Introduction to Yilan
Located in the verdant northeast corner of Taiwan, Yilan is a place where lush mountains, bubbling hot springs, charming small towns, and the serene beauty of the coastline combine to create a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. This scenic region offers everything from immersive nature experiences to rich cultural encounters, making it one of Taiwan’s hidden gems for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and tradition.
Often overshadowed by nearby Taipei or Hualien, Yilan has been attracting more attention in recent years for its beautiful landscapes, its hot springs, and its proximity to some of Taiwan’s most pristine coastlines. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager to hike up a mountain trail, a foodie wanting to sample fresh local delicacies, or a traveler looking to unwind in a tranquil retreat, Yilan is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy life’s simpler pleasures.
Why Visit Yilan
- Beautiful Nature & Outdoor Activities – Rolling mountains, lush forests, waterfalls, and coastline.
- Hot Springs – Yilan is known for its natural hot spring resorts, perfect for relaxation.
- Local Produce & Cuisine – Yilan boasts fresh seafood, locally grown fruits, and unique specialties.
- Traditional Culture & Festivals – A rich indigenous and cultural heritage to explore.
- Peaceful Vibe – Escape from the city hustle and immerse yourself in nature and serenity.
Yilan is where Taiwan slows down and breathes. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, sipping tea beside a rice field, or biking through the misty countryside, you’ll feel a special kind of calm that city life just can’t offer. Take your time, follow the rhythm of the land, and let Yilan surprise you.
What to Eat in Yilan
Night Market
Luodong Night Market
Yilan East Gate Night Market
Popular Restaurants
Ke’s Scallion Pancake 柯氏蔥油餅 Google Map
Crispy and chewy texture – The pancake is pan-fried to a golden crisp outside while remaining chewy inside, offering the perfect bite.
Farm-fresh scallions – Made with locally grown Yilan scallions, the aroma and freshness are key highlights.
Customizable with egg and sauces – Popular add-ons like egg and sweet garlic or chili sauce elevate the flavor experience.
Weng Yao Chicken Jiaoxi Main Store 甕窯雞礁溪總店 Google Map
Clay oven-roasted whole chicken – Slow-cooked in a traditional urn oven, the chicken is juicy, aromatic, and tender with crispy skin.
Rustic, countryside dining setting – The open-air, farmhouse-like environment offers a local and authentic dining vibe.
Homemade side dishes – Popular pairings include mountain vegetables and dipping sauces made from traditional recipes.
A-Zong Taro Ice City 阿宗芋冰城 Google Map
Iconic Yilan taro ice – Known for its smooth, rich taro flavor and creamy texture without being overly sweet.
Wide variety of flavors – Along with taro, flavors like peanut, pineapple, and red bean cater to nostalgic Taiwanese taste buds.
Local heritage treat – A beloved spot for generations, this shop has strong ties to Yilan’s dessert culture.
Cai Ji Stinky Tofu 財記臭豆腐 Google Map
Crispy outside, soft inside – Deep-fried to golden perfection with a fluffy interior and strong fermented aroma.
Classic Taiwanese night market flavor – Served with sweet-sour pickled cabbage and spicy garlic sauce for a traditional punch.
Crowd-favorite among locals – It’s a well-established spot for stinky tofu lovers visiting Luodong or Yilan City.
Yuan Lai Dou Hua-Yilan Branch 原來豆花｜宜蘭店 Google Map
Traditional tofu pudding with modern twists – Silky soft tofu paired with creative toppings like grass jelly, boba, or taro balls.
Made from non-GMO soybeans – Known for clean, natural flavor and smooth texture.
Minimalist and cozy space – A peaceful setting for enjoying a classic Taiwanese dessert with a healthy focus.
Rakuzan Hot Spring Ramen 樂山溫泉拉麵 Google Map Branch
Hot spring-infused broth – Unique umami flavor achieved by using Jiaoxi hot spring water in the soup base.
Japanese-style setting near hot springs – Ideal for pairing a relaxing soak with a warm bowl of authentic ramen.
Popular with locals and tourists – Loved for its novelty and quality, often with lines during peak times.
Kong Farm (空ㄟ農場) Google Map , Shuttle bus
Hilltop dining with panoramic views – Enjoy café-style meals while overlooking the Lanyang Plain and Pacific Ocean.
Instagram-worthy architecture – Rustic, wood-built terraces and transparent railings perfect for photos.
Sunset and night scenery – One of Yilan’s best spots for watching the sunset or night lights from above.
It is recommended to come on weekdays evenings and dine during non-meal times so that you don’t have to queue for so long. If you come during holidays, the waiting time during meal time is about 2 hours.
Due to the steep and narrow road leading up to the restaurant, you have to park at the bottom and take the shuttle up. To make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid busy times.
Jun Huaijiu Restaurant 駿懷舊餐廳 Google Map
Retro Taiwanese dining experience – Decorated like a 1960s Taiwan street, filled with nostalgic signage and antiques.
Traditional Taiwanese home-cooked dishes – Offers classic dishes like three-cup chicken, bitter melon pork, and stir-fried noodles.
Great for group dining – Spacious interiors and large tables make it ideal for family or tour group meals.
Things to Do in Yilan
Jiaoxi
Tangweigou Hot Spring Park
Tangweigou Hot Spring Park (湯圍溝温泉公園) sits at the heart of Jiaoxi Township and is celebrated for its open-air foot-soaking streams filled with naturally warm, milky-carbonated spring water. The park’s tiered pools and curved wooden bridges offer a relaxing town center retreat, blending urban convenience with nature’s benefits. Many streetside vendors rent colorful plastic tubs for a soak while tourists sip herbal teas from nearby cafés.
As the sun sets, decorative lanterns illuminate the park’s forested edges, creating a subtly festive atmosphere that leads into evening soakers and strollers. This accessible spring experience—requiring no entrance fee—makes it a favorite spot for casual thermal therapy, romantic strolls, or family outings.
Key Points:
Free public hot spring foot pools in scenic urban park
Warm carbonated water ideal for relaxation and circulatory benefits
Laid-back evening ambience with lantern-lit walkways
Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park
■ Yilan: Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park Forest Bath Ticket/Kimono Yukata Experience
While often used interchangeably with Tangweigou, Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park (礁溪溫泉公園) offers more private soaking areas and is a short stroll away, providing a quieter and more upscale atmosphere. Its clean, tiled pools and well-groomed surroundings attract visitors looking for a semi-public and calming experience, with optional towels and tea service.
Garden benches shaded by bamboo and flowering trees make it easy to linger after soaking, while viewing platforms offer glimpses of Jiaoxi’s green hills in the background. It’s a refined complement to Tangweigou’s lively energy—ideal for couples or travelers seeking a gentler spa ambiance.
Key Points:
Semi-private communal pools with warmer ambiance
Clean, peaceful environment shaded by greenery
Optional service offerings: towels, tea, and quiet soaking
Wufengqi Waterfall & Hiking Trail
The Wufengqi waterfall system (五峰旗瀑布步道) comprises three cascading falls nestled in forested slopes, connected by a scenic trail paved with stone steps and wooden bridges. The middle waterfall—easily reached after a gentle 10-minute hike—is the most impressive, with a pool at its base surrounded by lush ferns and moss.
Continue past the middle falls for more secluded upper cascades and viewpoints favored by nature photographers. The walking path is shaded and well-maintained, ideal for an easy nature excursion that combines waterfall views, native flora, and a refreshing forest atmosphere.
Key Points:
Three-tiered waterfall system with a family-friendly trail
Lush forest surrounds with safe boardwalks and steps
Popular for photography, nature walks, and cooling swims
Linmei Shipan Trail
The Linmei Shipan Trail (林美石磐步道) is a scenic riverside walkway that follows the Dongshan River through a narrow gorge of smooth basalt and schist boulders. Wooden decks and riverside platforms meander among large rock slabs and crystal-clear pools, allowing visitors to sit by flowing water or dip their feet.
The gentle elevation and smooth underlying layers make this one of the region’s most relaxing day hikes—perfect for families and casual nature seekers. Along the path, you’ll find riverside old tea groves and plenty of native flora, along with birdlife and seasonal wildflowers.
Key Points:
Elevated trail through riverside gorge of smooth rock slabs
Foot-dipping platforms and shaded wooden walkways
Relaxed loop trail with birdlife, wildflowers, and native greenery
Toucheng
Lanyang Museum
■ Lanyang Museum Permanent Exhibition Ticket in Yilan
Lanyang Museum (蘭陽博物館) is a striking riverside landmark that showcases the natural and cultural history of the Yilan region. Designed with flowing curves that echo the adjacent Lanyang Plain and its dramatic coastline, the building blends architecture with landscape. Inside, multi-modal exhibits explore indigenous heritage, marine ecology, seismic geology, and the region’s tea and rice farming traditions.
The museum strikes a balance between education and aesthetics—interactive displays make it family-friendly, while its architectural form is a draw for design-savvy travelers. With a café overlooking the estuary and serene outdoor gardens, the museum is a cultural anchor for anyone exploring eastern Taiwan.
Key Points:
Architecturally iconic building inspired by local landscape
Interactive installations on ecology, geology, and regional heritage
Estuary-view café and landscaped outdoor areas
Mr. Brown Castle Café
Mr. Brown Castle Café (伯朗城堡咖啡館) is a romantic, castle-styled café set on a green hill in Luodong Township. Its ivy-draped stone façade and decorative turrets evoke European charm, while the palate-pleasing menu features coffee sourced from Taiwan’s highland estates, artisanal desserts, and light meals. Visitors often linger here amid garden terraces and panoramic valley views.
Whether you’re settling in for a midday treat or watching dusk drape the plain below, the café offers an escape with photo-ready aesthetics and slow-paced ambiance. Foodies and photo enthusiasts alike appreciate the blend of taste, atmosphere, and a tranquil panorama.
Key Points:
European-style hilltop architecture with castle vibes
Locally sourced coffee, desserts, and light meals
Scenic terrace views overlooking Luodong valley
Wai’ao Beach
Wai’ao Beach (外澳海灘) is Yilan’s surf capital, known for its long, gently sloping sandy shore and consistent Pacific swells. It’s a magnet for surfers, beachgoers, and those chasing sunrise surf sessions. The casual beachfront vibe is complemented by surf rental shops and itinerant food stalls serving grilled seafood and fresh fruit.
A 30-meter high, red-brick wave-watching terrace offers a perfect sunset backdrop and sea-view café. The beach’s golden sands, distant lighthouse silhouettes, and musical ocean soundscape make Wai’ao a memorable sensory delight—even for those just enjoying a barefoot walk along the surf’s edge.
Key Points:
Best-known Yilan surf beach with rental shops
Popular sunrise and sunset vantage points
Laid-back food stalls and terrace cafés
Dolphin/Whale Watching Boat Tours to Turtle Island
■ Yilan: Guishan Island Half-Day Tour (Whale-Watching)
■ Yilan Guishan Island Half-Day Tour: Guishan Island Landing, Whale Watching, Surrounding Guishan Island
Launching from Nanfang’ao or Wushihwei Harbor, these boat tours head toward Turtle Island (龜山島)—an extinct volcanic island just off Yilan’s coast—to observe playful dolphins and migrating whales. Tours include marine biology commentary and onboard sightings via telescopes and hydrophones.
Beyond cetacean spotting, the journey reveals turquoise waters, seabird colonies, and volcanic shorelines at Turtle Island. Photo-ready sea-sprays and wildlife sightings make the trip an essential coastal experience and an educational marine encounter in northeastern Taiwan.
Key Points:
Guided wildlife tours featuring dolphins and seasonal whales
Scenic boat ride to volcanic Turtle Island
Marine commentary, hydrophones, and sea bird encounters
Outside the City Center
Qingshui Geothermal Park
Tucked away in the lush hills of Datong Township, Qingshui Geothermal Park offers a rare chance to get close to Taiwan’s geothermal energy. Steam vents and bubbling pools line a well-developed boardwalk, where you can enjoy foot-soaking areas and even cook your own eggs or corn in naturally boiling spring water. It’s a hands-on, family-friendly experience surrounded by mountains and fresh air.
This site isn’t just scenic—it’s also a sustainable, educational destination. Signs along the trails explain geothermal processes, and picnic spots make it perfect for a casual half-day trip. The on-site snack stands and cooking baskets add a uniquely local flavor to this natural hot spot.
Key Points:
Natural hot springs where you can boil eggs and veggies
Foot-soaking zones with scenic mountain views
Educational and family-friendly eco park
Jiuzhize Hot Spring
■ Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area Ticket in Yilan
Jiuzhize Hot Spring is a peaceful retreat located within the greater Taipingshan area. Known for its soothing, mineral-rich waters, this open-air hot spring features stone tubs nestled beside a gentle mountain stream. The serene forest setting makes it ideal for quiet reflection or a refreshing rest after hiking nearby trails.
The experience here feels rustic and authentic—no loud crowds or artificial pools. Instead, you’ll find wooden walkways, steam rising from the ground, and a backdrop of green trees and birdsong. It’s a perfect blend of nature and relaxation, loved by locals and savvy travelers alike.
Key Points:
Natural hot springs in a serene forest valley
Quiet and rustic atmosphere, great for post-hike relaxation
Located within Taipingshan recreational area
Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area
■ Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area (From Taipei)
■ Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area Ticket in Yilan
Taipingshan is one of Taiwan’s most beloved alpine forest retreats. The area spans a wide range of altitudes, offering cool mountain air, cloud forest scenery, and historic logging trails. Visitors come to hike lush paths like the Beech Trail, take in misty sunrise views from Cuifeng Lake, and breathe in crisp, pine-scented air.
Beyond nature, Taipingshan also offers cultural and historical value. The old Bong Bong Train, once used for transporting timber, now carries tourists through forested tracks. It’s an immersive escape that combines ecological richness with a touch of nostalgia.
Key Points:
Cool alpine forest with scenic trails and lakes
Historic Bong Bong Train adds cultural charm
Great for sunrise views and forest bathing
Luodong Forestry Cultural Park
Luodong Forestry Cultural Park blends history with leisure in the heart of Yilan. This former timber-processing site has been converted into a peaceful green space, filled with old railway tracks, timber warehouses, and ponds. It tells the story of Yilan’s forestry past through exhibits and preserved structures.
Locals love this park for its calm atmosphere and walking paths, while visitors enjoy learning about the region’s connection to nature and industry. Seasonal markets and cultural events breathe life into the grounds, making it more than just a museum—it’s a community hub.
Key Points:
Preserved site showcasing Yilan’s forestry history
Open-air museum with trails, ponds, and railway remnants
Hosts local events, crafts, and art performances
■ Yilan National Center for Traditional Arts and Kavalan Whisky Distillery Day Tour (From Taipei)
■ National Center For Traditional Arts Ticket in Yilan
Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm
■ Yilan Zhang Mei Ama Farm Day Tour (From Taipei)
■ Guishan Island Whale Watching & Zhangmei Farm & Kavalan Whiskey (From Taipei)
■ Sloth Restaurant (Admission Ticket to Pet Paradise)
Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm is a warm, welcoming family-run farm where visitors can pick fresh fruit, feed farm animals, and stroll through flower fields. The real charm lies in the “Ama” herself—grandmother figures who share stories, snacks, and smiles with every guest. It’s a hands-on, heartwarming experience that connects you with Taiwan’s rural lifestyle.
Whether you’re tasting homemade herbal tea or learning to make sweet potato balls, this farm turns a simple visit into a memory. It’s a great place for families and couples alike, especially during seasonal harvests like strawberries or sunflowers.
Key Points:
Family-friendly farm with fruit picking and animal feeding
Run by local grandmas who offer snacks and stories
Perfect for cultural immersion and slow travel
Bambi Land
Bambi Land is a small animal-themed park near Luodong where kids and adults can interact with gentle deer, rabbits, and other animals. The peaceful setting includes green lawns, shaded enclosures, and whimsical decorations that make it feel like a woodland storybook scene.
More than just a petting zoo, Bambi Land also offers pony rides, themed cafés, and picnic areas. It’s a calm, charming escape where little ones can play and learn, and adults can relax with a cup of coffee under the trees.
Key Points:
Interact with deer, rabbits, and small animals
Kid-friendly attractions like pony rides and garden play areas
Relaxing green space with on-site cafés
Donshan River Ecoark
Dongshan River Ecoark is a nature-friendly park built along the banks of the Dongshan River. With biking paths, boat rides, and water play areas, it’s a favorite spot for locals on weekends. The landscape includes wetlands, birdwatching stations, and art installations that change with the seasons.
Families enjoy the flat, wide trails and riverside lawns, while nature lovers come for the birdlife and eco-learning centers. The park also hosts annual events like summer fireworks and lantern shows, adding a festive vibe to its eco-conscious design.
Key Points:
Scenic riverside park with trails and boat rides
Family-friendly wetlands and educational displays
Hosts seasonal festivals and art installations
Kavalan Distillery
■ Yilan East Coast & Kavalan Whisky Distillery Day Tour (From Taipei)
Kavalan Distillery, located in Yuanshan, is internationally known for its award-winning whiskies. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about whisky-making, and taste signature labels like Solist Vinho Barrique. The factory grounds include a modern tasting room, a café, and a whisky-blending bar.
Its reputation isn’t just hype—Kavalan’s success lies in its use of pure spring water and Taiwan’s humid aging environment, which accelerates the maturation process. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or curious traveler, a visit here offers both flavor and insight.
Key Points:
World-renowned distillery known for award-winning whisky
Offers guided tours, tastings, and DIY blending
Uses local spring water and fast-aging climate for quality results
Things to Do in Yilan with Kids
Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm
Bambi Land
Lucky Art Crayon Factory
Kili Bay Bubble Tea Cultural Center
How to Get to Yilan from Taipei
Yilan, nestled between Taiwan’s lush mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is a beloved getaway destination for both locals and tourists. Known for its hot springs, night markets, scenic coastal towns, and natural beauty, it’s perfect for a relaxing day trip or a peaceful weekend escape from Taipei.
Despite being relatively close—just around 60 kilometers away—Yilan feels worlds apart from the urban bustle of Taipei. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get to Yilan from Taipei by train, bus, car, and more.
Option 1: By Train (TRA) – Most Popular and Scenic
Taking the train is the most popular way to get from Taipei to Yilan, offering scenic views, affordable fares, and frequent departures.
Route: Taipei Main Station → Yilan / Luodong / Jiaoxi
Train Type: Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA)
Duration:
Yilan City: ~1.5 hours
Jiaoxi: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Luodong: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Cost: NT$140–180 (depending on the station and train type)
Train Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes
Pros:
Scenic coastal route through mountains and tunnels
Direct service to multiple towns (Yilan, Jiaoxi, Luodong, Toucheng)
Affordable and reliable
Tip: For faster trains, book Tze-Chiang Limited Express. Reserve tickets during weekends and holidays to ensure a seat.
Option 2: By Intercity Bus – Cheap and Flexible
Buses are a great budget-friendly option and often faster than the train during off-peak hours thanks to the Xueshan (Snow Mountain) Tunnel, one of the longest road tunnels in Asia.
Route: Taipei City → Yilan / Luodong / Jiaoxi
Departure Points: Taipei Bus Station (next to Taipei Main Station), City Hall Bus Station
Bus Companies: Kamalan Bu, Capital Bus
Duration: ~1 hour to 1.5 hours (traffic-dependent)
Cost: NT$140–170
Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes
Pros:
Very frequent
Direct to city centers
Cheap and air-conditioned
Tip: Avoid traveling during Friday evenings, Sunday evenings, or national holidays—traffic in the tunnel can cause serious delays.
Option 3: By Car – Flexible and Scenic
Driving to Yilan is a great option for travelers wanting to explore multiple towns or travel at their own pace.
Route: Take National Freeway No. 5 through the Xueshan Tunnel
Driving Time: ~1–1.5 hours
Distance: ~60–80 km (depending on your destination)
Tolls: Around NT$65
Fuel: NT$200–300 one way
Pros:
Total flexibility
Great for visiting multiple attractions in one day (e.g., Taipingshan, Nanfangao, or Dongshan River)
Easy access to remote areas
Tip: Depart early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid tunnel congestion. Use Google Maps or Waze to monitor traffic.
Final Travel Tips
Reserve tickets early during weekends and holidays for TRA trains.
Bring cash—some night markets and local eateries in Yilan may not accept cards.
Check the weather—Yilan is known for rainfall, so bring a light rain jacket.
Download Taiwan Railways App or Bus+ App for real-time schedules.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the Cultural Side of Yilan
Visit National Center for Traditional Arts
Explore Jiaoxi Hot Springs and enjoy a foot bath
Discover Toucheng Old Street for a traditional market experience
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
Take a trip to Wulai Waterfall and explore the indigenous village
Spend the afternoon at the Dongshan River Water Park, cycling or boating
End the day with a relaxing soak in Jiaoxi’s hot springs
Day 3: Coastal Beauty
Head to Lanyang Museum and enjoy its architecture and coastal views
Visit the scenic beaches and enjoy fresh seafood along the coast
Hike along part of the Taiwan East Coast National Scenic Area
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