Hualien: Taiwan’s Nature Paradise Between Mountains and Sea
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Central Mountain Range, Hualien (花蓮) is Taiwan’s ultimate escape for lovers of natural beauty, adventure, and serenity. With its dramatic landscapes, indigenous heritage, and small-town charm, Hualien feels worlds away from the urban energy of Taipei — offering travelers a slower, more soul-stirring side of the island.
Hualien is best known as the gateway to Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural wonders. But beyond the marble canyons, there’s much more to explore: secluded beaches, rice paddies, coastal cliffs, cycling trails, hot springs, and vibrant local markets. Whether you’re trekking through mountain trails, watching the sunrise over the Pacific, or feasting on indigenous dishes under a sky full of stars, Hualien captures the spirit of Taiwan’s wilder side.
📍 Where Is Hualien?
Hualien County is located on the eastern coast of Taiwan, stretching between the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountain Range. It’s Taiwan’s largest county by area — and one of the least populated — making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
Getting There:
By Train: Take the TRA (Taiwan Railways) from Taipei to Hualien City — a scenic 2–3 hour ride through tunnels and along the coast.
By Plane: Hualien Airport offers domestic flights from Taipei and Kaohsiung.
By Car: You can also rent a car and drive via the Suhua Highway, which offers jaw-dropping coastal views (though it’s not for the faint of heart).
🌟 Why Visit Hualien?
🏞️ Taroko Gorge – Towering marble cliffs and dramatic hiking trails
🏖️ Untouched Beaches – Wild, peaceful, and perfect for sunrise lovers
🚴 Scenic Cycling Routes – Bike through rice paddies and oceanfront roads
🌾 Indigenous Culture – Experience Taiwan’s rich tribal heritage
🌌 Stargazing & Peaceful Vibes – Far from light pollution and tourist crowds
🏞️ Top Things to Do in Hualien
1. Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園)
This is Hualien’s crown jewel and one of the most spectacular natural sites in East Asia. With soaring marble cliffs, turquoise rivers, and lush greenery, Taroko Gorge offers a surreal landscape that’s perfect for hiking, photography, and spiritual retreat.
Top Trails:
Shakadang Trail – Easy walk with crystal-clear river views
Zhuilu Old Trail – Thrilling cliff-side hike (permit required)
Baiyang Trail – Leads to the famous Water Curtain Cave
Swallow Grotto – Narrow canyons and geological wonders
2. Qixingtan Beach (七星潭)
This stunning pebbled beach is just 15 minutes from Hualien City. It’s not great for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s perfect for sunrises, bike rides, and relaxing to the sound of the waves.
Tip: Rent a bike and ride the coastal trail that circles the beach.
3. Liyu Lake (鯉魚潭)
Located about 30 minutes from the city, Liyu Lake is a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by mountains. Rent a paddleboat or bike around the lake’s perimeter. It’s especially gorgeous in spring and autumn.
4. East Rift Valley Scenic Area (花東縱谷)
Stretching from Hualien to Taitung, this valley is home to rice fields, hot springs, tea plantations, and quaint villages.
Don’t Miss:
Ruisui Hot Springs
Mataian Wetlands
Mr. Brown Avenue (in nearby Taitung, but doable on a road trip)
5. Hualien Cultural Creative Industries Park (花蓮文創園區)
Set in a renovated sake factory, this park is now a hub for art exhibits, independent shops, craft markets, and cultural events. Great for grabbing a locally made souvenir or artisan coffee.
🌄 Indigenous Culture in Hualien
Hualien is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Amis, Taroko, and Atayal peoples. Their traditions, music, and cuisine play a big part in local identity.
Experience It:
Visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Enjoy performances at cultural centers or local festivals
Try indigenous dishes like millet wine, smoked meats, and bamboo rice
🍲 What to Eat in Hualien
Hualien’s food scene reflects its mix of indigenous heritage, Hakka influence, and coastal bounty.
Must-Try Foods:
Mochi (麻糬) – Hualien is famous for soft, sweet rice cakes
Aboriginal-style BBQ (山地烤肉) – Often sold at night markets
Stone-grilled chicken – Traditional and flavorful
Wontons at Gongzheng Baozi (公正包子) – A legendary spot in Hualien City
Flying Fish – Seasonal, and a staple in indigenous cooking
Milk tea and sweet potato balls at Dongdamen Night Market
🎡 Night Markets in Hualien
Dongdamen Night Market (東大門夜市)
The largest night market on Taiwan’s east coast. It’s divided into sections based on ethnic cuisines — including Amis, Hakka, and Taiwanese stalls — and offers a fun, festive atmosphere every night.
Don’t Miss:
Grilled meat skewers
Giant sausage wraps (大腸包小腸)
Fried squid
Pineapple shaved ice
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Hualien
Spring (March–May) – Pleasant weather, lush greenery, and blooming flowers
Summer (June–August) – Hot and humid, but best for ocean views and river adventures
Autumn (Sept–Nov) – Crisp skies and great for hiking
Winter (Dec–Feb) – Cooler but still comfortable, and fewer tourists
Note: Typhoon season typically runs from July to September.
🧭 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival + City Sights
Visit Qixingtan Beach for sunset
Stroll through Dongdamen Night Market
Explore Hualien Cultural Park
Day 2: Taroko Adventure
Hike Shakadang Trail and Swallow Grotto
Visit Eternal Spring Shrine
Return to city for hot pot or indigenous BBQ
Day 3: Scenic Relaxation
Morning trip to Liyu Lake or East Rift Valley
Soak in Ruisui Hot Springs
Try fresh mochi before heading back to Taipei
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Hualien Should Be on Your Taiwan Itinerary
Hualien is where Taiwan’s wild heart beats strongest. Whether you’re standing in awe beneath Taroko’s marble cliffs, cycling along a quiet country road, or sharing a meal with locals in a tribal village, Hualien invites you to slow down and connect — with nature, with culture, and with yourself.
It’s not just a destination — it’s a feeling. Peaceful, powerful, and profoundly beautiful.
Top Tips for Visiting Hualien: Gateway to Taiwan’s Wild East Coast
Nestled between the towering Central Mountain Range and the vast Pacific Ocean, Hualien is one of Taiwan’s most stunning and serene travel spots. It’s home to dramatic gorges, indigenous culture, sleepy seaside towns, and some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full adventure, here are some must-know tips to help you make the most of your Hualien getaway.
🚆 1. Getting There: Take the Train for the Views
The TRA train from Taipei to Hualien is one of the most scenic routes in Taiwan, especially once it hugs the coast. Travel time is around 2 to 2.5 hours on the Puyuma or Taroko Express trains.
✅ Pro Tip: Book train tickets as early as possible, especially on weekends and holidays — this route sells out fast.
🛵 2. Rent a Scooter or Car to Explore Freely
Once you arrive, the best way to explore Hualien is by renting a scooter or a car. Many of the top attractions are outside the city center and easier to reach on your own schedule.
Scooter: Great for solo or couple travelers
Car: Best for families or groups, especially if you’re heading to Taroko Gorge
✅ Reminder: You’ll need a valid international driver’s license with motorcycle or car privileges to rent legally in Taiwan.
🏞️ 3. Don’t Miss Taroko National Park
Taroko Gorge is the crown jewel of Hualien — a marble-walled canyon with crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and cliff-hugging trails.
Top stops include:
Shakadang Trail – easy and scenic along turquoise waters
Eternal Spring Shrine – a postcard-perfect photo spot
Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) – dramatic cliffs and narrow passageways
Zhuilu Old Trail – for adventure seekers (permit required)
✅ Safety Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and check weather alerts, as trails can close due to landslides or heavy rain.
🌊 4. Catch a Sunrise Over the Pacific
Hualien faces east, so it’s one of the best places in Taiwan to watch the sunrise over the ocean. Great sunrise spots include:
Qixingtan Beach – a pebbled beach just north of the city
Cingshuei Cliffs – towering coastal cliffs with panoramic sea views
Shitiping – volcanic rock formations and tide pools
✅ Pro Tip: Get up early — sunrises here are fast but unforgettable.
🛏️ 5. Stay in a Local Minsu (Homestay)
Skip the standard hotels and book a minsu, or Taiwanese homestay. Many are set in scenic locations like rice fields or near the mountains, offering local breakfast and a chance to chat with friendly hosts.
✅ Recommended Areas:
Hualien City – for convenience and night market access
Ji’an Township – for a more rural feel
Shoufeng – near Liyu Lake and lush countryside
🍜 6. Eat Local at the Night Markets
Hualien has a laid-back food scene with lots of indigenous influences and fresh seafood.
Top night markets:
Dongdamen Night Market – Hualien’s largest, with a mix of local and Aboriginal flavors
Ziqiang Night Market – a smaller, more local vibe (currently combined with Dongdamen)
Must-try foods:
Mochi – Hualien is famous for its soft, handmade mochi
Grilled squid & seafood skewers
Millet wine & wild boar sausage
Banana spring rolls – a tasty fusion snack
🎨 7. Discover Indigenous Culture
Hualien is home to several indigenous communities, especially the Amis, Truku, and Sakizaya tribes. To learn more:
Visit Tafalong Indigenous Cultural Center
Join an indigenous cooking class or craft workshop
Attend a local music or harvest festival if the timing is right
✅ Be Respectful: Ask before taking photos and support local artists by buying their crafts.
🚲 8. Bike the Scenic Countryside
Rent a bike and ride through Hualien’s East Rift Valley, filled with rice paddies, flower fields, and mountain views. Top biking routes:
Liyu Lake Loop – flat and peaceful
Countryside roads in Shoufeng and Fuli – beautiful during harvest season
Qixingtan to Hualien City Coastline Path – ocean breeze and great for sunset rides
🌸 9. Visit in Flower Season or for Summer Festivals
Time your visit for one of Hualien’s seasonal events:
Rape blossom season (Feb–Mar): East Rift Valley turns yellow with flowers
Daylily bloom (Aug–Sep): Mountains of orange blossoms at Liushidan Mountain
Summer concerts and music festivals at Qixingtan or near the city
✅ Check local event calendars for up-to-date festival info.
☀️ 10. Pack for the Weather
Hualien can be hot and humid in summer, and wet in spring and autumn. Typhoon season (June–Sept) may bring rain and trail closures.
✅ Pack: Sun protection, a hat, breathable clothing, a raincoat, and bug spray for forested hikes.
Final Thoughts
Hualien is where Taiwan’s natural soul truly shines — from marble gorges and crashing waves to welcoming locals and slow-paced village life. Whether you’re here to hike, bike, feast, or simply relax by the sea, Hualien promises peace, beauty, and a little bit of magic at every turn.
So slow down, take in the fresh air, and let Hualien leave its mark on your soul.