Towards the end of the year, the rice paddies in Hakka communities along Provincial Highway 9, such as in Guanshan Town and Beinan, Luye and Chishang townships, become filled with long golden rice spikes. This marks the joyful harvest season for the Hakka people in these communities and those coming from elsewhere to celebrate. Spikes of rice swaying in the breeze provide a romantic backdrop that is unique to the East Rift Valley. Such scenes are also representative of Hakka culture in Taitung County.

Due to Taitung's geographical location, natural environment and water quality, the best rice in Taiwan is produced here, and its fame has spread internationally. Hakka people migrated to the East Rift Valley decades ago, mostly to farm. A characteristic of Taitung's Hakka culture is rice-based foods. The Taitung Hakka Festival has become one of the major annual celebrations of the Hakka people of eastern Taiwan. It has been held since 2010, organized by the Taitung County Government under the guidance of the Hakka Affairs Council. Year after year, domestic and international attendance has increased. This festival not only promotes Hakka culture, but also encourages the public to travel to the East Rift Valley and savor its rural and natural scenery, as well as to explore Hakka communities and experience the Hakka spirit of hard work and simplicity.

One of the main venues this year is the Dayuan area of Luye Township. To familiarize the public with the culture and customs of this area, and to bring together the celebrations of surrounding Hakka communities, Dayuan will host the joint Winter Harvest Ceremonies, which will include "thanking the gods", "fulfilling vows" and "prayers for a bountiful harvest in the coming year". Activities that focus on Hakka culture and language will connect three towns and townships of Taitung County along Provincial Highway 9, and highlight the local people, culture, agriculture and scenic landscapes. For example, Hakka cultural and performing arts groups will be given a stage and markets for local farmers and creative and cultural product makers will be set up. The purposes are to promote the dignity of Hakka community farmers and residents and increase interest in Hakka culture among Hakka youth and the public. The Taitung Hakka Festival, one of the 12 Hakka festivals of 2017, will present traditional rites, pass on cultural heritage, revive Hakka communities and promote Taitung rice.