Introduction to Hualien
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Central Mountain Range, Hualien 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.
Why Visit Taroko National Park
Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural wonders, renowned for its dramatic marble cliffs, deep gorges, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers. Located on the island’s eastern coast, near Hualien, the park covers nearly 1,000 square kilometers of diverse terrain, stretching from sea level up to over 3,000 meters in elevation. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, Taroko attracts nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and cultural explorers from around the world.
The crown jewel of the park is Taroko Gorge, a 19-kilometer-long canyon carved by the Liwu River through solid marble. Towering cliffs, narrow tunnels, and suspended bridges create a stunning backdrop for exploration, and a network of trails provides visitors with countless ways to experience its beauty up close.
Whether you’re strolling along easy paths like Shakadang Trail or tackling more adventurous routes like the Zhuilu Old Trail, Taroko’s landscape offers something for every level of outdoor enthusiast.
But Taroko is more than just scenic views—it’s also a place steeped in cultural and historical significance. The park is home to the Truku (Taroko) people, an Indigenous group whose history and traditions are deeply connected to the mountains and rivers of the area.
Visitors can learn about their culture through interpretive signs, traditional architecture, and cultural centers within the park, gaining a deeper appreciation for the human connection to this rugged environment.
Taroko National Park is also a haven for wildlife and plant species, many of which are unique to Taiwan. From rare butterflies and birds to dense forests of cypress and pine, the park offers countless opportunities for nature observation.
The wide elevation range supports a mix of subtropical, temperate, and alpine ecosystems, making it one of the most ecologically diverse regions in Taiwan. Seasonal changes bring new colors and experiences throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in spring to misty, atmospheric trails in winter.
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.
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Bus in Hualien
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What to Eat in Hualien
Night Market
Dongdamen Night Market: 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.
Popular Restaurants
Gong Zheng Bun Store 公正街包子店 Google Map
Signature steamed buns with juicy pork filling—tender dough and savory bite.
Historic local icon, serving Hualien families since the 1970s.
Quick, grab-and-go service, ideal for trying multiple snacks on the go.
Deep-fried Egg Scallion Pancake (Yellow Truck) 黃車炸彈蔥餅 Google Map
Crunchy scallion pancake wrapped around a fried egg and sausage—huge flavor, plenty of texture.
Street-side cart service, perfect for late-night eats or casual snacking.
Warm comfort food that locals rave about for its fresh eggs and crisp batter.
Ye Xiang Bian Shi 液香扁食 Google Map
Delicate wontons in a clear, gently seasoned broth—light and comforting.
Freshly handmade dumplings, wrapped thin for a satisfying mouthfeel.
Cozy, unpretentious eatery, favored by families and solo diners.
Yuli Qiaotou Stinky Tofu – Hualien Branch 玉里橋頭臭豆腐花蓮店Google Map
Boldly fermented tofu offering crispy outside and flavorful creamy interior.
Served with spicy garlic cabbage, delivering a rich, complex flavor profile.
Cult-following taste, recommended for adventurous food lovers seeking local favorites.
Chicken Soup & Squid Rice Noodles 單一純賣 雞湯 小卷米粉 Google Map
Comforting chicken broth poured over slippery rice noodles and tender squid.
Focus on freshness, with simple high-quality ingredients.
Light, fulfilling meal, ideal for breakfast or a gentle lunch break.
Feng Chun Shaved Ice Shop 豐春冰菓店 Google Map
Shaved ice bowls topped with mochi, red beans, fresh fruit, and creamy syrup.
Classic Hualien institution, perfect for beating the tropical heat.
Wide flavor variety, from traditional taro to seasonal fruit toppings.
Qing Feng Noodle Shop 慶豐麵店 Google Map
Flavorful dry and soup noodle options, made with fresh egg noodles.
Comforting classic broths with minced pork or beef slices.
Local lunchtime favorite, offering a cozy atmosphere and quick service.
Mei Lun Black Tea 美崙紅茶 Google Map
Bold, aromatic black tea—strong and fragrant, with a hint of astringency.
Served hot or cold, often with milk or lemon for variety.
Affordable and authentic, often enjoyed by locals as an everyday drink.
Things to Do in Taroko Gorge
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.
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.
Taroko Gorge
Taroko Gorge is one of Taiwan’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, and its network of trails offers hikers an unforgettable way to explore this breathtaking landscape. Located in the eastern part of the island, Taroko Gorge is famous for its towering marble cliffs, deep ravines, and lush forests, all of which can be experienced from a variety of well-maintained trails.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a beginner wanting a more leisurely walk, the trails in Taroko Gorge cater to all levels, showcasing the region’s stunning beauty from every angle.
From the short and easy hikes like the Lushui Trail, which provides sweeping views of the gorge, to the more adventurous hikes such as the Zhuilu Old Trail, known for its cliffside paths and dramatic vistas, each trail in Taroko Gorge offers something unique.
The diversity of the trails means that hikers can explore different aspects of the gorge, from its rich indigenous history to its unique flora and fauna. The well-maintained paths and well-marked signs make it easy to navigate, allowing visitors to enjoy the hike at their own pace and take in the extraordinary surroundings.
Read Taroko Gorge Trails
15 Trail Recommendations in Taroko National Park
1. Shakadang Trail
Length: 4.4 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Follows the Shakadang River with striking blue water and marble boulders. Great for beginners and families.
2. Zhuilu Old Trail (Permit Required)
Length: 6 km round trip to the cliff section
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Highlights: Taiwan’s most thrilling cliffside trail. Epic views 500m above the Liwu River.
3. Lushui Trail
Length: 2.2 km one-way
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Forest trail with educational signs, historical sites, and gorge viewpoints.
4. Baiyang Trail
Length: 2.1 km one-way
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Passes through tunnels to Baiyang Waterfall and Water Curtain Cave. Family-friendly.
5. Eternal Spring Shrine Trail
Length: 1.3 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Leads to a shrine commemorating highway workers, with a beautiful waterfall backdrop.
6. Yanzikou Trail / Swallow Grotto
Length: 1.4 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Swallows, marble cliffs, and roaring river. Helmets often required due to falling rocks.
7. Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail
Length: 700 m one-way
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Short but dramatic. Hugely popular for up-close views of the narrowest section of Taroko Gorge.
8. Dekalun Trail
Length: ~4 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Quiet forest trail near Buluowan, with good views of the gorge and native plant life.
9. Dali–Datong Trail
Length: 9.6 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Highlights: Connects Truku villages. Rich in cultural history and mountain scenery.
10. Buluowan Terrace Trails
Length: ~2 km (loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Scenic walk with cultural displays and views over Liwu River.
11. Chongde Trail
Length: ~5 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean and mountain backdrops. Less crowded.
12. Huoran Pavilion Trail
Length: ~1.5 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Quick trail to a viewpoint overlooking Taroko Gorge. Ideal for sunrise or sunset.
13. Huide Trail
Length: ~4.5 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Secluded coastal forest trail with sweeping ocean views.
14. Heren Trail
Length: ~5 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Coastal trail with historic remnants and birdwatching opportunities.
15. Changchun Shrine – Bell Tower Trail
Length: ~2.2 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Climbs above Eternal Spring Shrine to a peaceful bell tower with views over the gorge.
Travel Tips for Visiting Taroko Gorge (Taroko National Park)
Transportation:
- By Train: Take a train to Xincheng Station, the closest access point.
- By Car: Renting a car or scooter is the most flexible option, especially for reaching trailheads pread across the park.
- By Bus: The Taroko Tourist Shuttle Bus (1133A or 302) stops at major trailheads. Check the schedule ahead—buses are infrequent.
- Taroko Gorge Tour
Taroko Gorge Tour from Hualien
■ Hualien: Taroko Hiking Trail One-Day Tour
Taroko Gorge Tour from Taipei
■ Taroko Gorge One-Day Tour (From Taipei)
■ Hualien Taroko Car Rental with Driver : Taroko , Qingshui Cliff (From Taipei)
Permits:
- Some trails (e.g., Zhuilu Old Trail) require advance permits. Apply online through the Taroko
- ational Park website at least 7–30 days in advance.
- Bring your passport or ARC for ID check at the trail entrance.
Best Time to Visit:
- Fall (Oct–Dec) and Spring (Mar–May) offer the best weather—cool, clear, and fewer typhoons.
- Avoid visiting during typhoon season (July–Sept), as trails may close due to landslides or flooding.
What to Bring:
- Wear sturdy shoes.
- Water, sun protection, rain gear (weather changes quickly), and snacks.
- Flashlight or headlamp for tunnels (especially on Baiyang and Zhuilu Trails).
- Lightweight jacket—temperatures can drop quickly in shaded or higher areas.
Safety Tips:
- Check trail conditions on the official Taroko National Park website before heading out.
- Check weather alerts, as trails can close due to landslides or heavy rain.
- Watch for falling rocks, especially after heavy rain.
- Stay on marked trails—off-trail areas can be dangerous and illegal to enter.
Things to Do in Hualien
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
Tip: Get up early — sunrises here are fast but unforgettable.
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
Other Fun Places in Hualien
In addition to Taroko Gorge, there are many other fun places in Hualien.
Read Things to Do in Hualien for details
Hualien Railway Culture Park 花蓮鐵道文化園區
Once a bustling railway facility, the Hualien Railway Culture Park has been transformed into a cultural landmark that preserves the rich history of Taiwan’s railway development. The old warehouses and stations now serve as exhibition halls and creative spaces, where visitors can explore vintage train cars, trackside relics, and multimedia installations that tell the story of Hualien’s transportation legacy.
Hualien Cultural Creative Industries Park 花蓮文化創意產業園區
Housed in a former brewery, this revitalized industrial space is now a thriving creative hub featuring art installations, pop-up markets, boutique shops, and artisan cafés. The park provides a platform for local artists and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents while offering visitors a dynamic environment to experience Hualien’s growing creative energy.
Hualien Pacific Landscape Park 太平洋公園
Stretching along Hualien’s scenic coastline, this park offers wide-open views of the Pacific Ocean, bike paths, and tranquil spots perfect for picnicking or sunrise watching. Divided into the North and South sections, the park features landscaped green areas, wave-watching platforms, and sculptures that blend modern design with coastal beauty.
Starbucks Shipping Container Store 星巴克 – 洄瀾門市
This eco-conscious Starbucks store in Hualien turns heads with its unique design—constructed entirely from recycled shipping containers. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, it combines industrial aesthetics with panoramic views, offering a photogenic spot for coffee lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Sanzhan Riverside Area 三棧溪戲水區
Sanzhan River is a hidden gem for those seeking nature and refreshment in Hualien. Known for its crystal-clear waters, rocky terrain, and lush vegetation, it’s a popular local spot for wading, river tracing, and relaxing in a peaceful environment far from the tourist crowds.
Emerald Valley Shuilian Waterfall 翡翠谷水簾瀑布
Tucked deep within Hualien’s mountains, Emerald Valley offers a serene escape with jade-colored pools and a cascading waterfall. Accessible via a nature trail, it’s perfect for hikers and photographers looking to immerse themselves in Taiwan’s wild, untamed beauty.
Shapodangxipan Park 砂婆噹溪畔公園
Located along a quiet riverbank, this park is a peaceful retreat with walking paths, wooden pavilions, and spaces for family recreation. It’s especially loved by locals for morning strolls or evening relaxation, surrounded by Hualien’s gentle, natural landscape.
Baibao River 白鮑溪
Baibao River is renowned for its ecological richness and scenic river trails. Ideal for eco-tourism, the area offers a chance to observe native plants, birds, and aquatic life while hiking or biking along its banks. It’s a great spot to connect with nature without straying far from the city.
Xiuguluan River 秀姑巒溪泛舟
For thrill-seekers, Xiuguluan River is the ultimate destination for whitewater rafting in Taiwan. Stretching through the East Rift Valley, its winding course and class II-IV rapids provide an exciting ride with dramatic views of canyons, gorges, and surrounding highlands.
Farglory Ocean Park 遠雄海洋公園
As one of Taiwan’s largest marine-themed amusement parks, Farglory Ocean Park combines aquariums, dolphin and sea lion shows, amusement rides, and oceanfront views into a full-day family-friendly attraction. Set against the mountains and ocean, it’s a fun mix of entertainment and marine education.
Yunshanshui Dream Lake 雲山水夢幻湖
Yunshanshui Dream Lake is a picturesque man-made lake surrounded by lush greenery and reflective waters that mirror the sky and mountains, creating a surreal, dreamlike view. This spot has become a favorite among photographers and couples for its peaceful vibe and romantic backdrop, especially during sunrise and early morning mist.
Liyu Lake 鯉魚潭
Nestled at the base of Mt. Liyu, Liyu Lake is the largest inland lake in eastern Taiwan. It’s a popular destination for boating, cycling around the scenic lakeside path, and enjoying paddleboarding on calm waters. The tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for family outings or laid-back afternoon strolls.
Li Chuan Aquafarm 立川漁場
Li Chuan Aquafarm offers a hands-on aquaculture experience, where visitors can catch and taste fresh clams and other shellfish. The farm also features eco-education zones and local delicacies, making it both an educational and tasty adventure, especially for kids and seafood lovers.
Sixty Stone Mountain 六十石山金針花
Every summer, Sixty Stone Mountain transforms into a golden sea of blooming daylilies, drawing crowds to its rolling hills covered in flowers. The area also offers panoramic views of the East Rift Valley and small tea houses and stalls selling fresh daylily products.
Daylily Flowers Chihke Mountain 赤柯山金針花
Chihke Mountain is another renowned spot for vibrant daylily blooms, offering terraced hillsides painted in orange-yellow hues. Its lesser-known status compared to Sixty Stone Mountain makes it quieter, perfect for those seeking stunning views and a more serene floral experience.
Qixingtan Beach 七星潭
Qixingtan Beach is a crescent-shaped pebble beach known for its turquoise waters and sweeping Pacific Ocean views. It’s an ideal location for coastal cycling, stargazing, or simply watching the waves crash under the open sky, with a distant view of the Qingshui Cliffs.
48 Highland Military Tunnel 四八高地戰備坑道
This Cold War-era military tunnel offers an intriguing glimpse into Taiwan’s defense history, with subterranean passageways and observation platforms overlooking the Pacific. The site combines military heritage with scenic vistas, providing a unique blend of education and coastal beauty.
ChiHsin Dry Bonito Museum 七星柴魚博物館
The ChiHsin Dry Bonito Museum introduces visitors to the traditional techniques of bonito fish drying, a major industry in the area. The museum features interactive exhibits and tastings, offering a rare look into local fishing culture and Hualien’s maritime past.
Ruisui Farm 瑞穗牧場
Famous for its fresh dairy products and scenic pastoral setting, Ruisui Farm offers a relaxing countryside experience. Visitors can enjoy feeding cows, sampling fresh milk or ice cream, and exploring the grassy fields that stretch across Hualien’s beautiful rural landscape.
Tropic of Cancer Marker Park 北回歸線標誌公園
Located exactly on the Tropic of Cancer, this park is marked by a white pillar that denotes the sun’s northernmost latitude. It’s a popular photo spot and geographical landmark, offering insight into Earth’s solar movement and its relation to Taiwan’s climate.
Shitiping Terraced Rocks 石梯坪遊憩風景區
Shitiping’s coastal rock formations, carved by centuries of wave erosion, create a natural terrace that’s both dramatic and visually captivating. The area is ideal for walking, tide-pooling, and appreciating marine life, with a unique geological landscape that contrasts sharply with the ocean.
Qingbuzhizi Ancient Trail 親不知子天空步道
This clifftop skywalk trail offers breathtaking ocean views from a transparent glass walkway, suspended above crashing waves. The name “Qingbuzhizi” translates to “parents would never know,” referring to the dangerous paths early travelers once took—now made thrilling but safe for modern visitors.
Dashibishan Trail 大石鼻山步道
Dashibishan Trail is a short coastal hike that rewards trekkers with sweeping views of the Pacific and Hualien’s rugged coastline. It’s an easy-to-access trail ideal for morning walks and sunset watchers, with lookout points perfect for scenic photography.
Baqi Observatory 芭崎休息區
Perched on a hillside, Baqi Observatory offers panoramic views of the East Coast, especially the dramatic cliffs and blue sea stretching into the distance. It’s a great rest stop along the Coastal Highway, allowing travelers to soak in the scenery and snap postcard-worthy photos.
Hualien Shimen Cave 花蓮石門洞
This sea-eroded cave and arch formation on the coast is shaped like a stone gate (“Shimen”) and is a striking example of natural erosion. The area also includes pavilions and ocean-facing platforms, making it a peaceful yet visually compelling stop along the scenic drive.
Jingpu Tropic of Cancer Landmark 靜浦北迴歸線界標
Another Tropic of Cancer marker, this one near Jingpu village highlights the unique geographical feature with more artistic and tribal motifs. The landmark celebrates both scientific and cultural aspects, often used in local celebrations and seasonal festivals.
NananWaterfall 南安瀑布
Nanan Waterfall is a stunning cascade nestled in the lush greenery of the East Rift Valley. Easily accessible by foot, it offers a peaceful setting with misty spray, cool breezes, and the sound of falling water echoing through the surrounding forest.
How to Get to Hualien from Taipei
Hualien is a breathtaking region on Taiwan’s east coast, known for its stunning mountains, Pacific Ocean views, and famous natural wonder—Taroko Gorge (太魯閣峽谷). Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Hualien is a perfect destination.
Is There a High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Hualien?
❌ No. Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail does not run to the east coast. The closest HSR station is in Taipei, and from there you must transfer to a TRA train.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the best ways to get from Taipei to Hualien, including by train, plane, bus, and car, with full details on cost, duration, and travel tips to make your trip smooth and unforgettable.
Option 1: By Train (TRA) – The Most Popular and Scenic Route
The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) provides the most convenient, scenic, and direct route to Hualien. This is the #1 choice for most travelers.
Route: Taipei Main Station → Hualien Station
Duration:
Tze-Chiang Limited Express: ~2–2.5 hours
Puyuma Express: ~2 hours (faster, more modern)
Cost: NT$440–480
Train Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes
Pros:
Direct to Hualien City Center
Comfortable, air-conditioned, and affordable
Scenic coastal views and tunnels through mountains
Tip: Book train tickets as early as possible, especially on weekends and holidays — this route sells out fast. Book tickets online in advance through klook, the Taiwan Railways website or at any 7-Eleven iBon kiosk. Raed How to Book Taiwan Railway Tickets
Option 2: By Plane – Fast But Limited
Flying from Taipei to Hualien is possible but not recommended unless you need to connect to another flight or are already at the airport.
Route: Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) → Hualien Airport (HUN)
Flight Time: ~50 minutes
Cost: NT$1,500–2,500
Airlines: Uni Air (part of EVA Air)
Pros:
Quick flight time
Good for tight schedules
Cons:
Add time for check-in, security, and airport transfers
Fewer departures per day
Airport is farther from Hualien City than the train station
Tip: Hualien Airport is about 15 minutes by taxi to Hualien Station (NT$200–300).
Option 3: Bus – Not Recommended for Direct Travel
There are no direct long-distance buses from Taipei to Hualien due to the lack of highway connections over the Central Mountains. Buses may be used as part of tours or indirect routes, but they are not practical for regular travel between the two cities.
Option 4: By Car – For Adventurers and Road Trips
Driving from Taipei to Hualien is one of the most scenic road trips in Taiwan, particularly via Highway 9 or Su-Hua Highway (Highway 8 + 9).
Route:
Option 1: Su-Hua Highway (Coastal route)
Option 2: Highway 5 through Yilan, then to Hualien
Drive Time: 3.5–5 hours
Toll Fees: ~NT$100
Car Rental Cost: NT$1,800–3,000/day
Distance: ~160–180 km
Pros:
Spectacular views of cliffs and ocean
Great for road trippers and photo stops
Cons:
Winding, narrow roads—can be dangerous in bad weather
Not ideal for inexperienced drivers
Occasional road closures due to landslides
Tip: Always check road conditions and weather before driving the Su-Hua Highway. It’s beautiful but can be risky during heavy rain or typhoons.
Final Travel Tips
Book TRA train tickets early, especially on weekends and holidays.
Check weather and road closures before driving to Hualien.
Consider combining a trip to Hualien with stops in Yilan, Taroko Gorge, or Taitung.
Download the Taiwan Railways App or Bus+ for live schedules.
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
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