Hualien – Travel Guide
Tucked between the mountain and the sea, the relaxing coastal city of Hualien is a center for culture and art. Grab a bite at Dongdaemun Night Market, stroll in riverside parks, meditate in tranquil temples, enjoy the impressive gorges at Taroko National Park, the magnificence of Yushan National Park, the stunning natural landscapes of the East Coast National Scenic Area, and the East Rift Valley National Scenic Area. Hualien is most famous as the jumping off point for Taroko Gorge National Park, billed as the largest marble canyon in the world.
All about Hualien
Getting Around Hualien
By Rental Car
This is the most highly recommended way to explore. Hualien is a massive county, and attractions like Taroko Gorge, the East Rift Valley, and the coastal cliffs are spread far apart. A car gives you the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints that buses miss.
By Rental Scooter
For solo travelers or couples, a scooter is the classic Taiwanese way to travel. It is perfect for zipping along the coast to Qixingtan or navigating the city. Note: An International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement is strictly required.
By App-Based Cabs
Uber operates in Hualien City and is a reliable way to get to dinner or the station. For longer day trips (like to the Gorge), you can hire a taxi driver for a full day (approx. NT$3,000 – NT$4,000) to avoid waiting for infrequent buses.
By Bus (Taiwan Tourist Shuttle)
The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Taroko Route 310) is a reliable bus service that loops from Hualien Station to the main stops in Taroko Gorge. It is budget-friendly but requires you to adhere to a strict timetable.
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By Bicycle
Cycling is fantastic for exploring Hualien City itself and the immediate coastline (like the Two Lakes Bikeway). However, the city center is too far from the National Park to cycle there comfortably unless you are a serious athlete.
By Walking
Hualien City center (the “Golden Triangle” shopping area) is compact and walkable. You can easily stroll between shops and cafes, but you cannot walk to the major nature attractions.
Hualien FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Hualien Airport (HUN) is very close to the city (approx. 3.7 miles). Taxi: The most practical option. Taxis wait outside arrivals and take about 10-15 minutes to reach downtown. Bus: Bus 1123 runs from the airport to Hualien Station, but it can be infrequent (approx. every hour).
What types of transportation can I find at the airport?
Taxis: Official metered taxis are available curbside.
Car Rental: Several rental counters are located in the terminal (e.g., IWS, Avis). This is a great place to pick up your vehicle if you plan to drive immediately.
Bus: Public bus stop located outside the terminal.
How do I get from the train station to my hotel?
Hualien Station is the main transport hub.
Taxi/Uber: A huge taxi rank is located at the East Exit (front station). It is a short, cheap ride to most city hotels.
Hotel Shuttles: Many larger resorts and B&Bs offer free pick-up services; check with your accommodation in advance.
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Is Hualien a walkable city?
Only the downtown core. The area known as the “Golden Triangle” (Zhongshan, Zhongzheng, and Zhonghua roads) is full of shops and food and is very walkable. The rest of the county is rural and spread out.
Can I ride a bike in Hualien?
Yes. The Two Lakes Bikeway (connecting Qixingtan and Liyu Lake) is one of the most beautiful coastal cycling routes in Taiwan. Hualien City is flat and relatively easy to cycle, though you must watch out for scooters.
Do I need a car in Hualien?
Yes, it is highly recommended. While you can see Taroko by bus, a car allows you to beat the tour groups and explore the stunning East Coast (Highway 11) or Rift Valley (Highway 9) at your own pace.
Is it safe for tourists?
Yes, generally safe. Crime is low. Nature Risks: The biggest dangers are natural. Falling rocks in Taroko Gorge are a real risk (wear a helmet in designated zones). Earthquakes are frequent in this region. Avoid the gorge during or immediately after heavy rain or typhoons.
Is there any vaccines required to enter Taiwan?
As of late 2025, there are no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for entry.
Routine: Standard vaccines are recommended.
Specific: No mandatory vaccines unless arriving from a Yellow Fever zone.
What is the EasyCard?
The EasyCard is Taiwan’s essential smartcard.
Where to use it: Pay for the Tourist Shuttle buses to Taroko, local buses, convenience stores, and some taxis.
Where to buy: At Hualien Station or any 7-Eleven/FamilyMart.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
Golden Triangle: The downtown intersection of three main roads packed with souvenir shops selling mochi and local treats.
Dongdamen Night Market: Great for buying Aboriginal handicrafts and fun souvenirs.
What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). US dollars are not accepted. You definitely need cash for the night market and small country restaurants. Tipping: Tipping is not customary.
What is the food like?
Hualien is famous for its indigenous influence and snacks.
Must-Try: Muaji (glutinous rice cakes/mochi), Wontons (visit the famous Gong Zheng Bao Zi), Deep Fried Egg Scallion Pancakes, and Wild Boar Sausage.
What is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is very quiet and relaxed.
Dongdamen Night Market: The main evening activity, featuring live aboriginal music performances.
Bistro/Bars: There are a few cozy craft beer bars and indigenous-themed bistros in the city center, but no big clubs.
I don’t speak Mandarin, will there be many people who speak English?
English is less common than in Taipei. In the National Park and major hotels, staff will speak English. In local restaurants or taxi cabs, proficiency is low. Google Translate is very useful here.
What should I do if I need medical assistance?
Hospitals: Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital and Mennonite Christian Hospital are large, reputable facilities.
Emergency Numbers: Call 119 for ambulance/fire and 110 for police.
Top Attractions
Taroko National Park
The crown jewel of Taiwan’s nature, featuring towering marble canyons, thundering waterfalls, and the Eternal Spring Shrine carved into the cliffside.
Qixingtan Beach
A sweeping, crescent-shaped beach famous for its smooth, colorful pebbles and dramatic views of the mountains plunging directly into the Pacific Ocean.
Liyu Lake
A serene, carp-shaped lake at the foot of the mountains where you can rent swan boats, cycle the 5km ring road, or watch fireflies during the spring season.
Pine Garden
A historic, Japanese colonial-era military structure located on a hill, known for its dozens of century-old pine trees and commanding views of the Hualien Harbor.
Unique Experiences
River Tracing in Taroko’s Secret Canyons
Venture deep into the Sanzhan River or the Golden Grotto within the national park region. Hike, swim, and slide through crystal-clear turquoise waters flanked by towering white marble cliffs—a wet, wild, and immersive way to experience the gorge.
The Walk Between Marble Walls
Experience the Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong), the most dramatic section of Taroko Gorge. Walk through semi-open tunnels where the sheer marble cliffs are so close they almost touch, echoing the roar of the unique Liwu River below.
What to expect while traveling
