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Hualien is the largest county by area in Taiwan, located off the east coast of Taiwan. It holds magnificent natural beauties and is home to one of the most famous natural wonders in Taiwan, as well as a rich and diverse indigenous culture.
Hualien is typically warm throughout the year, averaging around 18°C in winter and 32°C in summer. The area is also prone to earthquakes, so precautions are advised when you travel. For those planning a trip, consider consulting a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for comparison, though Hualien’s climate is distinct.
Getting to Hualien from Taipei
By Plane
While the most expensive option, you can get to Hualien directly from Taipei Songshan Airport in just 50 minutes.
By Train
Take the Puyuma or Taroko express trains from Taipei Main Station to Hualien. It’s a 2 hours ride and it costs around NT$440. Alternatively, the slower Tze-Chiang limited express and Chu-Kuang express trains can also get you to Hualien in around 2.5 to 4 hours, for NT$340.
By Bus
There are no direct buses from Taipei to Hualien. However, you can choose to take a bus at Taipei Bus Station to Luodong, before switching to the local train to get to Hualien.
You can travel around Hualien city centre easily through a rented bicycle. Besides exploring the city, here are the 12 best things to do in Hualien:
1.
Spend A Day At Taroko Gorge
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© Photo by Zhan Hui Teh on Flickr[/caption]
Taroko Gorge is one of the most gorgeous natural sceneries in Taiwan – and rightfully so. This spectacular stretch of canyon is a sight to behold, with its breathtaking turquoise clear rivers and marble cliffs.
Taroko Gorge is one of the nine national parks in Taiwan, and perhaps the most famous out of all of them. There is plenty to see in this scenic spot. Not only are there natural sceneries, but there are also other attractions such as temples, museums and several hiking trails that you shouldn’t miss. Taroko Gorge is also home to an aboriginal tribe, the Trukus.
There is no entrance fee into the park so for those up for an adventure, you can even spend two or even three days exploring the national park to your heart’s content!
Pro-tip: Make sure to check Trails’ condition before making your way there. Some may only be partially open due to safety reasons.
2.
Go Hiking On The Shakadang Trail
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© Photo by Dickson Phua on Flickr[/caption]
Also known as “Mysterious Valley Trail”, the 4.1 kilometres long Shakadang Trail stretches through the Shakadang River. Located just after the Shakadang Tunnel, this scenic trail suits people of all ages and is renowned for its crystal clear waters.
The trail meanders around observable rock formations including rock folds and a river dam. You can take in the beauty of your surroundings while hiking along the river cliffs. An Observation Platform stands one third through the trail.
Two abandoned Truku tribe settlements—5D Cabin (Wujian wu) near the Observation Platform and 3D Cabin (Sanjianwu) at the trail’s end—are worth visiting. You can buy souvenirs made by Truku natives from the stands at 5D Cabin.
3.
Reach The End Of The Baiyang Trail
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© Photo by 大雄 汪 on Flickr[/caption]
The 2.1-kilometre long Baiyang Trail is located after Tianxiang Village in Taroko Gorge National Park. The trail of tunnels leads to a magnificent waterfall and a stunning Water Curtain at the end. It’s one of the must-see sights in Taroko Gorge.
While this scenic trail is easy to hike due to its flat pavement, do bring along a torchlight as you will be passing through several pitch-black tunnels. Additionally, you can also choose to wear a raincoat to experience the Water Curtain up close.
4.
Go On A Road Trip Down The East Coast National Scenic Area
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© Photo by Jason Zhang on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
The East Coast National Scenic Area boasts an unspoiled coastline along the road between Hualien and Taitung County. Take a road trip down the east coast and stop by attractions like Jici Beach for swimming, Henan Temple at the mountainside, Shitiping’s coastal terraces, and the Amis Folk Centre to learn about the Amis aboriginal tribe. Hop on a tour or take a relaxed drive to explore this picturesque area.
Enjoy The Local Delicacies In The Night Market
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© Photo by Rutger van der Maar on Flickr[/caption]
Night Markets are a staple in any traveler's itinerary to Taiwan. Hualien is no different. Spend the evening sampling local snacks while soaking up the lively culture.
Dongdamen Night Market is the largest night market in Hualien. It has sections distinct to the type of food sold, including Taiwanese food, aboriginal snacks, and Chinese cuisine. Enjoy local treats from classics such as stinky tofu, oyster omelette, and grilled sausages to unique snacks like coffin toast. Live music performances and game vendors make the experience even more fun. Why eat at expensive restaurants when you can fill your stomach with cheap, delicious food at the night market?
Eat Mochi
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© Photo by Tzen Chi’s official website (tzen1314.com)[/caption]
Said to be one of Hualien’s signature foods, you should definitely try its mochi when you’re in Hualien. Mochi is a snack made of glutinous rice pounded into a gel-like paste. Akin to rice cakes, mochi is one of the healthier snack choices.
Tzen Chi Mochi is one of the most famous gourmet mochi stores in Hualien. The soft and chewy texture with its selection of rich fillings is second to none in the county. Red bean, peanut, sesame and taro fillings – you can take your pick and it will still be equally tasty. It’s also a perfect souvenir to bring home for your family and friends!
7.
Visit Hualien Sugar Factory
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© Photo by Wei-Te Wong on Flickr[/caption]
Situated in Guangfu Township, the Hualien Sugar Factory we see now was where the “Yamato Factory” used to stand. It used to produce sugar on a large scale before the factories got destroyed due to World War II. It has since then been rebuilt into Hualien Sugar Factory before it became one of the tourist destinations in Hualien.
Hualien Sugar Factory is now a recreational complex as well as a historical site. Historic Japanese style buildings dot the landscape, and you can also enjoy the vintage architectural buildings and structures around. Visit the cultural park and take part in the interesting creative workshops available!
You can also take a short rest at the pavilion while enjoying the factory’s famous ice-cream, surrounded by the fish in the serene pond. There are also shops selling handicrafts and organic products that are worth checking out. Spend the afternoon reveling in the tranquil charm of this particular site!
8.
Drop by Chi-An Chinghisu Temple
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© Photo by Mk2010 on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Chi-An Chinghisu Temple is a Japanese-style Buddhist shrine located in Ji’an Township in Hualien. Also a historical site, the temple has been around since the Japanese colonial period as a Dojo, rebuilt in 1945 into a temple.
The main temple is made of sturdy wooden structures, with a Japanese-style four-pillar rooftop. This site holds significant historical importance and is classified as a third-class historical monument. It’s a place many Japanese tourists like to visit when in Hualien. It's also a place where you can learn more about Taiwan’s historical past.
Ticket costs a small fee, with coupons you can use in the souvenir shop. The greenery surrounding the temple also gives the place a quiet charm for visitors.
9.
Be Charmed By Pine Garden
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© Photo by momo on Flickr[/caption]
Set foot into Pine Garden and be charmed by the century-old pine trees and the lush greenery that’s home to species of flora. The aquatic pond highlights the beauty of the garden, and it’s as if you’re stepping into the world of an aesthetic historical art piece.
The Pine Garden originally served as a command centre during the Japanese Colonial days in 1942. It was also a place of retreat for the Japanese ranked military officers. Situated at one of the highest points in Hualien city, the garden offers an amazing panoramic view of the city. Moreover, it overlooks Hualien Port, Meilun River, and the Pacific Ocean, making the sight even more unique.
The Pine Garden is also a cultural hub now where you can visit the souvenir shop, the bomb shelter, and art exhibitions in the building to learn more about the past. Additionally, you can also wind down at the cafe and relax in the calm and quiet atmosphere. General admission costs a small fee, and prices are discounted for students, seniors, and young children.
10.
Hualien Farglory Ocean Park
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© Photo by William Cho on Flickr[/caption]
The ocean park, located in Shoufeng Township, is the largest man-made attraction in Hualien. It consists of eight different zones that represent the different aspects of marine life.
The amusement park features attractions such as the classic roller coasters as well as a variety of thrilling water rides. Furthermore, there’s an underwater world and a fairy tale castle as well. You can take a ride up the cable car and be treated by the view of the landscape. Be sure to not miss out on the marine-animal shows too! The sea lions and dolphins will definitely capture your heart with their enchanting performance.
The ocean park also sets out to help visitors learn more about marine life and its conservation efforts, further enriching your experience in this wonderful ocean park.
Tickets are available for adults, with various discounted prices for children, seniors, and students.
Visit Wuhe Tourist Tea Plantations
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© Photo by Fred Hsu on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
For tea lovers, visit Wuhe Tourist Tea Plantations at Ruisui Township in Hualien. The plantations sit on a river terrace southwest of where Hongye River and Xiuguluan River meet.
Try their famous Honey Peach Black Tea, made possible by pesticide-free farming. The plantations are also known for their quality oolong tea. Learn about the agricultural process of farming tea leaves while taking in the aroma. There’s nothing more relaxing than sampling tea or tea snacks in the late afternoon.
12.
Explore Hualien Cultural Creative Industries Park
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© Photo by lienyuan lee on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Also known as a|zone Hualien Cultural Creative Industries Park, this cultural park promotes creative arts in the centre of Hualien City. It is the largest creative market in Hualien.
Previously an old wine factory, it has been transformed into a large industrial space with shops selling handicrafts. Entrance is free. The park features 13 individual cabins and offers a great backdrop for photography.
Markets run from Wednesday to Sunday, and events are sometimes held on the grounds. It’s a great place to check out culturally unique arts and bring home souvenirs.
Make Your Trip To Hualien An Unforgettable One
With its stellar beauty, charming natural scenery, rich cultural sites, and scenic historical monuments, Hualien is a place you should definitely consider visiting in Taiwan.
It’s around a 2-hour ride and costs approximately NT$440. At Chi-An Chinghisu Temple, ticket costs a small fee, with coupons you can use in the souvenir shop. At Hualien Farglory Ocean Park, tickets are available for adults, with various discounted prices for children, seniors, and students.
Related travel guides: Best Things To Do In Yilan, Taiwan and Things To Do In Taiwan.
