Hualien travel guide
Hualien County, located in the eastern part of Taiwan, sits at the northern end of the famous Hualien-Taitung Valley and is bordered by the Central Mountain Range to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. With an area larger than many of Taiwan's cities and provinces, Hualien County is currently the largest administrative region in Taiwan. Similar to mainland China's administrative divisions, in Taiwan, a county is equivalent to a province, so Hualien City is considered a smaller administrative area within Hualien County.
With a rich natural environment, Hualien County boasts not only an array of natural resources but also a unique indigenous culture. It is the place with the highest density of native inhabitants in Taiwan, including six different ethnic groups such as the Amis, Atayal, Truku, Bunun, Sediq-L芟YA, and Ga-Wan-Lu tribes.
When visiting Hualien, there are many must-see attractions and activities. Take a stroll along the seaside boardwalk at Chishang's Qixingtan (Seven Star Lake) to enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean view. Visit the Taroko Gorge to marvel at nature's incredible wonders. Explore the colorful flora and fauna in the Hualien-Taitung Valley. Relax and unwind at the peaceful Rui Xiu Ranch, which offers fresh and pure milk from local cows. Indulge in the local cuisine at Hualien's vibrant night markets. And for a truly unique experience, take a summer boat trip to go whale watching.
Hualien is truly a slice of Taiwan's natural and cultural wonders, and visiting this area will offer an enriching and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Consumption level
Hualien has a moderate cost of living. Accommodation prices for homestays can range from $20-200 USD per night depending on amenities, but generally you can find a very comfortable stay for around $80 USD. Prices are higher during peak holidays. Dining is relatively affordable - street snacks at the Ziqiang Night Market and Nanbin Night Market start at around $0.70 USD. With a small appetite, you can easily eat your way through the night markets for about $15 USD. At unique specialty restaurants, expect to pay around $7 USD per person per meal. While accommodation spikes during busy periods, Hualien offers decent value compared to other cities in Taiwan.
Currency
The official currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NTD). The exchange rate is around 4.1-4.3 TWD to 1 HKD and 1 CNY to 4.7 TWD. Banknote denominations are 2000, 1000, 500, 200, and 100 NTD. The 2000 and 200 bills are less common. Coins are 50, 20, 10, 5, and 1 NTD. Nowadays, traveling in Taipei with a UnionPay debit card is very convenient. UnionPay ATMs can be found at the airport, 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, malls, and post offices where you can withdraw TWD directly. The exchange rate is pretty good too. Some Chinese banks like Huaxia Bank offer UnionPay cards with no overseas withdrawal fees - check with your bank before traveling. It's recommended to exchange some TWD at your mainland bank before departure. Taiwan recently raised the limit for carrying TWD in and out of the country to 100,000 NTD. Upon arrival in Taipei, withdraw more TWD with your UnionPay card. For purchases, use UnionPay whenever possible. Avoid using Visa and Mastercard to avoid multiple currency conversion fees. With a UnionPay credit card, emphasize to the merchant that you want to be charged in CNY directly. Avoid exchanging money at the airport or Taipei hotels as the rates are poor and fees apply. In a pinch, use the Bank of Taiwan exchange booths at the airport for better rates. Otherwise, use major banks in Taipei for the best rates and no fees. Mega International Commercial Bank usually has the best rates, followed by Bank of Taiwan. Local banks like Taiwan Land Bank also have decent rates.
Golden Needle Flower Season
In August, the mountains around Hualien explode into seas of vibrant yellow as the golden needle flowers bloom. Two prime areas to view these golden blooms are Mt. Chike in Jiyu Township and Liushidashan Mountain in Fuli Township. Acres of these sunflower-like blossoms blanket the slopes, contrasting beautifully against the deep blue sky and fluffy white clouds. Photographers flock to capture iconic images of the flowers set against Taiwan's breathtaking high mountain landscapes. Visitors can hike among the radiant flowers and breathe the crisp alpine air. Local shops sell golden needle products like honey and dried flowers. Time your Hualien trip to coincide with the fleeting yet glorious golden needle flower season for an unforgettable sight. The golden glow of these mountains comes alive each summer in Hualien.
Taroko Marathon Invitational
The awe-inspiring Taroko Gorge provides a one-of-a-kind setting for the annual Taroko Gorge International Marathon held each November. First launched in 2000 as the world's inaugural canyon marathon, this signature event organized by Taroko National Park draws thousands of runners from across Taiwan and around the globe. Participants take on the breath-taking challenge of running along the pristine Central Cross-Island Highway with cliffs soaring above and the Liwu River churning below. The stunning vista of marble gorge walls covered in lush greenery unfurls at every step. Runners from elites to novices bask in the early morning tranquility and natural splendor of Taroko as dawn's light fills the gorge. Experience Taroko's scenery from a runners' perspective and tick an incredible bucket list race off your checklist at the Taroko Gorge Marathon.
Intimate contact with the Pacific
On Taiwan's east coast, Hualien offers intimate access to the mighty Pacific. Drive the breathtaking Su-Hua Highway, take the train, or ride the bus along stretches where the rocky shoreline meets aquamarine waves. For more than just fleeting glimpses, head to Qixingtan Beach or Qingshui Cliff. Stroll Qixingtan's sandy crescent, watching breakers crash against the pebbled seabed. When the surf calms, wade in to feel refreshing spray against your skin. At towering Qingshui Cliff, marvel at how the sheer rock face plunges into the ocean's azure depths, sculpted by nature's force. In Hualien, embrace the Pacific's power and beauty through scenic outlooks, seaside rambles, or dipping your toes in the water. Let the ocean breeze and endless horizons stir your spirit.
Eat all over Hualien Night Market
No visit to Taiwan is complete without experiencing the night markets. In Hualien, the expansive Nanbin Night Market on the coast offers steak and seafood at a fraction of restaurant prices. Sink your teeth into sizzling sirloin or flaky salmon fillets as you stroll the stalls. Locals flock to Ziqiang Night Market for melt-in-your-mouth barbecue, unique coffin breads, and old-fashioned runbing pastries. The mouthwatering aromas will keep you coming back for more. Hualien's night markets satisfy foodie cravings morning, noon, and night. Graze to your heart's content, sampling juicy kebabs, bubble tea, tempura, noodles and more. With so many snacks and flavors, you'll want to pace yourself. But the hard part is deciding what to try next! Wander, nibble and repeat - it's the best way to discover authentic Taiwanese street food and immerse yourself in local culture.
Appreciate the uncanny craftsmanship of nature
Hualien is blessed with abundant forest resources. The Central Mountain Range bisects Taiwan, separating east from west. Situated east of the mountains, Hualien is rimmed by towering peaks. Driving or riding through, one can witness the ranges transform through a spectrum of weather. Watch misty clouds dance and evaporate to reveal verdant slopes. See storms brew and rumble through valleys. As sunlight wanes, sheer cliff faces become saturated in vivid hues. Appreciate nature’s artistry at Taroko Gorge’s renowned sites. Meander through the butterfly-filled East Rift Valley. At Liyu Lake, marvel at perfect reflections of the mountains on still waters. Or explore lush pastures at Ruisui Ranch. Hualien offers countless ways to revel in the magnificence of Taiwan’s central mountains. Let their beauty and grandeur inspire you.
Take the retro and refreshing route& DIY
Beyond ecological wonders, Hualien also preserves Taiwan's most indigenous cultures. In the deep mountains dwell the Taroko and Amis peoples, adding diverse flair. Thus, many delightfully retro sites and structures remain. In Hualien, take a break from hiking at the sugar factory for ice cream and to watch carefree children play. Try your hand at DIY crafts and soak up the simple pleasures. Recommended spots include the retrospective Guangfu Sugar Refinery, historic Fuxing Village, and tranquil Songyuan Villa. Meander unhurriedly through scenes from the past. Peek into traditional brick-and-wood workshops. Chat with smiling elders still living the old ways. Visit antiques shops and relax at quaint cafes. Embrace Hualien's timeless spirit by stepping back to move forward. Enjoy hands-on activities and glimpse what life was like long ago. By the day's end, you'll have created special memories and maybe some handmade souvenirs too!
Best Travel Time
From February to April, flowers bloom in the eastern region of Hualien, and the beautiful flower sea spanning over a hundred kilometers makes countless tourists linger and forget to return. And at that time, it was not the rainy season in Hualien (May November), so the climate was pleasant and conducive to travel.Dressing Guidelines
Taichung has mild winters from December to March, averaging around 18°C. Pack pants, long sleeves and a medium-weight jacket. Summers from May to October are hot and humid, with temperatures steady around 27°C. June to August sees highs around 32°C. Light pants or shorts with short sleeve shirts work well. Bring a thin extra layer like a jacket or sweater for cool evenings or windy days.
On hot sunny days, don't forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Umbrellas help in sudden storms too. Pack clothes that dry quickly if caught in rain. Locals dress casually, so shorts, skirts, t-shirts and sandals are comfortable for exploring Taichung's neighborhoods and markets on foot. Check the forecast to confirm, but packing layers for Taichung's fluctuating conditions ensures you'll stay cool while enjoying all the city has to offer.
Tourism consulting
For travel information in Hualien, visit:
Hualien Train Station Travel Service Center
Address: No. 106, Guolian 1st Rd., Hualien City
Phone: 886-03-8360634
Hualien Airport Travel Service Center
Address: No. 1 Airport, Jiali Rd., Jiali Village, Xincheng Township, Hualien County
Phone: 886-03-8210625
These two conveniently located centers offer expert guidance on transportation, accommodation, area attractions, tours, and anything else to know before exploring Hualien. Multilingual staff can provide maps and brochures, answer questions, make reservations, and help ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip through this scenic eastern region of Taiwan. Stop by upon arrival or call ahead to get oriented and start your Hualien adventure!
