Light Up Chiayi: Super Style” – Taiwan Lantern Festival to Drive Tourism Growth

Published on December 17, 2025

The Taiwan Lantern Festival 2026 will shine a spotlight on Chiayi County, marking a significant milestone in the region’s tourism development. Officially announced by the Chiayi County Cultural and Tourism Bureau, the event will be held under the theme “Light Up Chiayi: Super Style”. The festival is expected to serve not only as a national cultural highlight but also as a key platform to elevate Chiayi’s tourism profile both domestically and internationally.

The Taiwan Lantern Festival, one of the most anticipated cultural events in Taiwan, celebrates the Lantern Festival, an important traditional holiday marking the first full moon of the lunar new year. Each year, the festival rotates its location across the country, and in 2026, Chiayi County has been selected to host this spectacular event. With its vibrant history, rich culture, and picturesque landscapes, Chiayi is positioning itself as a prime destination for tourists seeking to experience Taiwan’s unique heritage.

Chiayi: A Rising Star in Taiwan’s Tourism Scene

Chiayi County, located in the southwestern part of Taiwan, has long been known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural richness. Famous for its proximity to Alishan, a popular mountain range known for scenic train rides, hiking trails, and sunrise views, Chiayi is already a favorite among nature lovers and cultural tourists.

The Taiwan Lantern Festival 2026 will showcase Chiayi’s unique attractions, including its bustling night markets, ancient temples, and local cuisine. The event is seen as a major catalyst for Chiayi’s tourism transformation, drawing attention to the county’s underexplored gems.

In addition to its scenic and cultural offerings, Chiayi is home to a rich history of traditional arts and crafts, with lantern-making being one of its most significant crafts. The Lantern Festival will provide an excellent opportunity for the region to highlight its local artisans, offering visitors a chance to purchase handcrafted lanterns and souvenirs that reflect the county’s artistic heritage.

A National and International Spotlight for Chiayi

The Taiwan Lantern Festival 2026 is expected to be a large-scale event, attracting thousands of visitors from across Taiwan and around the world. It will feature large-scale lantern displays, traditional performances, interactive exhibits, and a variety of cultural activities aimed at engaging visitors of all ages. As the host city, Chiayi will showcase its distinct blend of modernity and tradition through these exciting festival offerings.

Chiayi County’s tourism bureau is focused on leveraging the Lantern Festival to increase international exposure. By positioning the event as a global cultural experience, Chiayi aims to attract tourists from abroad who are seeking a blend of tradition, culture, and natural beauty. The festival’s theme, “Light Up Chiayi: Super Style”, is designed to highlight the county’s innovation, creativity, and vibrant culture, presenting it as an ideal destination for both cultural and eco-tourism.

The festival will feature cutting-edge light displays, many of which will incorporate interactive elements that allow visitors to engage with the artwork. Visitors will be able to experience Chiayi’s vibrant atmosphere, with a blend of modern technological exhibits and traditional lantern designs.

Attractions and Experiences During the Lantern Festival

The Taiwan Lantern Festival 2026 in Chiayi will feature various events across the county, giving visitors the chance to explore Chiayi’s cultural and natural attractions while enjoying the festivities. Some of the key highlights include:

• Chiayi Old Prison and Chiayi Railway Station: These historic sites will host exhibitions on the history of Chiayi’s role in Taiwan’s development, from colonial times to the present.
• Alishan Scenic Area: Known for its breathtaking sunrise views and beautiful landscapes, Alishan will attract nature lovers and photographers, making it a perfect addition to a Lantern Festival itinerary.
• Chiayi Night Markets: The county’s famous night markets will feature food stalls serving local delicacies such as Taiwanese sausages, bubble tea, and dan zai noodles, offering a culinary journey through the region.
• Lantern Displays: A central feature of the festival, these grand lantern displays will bring Chiayi’s cultural identity to life, with themes celebrating Taiwan’s folklore, nature, and heritage. Local artisans will also showcase traditional lantern-making techniques, allowing visitors to witness this age-old craft in action.

Cultural and Sustainable Tourism

As part of its tourism strategy, Chiayi County is focusing on sustainable tourism development. The Taiwan Lantern Festival 2026 will emphasize eco-friendly practices, including the use of energy-efficient lighting in the lantern displays and promoting sustainable tourism activities that protect the region’s natural beauty.

The local government is also working to integrate Chiayi’s tourism offerings with its surrounding nature reserves, ensuring that tourism growth benefits both the local community and the environment. Visitors will be encouraged to explore the county’s trails, parks, and forests, making the Lantern Festival a truly immersive experience in both culture and nature.

Preparing for the 2026 Lantern Festival

With just a few years until the event, Chiayi County is preparing to host what is expected to be one of the most exciting and impactful editions of the Taiwan Lantern Festival in recent years. The government has already begun marketing efforts both locally and internationally, positioning Chiayi as a premier destination for tourists in 2026.

Travelers looking to visit Chiayi during the festival can expect a seamless experience, with easy access to public transportation, accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to traditional inns, and plenty of activities to engage with the local community.

The Taiwan Lantern Festival 2026 promises to be a significant moment in the growth of Chiayi’s tourism industry, offering a rare opportunity to experience Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage in a beautiful, dynamic setting.