From the Azure Coast to Cultural Nostalgia: A "Just Right" Day Tour in Hualien City

Hualien's charm isn't solely defined by the breathtaking Taroko Gorge or the idyllic Rift Valley. Its city center, with a unique slow-paced rhythm and vibrant local life, blends the gifts of mountains and sea with a touch of human warmth, creating a distinctive character. On this day tour, we won't rush through an itinerary but instead immerse ourselves in this "just right" city, starting with the blue ocean and ending with a sweet treat.

First Stop: Good Morning, Qixingtan! Listening to the Pacific's Breath
Our journey begins at the closest stretch of blue to the city—Qixingtan. Here, you're greeted not by soft sandy beaches but by a shore of smooth, polished pebbles shaped by the waves. Walking barefoot on the stones, each step is accompanied by the crisp sound of "clack, clack," a unique melody of Qixingtan.

The morning sun is gentle and non-intrusive. We found a pleasing stone to sit on, doing nothing but watching the Pacific waves roll ashore and retreat, stirring the pebbles with a soothing "swoosh—swoosh" sound. This sound has a magical ability to cleanse the soul.

In the distance, the majestic Central Mountain Range looms, and occasionally, the roar of F-16 fighter jets from Hualien Air Force Base adds a surreal touch to the tranquil seascape. Many enjoy playing the "stone stacking" game here, carefully balancing stones as if conversing with nature to find a delicate equilibrium. At Qixingtan, you don't need elaborate activities; simply "being present" is the best experience.

Second Stop: A Culinary Adventure in the City
Leaving the sea breeze behind, we rode a scooter back to the city for a gastronomic adventure. Hualien's food scene is humble yet captivating.

* Our first target was the famous "Gongzheng Baozi." Freshly steamed, these hot buns have a slightly sweet outer skin and juicy, flavorful fillings. One after another, they offer simple yet satisfying bites.

* For lunch, we indulged in another Hualien classic—"Wontons." We stepped into an old eatery and ordered a bowl of wonton soup. The thin-skinned, generously filled wontons paired with a light pork bone broth warmed our stomachs and hearts.

* Of course, we couldn't miss the most dramatic snack—the "Exploding Scallion Pancake." Watching the vendor expertly fry the dough to a golden crisp and crack an egg inside, the semi-runny yolk combined with the crispy pancake and sweet-spicy sauce creates a sinful yet blissful taste sensation.

Wandering through the city's alleys in search of food not only filled our bellies but also allowed us to experience the most authentic and lively side of this city.

Third Stop: Afternoon Stroll at Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park
After a satisfying meal, it's best to find a place for a leisurely stroll. The "Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park," transformed from an old sake brewery, is the perfect choice.

The park retains its Japanese-era warehouse architecture, with cedar roofs and pebble-washed walls exuding a rich historical charm. The afternoon sun casts dappled light across the park, creating a serene atmosphere. We wandered into various shops showcasing local handicrafts, unique cultural products, and occasional art exhibitions. Sitting in a café, sipping coffee while gazing at the greenery and old buildings outside, we enjoyed an uninterrupted moment of tranquility, adding a touch of artistic flair to our journey.

Final Stop: Souvenirs—Bringing Hualien's Chewy Delights Home
As the day tour comes to an end, it's customary to bring back a memento. "Mochi" is undoubtedly Hualien's most iconic souvenir. Stepping into a traditional shop, we watched the staff handcrafting these treats. The soft, chewy texture filled with sweet red bean or peanut paste embodies Hualien's simplest yet sweetest flavors.

Conclusion
From the soothing waves of Qixingtan to the enticing aromas of local cuisine and the serene afternoon at the cultural park, a day in Hualien City can be both rich and leisurely. It doesn't require a packed itinerary; all you need is an open heart and a willingness to wander. In the embrace of mountains and sea, you'll find a sense of ease and inspiration that's "just right."