlight and sound. Taichung International Cake and Pastry Fair — A celebration of pastry craftsmanship, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Taiwanese confections. 2025 Rift Valley Tour-Tribal Food Paradise — The first and largest tribal food experience park in Taiwan. "Taiwan's summer festivals provide Canadians with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the island's rich traditions and vibrant atmosphere," said Sylvia Lee, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration's San Francisco office. "From the dazzling fireworks over Dadaocheng in northern Taiwan and nostalgic forest railway tours in the central region, to the vibrant summer carnival in Pingtung in the south, immersive indigenous village and culinary experiences along the east coast, and spectacular island fireworks in Penghu, the Taiwan Solar Festival unites festive highlights across the island—inviting every traveler to discover their own unique summer journey." For more information on the Solar Festival, visit the official website: For related photos and files, please click here. To plan your trip to Taiwan this summer, visit the Taiwan Tourism Information Centre in Vancouver at Unit 626, 6081 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC V6Y 2B2. ABOUT TAIWAN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION The Taiwan Tourism Administration is the official government agency of Taiwan (R.O.C.) responsible for domestic and international tourism policy development and execution. The Western Canada market is managed by the San Francisco office of TTA. The marketing slogan currently in use for Taiwan is "Waves of Wonder." The official ambassador of the TTA is OhBear, a cartoon Formosan Black Bear, the national animal of Taiwan. Follow us on social media in North America: Instagram: @ Facebook: Tour Taiwan - America Media Contact Alex Trup, Marketing Director Taiwan Tourism Information Center [email protected] SOURCE Taiwan Tourism Administration
The Star
21-05-2025
- The Star
A floral escape in the mountains of Taiwan
Witness the vibrant blooms at Yangmingshan's Bamboo Lake in Taipei, Taiwan. — Taipei Travel Net Walking through a field of white calla lilies and surrounded by fresh mountain air is one of the best ways to welcome spring in Taiwan. While lilies bloom here from March to April, this same field transforms into an expanse of vibrant hydrangeas throughout May to June. This scenic field of flowers at Yangmingshan's Bamboo Lake, located in Taipei city, is home to the 100-day Bamboo Lake Calla Lily and Hydrangea Festival. The event is technically made up of two parts: The lily festival, which was held recently, has been celebrated for over two decades, while the hydrangea festival will kick off on May 23. The latter is currently in its 13th year, and will run until June 22. Themed 'A World Of Imagination', this year's event showcases creative foliage displays crafted by local farmers. Visitors can also experience two unique installations that make for ideal photo backdrops: The Tree Frog Dream House and the Wheel Of Love. Enjoy scenic nature walks, discover clear mountain creeks, join craft workshops, and sample local delicacies at the festival. 'Flowers create a unique bond between nature and people. As Taipei continues to enhance its Muslim-friendly offerings, we are committed to providing well-equipped facilities and thoughtful services to ensure all travellers feel welcomed and at ease,' Abe Chou, the director of Kuala Lumpur's Taiwan Tourism Administration office, said in a press statement. Recognised as one of the Muslim-friendly destinations, ranking third among non-organisation of Islamic Cooperation nations in the 2024 Global Muslim Travel Index, Taipei offers a range of halal dining options, prayer facilities at major attractions, and services tailored for Muslim travellers. Additionally, Taipei was awarded the 'Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Travel Destination City' by CrescentRating, a Singapore-based research organisation.
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Yahoo
Taiwan Welcomes the World to a Vibrant 2025 Mazu Festival
VANCOUVER, BC, May 12, 2025 /CNW/ -- The Taiwan Tourism Administration has announced the successful conclusion of the 2025 Mazu (Matsu) Festival, a weeks-long religious and cultural celebration that drew record crowds and international visitors across Taiwan. Centered around processions honoring the sea goddess Mazu – one of Taiwan's most revered deities – the festival showcased the island's rich folk traditions, community spirit, and hospitality. Celebrating Taiwan's Beloved Sea Goddess Mazu, also known as the "Queen of Heaven," is a deity worshipped in Taiwan as a protector of seafarers and bringer of blessings. Mazu's legend has grown over centuries; today she is venerated by millions for her benevolence and protection in all aspects of life. The annual Mazu Festival (held during the third lunar month) is the most important celebration of this goddess's birthday and is one of Taiwan's largest religious events, recognized alongside the world's top pilgrimage traditions. Each spring, entire communities mobilize to honor Mazu with spectacular rituals and pilgrimages, praying for peace and good fortune. Island-wide Pilgrimages Draw Record Crowds This year's festival unfolded from early April to mid-May, featuring two major Mazu pilgrimage routes that spanned hundreds of kilometers across central Taiwan. In early April, the famed Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage set off from Zhenlan (Jenn Lann) Temple in Dajia, Taichung. The nine-day, eight-night journey covered about 340 km, winding through Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi counties before returning to Dajia. The procession's route included over a hundred temples and villages – 110 temples according to organizers – as local devotees turned out to welcome the goddess's palanquin. Festivities began with a dramatic night-time sendoff on April 4, when an estimated 600,000 worshippers packed the streets to bid Mazu farewell at the start of her journey. Along the way, many temples hosted performances and ceremonies to honor Mazu, from firecracker displays to traditional drum and lion dance parades. Communities large and small offered free food and shelter to pilgrims, embodying the festival's spirit of hospitality and faith. Two weeks later in May, the Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage – Taiwan's longest religious procession on foot – commenced in Miaoli County. Departing Baishatun's Gongtian Temple just after midnight on May 2, a record-breaking 329,118 devotees registered to accompany Mazu's palanquin on its journey south. This 10-day pilgrimage is unique in that its route is not pre-set; at each fork in the road, temple guides cast divination blocks seeking Mazu's guidance on which way to go. As a result, the convoy often detours through small villages and rural shrines, bringing Mazu's blessings to remote communities. The Baishatun procession ultimately traveled over 300 kilometers (nearly 400 km round-trip) from Miaoli, through Taichung and Changhua, to its destination at Yunlin's Beigang Chaotian Temple. There, thousands gathered for a jubilant welcoming ceremony as the Mazu effigy arrived on May 3, greeted by ringing temple bells and cheers of devotees. Rituals, Traditions and Cultural Highlights Throughout the festival, colorful rituals and performances highlighted Taiwan's living folk culture. As Mazu's palanquin traversed city streets and country lanes, worshippers jostled for a chance to touch or shoulder the ornate sedan chair, believing it brings good luck. Some devotees even lay flat on the ground, allowing the palanquin to pass over them – a traditional act of faith said to bathe the believer in Mazu's blessings. At night, the sky was lit up by fireworks and the cacophony of firecrackers, though in a nod to sustainability some processions used eco-friendly, smokeless firecrackers to reduce air pollution. Key cultural events accompanied the religious observances. In Taichung, a Mazu International Culture Festival brought folk arts to life with temple courtyard stages featuring Taiwanese opera and puppet theater. Troops like the renowned Ming Hwa Yuan drama troupe performed classical opera pieces in Mazu's honor, while puppet shows and acrobatic dance troupes entertained pilgrims and tourists alike . Along the pilgrimage routes, local performance troupes and marching bands joined in, creating a carnival-like atmosphere celebrating both the sacred and the festive. Unprecedented Turnout and Global Participation The 2025 Mazu Festival saw unprecedented participation, reflecting a post-pandemic resurgence of Taiwan's temple culture and its growing appeal to international visitors. Organizers estimate that well over one million people in total took part in this year's Mazu pilgrimages and related events. The Dajia pilgrimage alone drew crowds peaking at around 800,000 during its grand finale in Taichung, while the Baishatun trek's flexible entourage swelled beyond the official 329,000 registered pilgrims as many joined informally en route (potentially over 400,000 in all). These figures mark all-time highs for the festival. Not only did devotees from across Taiwan turn out in droves, but thousands of tourists traveled to witness the spectacle. According to local travel agencies, special Mazu pilgrimage tour packages were hugely popular – one leading tour operator served over 3,000 tour participants this year (a 50% increase from the previous year) as overseas visitors jumped at the chance to experience the celebrations. "The Mazu Festival is a living expression of Taiwan's spiritual heritage and community vitality," said Sylvia Lee, Director of the San Francisco Office of the Taiwan Tourism Administration. "We are proud to see record participation this year, not only from our citizens but also from international visitors. We especially invite our Canadian friends to experience this one-of-a-kind journey next year — to walk with Mazu, share in our traditions, and feel the warmth of Taiwan's hospitality." For related photos and files, please click here. To learn more about Taiwan's temple culture, and to plan your trip to Taiwan for next year's Mazu Festival, visit the Taiwan Tourism Information Centre in Vancouver at Unit 626, 6081 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC V6Y 2B2. ABOUT TAIWAN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION The Taiwan Tourism Administration is the official government agency of Taiwan (R.O.C.) responsible for domestic and international tourism policy development and execution. The Western Canada market is managed by the San Francisco office of TTA. The marketing slogan currently in use for Taiwan is "Waves of Wonder." The official ambassador of the TTA is OhBear, a cartoon Formosan Black Bear, the national animal of Taiwan. For more information about Taiwan tourism, please visit the official website of the Taiwan Tourism Administration: Follow us on social media in North America: Instagram: @ Tour Taiwan - America Media Contact Alex Trup, Marketing DirectorTaiwan Tourism Information Centertticyvr@ SOURCE Taiwan Tourism Administration View original content: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Cision Canada
12-05-2025
- Cision Canada
Taiwan Welcomes the World to a Vibrant 2025 Mazu Festival
VANCOUVER, BC, May 12, 2025 /CNW/ -- The Taiwan Tourism Administration has announced the successful conclusion of the 2025 Mazu (Matsu) Festival, a weeks-long religious and cultural celebration that drew record crowds and international visitors across Taiwan. Centered around processions honoring the sea goddess Mazu – one of Taiwan's most revered deities – the festival showcased the island's rich folk traditions, community spirit, and hospitality. Celebrating Taiwan's Beloved Sea Goddess Mazu, also known as the "Queen of Heaven," is a deity worshipped in Taiwan as a protector of seafarers and bringer of blessings. Mazu's legend has grown over centuries; today she is venerated by millions for her benevolence and protection in all aspects of life. The annual Mazu Festival (held during the third lunar month) is the most important celebration of this goddess's birthday and is one of Taiwan's largest religious events, recognized alongside the world's top pilgrimage traditions. Each spring, entire communities mobilize to honor Mazu with spectacular rituals and pilgrimages, praying for peace and good fortune. Island-wide Pilgrimages Draw Record Crowds This year's festival unfolded from early April to mid-May, featuring two major Mazu pilgrimage routes that spanned hundreds of kilometers across central Taiwan. In early April, the famed Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage set off from Zhenlan (Jenn Lann) Temple in Dajia, Taichung. The nine-day, eight-night journey covered about 340 km, winding through Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi counties before returning to Dajia. The procession's route included over a hundred temples and villages – 110 temples according to organizers – as local devotees turned out to welcome the goddess's palanquin. Festivities began with a dramatic night-time sendoff on April 4, when an estimated 600,000 worshippers packed the streets to bid Mazu farewell at the start of her journey. Along the way, many temples hosted performances and ceremonies to honor Mazu, from firecracker displays to traditional drum and lion dance parades. Communities large and small offered free food and shelter to pilgrims, embodying the festival's spirit of hospitality and faith. Two weeks later in May, the Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage – Taiwan's longest religious procession on foot – commenced in Miaoli County. Departing Baishatun's Gongtian Temple just after midnight on May 2, a record-breaking 329,118 devotees registered to accompany Mazu's palanquin on its journey south. This 10-day pilgrimage is unique in that its route is not pre-set; at each fork in the road, temple guides cast divination blocks seeking Mazu's guidance on which way to go. As a result, the convoy often detours through small villages and rural shrines, bringing Mazu's blessings to remote communities. The Baishatun procession ultimately traveled over 300 kilometers (nearly 400 km round-trip) from Miaoli, through Taichung and Changhua, to its destination at Yunlin's Beigang Chaotian Temple. There, thousands gathered for a jubilant welcoming ceremony as the Mazu effigy arrived on May 3, greeted by ringing temple bells and cheers of devotees. Rituals, Traditions and Cultural Highlights Throughout the festival, colorful rituals and performances highlighted Taiwan's living folk culture. As Mazu's palanquin traversed city streets and country lanes, worshippers jostled for a chance to touch or shoulder the ornate sedan chair, believing it brings good luck. Some devotees even lay flat on the ground, allowing the palanquin to pass over them – a traditional act of faith said to bathe the believer in Mazu's blessings. At night, the sky was lit up by fireworks and the cacophony of firecrackers, though in a nod to sustainability some processions used eco-friendly, smokeless firecrackers to reduce air pollution. Key cultural events accompanied the religious observances. In Taichung, a Mazu International Culture Festival brought folk arts to life with temple courtyard stages featuring Taiwanese opera and puppet theater. Troops like the renowned Ming Hwa Yuan drama troupe performed classical opera pieces in Mazu's honor, while puppet shows and acrobatic dance troupes entertained pilgrims and tourists alike . Along the pilgrimage routes, local performance troupes and marching bands joined in, creating a carnival-like atmosphere celebrating both the sacred and the festive. Unprecedented Turnout and Global Participation The 2025 Mazu Festival saw unprecedented participation, reflecting a post-pandemic resurgence of Taiwan's temple culture and its growing appeal to international visitors. Organizers estimate that well over one million people in total took part in this year's Mazu pilgrimages and related events. The Dajia pilgrimage alone drew crowds peaking at around 800,000 during its grand finale in Taichung, while the Baishatun trek's flexible entourage swelled beyond the official 329,000 registered pilgrims as many joined informally en route (potentially over 400,000 in all). These figures mark all-time highs for the festival. Not only did devotees from across Taiwan turn out in droves, but thousands of tourists traveled to witness the spectacle. According to local travel agencies, special Mazu pilgrimage tour packages were hugely popular – one leading tour operator served over 3,000 tour participants this year (a 50% increase from the previous year) as overseas visitors jumped at the chance to experience the celebrations. "The Mazu Festival is a living expression of Taiwan's spiritual heritage and community vitality," said Sylvia Lee, Director of the San Francisco Office of the Taiwan Tourism Administration. "We are proud to see record participation this year, not only from our citizens but also from international visitors. We especially invite our Canadian friends to experience this one-of-a-kind journey next year — to walk with Mazu, share in our traditions, and feel the warmth of Taiwan's hospitality." For related photos and files, please click here. To learn more about Taiwan's temple culture, and to plan your trip to Taiwan for next year's Mazu Festival, visit the Taiwan Tourism Information Centre in Vancouver at Unit 626, 6081 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC V6Y 2B2. The Taiwan Tourism Administration is the official government agency of Taiwan (R.O.C.) responsible for domestic and international tourism policy development and execution. The Western Canada market is managed by the San Francisco office of TTA. The marketing slogan currently in use for Taiwan is "Waves of Wonder." The official ambassador of the TTA is OhBear, a cartoon Formosan Black Bear, the national animal of Taiwan. Media Contact Alex Trup, Marketing Director Taiwan Tourism Information Center [email protected] SOURCE Taiwan Tourism Administration
