Published on July 1, 2023

Top 12 Things to do in Hualien

Top 12 Things to do in Hualien- Unique Hualien tourist spots like the Baqi Observatory, hotsprings and Qingshui Cliffs.

Top 12 Tourist Attractions in Taichung

Are you interested in visiting the beautiful East Coast of Taiwan and looking for things to do in Hualien during your stay there? Most come from taipei and arrive at hualien station! Hualien is a stunning city that can compete with any of Taiwan’s top other towns thanks to its location on the island’s East Coast. Hualien is an exciting destination in and of itself because there are so many fun things to do there, and the city has a fascinating history.

If you’re ready to explore Hualien’s beauty and witness some breathtaking sights and experiences, here’s your guide to the best things to do in Hualien!

1.Taroko Gorge Hike

If you only have time for one thing during your stay in Hualien, make it a trip to the Taroko Gorge. Any trip to Taiwan should include a stop at Taroko Gorge, one of the island’s nine National Parks and famous Hualien Tourist Spots. A “city” closest to Taroko Gorge is Hualien. From Taipei, most trains will bring you here. (Some get you closer to the park than others, but they’re less common and go fast during peak season.) There is a good selection of affordable hotels in this area, and it is likely to be where your Taroko journey begins. There is also a greater variety of dining options in this area than in others. You’ll need a permit for the hike, and only 96 are issued each day, so get your application in early. To make things easier, you can apply for tickets online or book this hike along the Zhuilu Old Road Trail in advance.

2. Check out the Qingshui Cliffs

The Qingshui Cliffs are a popular tourist destination in Hualien and a well-known landmark in Taiwan. Feel free to stroll, pull out your camera, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Even the most daring visitors will have a good time here. Sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are just two of the exciting pursuits that can be found in the area. Take care when using the parking lot if you are driving. The parking lot is on a bend (right after the tunnel exit), so tour buses often block the sign. Get Google Maps ahead of time so you can easily find your way there. It’s a five-minute walk from the parking lot to the observation decks.

3.Take a Stroll Along Qixingtan Beach

The beach at Qixingtan is not your typical beach because it does not have white sand like the beaches in Kenting. Pebbles, not sand, are what you’ll find here, and they come in every conceivable shape, size, and color! Enjoy the one of the beaches in hualien in one of Hualien’s, most popular Tourist Spots. Additionally, it is one of the best places on the island to observe the sunrise and sunset. Although swimming is prohibited here due to the strong currents on this side of the island, it is nevertheless an excellent location to spend time. If you are in the area during the summer, you should stop by the little ice cream shop close to the visitor center. There, you will find treats that are both inexpensive and refreshing. The Taroko Tourist Shuttle Bus will take you from Hualien Station to Qixingtan Beach. Qixingtan Beach is located in Taroko National Park (1133A).

4.Visit Farglory Ocean Park

Farglory Ocean Park is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque Hualien Tourist Spots in Hualien. The amusement park is home to an aquarium, many water rides, and even a cable car that provides breathtaking views of the coastline. I recommend reserving the on-site hotel to maximize your time at the park’s attractions. Arrive early in the morning if you only plan on staying for the day. You will be able to explore the aquarium and go on rides without having to fight through a large crowd.

5. Swallow’s Grotto

The following mandatory stop in Taroko Gorge is Swallow’s Grove (Yanzikou or Swallow’s Grotto), named after the birds building nests in the dramatic cliff faces. Take a stop to admire the vertical bluffs, then walk or drive through a series of tunnels carved into sheer rock. Helmets are technically required for visiting Swallow’s Grove. Most tours should include them, or you can borrow them along the road before it reaches Swallow’s Grove.

6. Explore Liyu Lake on a Quick walk

One of the best things to do in Hualien is to visit Liyu Lake. The scenic Liyu Lake is only a 20-minute scooter ride from Hualien’s city center. Liyu Lake, the second largest natural lake in Taiwan and one of the Hualien Tourist Spots, is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a peaceful place to spend some time in nature during your stay in Hualien. In contrast, Sun Moon Lake is decades ahead of its time. Take a stroll along the wooden skywalk at the visitor center. Canoeing, Kayaking, and Stand-up Paddleboarding are just some of the water sports that can be enjoyed here.

7. Take a visit to the Pine Garden

Pine Garden, a landmark building in Taiwan’s history since its construction in the early 1940s, served as the Japanese Navy Administration Office for many years. Because of its elevated position, ships approaching the city could easily be spotted from there. Pine Garden is one of Taiwan’s 100 historical buildings, despite changing hands several times since then. Pine Garden is a beautiful place to stroll or unwind in the shade of the tall pine trees, even if history isn’t your thing.

8. Take a tour of the Manor

A former Japanese military residence, Manor House is now a prominent landmark in Hualien. There are now strange sculptures and vibrant murals in the area. It’s also the only library on the East Coast dedicated to the Japanese language and culture. Manor House should be on your list when in Hualien.

9. Have some Hot spring moments alone

Take advantage of Hualien’s hot springs if you want a soothing experience. Ruisui Hot Springs, Hongye Hot Springs, and Antong Hot Springs are three of the largest hot springs in the Hualien area. Ruisui Hot Springs is one of the most visited resorts in the greater Hualien area, and for good reason. The resort was built in the early twentieth century and is a stunning example of traditional wooden architecture in Japan. The resort has a beautiful outdoor pool with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. If you don’t like being around other people, you can reserve a private sauna. As the only carbonate hot springs in Taiwan, Ruisui’s thermal waters are genuinely one-of-a-kind. The iron content of the water (which can reach temperatures of 48 degrees Celsius) is high. Iron oxidizes slightly in the air, turning the water a light shade of yellow. Salt crystals (hot spring flowers) often float on their surface.

10. Dongdaemun Night Market

Dongdaemun, Hualien’s largest night market, is where many visitors go to satisfy their appetites. It’s a nice place to take a walk. Still, walking around, trying new foods, and playing games in various stalls is a lot of fun. With over 400 vendors, there is an incredible variety of foods at the night market. Food from Taiwan, the Chinese mainland, the United States, Thailand, Japan, and many other countries and regions is available. It’s simple to find something new to eat for dinner, and you can experiment with a variety of options without spending a lot of money.

11. Enroll in a Cooking course

The indigenous cuisine of Taiwan is genuinely one of a kind. The best way to learn about the indigenous cuisine of Hualien is, of course, by taking an aboriginal cooking class. A three-hour cooking class is a fantastic addition to any itinerary in Hualien. You will learn some unique techniques used in aboriginal cuisine while preparing mouthwatering dishes.

12. Visit Baqi Observatory and take in the sights

About 45 minutes south of Hualien is the Baqi Observatory, which offers one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking coastal panoramas. A viewpoint along Provincial Highway 11 looks over the Pacific Ocean and verdant mountains. The small size of the observation deck makes it a great place to stop and take pictures. You can also buy drinks and regional specialties like braised snacks called Huawei and bamboo tubes filled with sticky rice from the street vendors here.

Final Thoughts

Ready to plan your adventures in Hualien ? Check out my travel guide to Taiwan, as Taipei will be your starting point.

Common Questions about things to do in hualien

What are some popular outdoor activities in Hualien?

Hualien offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking in Taroko Gorge, biking along Qixingtan Beach, river tracing in Mugua River, and whale watching in the Pacific Ocean.

Are there any cultural sites to visit in Hualien?

Yes, visitors can explore the well-preserved historic Altar of Four Great Kings in Qixingtan, admire the cultural heritage at the Hualien Cultural & Creative Industries Park, and visit the Fuyuan Forest Recreation Area for a cultural immersion experience.

What are some must-visit places for food lovers in Hualien?

Food lovers will enjoy the local markets such as Dongdamen Night Market and Gongzheng Street Night Market, famous for delicious street food and local delicacies. Other notable food destinations include the Pine Garden, which offers a unique dining experience amidst stunning scenery, and Jiuzhize Hot Spring, where visitors can enjoy a hot spring bath while sampling local snacks.

Are there any natural attractions near Hualien?

Absolutely! Besides Taroko Gorge, Hualien is surrounded by stunning natural attractions such as Qingshui Cliffs, a breathtaking coastal geological formation, and Caoling Historic Trail, which offers panoramic views of the mountains and ocean. Tourists can also visit Liyu Lake for recreational activities like biking and boating.

What are some family-friendly activities in Hualien?

Families can enjoy a visit to Farglory Ocean Park, a theme park with exciting rides and animal shows, or explore the vast Butterfly Valley, home to numerous butterfly species. For a unique experience, the Lintianshan Forestry Cultural Area offers hiking trails suitable for all ages, surrounded by lush greenery.

How can I explore Hualien on a budget?

Hualien offers budget-friendly options such as taking a walk along the scenic Pine Garden, visiting the free Hualien Sugar Factory, or exploring cultural sites like the Hualien Stone Sculptural Museum and the Hualien County Stone Sculpture Museum, both of which have free admission. Furthermore, renting a bike to explore the city is an inexpensive way to get around.

Thanks for reading. Any suggestions? comment below

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