Taiwan Yilan

Taiwan Yilan

Yilan, located in northeastern Taiwan, boasts stunning natural scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, making it an ideal travel destination. Here's a detailed Yilan travel guide:

I. Transportation Guide

1. Railway:

• Take the Taiwan Railway from Taipei to Yilan. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hrs, and ticket prices vary depending on seat type and train.

• Yilan Railway Station offers convenient transportation links. You can walk or take a bus to major attractions.

2. Highway:

• From Taipei, take the Beiyi Freeway (National Highway No. 5) to Yilan. The journey takes approximately 1 hr.

• The freeway has multiple interchanges, providing easy access to various parts of Yilan.

3. Public Transportation:

• Yilan City has numerous bus routes covering major attractions and commercial areas.

• Purchase an EasyCard for convenient travel on buses and subways.

4. Car Rental:

• Yilan's roads are well-maintained, making it suitable for self-drive tours.

• You'll need a valid driver's license and familiarity with local traffic regulations when renting a car.

II. Must-See Attractions

1. Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area

• Introduction: Taipingshan, with its lush forests and magnificent natural scenery, is one of Yilan's most famous attractions.

• Activities: Enjoy hiking, waterfall viewing, and exploring forest trails.

• Transportation: Take a dedicated bus from Yilan City; the journey takes approximately 1 hr.

2. Lanyang Museum

• Introduction: Showcases Yilan's history from prehistoric times to the present day, encompassing a rich collection of historical artifacts and artworks.

• Features: Unique architecture, including popular photo spots like the "Slit of Sky."

• Transportation: Take a bus from Yilan Railway Station; the journey takes approximately 15 mins.

3. Jimmy Park

• Introduction: Themed around the works of renowned picture book author Jimmy Liao, featuring creative and imaginative art installations.

• Suitable for: Taking photos and experiencing a fairytale-like atmosphere.

• Transportation: Within walking distance of Yilan Railway Station.

4. National Center for Traditional Arts, Yilan

• Introduction: Showcases various art forms, including architecture and opera, aiming to inherit and promote Taiwan's traditional arts and culture.

• Features: Antique architecture, imbued with traditional charm.

• Transportation: Take a shuttle bus from Yilan Railway Station; the journey takes approximately 15 mins.

5. Luodong Forestry Culture Garden

• Introduction: Formerly the Taipingshan Logging and Lumbering site, it was an important forestry production base in Taiwan.

• Activities: Features a cultural ecological pond and train experience, with beautiful and tranquil scenery.

• Transportation: Take a bus from Luodong Township; the journey takes approximately 15 mins.

6. Jiaoxi Hot Springs

• Introduction: One of Yilan's most famous hot springs, known as the "Hot Spring Village."

• Features: The hot spring water is rich in minerals, perfect for relaxation and muscle relief.

• Transportation: Take a bus from Yilan City; the journey takes approximately 30 mins.

7. Wai'ao Beach

• Introduction: Boasts a vast sandy beach and magnificent ocean views, making it a great place for leisure and relaxation.

• Activities: Enjoy beach volleyball, seaside strolls, and other activities.

• Transportation: Take a bus from Yilan City; the journey takes approximately 40 mins.

III. Food Recommendations

1. Yilan Scallion Pancake

• Introduction: Made with fresh scallions and a secret blend of seasonings, resulting in a crispy and delicious taste.

• Recommendation: Sanxing Scallion Pancake, with a rich scallion aroma and crispy crust.

2. Chinese Angelica Duck/Lamb Soup

• Introduction: The rich aroma of Chinese angelica combined with tender lamb is both warming and comforting.

• Recommendation: Chinese Angelica Duck/Lamb Soup at Luodong Night Market, adding vermicelli noodles enhances the texture.

3. Dry Mixed Vermicelli Noodles

• Introduction: The vermicelli noodles are chewier than usual, mixed with special sauces for a rich flavor.

• Recommendation: Luodong Night Market or local snack shops.

4. Crystal Boba with Taro Balls

• Introduction: Awarded first place in the dessert category of Yilan County's Top 100 Famous Shops, with a chewy texture and a sweet but not overpowering taste.

• Recommendation: Local dessert shops or night market stalls.

5. Taro Ice Cream

• Introduction: Soft and smooth texture, sweet but not greasy, a perfect choice for cooling down.

• Recommendation: Local ice cream shops.

IV. Accommodation Recommendations

1. Mu Jiao Xi Hotel

• Introduction: Located in Jiaoxi Township, featuring private hot spring tubs and beautiful surroundings.

• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, free parking, restaurant, family rooms, etc.

• Reviews: Spacious and comfortable rooms, excellent hot spring experience.

2. The Prince Hotel - Hot Spring Room

• Introduction: Also located in Jiaoxi Township, offering hot spring accommodation services.

• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, hot springs, etc.

• Reviews: Reasonably priced and good value for money.

3. An He Jao Lu

• Introduction: Located in Luodong Township, close to Luodong Railway Station, offering convenient transportation.

• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, parking lot, restaurant, family rooms, etc.

• Reviews: Enthusiastic service, rich breakfast selection.

V. Practical Information

1. Currency: The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD).

2. Language: Mandarin and Taiwanese Hokkien are widely spoken in Yilan, with some businesses and attractions also offering English services.

3. Climate: Yilan has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild and rainy.

5. Important Notes:

• Please maintain quiet in public places and respect local customs.

• Pay attention to environmental protection and do not litter.

• Observe traffic regulations and pay attention to road safety.

VI. Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive in Yilan and check in to your hotel.

• Noon: Enjoy local cuisine near your hotel, such as Yilan Scallion Pancake.

• Afternoon: Visit the Lanyang Museum and experience Yilan's history and culture.

• Evening: Head to Jiaoxi Hot Springs and enjoy the relaxation and comfort of the hot springs.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area for hiking and waterfall viewing.

• Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Taipingshan.

• Afternoon: Visit the National Center for Traditional Arts, Yilan, to learn about Taiwan's traditional arts and culture.

• Evening: Go to Luodong Night Market and savor local delicacies like Chinese Angelica Duck/Lamb Soup and Dry Mixed Vermicelli Noodles.

Day 3:

• Morning: Explore the Luodong Forestry Culture Garden and experience the combination of forest and culture.

• Noon: Enjoy local snacks in Luodong Township.

• Afternoon: Head to Wai'ao Beach and enjoy the leisurely seaside atmosphere.

• Evening: Depending on your departure time, you can shop in Yilan City or enjoy local cuisine again before preparing for your return journey.

Yilan is a charming travel destination, offering something for everyone, whether you prefer natural scenery or cultural heritage. We hope this guide will be helpful for your trip to Yilan!