Dong Shang Train Station Hot Air Balloon Carnival – Key Highlights
Posted on 06 June 2025
In Taiwan, the most renowned hot air balloon event is theInternational Hot Air Balloon Festival held every summer at Luye Highland in Taitung. In addition, theHot Air Balloon Carnival in Dongshan, Yilan, has gained popularity due to its convenient location and accessibility, consistently drawing large crowds of visitors during the event period.
The event takes place next to the spacious Dongshan Train Station in Yilan. Here, visitors can enjoy tethered hot air balloon rides, ascending to a height of 60 meters for a 360-degree panoramic view. From above, one can take in the vast beauty of the Lanyang Plain, overlook the winding Dongshan River, and gaze into the distance at Turtle Island.
The 2025 Hot Air Balloon Carnival will take place on： May 31, June 1, June 7, and June 8.
Location: Farmland beside the old Dongshan River dock. Hot Air Balloon Carnival Photo By yunai_li
【Tethered Hot Air Balloon Experience: 360-Degree Aerial View of the Lanyang Plain】
At dawn and dusk, you can enjoy a tethered hot air balloon ride, experiencing the breathtaking aerial views of Guishan Island and the vast rice fields from above.
Highly recommended for capturing the dreamy scene where the "painted rice fields" and the "rice path trails" intersect—Sanqi Rice Fields, known as the “Yilan version of Brown Boulevard.” Paired with vibrant hot air balloons, it becomes one of the most popular photo spots each year.
The activity is available in two sessions daily, with each ride lasting about 5 to 7 minutes. Tickets are NT$500 per person and are sold on-site by queue (cash only).
Morning session: 06:00–08:00 (ticket sales start at 05:00)
Afternoon session: 16:30–18:30 (ticket sales start at 15:30)2025 Hot Air Balloon Carnival Brochure
【Ground Hot Air Balloon Interactive Experience: A Wonderful Time for Parents and Children to Share】
In addition to the aerial experience, there is also a ground hot air balloon experience area on-site, allowing both kids and adults to enjoy the charm of hot air balloons up close.
Experience Time: 15:30–16:00 (Coupon distribution starts at 15:00)
How to Get a Coupon: Show that you’ve liked the “Happy Dongshan” Facebook fan page on-site to receive a free coupon.
2025 Hot Air Balloon Carnival Location Map
【Glow Music Show Lights Up the Night Sky: Mazu Hot Air Balloon Makes Its Yilan Debut】
As night falls, the organizers will host a Hot Air Balloon Glow Music Show, where multiple balloons light up in sync with the rhythm of the music, adding a romantic touch to the evening. In 2025, the event will feature a major highlight—the debut appearance in Yilan of the Mazu-shaped hot air balloon, jointly created by Taitung Tianhou Temple and the Taitung County Government.
Show Time: May 31 and June 7, 18:45–19:00
Rain Dates: June 1 or June 8
Dongshan Hot Air Balloon Carnival Photo By hjilin01
【Cultural Market & Street Performances: Local Flair from Morning till Night】
It’s more than just hot air balloons—this event also features a lively market and vibrant performances. Cultural and creative brands, handmade craft stalls, and specialty food vendors from Yilan and all over Taiwan gather in one place, bringing energy from morning until dusk.
Street performers will add to the festive vibe with magic shows, live music, and interactive acts. Whether you're on a family outing or a date, you’ll feel the warmth and creativity of Yilan.
Cultural Market: 11:00–18:00 (Under the railway bridge plaza)
Street Performances: 14:00–18:30 (Station front plaza)Hot Air Balloon Carnival photo by kattothee
【Nearby Attractions & Food Spots】
Close to the Sanqi Scenic Path, you’ll find the ecologically rich Wushierjia Wetlands, a haven of flora and fauna. In summer, the area bursts into colorful blooms, making it a perfect spot for photography and social media check-ins. A highlight is the Barringtonia racemosa, also known as the “firework flower of summer nights,” which blooms briefly from dusk to dawn and is famed for its fleeting beauty.Wushierjia Wetlands photo by yijunli2020 Additionally, CUISINE LOHERB, located next to Yilan’s Brown Boulevard, offers free bicycle rentals and parking. Dining there during the event makes for a perfect stop on your itinerary.CUISINE LOHERB
We recommend pairing your visit with special accommodation and dining packages at local hotels and restaurants across Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung for a relaxed and perfectly planned trip.
