Pingtung County is situated at the southernmost tip of southwestern Taiwan, making it the longest county in Taiwan from north to south. It borders Kaohsiung City to the north and is separated from Taitung County to the east by the Central Mountain Range. To the east, it faces the Pacific Ocean (Philippine Sea), while to the west, it is bordered by the Taiwan Strait (South China Sea). The southern boundary connects to the Bashi Channel (Luzon Strait), giving the county a geographically advantageous location.
Geography and Natural Environment
Pingtung County covers an area of approximately 2,700 square kilometers, featuring diverse landscapes. The western part consists of the Pingtung Plain, characterized by flat terrain and serving as the core region for agriculture and fisheries, as well as the most densely populated area. Moving eastward, the terrain transitions into hills and mountains, forming the southern section of the Central Mountain Range. The highest peak, Mount Beidawu, exceeds 3,000 meters in elevation and is considered sacred by the indigenous Paiwan people.
The Hengchun Peninsula in the south has a relatively gentle terrain, with steep slopes descending towards the coastline, creating unique topographical and climatic conditions. Additionally, Pingtung County includes Liouciou Island, located in the southwestern waters of Taiwan, renowned for its coral reef landscapes and rich marine ecosystems.
Climate Characteristics
Pingtung County is entirely located south of the Tropic of Cancer, experiencing a tropical monsoon climate except for its high-altitude mountainous areas. Temperature variations throughout the year are minimal.
- Summer (Late March to Mid-November): The climate is hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from 30-33°C and lows between 24-26°C. Rainfall is abundant, particularly in Taiwu Township, which receives the most summer rainfall in Taiwan.
- Winter (Early December to Mid-March): The season is relatively dry, with average high temperatures between 24-27°C and lows around 16-19°C. Cold waves have minimal impact, with temperature drops typically limited to 3-4°C. On sunny days, temperatures can still reach 28-30°C.
- Hengchun Peninsula’s Unique Climate: Due to the moderating effect of sea breezes, daytime summer temperatures are not excessively high, while winter nighttime temperatures remain mild. This creates a "spring-like climate all year round". During cold fronts, the temperature difference between Hengchun and northern Pingtung can exceed 5°C.
Industries and Specialty Products
Pingtung County's economy is primarily based on agriculture and fisheries, with a growing tourism industry in recent years.
- Agriculture: Major agricultural products include burdock, red beans, preserved eggs, salted duck eggs, red-yolk duck eggs, pineapples, mangoes, honey dates, wax apples (Black Pearl variety), cacao, and onions. Among these, Pingtung pineapples and Black Pearl wax apples are highly regarded both domestically and internationally.
- Fisheries: The coastal waters of Pingtung are abundant with grouper, sakura shrimp, and Pacific bluefin tuna. Pingtung has a high yield of bluefin tuna, and Donggang is particularly famous for hosting the Bluefin Tuna Festival, attracting numerous food enthusiasts.
Pingtung County is known for its tropical charm, abundant agricultural and seafood products, and stunning natural scenery. It is not only a vital agricultural and fisheries hub in Taiwan but also a key destination for tourism development. From the mild climate of Hengchun Peninsula to the delicacies of Donggang’s bluefin tuna, and the sunshine and coastal beauty of Kenting, Pingtung County offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions.
