Hualien

Introducing Hualien

Hualien County, part of Taiwan Province, is Taiwan's largest county. Located in the eastern part of the island, it was one of the last places in Taiwan to be settled by Han Chinese.

Hualien's east coast stretches 124 kilometers. Numerous rivers flowing into the sea create a diverse array of coastal landscapes, with cliffs being the most precipitous. The Qingshui Cliff, located south of Pingxikou, rises over 1,000 meters and is a renowned scenic spot on the Suhua Highway. Furthermore, the Shimen Coast in southern Hualien County features a hard rocky coastline with numerous sea erosion features. Further south, Shitiping (Stone Steps) features rocky platforms jutting into the sea like stairways. The area also boasts numerous sea trenches, cliffs, platforms, and raised coral reefs, with potholes considered Taiwan's finest.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring is the perfect season to visit Hualien. Admiring the sea of ​​flowers is one of the highlights of the Hualien-Taitung Valley. A day trip by car allows you to take in 7,500 hectares of stunning scenery. Besides rapeseed blossoms, there are also cosmos, sunflowers, zinnias, and other colorful flowers.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Qixingtan Scenic Area

Hualien's only county-level scenic spot is a long crescent-shaped coastline. Qixingtan is known for its magnificent bay, perfect for watching the sunrise, stargazing, and moonlight.

East Rift Valley

The alluvial plain, nestled between the island's Central Mountain Range and the Coastal Mountain Range, serves as a "green corridor" connecting Hualien and Taitung. Undeveloped and home to simple folk customs, the scenic area is surrounded by lush green mountains and boasts waterfalls, canyons, and streams. Visitors can also enjoy hot springs, visit pastoral farms, explore prehistoric cultures, visit indigenous cultures, and explore Taitung's industrial heritage sites, among other cultural and historical attractions.

Qingshui Cliff

A marvel of Taiwan's east coast, and one of Taiwan's eight greatest scenic spots, the Qingshui Cliff rises over 1,000 meters, facing the Pacific Ocean at a nearly 90-degree angle. The winding road stretches over 20 kilometers, with sheer cliffs on one side and the vast ocean on the other. The precipitous terrain and dramatic scenery are both terrifying and breathtaking.

Recommended number of days for visiting: about 2 days

Tickets

The consumption level in Hualien is medium, and food and accommodation are not expensive. The price from the Youth Travel Agency is around 100 yuan, and you can stay in a better B&B for 300 yuan.

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Most Popular FAQs for Hualien

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hualien is located on Taiwan’s east coast and is known for its rich indigenous culture and natural landscapes. It serves as the gateway to Taroko Gorge and has historical significance as a trade and fishing hub.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hualien is in eastern Taiwan. Accessible via Hualien Train Station (TRA) and Hualien Airport. Local transport includes buses, taxis, and rental scooters; walking is suitable within city areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Taroko Gorge: open 24/7, visitor centers 8 AM–5 PM.
• Night markets: 5 PM–11 PM.
• Best visiting season: October to April for mild weather and fewer typhoons.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Taroko National Park: free entry; some trails may require small fees.
• Cultural parks and museums: 50–150 TWD; tickets purchased on-site.
• River rafting or whale watching: tickets booked online or through local tour operators.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for river rafting, whale watching, and guided tours, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 days to enjoy Taroko Gorge, city attractions, and coastal activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Taroko Gorge and Shakadang Trail
• Eternal Spring Shrine and Swallow Grotto
• Qixingtan Beach
• Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park
• Dongdamen Night Market
• Pine Garden

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, English, and Japanese. Audio guides are limited but sometimes available at cultural sites and visitor centers.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Eternal Spring Shrine
• Swallow Grotto
• Shakadang Trail along crystal-clear river
• Qixingtan Beach at sunrise
• Pine Garden for city and ocean views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Taroko Gorge (Swallow Grotto, Eternal Spring Shrine, Shakadang Trail). Day 2: Qixingtan Beach and Pine Garden. Day 3: Cultural Park and Dongdamen Night Market. Optional Day 4–5: River rafting, whale watching, or additional Taroko trails.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night markets operate in the evening. Some cultural parks host evening events or exhibitions. Taroko Gorge is mostly daytime visits, though some trails are accessible at sunset.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekends and holidays are crowded. Visit weekdays and early mornings for fewer crowds, especially in Taroko Gorge.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Visitor centers, night markets, and major trails provide toilets, food stalls, water, seating, and souvenir shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main city attractions and cultural parks are accessible. Some trails in Taroko Gorge are steep or require steps, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but small vendors and local markets may require cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Taiwanese cuisine, seafood restaurants, cafes along the coast, and street food at Dongdamen Night Market.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in city restaurants; halal options are limited but present in some hotels and markets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Luxury: Silks Place Taroko, Promisedland Resort & Lagoon
• Mid-range: Lakeshore Hotel, Parkview Hotel
• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses near Hualien Train Station

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Taroko Gorge trails
• Qingshui Cliff
• Chishingtan Beach
• Whale and dolphin watching tours

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Local crafts, aboriginal handicrafts
• Pineapple cakes and local snacks
• Handmade jewelry and cultural souvenirs at cultural parks

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• TRA trains to Taipei or Taitung
• Buses or taxis for local sightseeing
• Rental scooters for flexible coastal or Taroko travel