BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN TAIWAN

Fang San station

The take-off area is small and low, making it unsuitable for beginners. Ensure there is sufficient wind and thermal activity to help you ascend, as the glide to the landing zone is relatively long.

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Xr To San J-Mountain Lionhead Mountain

This site, with an elevation of approximately 165 meters above sea level, is known for its ease of use. Although no flight logs are available, there is occasional activity, and it is reputed to be a good soaring site, similar to Wan Li or Ilan. Advanced pilots might find it less challenging, but it offers a comprehensive experience, except for large cross-country flights. Takeoff is at an elevation of 165 meters above sea level, contrary to what Google Earth might indicate. Landing is on the beach. To get there, take a local bus to the 455-mile marker on Coastal Highway 1 in Fang San. The beach serves as the landing zone. Comments indicate that it has taken nearly two years to establish consistent flights with the south wind. Previously, flights were primarily with west and northwest winds. Summer offers excellent opportunities for cross-country flights, and the site has the potential to be a year-round training location. Pilots can expect up to 10 flights a day for takeoff and landing training in gentle winds and mild thermals. Weather hazards include offshore winds during winter when a front is passing, occurring about two days every ten. Check XCskies.com for weather updates, but note that XCskies' algorithms do not accurately reflect the onshore breeze here. If XCskies shows less than 50% cloud cover and offshore winds below 20 kph from any direction, actual conditions are likely good for flight. Tourism options in the area include hiking, bicycling, mountain biking, ocean swimming, kite surfing, and windsurfing. It's also just a one-hour drive to Kenting Resorts, National Park, and hot springs. For more information, visit: [Paragliding Taiwan](https://sites.google.com/site/paraglidingtaiwan/flying-site)

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Jindzen San S point Golden Needle Mountain

The take-off site is not suitable for beginners and can be quite brisk. No flight logs have been found for this location. For landing, you have several options: the beach, a riverbed, a school yard, or near the train station. To get there, take a train to Taimali station and then get a taxi, or drive up Jin Dzen San and follow your GPS. This site is recommended for intermediate to advanced pilots in north or northwest winds. Be cautious of power lines at all sites in Taiwan. In terms of weather hazards, be prepared to use ballast for strong winds.

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Ping Pu Tso San

This experimental paragliding site is still in the testing phase, with no specific take-off point selected yet. The site shows promising XC potential, although no flight logs are available at this time. If successful, the location could offer up to 340 flying days per year, with around 300 days being soarable. Cross-country flights up to 100 km are anticipated. For more details, you can visit ParaglidingEarth.

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Yeh Kwang San Chi Wei San

The take-off point is situated at an elevation of 541 meters. Reaching this spot involves a lengthy drive up. Below the take-off, you'll encounter choppy hills, which can make the initial phase of the flight challenging. The glide to the landing zone is quite long, so it's crucial to fly only when the weather conditions are favorable to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. For more details, you can visit [ParaglidingEarth](https://www.paraglidingearth.com).

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Puli new Hu To San

Puli, Taiwan Elevation: 674 meters, Height Difference: 224 meters. This site is frequently used and offers cross-country (XC) flying opportunities. It has good infrastructure and allows for top landing. The launch is a slope launch. The take-off and landing areas are private, managed by the Puli Flying Club, and are accessible to club members and visiting pilots for a fee. The surrounding fence makes public land unsafe for landing. Take-off: The take-off area features a 70-meter long, 30-degree slope with laminar air flow. It is situated at 220 meters above ground level (AGL) and 630 meters above sea level (MSL), facing west. The site is suitable for sunset and after flights, with upslope winds available year-round. The top landing area spans 5 acres, providing ample space for kiting and training. Facilities include campgrounds, showers, toilets, a café, cabins, mountain bikes, and a full kitchen. Responsible pilots are welcome to stay at the take-off zone. Nearby amenities include hotels, hot springs, pubs, massage services, and a lake resort. Landing: The landing zone is 1 km away from the take-off area, consisting of a 50x100 meter field surrounded by farms. It takes about 15 minutes to turn around, or you can opt for an easy top landing. Getting There: Arrive at CKS International Airport in Taoyuan, then take the Gwo Guang bus from the airport with one transfer to Puli. From there, you can walk, take a cab, or rent a bike to reach the downtown hostel, which is 500 meters away. Alternatively, you can call for a pick-up. Step Out Tours provides all necessary services at the launch site. Comments: From Monday to Friday, there are no local pilots, so the sky is yours. On weekends, expect 10-15 pilots. There are two take-off zones: cliff or slope. Weather Hazards: In summer, be cautious of late afternoon overdevelopment (cloud suck) and typhoons. Mornings can be slightly choppy. Winters are dry with nice afternoon glass-offs and morning sled rides. Flight Regulations: No motorized paragliding is allowed, as per local ordinance. Contact: Y B Human (flyyuri@yahoo.com) Tourism: Nearby attractions include the Heart of Taiwan Monument, Sun Moon Lake, AliShan, Jade Mountain, mountain biking, hiking, and vibrant nightlife in nearby Taichung. For more information, visit [ParaglidingEarth](https://www.paraglidingearth.com).

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Jr Bun

The launch site at Jr Ben Hot Springs in Taiwan is challenging to find and has rough terrain. The valley winds can be tricky, so it's essential to enjoy the view while being cautious. This site is close to controlled airspace, so pay attention to flight regulations. Local pilots' advice is crucial before attempting to fly here due to the difficulty of the launch and the strong thermals. No flight logs are available for this site, indicating it might not be frequently used. For more details, visit www.paragliding365.com.

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Wu Jin

This site is currently experimental and should be approached with caution. No flight logs have been recorded, so it is strongly advised not to fly here without accompaniment. Takeoff is still under testing at an elevation of 700 meters above sea level. This is the 41st site in Taiwan being evaluated in the ongoing quest to find the best cross-country and training locations. Special thanks to Raf for providing an excellent resource. The PGESIM tool has been invaluable, allowing for multiple simulation flights before any physical site preparation is needed. For more information, please visit [ParaglidingEarth](https://www.paraglidingearth.com).

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Lu Yeh Gao Tai Kaitung

Kao Tai, located in Taitung County, Taiwan, is a popular paragliding site known for its excellent cross-country (XC) potential. The take-off area is situated at an elevation of 320 meters above sea level, with a height difference of 120 meters from the landing zone. The site is easily accessible by road, making it convenient for pilots. The region offers a variety of flying experiences, with the potential for long XC flights. The site record stands at an impressive 103.5 km. The area is well-equipped, featuring amenities such as a tea house, BBQ pits, toilets, and camping facilities. There is also a playground for children, making it a family-friendly destination. The take-off area is covered with a rubber running-track surface and is designed with a steep drop-off, originally developed for hang gliders. The launch is positioned on a spur, which means the wind direction can vary, but it is suitable for flying when there is a southerly to south-easterly wind. The cloud base typically ranges from 600m to 1600m, and the drive back up to the launch site takes about 10 minutes on a good road. Soaring is possible in front of Kao Tai when the wind is sufficient and blowing from the south to southeast. The more challenging and rewarding flights involve crossing over to the larger mountain range to the east, which forms the western side of the Huadong Valley. With some thermal activity, pilots can climb high enough to cross over to the bigger mountains like Taipingshan and head north up the valley. For days with a north wind, an alternative launch site is available at Taipingshan, located at 900 meters above sea level. This site is accessible year-round and can handle winds from the south through east to north. However, the road to this site is in poor condition, requiring a 4WD vehicle or truck. Other alternative launch sites include Jrbun and Taimali, which work well with south to southeast winds. These sites are more advanced and can be harder to find. The launch at Lijia has been closed due to airspace issues. Before heading to Kao Tai, it is essential to check whether the site is open, as it can be closed following accidents by order of the Huadong Valley scenic area authority. The site is primarily controlled by tandem pilots who cater to visitors, which can impact solo pilots' use of the site. The best flying conditions are typically from March through October, although the area is prone to wet weather and typhoons. It is advisable to arrive at the launch site early and be prepared for afternoon showers. The landing zone is reasonably large but surrounded by power lines, trees, and pineapple fields, requiring accurate and confident landings. The alternate launch sites are too advanced for novice pilots. For more information, visit [Wings Taiwan](http://wingstaiwan.com/?page_id=201).

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Puli 1 Ho Tu San

Located at an elevation of 662 meters with a height difference of 212 meters, this paragliding site is frequently used and offers the possibility for cross-country flights. It boasts good infrastructure and allows for top landing. The launch is from a cliff, making it an official launch site of the Nantou County Paragliding Association. The take-off area measures 15 meters from front to back and is 40 meters wide. Due to convergence turbulence on the cliff launch, it is not suitable for beginners. The area is often crowded with many spectators, especially on weekends. The take-off zone is covered with nice grass. For more information, you can watch a video of the flights here: [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMYLoeuKj8s). The site was badly damaged by the earthquake in 1999 but has since been restored and is now operational. The landing zone is 1 kilometer away from the take-off point, in a 50x100 meter field surrounded by farms. It takes about 15 minutes to turn around, or you can opt for an easy top landing. To get there, arrive at CKS International Airport in Taoyuan, take the Gwo Guang bus from the airport with one transfer to Puli. From there, you can walk, take a cab, or rent a bike to reach the downtown hostel, which is 500 meters away. Alternatively, you can call for a pick-up. Step Out Tours provides all necessary services right at the launch site. During weekdays, there are no local pilots and few spectators, giving you the sky to yourself. On weekends, expect 10-15 pilots and a crowd of spectators. There are two take-off zones: cliff or slope. Weather hazards include late afternoon overdevelopment and cloud suck in the summer, as well as typhoon watches. Mornings can be slightly choppy. Winters are dry with nice afternoon glass-offs and morning sled rides. Flight regulations prohibit motorized paragliding by local ordinance. For more information, you can contact Y B Human at flyyuri@yahoo.com or visit [this website](www.picasaweb.com/malachi4.2). Tourist attractions in the area include the Heart of Taiwan Monument, hundreds of temples, Sun Moon Lake, AliShan, Jade Mountain, mountain biking, hiking, and great nightlife in nearby Taichung. For more details on the flying site, accommodations, and images, visit [Paragliding365](www.paragliding365.com).

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Taimali 1

Takeoff: The drive up to the takeoff point is long, so it's best to arrive before noon or ensure you take off above the cloud base. Landing: You can land on any beach to the north or south, making it a great spot for cross-country flights. Getting there: Take a train to Taimali from anywhere in Taiwan, then take a taxi to the site. Comments: This site has been flown dozens of times with other non-local pilots. The topography is very interesting and offers unique flying experiences. Weather hazards: Pay close attention to the wind direction to ensure a safe flight. This site in Taiwan is suitable for experienced pilots who enjoy strong thermals and challenging-to-reach flying sites. Local pilots are often willing to help. For more information, visit www.paragliding365.com.

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Lu Yeh alternative

This paragliding site offers a takeoff altitude of 360 meters. The location is known for its consistent thermal activity, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced pilots. The landing zone is spacious and easily accessible, ensuring a safe descent. The site is popular for its scenic views and favorable wind conditions, which contribute to a smooth and enjoyable flight experience. For more information, you can visit the local paragliding club's website or check out regional paragliding forums for pilot reviews and tips.

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Taimali 250

The take-off area is a small, flat plateau. To get there, take a train to Taimali and then a bus up to Jin Dzen San. You can land near the train station.

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Birds Nest Da Niao

This site is approximately 100 meters in height. It is not an official paragliding location and features high grass, which may affect takeoff and landing. There are no recorded flight logs for this site, indicating it is not frequently used by paragliders.

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Jin Loon 1000

This site appears to be an experimental paragliding location, and it's recommended to fly with local pilots only due to the lack of flight logs. The take-off point requires a long drive, but the effort is rewarded with extended cross-country flights along the coast. For landing, you have several options: beaches, riverbeds, parks, and even a schoolyard. One convenient spot is the train station on the beach, from where you can walk to nearby hot spring resorts, catch a train ride home, or visit a 7-Eleven. This site is particularly enjoyable for its versatility. In the summer, you can expect large thermals and steady, brisk lift. The take-off is situated at cloud base, approximately half a kilometer inland from the sea.

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Big Bird East

This site has an elevation of 289 meters. Currently, there are no flight logs available, which suggests that it might not be frequently used. Be aware that vegetation could pose a challenge for takeoff and landing. The takeoff area is still in an experimental phase, so conditions may not be ideal for all pilots. For more details, you can visit ParaglidingEarth.

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Saijia Pingtung

Located in Pingtung, Taiwan, this paragliding site offers a takeoff elevation of 413 meters and a height difference of 328 meters. The site is frequently used and is known for good cross-country (XC) potential. The site record stands at 47.8 km. Takeoff: The launch area is flat with nice grass, allowing up to three canopies to be laid out simultaneously. The front edge is a cliff, 330 meters high, and it is 1.5 km to the landing zone. It takes about 20 minutes to travel from the landing zone back to the takeoff point. This site is not recommended for beginners due to frequent wind direction changes and crosswinds, which have led to numerous accidents. Caution is advised. Landing: The main landing area is 200m x 200m with nice grass and three backup landing zones. There are no houses, power lines, or tall trees, providing an open view. However, be cautious of bubble thermals in the landing zone. Getting There: Fly into Kaohsiung International Airport. From there, take a taxi for about 50 minutes to the site, costing approximately $50 USD. There is no direct bus or other public transportation from the airport to the village near the site. Comments: This site is very suitable for beginner and junior XC pilots due to its simple terrain. The east side features mountains facing west, while the west side is flat with many landing options. The main road runs straight to the north, making retrieval easy. Note the spelling variations: Saichia, Saijya, Saijia—all refer to the same place. Weather Hazards: The best season is from October to March. Summers can bring typhoons and storms, along with cloud suck. The landing zone can trigger sudden thermals, so be cautious when landing. Thermal cycles last about 15-20 minutes. Flight Regulation: Avoid flying over the nearby golf course, as it is frequented by high-profile individuals who may attempt to shut down the site. Also, be aware of ultralights buzzing the takeoff zone. People to Contact: Steven Liao (email: keepflysteven@hotmail.com) Tourism: Nearby accommodations include a 3-star hotel, an aborigine culture village, and hot spring resorts. For more information, you can watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sh-SIhUOglY) For additional details, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).

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Wood Mountain Hsin-Chu

Elevation: 571 meters, Height Difference: approximately 430 meters This site is regularly used and offers the possibility for cross-country (XC) flights. There are various landing options available in the valley near the river. Flights in this region have been recorded, with a site record of 31.6 km. Region: Hsinchu, Taiwan For more details on specific flights, you can check the following links: [Flight 1](http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/136922) [Flight 2](http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/137145) The take-off altitude is 595 meters above sea level (ASL). For additional information, you may refer to local paragliding associations or forums.

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Big Bird N Dawu Da Niao

Takeoff is at 300 meters above ground level, facing North to Northeast. Currently, there are no flight logs available for this site. Landing is on the beach. To get there, take a train to Da Wu, then call for a pick-up and driver. It is a 2-hour drive from Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH). This site is still under development. It serves as the winter alternative to an all-year-round site. Weather hazards include offshore winds and strong conditions during winter. Tourism options include enjoying the beach, bathing, beer, BBQ, and other similar activities.

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Big Bird South

The take-off site is situated at an elevation of 277 meters. It appears to be infrequently used, as there are no flight logs available. Please note that the take-off information is for reference purposes only. Be cautious and watch out for power lines in the area. For more details, you can visit ParaglidingEarth.

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