Must-Try Foods In Jhiben Hot Spring (Taitung) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Jhiben Hot Spring, Taitung, Taiwan

Jhiben Hot Spring, located in Taitung County, is one of Taiwan's most famous natural hot springs. The area has been inhabited by the indigenous Paiwan and Bunun peoples for centuries, who have their own unique food culture characterized by the use of local mountain and sea ingredients. With the development of the hot springs as a tourist destination, various eateries and restaurants have popped up to offer visitors a taste of local and international cuisine. Over the years, influences from other parts of Taiwan and abroad have integrated with local food traditions, creating a diverse culinary scene around Jhiben.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Jhiben Hot Spring, Taitung, Taiwan

1. Milanxie Geng (Wild Pepper Shrimp Soup) - A savory soup featuring shrimp and wild pepper, a local specialty. It's non-veg.
2. Sticky Rice in Bamboo (Zhutong Fan) - Glutinous rice mixed with ingredients like mushrooms or pork, then steamed in bamboo tubes. It can be veg or non-veg based on the fillings.
3. Paiwan Style Grilled Fish - Grilled fish seasoned with local spices and herbs. This is a non-veg dish.
4. Stewed Mountain Boar - A flavorful stew made with wild boar meat, commonly found in local indigenous cuisine. This dish is non-veg.
5. Mochi - A variety of mochi flavors can be found, with sweet red bean or peanut fillings. It's a popular veg snack.
6. Bunun Millet Wine - A traditional alcoholic beverage made by the Bunun people. While not a food, it is a significant part of the culinary culture.
7. Taro Balls - Chewy balls made from taro root are a common Taiwanese dessert, found in various sweet soups. A veg delight.
8. Bitter Melon Stuffed with Mince - A delicious local dish with vegetables stuffed with minced meat. This is a non-veg dish, but veg versions are available at some places.
9. Mountain Vegetable Dishes - A range of dishes utilizing locally sourced mountain veggies, offering a true taste of the region's veg cuisine.
10. Seafood - Given Taitung's coastal location, fresh seafood is abundant. From grilled squid to sashimi, it is a substantial part of non-veg offerings here.

Top Famous Restaurants in Jhiben Hot Spring, Taitung, Taiwan

Luye Gaotai Restaurant

Address: Luye Gaotai, Luye Township, Taitung County, Taiwan
Famous Food: Tea Cuisine, both veg and non-veg options available with tea-infused dishes.

Kasa Cafe

Address: Jhiben Road, Beinan Township, Taitung County, Taiwan
Famous Food: Artisan coffees and homemade cakes, mostly veg-friendly options.

Matai'an Wetland Ecological Restaurant

Address: Matai'an, Hualien County, Taiwan
Famous Food: Indigenous Amis cuisine with offerings like millet wine chicken and wild vegetable salads, serving both veg and non-veg dishes.

Antong Hotspring Hotel Restaurant

Address: Antong Springs, Taitung County, Taiwan
Famous Food: Hot spring eggs, which are non-veg, and an assortment of local Taiwanese cuisine with veg and non-veg options.

Taitung Seafood Restaurant

Address: Nearby Taitung's coastal area (exact address varies by establishment)
Famous Food: Freshly prepared seafood dishes; primarily non-veg but some may also offer veg side dishes.

While exploring the food in Jhiben Hot Spring, make sure to inquire about the ingredients in dishes due to the integration of various cultural influences that may cater to different dietary preferences and restrictions.