News

Taiwan’s first high-altitude balloon park, the “JiuJiuFeng Helium Balloon Park,” officially began trial operations on Feb. 11. Distinguished guests, including Nantou County Mayor Hsu Shu-Hua and Legislative Yuan Vice President Chiang Chi-Chen, took part in the inaugural rides, describing the experience as “incredibly romantic and blissful.” Developed by the county government and honored with both the Public Construction Commission Golden Quality Award and the Yuan-Ye Award, this new attraction is set to become a popular check-in landmark during the Lunar New Year holiday.

Even before its balloons took flight, the park created a sensation. On the morning of the 11th, the county government held an opening ceremony and trial operation event for the JiuJiuFeng Helium Balloon Park at JiuJiuFeng. Located in Pinglin Village, Caotun Township, the park features premium helium balloons imported from France’s Aerophile, ensuring visitors can ascend comfortably under safe and stable conditions.

 County Mayor Hsu shared her impressions after the ride, saying, “It was such an enjoyable experience! In the future, nighttime flights will also be available, showcasing Nantou’s night views, which are even more breathtaking.” She warmly invited everyone to visit Nantou during the Lunar New Year to enjoy the helium balloon rides, attend the Nantou Lantern Festival, admire flowers along Provincial Highway No. 14, and relax in the region’s hot springs. “This year, spring outing in Nantou will be truly unforgettable,” she added.

Vice President Chiang remarked after his ride, “It was stunning and romantic! There are only a handful of facilities of the same level in Asia, and we are proud to have one right here in Central Taiwan. During the Lunar New Year, come with your family or partner. It’s pure bliss, guaranteed!”

The JiuJiuFeng Helium Balloon Park is operated under an OT (Operation Transfer) model by Lavender Forest, entrusted by the county government. The park includes a café, the Herbs Table, a restaurant featuring local ingredients, an ecological walkway, a workshop, and environmental education programs. It is designed as a destination for family outings, romantic dates, or leisurely relaxation.

According to the Nantou County Department of Tourism, trial operations will be conducted in phases with limited capacity and an online reservation system only. Daily park reservations are capped at 2,000 visitors. Children under 3 are not permitted to ride the balloons but may enter the park free of charge.

In Phase One, the park opened on February 11. From February 12–14, Nantou County and Caotun Township residents could enjoy free trial rides, with online reservations fully booked within minutes. In Phase Two, from February 17–March 8, the park will open to the public. Admission tickets are NT$99, while combined admission and balloon ride packages are NT$798 for adults and NT$498 for children aged 4–12. Children under 3 are not permitted to ride. The online reservation system will open at 12:00 p.m. on February 12. Nantou County residents presenting proof of residency could also redeem a limited-edition herbal tea gift set valued at NT$200. Formal Trial Operation will be launched on March 9, operating hours will be extended to 8:00 p.m., with both online reservations and on-site ticketing available.

The opening ceremony drew a distinguished guest list, including Legislative Yuan Vice President Chiang Chi-Chen; legislators Ma Wen-Chun and Yu Hao; Deputy County Mayor Wang Rui-De; Secretary-General Li Liang-Chu; Caotun Township Mayor Chien Tzu-Sheng; county councilors Lin Fang-Yu, Chang Hsiu-Chih, Lin Yi-Ru, Tang Xiao-Fen, Liao Zi-Yo, Chien Chun-Ting, Lin Yo-Yo, Lin Ru-Yang, Chen Yi-Chun, Tsai Ming-Hsuan; and local leaders. The lively event highlighted the park’s appeal, with many attendees eager to experience the helium balloon rides firsthand.