About 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
Hualien’s food scene reflects its mix of indigenous heritage, Hakka influence, and coastal bounty.
Night Markets in Hualien
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.
Must-Try Foods
Mochi – Hualien is famous for soft, sweet rice cakes
Aboriginal-style BBQ – Often sold at night markets
Stone-grilled chicken – Traditional and flavorful
Wontons at Gongzheng Baozi – A legendary spot in Hualien City
Flying Fish – Seasonal, and a staple in indigenous cooking
Grilled meat skewers, Grilled squid, Seafood skewers, Fried squid, Millet wine & wild boar sausage
Famous Stores
Gong Zheng Bun Store 公正街包子店
Yellow Car Bomb Scallion Pancake 黃車炸彈蔥餅
Ye Xiang Bian Shi 液香扁食
Yüli Jiangtou stinky tofu 玉里臭豆腐店
Mr. Goose 鵝肉先生
Yi wan xiao (A small bowl) 一碗小
Chicken Soup Small Roll Rice Noodle 單一純賣 雞湯 小卷米粉
Fengchun Ice Shop 豐春冰菓店
Qing Feng Noodle Shop 慶豐麵店
Nine.sushi 阿九壽司
Mei Lun Black Tea 美崙紅茶
Zhong Yi Tofu Pudding 中一豆花
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.
Discover Indigenous Culture
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 Tafalong Indigenous Cultural Center
Enjoy performances at cultural centers or local festivals
Try indigenous dishes like millet wine, smoked meats, and bamboo rice
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.
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
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.
Other Fun Places in Hualien
In addition to Taroko Gorge, there are many other fun places in Hualien.
Hualien Railway Culture Park 花蓮鐵道文化園區
Hualien Cultural Creative Industries Park 花蓮文化創意產業園區
Hualien Pacific Landscape Park 太平洋公園
Starbucks Shipping Container Store 星巴克 – 洄瀾門市
Sanzhan Riverside Area 三棧溪戲水區
Emerald Valley Shuilian Waterfall 翡翠谷水簾瀑布
Shapodangxipan Park 砂婆噹溪畔公園
Baibao River 白鮑溪
Xiuguluan River 秀姑巒溪泛舟
Farglory Ocean Park 遠雄海洋公園
Yunshanshui Dream Lake 雲山水夢幻湖
Liyu Lake 鯉魚潭
Li Chuan Aquafarm 立川漁場
Sixty Stone Mountain 六十石山金針花
Daylily Flowers Chihke Mountain 赤柯山金針花
Qixingtan Beach 七星潭
48 Highland Military Tunnel 四八高地戰備坑道
ChiHsin Dry Bonito Museum 七星柴魚博物館
Ruisui Farm 瑞穗牧場
Tropic of Cancer Marker Park 北回歸線標誌公園
Shitiping Terraced Rocks 石梯坪遊憩風景區
Qingbuzhizi Ancient Trail 親不知子天空步道
Dashibishan Trail 大石鼻山步道
Baqi Observatory 芭崎休息區
Hualien Shimen Cave 花蓮石門洞
Jingpu Tropic of Cancer Landmark 靜浦北迴歸線界標
NananWaterfall 南安瀑布
How to Get to Hualien from Taipei
The Ultimate Travel Guide
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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