Courtesy of Editorial Office, Nadolan Studio & Krux Studio

Handwoven crafts - whether made of fabric or rattan - are among the most genuine gifts of Hualien. They embody cultural memory and heritage, allowing the stories of the tribes to continue with every thread woven.

From the Stage to the Loom｜Nadolan - Weaving the Rhythm of Life

Nadolan, or known to many as Hsiu-Lan Hu, recipient of the Council of Indigenous Peoples’ Traditional Weaving Artisan Award, is a warm, charismatic woman with a lively spirit. Her earliest memories of weaving date back to childhood, when she slept beside her grandmother. At 3 or 4 a.m., she would be awakened by the sound of weaving. The threads became her toys, and weaving became second nature. Unexpectedly, at age 19, she became a professional show dancer. Years later, life took another turn - during a performance trip to Japan, she apprenticed in tailoring and quilting, studying by day and performing by night. Exposure to a foreign culture sharpened her sense of color and design.

After returning to Taiwan, Nadolan realized how deeply Japan valued traditional craftsmanship, while weaving in her own tribe was slowly disappearing. With her husband and son, she founded a studio to promote indigenous culture and bring weaving back into daily life. She chose to use modern looms - not to change tradition, but to carry ancestral wisdom forward in contemporary ways.

Weaving Taroko Life into Art｜Nadolan Studio

Nadolan Studio, named after the tribal name her father gave her, is the stage on which she tells her life stories through patterns and motifs. The compact studio is filled with colorful woven pieces and indigenous crafts, with new works appearing on every visit. She laughs that although she often wants to rest, she can never sit still - when inspiration comes, she immediately weaves memories and legends into her designs.

Her husband prepares materials, drafts patterns, and handles cutting; she focuses on design and sewing. Their son even breaks the Taroko taboo against men weaving, using a modern loom to create textiles rich with tribal stories. Nadolan firmly believes in the mission of passing on the craft: “Skills are meant to be shared, not kept.” Today, the studio includes her son, her husband, and a group of young tribal members passionate about weaving. Together, they break traditional and gender boundaries, using a “family collaboration” model to bring weaving back into tribal life. In doing so, Taroko weaving traditions shine once again in a contemporary form.

INFO｜Nadolan Studio

Address: No. 53-1, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0912-243040

Business hours: The studio is not regularly open to the public. Custom requests are welcome via

A Craft Learned Through Watching｜Tumun Masaw’s Journey of Rattan Weaving

“My father always told me: ‘Watch closely! Watch closely!’ And by watching, I inherited not only his craft, but his very presence and memories.” Taroko artisan Tumun Masaw says with a smile. In tribal tradition, rattan weaving has always been a man’s craft, while women traditionally weave fabric. Rattan is an essential plant for the Taroko - used as food, building material, and household tools. The laborious steps - splitting, smoking, drying, pest-proofing - were traditionally men’s responsibilities. Her father, Asing Masaw was one of the few master weavers in the tribe. Although custom dictated that skills were passed only to sons, he silently allowed his daughter to learn by observing.

Through watching and persistent practice, Tumun eventually mastered his techniques. Today, she runs Krux Studio, promoting rattan weaving and offering workshops that teach the relationship between rattan and the forest. After her father’s passing, she and her sister took over the studio. Facing doubt from those who questioned a woman weaving rattan, she laughs: “Their skepticism only pushed me to get better!” In her hands, every strand of rattan is more than material - it is a living thread connecting her father’s memory and Taroko cultural identity.

A Life of Rattan Craft - from Fingertips to the Heart｜Krux Studio

Step into Krux Studio, and the fragrance of rattan fills the air. Large and small carrying baskets, fish traps, hats, and bags - traditional tools of all kinds - are neatly displayed. Every piece is handmade by Tumun Masaw. To help this ancient craft enter modern life, she has creatively adapted traditional tools by making smaller versions or transforming them into home décor and keepsakes, allowing rattan art to take on new forms in daily living.

When talking about rattan weaving, she laughs and says, “It’s a love-hate relationship!” Wild rattan is full of thorns and must be gathered from high in the mountains. After harvesting, it still needs to go through smoking and two to three months of drying before it can even be used. From cutting the rattan to shaving it and finally weaving it, every step leaves her hands covered in thick calluses - but also filled with a deep sense of accomplishment. Because wild rattan is so difficult to obtain, she went on to develop techniques using imported yellow rattan and even plastic cords, broadening both the design possibilities and pricing flexibility. Today, her “Krux Studio” is able to take custom orders, and she is often invited to teach rattan-weaving workshops. These calluses, along with her creations, are the most precious gifts her father left to her - every strand of rattan is a living link to memory, culture, and the roots of inheritance.

INFO｜Krux Studio

Address: No. 38, Minle Rd., Neighborhood 9, Fushi Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0936-102826

Business hours: The studio is not regularly open to the public. Custom requests are welcome via Facebook or phone.

Courtesy of Yoti Hsueh (Yung-Ting Hsueh), tutufoodaholic, Editorial Office

The “FlavorWay Hualien” experience spans brunch, coffee and desserts, international cuisine, stylish bars, gastro pubs, and creative cultural experiences, letting visitors explore Hualien through food, culture, art, and natural scenery, creating a journey uniquely styled for the city.

Three Generations of Craftsmanship｜Artful Flavors by the Sea | Lin Ji Fish Ball

For over 30 years, Lin Ji Fish Ball at Hualien Harbor has been operated by the Lin family. The third-generation brothers, Chia-Hsien Lin and Chia-Chi Lin, continue the legacy. Their signature fish ball soup features handmade balls crafted from pure dolphinfish, giving them a firm, springy texture. Paired with a clear broth simmered with fish, chicken, and pork bones, the result is a subtly sweet, clean-tasting soup. Their popular fried noodles and fried rice vermicelli continue the comforting flavors familiar to Hualien locals, while the sashimi menu showcases seasonal fish, highlighting the harbor’s freshness. Dolphinfish is also used to create a variety of products, including fish fillets, Taiwanese oden, and the island’s only dolphinfish floss rice snack.

After relocating to Sunward Plaza, Lin Ji Fish Ball established a dolphinfish-themed gallery, featuring a systematic exhibition that presents the complete process - from going out to sea and using traditional fishing gear to crafting the fish balls. In recent years, the gallery has promoted hands-on experiences such as fish ball DIY, cooking classes, and harbor tours, placing culinary enjoyment alongside knowledge. Through fish-focused education, it reconnects people with the harbor and allows Hualien’s fishing culture to continue fermenting and regenerating for future generations.

INFO｜Lin Ji Fish Ball

Address: No. 35-1, Gangbin Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8236300

Business hours: 11:00–17:30（Open until 18:00 on Saturdays and Sundays, closed every other Wednesday）

Lavatory: Yes

Daily Queues of Hualien Locals｜Brunch & Comfort | Ding Ji Noodle & Braised Pork Rice

Located inside Chong Qing Public Market, Ding Ji Noodle & Braised Pork Rice opened in 2013. What began as a small venture inspired by the owner’s grandmother’s traditional recipes has grown into a local staple, drawing a steady stream of Hualien residents from morning until it closes around noon.

Customers praise the quality and freshness: oysters for the mixed noodles are delivered daily from the harbor, and the braised pork is made with local Hualien pork, fried, then stewed for over two hours in black bean soy sauce. Orders can also be customized - some diners like fattier cuts, others prefer leaner pork - and regulars often have their own “set” way of eating. Beyond the food, the owner remembers the stories behind familiar faces, so each visit offers not just flavor, but the warm, human connection of the market community.

INFO｜Ding Ji Noodle & Braised Pork Rice

Address: No. 480, Chongqing Rd., Hualien City (Chong Qing Public Market 205-207)

Telephone: 0985-339982

Business hours: 08:00-13:30（Closed on Tuesdays）

Lavatory: Yes (public restrooms at Chong Qing Public Market)

More than Croissants - Community Warmth｜Windowside Coffee | Found Croissanter

Tucked in a quiet alley on Jinghua Street, Found Croissanter opened in 2020, created by a young couple. The surrounding neighborhood is an older community, where afternoons are perfect for elders to enjoy a coffee and chat. Inspired by their love for bread and their family’s old guesthouse, the couple dreamed of opening a neighborhood-style bakery.

Since its opening, Found Croissanter has become a must-visit spot, with the renovated old apartment and courtyard greenery making it a favorite for social media snapshots. Crafting croissants from scratch hasn’t been easy - they’ve had to adapt to Hualien’s humid climate while relying on Japanese flour and premium French butter, the secret to their delicious layers. Attentive service and consistent quality reflect the owners’ dedication, and they are now expanding this local treasure beyond Hualien so more people can enjoy their renowned croissants.

INFO｜Found Croissanter

Address: No. 18, Aly. 1, Ln. 35, Jinghua St., Hualien City

Telephone: 0928-229358

Business hours: 14:00-17:30（Closed every Monday）

Lavatory: Yes

Tipsy Evenings｜Cozy Drinks | Old Times Yakiniku & Sake

Located in central Hualien, Old Times Yakiniku & Sake immediately conveys a nostalgic atmosphere with lantern-lined walls and wooden sliding doors reminiscent of a Japanese street corner. Inside, warm yellow lighting sets a relaxed mood, while an array of sake bottles adds character. Seating includes regular tables and traditional Japanese-style floor seating. Despite operating from post-work hours into the night, the restaurant often requires reservations

The menu is extensive, spanning skewers, fried dishes, stir-fries, specialty items, desserts, and drinks. Highlights include Okinawan-style bitter melon stir-fry with tofu, egg, and pork belly (Goya Champuru), which balances savory and slightly bitter flavors, and delicate zucchini with salmon roe, refreshing with a touch of the sea - dishes that break away from the usual expectations of typical skewers. Whether gathering with friends, enjoying late-night snacks, or unwinding after work, Old Times Yakiniku & Sake offers a welcoming spot to relax.

INFO｜Old Times Yakiniku & Sake

Address: No. 88-1, Minguo Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8315848

Business hours: 17:00–00:00（No fixed holidays）

Lavatory: Yes

Nostalgia Meets Innovation｜International Flair | Kitchen Woow

Housed in a historic Hualien building, Kitchen Woow is an Italian eatery beloved by locals and travelers alike for its blend of nostalgia and innovation. Previously a Taiwan Power Company restaurant, the space retains its original walls, window frames, and terrazzo floors, with lighting that creates a fusion of vintage and modern vibes. Seating ranges from two-person tables to booths, with a social media-friendly wall and outdoor garden for photos and gatherings.

Kitchen Woow, an Italian-style eatery, offers a variety of pasta, risotto, small bites, desserts, and beverages. Highlights include the Beef Burgundy Rigatoni, rich with sauce and tender meat, and the afternoon-exclusive collaboration soufflé pancakes, available in Roasted Hojicha & Black Gold Pistachio and Honey Vanilla flavors - made to order, fluffy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. With high-value set meals and a stylish, comfortable space, Kitchen Woow is a must-visit spot for travelers, whether for a full meal or afternoon tea.

INFO｜Kitchen Woow

Address: No. 78, Fuxing St., Hualien City 

Telephone: 03-8335050

Business hours: 11:30-19:30（Closed every Thursday）

Lavatory: Yes

Handmade Burgers from Food Truck to Shop｜Slow City Culture | :HANG OUT

HANG OUT started in 2016 as the Kiciyang food truck and settled near National Dong Hwa University’s back gate in Shoufeng in 2024, run by owner Xiao Hua (小花) and partner CJ. The colon prefix ":" symbolizes the duo partnership and a relaxed, shared dining vibe, reflecting Hualien youth culture and creativity.

The menu at :HANG OUT highlights made-to-order American-style burgers, with beef or pork patties. The signature Salted Caramel Sauce Burger is crafted with homemade caramel sauce instead of peanut butter, creating a rich, sticky, sweet-and-salty flavor that has won a devoted following among female customers. Another favorite, the Glowing Knift Burger, has been popular since the food truck days and remains a bestseller today. It features deseeded Hualien peeled chili peppers stuffed with cheese, wrapped in bacon, and paired with a juicy patty, delivering a striking balance of heat and creaminess - truly capturing Hualien’s local flavor. From its beginnings as a mobile food truck to a permanent storefront, :HANG OUT has become a beloved spot for National Dong Hwa University students. After earning a place on the 500 Bowls Award list, it has also drawn travelers from outside the region, allowing more people to discover Hualien’s local tastes and youthful energy through a single burger.

INFO｜:HANG OUT

Address: No. 64, Zhongzheng Rd., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Business hours: 11:30-14:00、15:30-19:00（Saturday 11:30-15:30，Closed every Sunday & Monday）

Lavatory: Yes

Courtesy of Hung Chen & Editorial Office

The vitality of the East Longitudinal Valley flows like the lush mountains and fertile fields, full of hope. The richness of this land comes not only from nature but also from the sincerity and resilience among its people.

The Resilience and Abundance of Hualien｜Nest Fern and Japanese Prickly Ash - Stories of the Land

Recently, Guangfu Township faced floods, but in the toughest moments, a group of “shovel heroes” emerged. Shoulder to shoulder, they repaired their homes, showing selfless care that became one of Taiwan’s most moving sights, letting the world witness the warmth of human connection. To carry forward the land’s vitality and spirit, the “Harvesting Reds, Gathering Greens” concept lets diners experience the East Longitudinal Valley through food. Featuring nest fern and Japanese prickly ash, it presents two healthy, seasonal salads that bring the flavors of the land to the table, letting every bite capture the essence of the soil and the rhythm of the seasons. From the imagery of classical poetry to the real landscapes of Hualien, each ingredient tells the story of the valley’s abundance and resilience.

Nest Fern Yuzu Salad｜Standing on the Heights

Nest fern is a common wild vegetable in Taiwan’s mountains. Its bright green leaves stretch through the mist, carrying a delicate wild fragrance. The key to preparing nest fern is preserving its green color and tenderness. Remove old stems, wash the young shoots, tear into bite-sized pieces, blanch for 30 seconds, then cool in ice water to remove bitterness and lock in color. A touch of salt and oil highlights its pure, forest-like flavor.

“Standing on the Heights” Preparation:

． Blanch nest fern in boiling water, then set aside. Slice onions into thin strips and soak in ice water to mellow the sharpness. Drain both ingredients.

． Dress with bitter tea seed oil, yuzu paste, and a small amount of plum extract, then toss with the fern and onions.

． Finish with bonito flakes or freshly shaved dried tuna.

Japanese Prickly Ash - Flavors of the Mountains and Fields｜East Longitudinal Valley Three Fresh Dishes

Japanese prickly ash is an Indigenous herb with versatile culinary uses: finely chopped for cold dishes like century egg tofu, mixed into fried rice, wrapped in batter and fried, added to soups, herbal teas, omelets, sauces, or used as a seasoning for grilling and seafood.

“East Longitudinal Valley Three Fresh Dishes” Preparation

． Blanch golden needle flowers, enoki mushrooms, and Japanese prickly ash leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds; drain.

． Finely chop Amis fermented paste, mix with bitter tea seed oil and a pinch of salt or chicken powder, then toss with the prepared vegetables for even seasoning.

． Garnish with rose petals for a final touch.

Courtesy of Editorial Office, LuYu Estate, Tianxin Estate

At the “2025 World Green Tea Contest,” LuYu Estate on Chike Mountain won the top honor, the Grand Gold Prize, with two teas: “Dew Tea - Winter Reserve” and “Blue Magpie.” Meanwhile, Tianxin Estate, also on Chike Mountain, earned the “Gold Prize” for its “Organic Oolong Tea,” putting Hualien’s tea on the global stage.

Respecting the Land and Pursuing Quality｜LuYu Estate

Since its founding, LuYu Estate has centered its practice on organic cultivation, protecting the biodiversity around its tea gardens and keeping soil and water free from contamination. Each leaf can be traced through production records and organic certification, ensuring safety and quality. This dedication results in clear, pure tea liquor with a rounded, sweet flavor and natural floral and fruity notes.

LuYu Estate’s commitment to quality has repeatedly earned recognition internationally. In 2025, the estate won the Grand Gold Prize at the World Green Tea Contest for both Sweet Osmanthus Oolong and Winter Reserve Floral Oolong. Through the seasons, the estate lives in harmony with nature: spring buds carry fresh floral notes, while summer sees honeyed aromas develop from the activity of tea jassids. Every harvest reflects the collaboration between nature and farmers.

INFO｜LuYu Estate

Address: No. 284, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8851695

Lavatory: Yes

Pure, Safe, and Full of the Land’s Fragrance｜Tianxin Estate

Also on Chike Mountain, Tianxin Estate has upheld the philosophy of “land-friendly, healthy tea gardens” since its establishment, fully practicing organic cultivation and earning both EU and domestic organic certification. Using grass cover and ecological cycles, the estate maintains the vitality of its tea gardens, allowing the trees to thrive in a natural, symbiotic environment.

Tianxin Estate’s signature “Honey Black Tea” gains its natural honeyed fruit aroma from tea jassids feeding on young tea buds. The estate also cultivates Oolong, Jin Xuan, and small chrysanthemums, nurturing crops naturally while creating a habitat where insects, birds, and tea trees coexist. Recently, Tianxin Estate launched the “Tea Artisans Immersive Experience,” inviting visitors to pick and roll tea themselves, experiencing the journey from leaf to cup. In 2025, Tianxin Estate earned the Grand Gold Prize at the World Green Tea Contest. They believe that only by protecting forests and soil can truly safe, pure, and land-infused tea be produced.

INFO｜Tianxin Estate

Address: No. 5, Gaoliao, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0987-869248

Lavatory: Yes

※Tea Artisans Immersive Experience available by prior phone reservation

Courtesy of Editorial Office

Hualien offers numerous pet-friendly accommodations with health-conscious services, inviting travelers to slow down, fully embrace the mountains, sea, and local hospitality, and experience the pure essence of each moment in nature.

Finding Your Personal Peach Blossom Land｜Yunnalee Inn

Along the starting point of the Nenggao Traverse Trail, a shaded path gently unfolds, leading toward Liyu Lake and introducing travelers to a different pace of Hualien. Passing through the Waterway Park and winding along the creek, a unique building quietly stands in the middle of the fields - this is Yunnalee Inn. Hidden along a tranquil country lane, the only sounds are the murmuring water and the gentle rustle of rice paddies in the breeze. In front of the inn, Mugua Shan is often shrouded in mist, adding a poetic atmosphere to the house and inspiring the name “Yunnalee” (Cloud There).

The area offers abundant trails and cycling routes, making low-carbon travel easy. By car, guests can head south to the East Longitudinal Valley, east to the magnificent coastline, or north to explore Taroko Gorge. Yunnalee Inn has received four international certifications: ISQM (International Service Quality Management System), HFS (Healthcare-Friendly Service), KLS (Kindness Long Stay Certification), and PetFAC (Pet Friendly Accommodation Certificate). At Yunnalee, time slows down, and the inn becomes a moving sanctuary. Travelers can pause, letting Hualien’s mountains, sea, and local warmth gently seep into their journey.

INFO｜Yunnalee Inn

Address: No. 8, Ln. 646, Sec. 6, Jian Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0933-375525

Business hours: Open all day

Listening to the Gentle Invitation of the Waves｜Haiming Wei B&B

As the first rays of the sun rise over the ocean, golden light spills across the vast Pacific, and Haiming Wei B&B awaits travelers here. Located just 15 minutes from Hualien City, the inn offers peaceful seclusion, where guests can watch the sea, listen to the waves, and stargaze, embracing the pure beauty of nature.

The property spans over 3,000 ping (approx. 10,000 m²) of expansive lawns, with uninterrupted views of blue skies and greenery. In the afternoon, a cup of coffee and a book can make time feel still. At night, the unpolluted sky reveals countless stars, offering travelers a magical moment. Haiming Wei B&B is more than just accommodation - it’s a carefully curated experience. Staff are certified in CPR, AED, BTLS, and BLS, ensuring guest safety. The inn is also PetFAC certified, allowing small to medium dogs and cats to roam freely, because “pets aren’t guests - they’re family.” Guests can also participate in handmade leather or rope-weaving classes (by reservation), enjoy the barbecue area, or plan exclusive itineraries, including long-stay arrangements, catering to a variety of traveler needs.

INFO｜Haiming Wei B&B

Address: No. 56, Fude, Yanliau Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Hualien County

Telephone: 03- 8671088

Business hours: Open all day

The public art installation “Stone Symbiosis” is located within an alley in Hualien City. It is not only a new artistic creation but also a symbol of the rebirth of an old house.

Courtesy of Editorial Office & Pu Chen

Cultivating Hualien’s Own Vitality and Identity｜Stone Symbiosis

“Stone Symbiosis” centers on the symbiosis of 3D printing and plant life, merging imagery of Hualien’s natural mineral veins with the spirit of old-house revitalization. The holes within the sculpture allow space for plants to grow. As greenery spreads across the artwork and the building, it forms a composite symbiosis where nature, culture, and art coexist. Artist Pu Chen is known for multidimensional observation and site-specific dialogue. He incorporates the forms of “stacked stones” and “pebbles” into the piece, symbolizing Hualien’s diverse cultural landscape, born of its solid stone landscape. In the “We Bloom!” project, Pu Chen further introduced a new IP visual identity - the “stoneflower” - expressing Hualien’s resilience and hope in the aftermath of disaster. Here, art is not merely something to be seen; it takes root in the land and grows into Hualien’s unique identity.

Through the strategic integration of public art into the space, the installation not only highlights the unique character of its surroundings but also, through the work’s rich layers of meaning, deepens public memory of Hualien’s cultural diversity. It’s also an inviting spot for travelers to capture beautiful photos in harmony with the artwork.

A Window That Opens to Hualien’s Landscape｜iP Gallery

Behind the “Stone Symbiosis” installation stands iP Gallery, established in 2010. Its founding intention was to create a space where art and the land could breathe together. For over a decade, it has served as a window - opening the world to creators from Hualien and Taitung, while bringing heartfelt surprises to local children and travelers alike. iP is more than a gallery; it is an ongoing journey. It carries Hualien’s warmth and creative energy onto a broader stage, allowing art to continue growing through its wanderings.

INFO｜Stone Symbiosis

Address: No. 55, Fuxing St., Hualien City

Telephone: 0955-923242

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: No

INFO｜iP Gallery

Address: No. 55, Fuxing St., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8332626

Business hours: 13:30-20:00（Closed on Tuesdays）

Lavatory: No

Courtesy of Editorial Office

Nestled among mountains, Fenglin feels like time slows down. From historic train stations and dye workshops to ancient temples and old dessert shops, tradition and community life intertwine, showcasing the unique culture and rhythm of this slow town.

Fenglin Walking Tour｜Dyeing, Blessings, and Miniature Desserts

Near Fenglin Train Station, the “Floral Handkerchief Plant Dyeing Workshop” uses the land as a canvas. Natural plants like shell ginger, fumu trees, and banyans are used to create dyes, transforming the land’s colors into “floral handkerchiefs,” symbols of Hakka women’s grace and the vitality of handmade crafts. The Shoutian Temple, the town’s religious center, testifies to Fenglin residents’ resilience. Rebuilt after being destroyed during the Japanese era, it enshrines the Holy Emperor Guan and the City God. During the annual Pudu ceremony with eight-tone music, the temple unites local faith and community spirit. Across the street, Mingsin Ice, operating since 1965, is a shared memory for Fenglin residents. From fluffy three-bean ice and traditional ice cream to tangy lemonade, every bite carries the gentle imprint of time, letting visitors taste Fenglin’s stories.

Sample Itinerary｜TRA Fenglin Station → Floral Handkerchief Plant Dyeing Workshop → Shoutian Temple + Mingsin Ice → Principal Dream Factory → TW Shidou → TRA Fenglin Station

The renowned “Principal Dream Factory,” representing Fenglin’s Hakka heritage, is housed in a century-old Japanese wooden building, quietly telling the town’s educational legacy as the “Hometown of Principals.” Restored from the Fenglin Subprefecture’s official residence, the cultural center displays precious artifacts and historical photos, reflecting the Hakka spirit of “Clear-sky Farming, Rainy-day Studying” (people worked in good weather and studied when it rained) and allowing visitors to step back into the era when education was the foundation for developing the town. Outside, the Respect Words Pavilion symbolizes reverence for literacy and knowledge, continuing Fenglin’s enduring dedication to learning and culture.

Nearby, TW Shidou uses a rich bowl of tofu pudding to narrate stories of local revitalization. Originally a Japanese-era tea house, it now integrates dining, agriculture, and cultural experiences. Using locally grown organic soybeans, it offers tofu desserts and diverse activities, letting visitors savor Fenglin’s land, food, and cultural symbiosis at a leisurely pace.

Where Mountains Meet the Sea｜Xincheng Township

#Hualien’sOnlyCounty-LevelScenicArea

#MountaintoSea, BeautifulCoastalViews

#HomeoftheMamboFish

Courtesy of Editorial Office

Located in northern Hualien, Xincheng Township lies between Hualien City and Xiulin Township. Set along a coastal plain of about 29 square kilometers, it is known as the “Xincheng Corridor.” Its shoreline features set net fishing grounds and it is fondly called the “Home of the Mambo Fish.” Qixingtan, the only county-level scenic area in Hualien, is famous for its magnificent sea views and rich ecology. It offers a stone sculpture park, cycling paths, and a botanical garden, making it one of the must-visit destinations in Hualien.

Stacked Stones, Starlight, and the Whisper of Sea Breeze｜From Qixingtan to Xincheng Seawall

Qixingtan is a spiritual hideaway cherished by both locals and travelers. Whether at sunrise, sunset, or under a star-filled sky, its seascapes are captivating. Years of waves washing ashore have filled the coast with smooth pebbles, forming Qixingtan’s signature “gravel beach.” It is also the starting point of the twin lakes cycling trail, where travelers can ride along the coast, passing green lawns and a sculpture park, appreciating both art and the Pacific breeze.

Continuing north from Qixingtan leads to the Xincheng Seawall, where the bay curves gently like a crescent, giving rise to the name “crescent bay.” Sitting at the seawall, watching gentle ripples shimmer across the water, offers not only scenic beauty but also a sense of tranquility that draws visitors back again and again.

Encountering the Slow Pace of Hualien｜Xincheng Old Street

Stepping into Xincheng Old Street feels like time slows down. At the street corner stands the 140-year-old Xincheng Photo Studio, a low wooden Japanese-style building with a weathered metal sign, now a nostalgic spot beloved by visitors. Next door, the scent from the long-established Chia Hsing Iced Dessert Shop drifts through the air. With a history of more than sixty years, it is more than a dessert shop, it is the “beginning of summer” in the memory of many Hualien locals. Its whole-lemon blended juice, refreshing and bright, is the perfect companion on a warm day.

Across the street, Country Farms is the newest highlight, a small shop blending local produce with lifestyle goods. It showcases the “Three Treasures of Xincheng”: Hualien No. 9 peanuts, organic No. 57 sweet potatoes, and pickled mustard greens. The owner insists on eco-friendly farming and handmade baking, transforming local flavors into creative snacks and gifts, such as sweet potato crisps and mille-layer roll cakes. Each bite carries sincerity and a story, adding warmth to Hualien’s winter scenery.

Light from the Sea, Soul in the Weave｜Xincheng’s Dual Landscapes

The Chihsing Tan Katsuo Museum is Taiwan’s only industry museum dedicated to bonito flakes. It combines traditional dried bonito craftsmanship with ocean culture, guiding visitors through the history and beauty of fishing heritage. In recent years, it has expanded to include marine ecology, responsible seafood education, and multisensory experiences, bringing people closer to the ocean through taste and emotion. The revitalization district surrounding it gathers local farmers, handmade brands, and eco-friendly concepts, presenting a lifestyle unique to Hualien, rich in coastal character and local warmth. It turns every stop into more than a photo moment, adding depth and a sense of connection to the journey.

North of Xincheng Old Street, Yuli’s Home, a creative studio and weaving space, welcomes visitors with the aroma of coffee. Its walls are lined with handwoven and wood-fired artworks, each infused with the resilient spirit of Taroko women. Founder Yuli draws inspiration from her grandmother. With her own hands, she weaves craftsmanship, memory, culture, and love, transforming traditional weaving into contemporary design that introduces more people to the beauty of Indigenous heritage, nature, and culture. In Xincheng Township, these elements intertwine across the land to create its most moving scenery.

Taroko Gorge in Recovery｜Xiulin Township

#NorthernmostPointofHualien

#TarokoNationalPark

#QingshuiCliff

#LargestTownshipbyAreainTaiwan

#Covering35percentofHualienCounty

Notice

Due to earthquake damage within Taroko National Park, sections of Provincial Highway No. 8 remain partially open. The Guanyuan to Tianxiang section is generally open from 06:00 to 16:30. The Tianxiang to Taroko entrance section allows passage at 06:30-08:00, 10:00-10:05, 12:00-13:00, 15:00-15:05, and 17:00-17:30. For detailed trail and scenic spot openings, please refer to official Taroko National Park updates.

Courtesy of Editorial Office and Brothers Hangout

Xiulin Township lies across the northern Central Mountain Range and is the largest mountain township in Hualien. It is home to a significant Taroko population, and half of its land is part of Taroko National Park. It encompasses majestic landscapes such as Taroko Gorge and Qingshui Cliff.

Forest Sanctuary Hidden in the Gorge｜Tianxiang Recreation Area

Located along the eastern section of the Cross-Island Highway, about 19 kilometers from Taroko, Tianxiang is a major river terrace recreation area within Taroko National Park. Here, the Dasha River and the Liwu River converge. Years of river carving have created layered terraces, meanders, potholes, and exposed gravel strata, making this an ideal base for exploring geological wonders. From the Jhih-huei Bridge, the contrasting rock formations on both sides offer rich educational value in geography and nature.

For travelers seeking a closer connection with the mountains, the broadleaf forests, singing insects, birds, and butterflies create a serene escape. In winter, the plum garden blooms with white petals drifting like snow, filling the air with fragrance and offering quiet beauty. This mountain sanctuary holds not only dramatic scenery but also history, culture, and the charm of changing seasons, making it an essential stop when visiting Taroko. Visitors are reminded not to expose food, as macaques may attempt to grab it.

Where History Meets the Forest｜Tabido Trail and Dekalun Trail

The Tabido Trail, located within the Tianxiang Recreation Area, is about 750 meters long, offering a compact adventure rich in cultural heritage and natural scenery. The trail begins beside Tianxiang Church, built sixty years ago by German missionaries. Along the way are remnants of the Mt. Hehuan Traversing Trail from the Japanese era, as well as traces of a Taroko settlement dating back three hundred years. The trail ends at the Tienhsiang Youth Activity Center, a landmark along the Cross-Island Highway. Though short, the route is varied, featuring a lookout rock with sweeping views and steep chain-assisted rock faces that challenge hikers.

The Dekalun Trail sits in the green hills opposite the Taroko Gorge Visitor Center. Starting from the Taroko terrace entrance, the first section is a zigzag path paved with grass mats, leading to steep stairways that rise to the highest point. The trail then passes through bamboo groves and natural earth paths, with rest platforms along the way for visitors to relax. Whether seeking Indigenous history or canyon vistas, the trail offers a delightful and exploratory forest experience.

A Majestic Coastal Sanctuary｜Chungte Recreation Area

The entrance to Chungte Recreation Area begins with stone steps beside the northern lookout platform of the Chongde Tunnel. Although the trail has not yet been fully restored after the earthquake, the first platform still offers a pavilion and seating, perfect for resting while listening to the waves and admiring the vast Pacific horizon. Looking north, Qingshui Cliff rises dramatically, one of Taiwan’s Eight Scenic Wonders. Early-morning visitors may catch the sunrise reflections over the sea and birds diving for fish, while late-afternoon may reveal fishermen pulling in their nets. Those driving the Suhua Highway should take a moment to stop and appreciate the grandeur and calm of this coast.

Qingshui Cliff is one of the most spectacular sights along the Pacific coast. Its towering rock walls rise directly from the sea, where layers of stone meet deep blue waters to create a breathtaking natural tableau. This area is perfect for gazing upon the dramatic meeting of mountain and ocean, and also for adventurous experiences on the water. During the “Qingshui Cliff SUP” activity, participants glide over still waters with the rhythm of the tides, moving toward golden morning light, a highlight no visitor to Hualien should miss.

Courtesy of Editorial Office & Bukuy Dgiyag Mhiyug Giril

In the Kdusan Tribe of Xiulin, Hualien, a group of young locals returning home founded “Bukuy Dgiyag Mhiyug Giril” to bring the disappearing nest ferns back to the land. They combine sustainable farming with cultural experiences, transforming the village’s destiny and letting hope sprout again between the mountains and the sea.

From Decline to Renewal｜Returning Youth Restore Value to Nest Ferns

The Kdusan Tribe in Xiulin Township, Hualien, once abundant in nest ferns, saw the crop dwindle due to price collapse and monopolization by traders. When a group of returning youths saw women quietly packaging the ferns and elders sighing in despair - “Our nest ferns are almost gone!” - they decided to take action to rewrite the tribe’s future.

Through organic transformation, shared learning at the origin, and brand marketing, nest ferns are no longer just an undervalued crop - they symbolize hope reborn. Chun-Hsiung Lin has been a key driving force in revitalizing the village. Leaving behind a career in long-term care to return home, he established a social enterprise and rallied local youth into organized teams. By implementing the Ministry of Agriculture’s “Green Care” program, elders are invited to participate in planting while young people take charge of management. This approach not only restores confidence in the local agriculture industry but also sparks a broader rural regeneration movement, nurturing a cycle of mutual care and growth between the community and the land.

From Farming to Branding｜Bukuy Dgiyag Mhiyug Giril’s Sustainable Practices

Kdusan Tribe is not only home to nest ferns but also the best gateway to experiencing culture and connecting with the land. Travelers can choose half-day tours or two-day, one-night immersive trips to participate in music, crafts, and harvesting, experiencing tribal life firsthand. The “Hunter Across the Central Mountain Range” package is among the most popular experiences. This six-hour journey combines Taroko tradition and modernity: donning tribal attire, participating in welcome dances, making indigenous bamboo rice, setting traps, practicing archery, and finally enjoying a tribal feast. It’s more than tourism - it’s an adventure into culture and nature.

Bukuy Dgiyag Mhiyug Giril practices friendly agriculture, avoiding chemical sprays and protecting forests through natural cycles. Chun-Hsiung Lin and the youth team hope to show that farming can be a lifestyle, not just labor. In the Kdusan Tribe, with mountains behind and the sea ahead, they aim to restore the land inch by inch, creating a green miracle.

INFO｜Bukuy Dgiyag Mhiyug Giril

Address: No. 48-11, Kdusan Tribe, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03- 8262772

Lavatory: Yes

※Various itineraries available; reservations recommended online.

Courtesy of Editorial Office

In winter, Hualien feels as if it is wrapped in a halo of happiness. As Christmas approaches, the entire city shimmers with festive light. When night falls, the glow of the season weaves a dreamlike atmosphere straight out of a fairy tale. Traveling through the townships, it is easy to find quiet little churches - symbols not only of faith, but of hope and blessing woven gently into the spirit of Hualien. The cool sea breeze, the majestic mountain silhouettes, and the city’s serene yet steadfast charm together create a warmth of hope and happiness - one that comforts travelers and lights the beginning of a new year.

Light and Shadow in the Tianxiang Valley｜Stepping Into Taroko’s Quiet Churches

Located within the Tianxiang Recreation Area of Taroko, Tianxiang Catholic Church was built in 1961 and consists of two buildings, both constructed of gray stone and red brick. Though modest in scale, it offers a peaceful and solemn sanctuary framed by lush gardens and dramatic mountain views. Climb up to the polygonal rooftop chapel and the vistas open wide - mountains layering into the horizon like a painted scroll. While Tianxiang Catholic Church no longer holds mass, it provides affordable lodging and remains a cherished hidden spot for backpackers.

A short walk toward the Tabido Trail lies another retreat - the guesthouse of Tianxiang Church - tucked deeper into the forest. Here, in this even quieter setting, visitors can feel a long-lost sense of peace and renewed hope in the meeting of nature and faith.

注意

Notice

太魯閣國家風景區受到震災影響，天祥至太魯閣口，採06:30-08:00、10:00-10:05、12:00-13:00、15:00-15:05、17:00-17:30 等5 次放行。

Due to earthquake damage within Taroko National Park, controlled openings are in place between Tianxiang and the Taroko Arch Gate. Passage is permitted at: 06:30-08:00, 10:00-10:05, 12:00-13:00, 15:00-15:05, and 17:00-17:30.

INFO｜Tianxiang Catholic Church

Address: No. 33, Tianxiang, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8691122

Where Culture Meets Time｜Xincheng Catholic Church

Before becoming a Catholic church, Xincheng Catholic Church was originally the Xincheng Shinto Shrine, built in 1937. After Taiwan’s restoration, the shrine was transformed into a church while retaining its original architectural framework. Walking inside feels like stepping across layers of history - experiencing both the tranquil solemnity of Shinto architecture and the gentle radiance of Catholic faith. Together, they reflect Hualien’s rich cultural diversity. The chapel’s exterior, covered in vines and greenery, resembles a verdant vessel living in harmony with its surroundings. The interior is simple, elegant, and filled with quiet charm. The stained-glass windows are full of imaginative details, including a depiction of a figure in Qing-dynasty Manchu official robes—a striking testament to the era’s cultural blending.

Just nearby, Etude Bookstore has created a safe and comforting space where local children can eat, read, and do homework. Its name comes from the belief that “life is an étude - always in practice.” Books here are for borrowing, not for sale. Travelers may browse freely, enjoying the gentle strength woven from words, faith, and the land.

INFO｜Etude Bookstore

Address: No. 252, Xinyi Rd., Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8651177 

Business hours: 08:00-19:00

Lavatory: No

INFO｜Xincheng Catholic Church

Address: No. 64, Boai Rd., Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0929-102286

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: No

Meilun’s Spiritual Landscape｜Mei-Lun Baptist Church

Completed in 2005, the 1,300-ping (approx. 4300 m²) Mei-Lun Baptist Church is one of Hualien’s most iconic examples of modern church architecture. Its gray-white façade and Gothic spires create elegant lines - impressive yet gentle in presence. The outdoor trumpet-shaped staircase resembles open arms, symbolizing welcome and inclusion. The church’s design draws inspiration from the “miracle of the five loaves and two fish”: the five floors represent sharing and blessing, while the fish-shaped roof structures symbolize abundance and hope. For its congregation, it is more than a church - it is a sanctuary for the spirit and a place where generosity becomes part of everyday life.

Strolling along the Hualien Harbor cycling path, the warehouses and sea breeze whisper stories of the port’s shifting past. As adaptive-reuse projects continue, what was once an industrial landscape is gradually transforming into a distinctive cultural-creative hub unique to Hualien.

INFO｜Mei-Lun Baptist Church

Address: No. 52, Minzu Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8222075

Business hours: 08:00-22:00（Open Monday from 13:00）

Lavatory: Yes

Tranquility in Jian｜QingFeng Taiwan Presbyterian Church

Strolling along Jian Road in Jian Township, visitors encounter a charming stone-built structure exuding rustic elegance - QingFeng Taiwan Presbyterian Church. Originally funded by parishioners, the church was first built in 1955 and reconstructed in 1962. Its exterior walls, meticulously stacked with individual stones, make it one of the township’s most iconic buildings. During construction, parishioners transported the stones all the way from Xiulin Township by hand-drawn carts - a laborious process fueled by faith and community spirit. The pointed-arch design and classical tall windows give the church an air of dignity and grace, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers seeking the serene charm of a stone-built sanctuary.

Jian Township, once a Japanese-era immigrant village, still retains a strong historical atmosphere. Nearby, Jian Qingxiu Temple offers a different form of tranquility, inviting visitors into a reflective space across time.

INFO｜QingFeng Taiwan Presbyterian Church

Address: No. 373, Sec. 2, Jian Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8525940

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: Yes

INFO｜Jian Qingxiu Temple

Address: No. 345-1, Zhongxing Rd., Jian Village, Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8535479

Business hours: 08:30-17:00(Closed on Mondays)

Lavatory: Yes 

Prayers Amid Mountains and Water｜Virgin Mary at Biho Lake

Tucked within the mountains of Wanrong Township, the Thgahan community’s Biho Lake feels like a forgotten sanctuary. Biho Lake’s waters are perfectly clear, like a glassy mirror, reflecting the surrounding green hills and drifting clouds. Walking along its edge, visitors are enveloped in a serene, almost magical landscape - an ideal spot to pause, breathe, and soak in the quiet beauty of nature. Initially farmland, Biho Lake was created when Chief Bihwalilis donated land for a dam, later restored and fed by mountain springs through the efforts of his son - shaping the serene lake we see today. At its center, a small floating island bears a statue of the Virgin Mary, quietly watching over the waters and surrounding hills. A walk along the loop trail, taking about ten minutes, feels like a gentle pilgrimage, where calm, reverence, and nature blend seamlessly.

Heading toward the foot of the mountains, travelers can visit Lintianshan Forestry Cultural Park, once Taiwan’s fourth-largest forest operation. Established by the Japanese in 1918, the site featured railways, dormitories, schools, and welfare facilities, forming a complete mountain-town community. From the sacred waters of Biho Lake to the nostalgic charm of Lintianshan, this area offers calm away from the bustle - a place where time itself invites reflection.

INFO｜Biho Lake

Address: Mingli Village, Wanrong Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8751321

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: No

※Travelers should proceed with care on narrow, winding roads.

Tafalong Tribe - The White Spire of Hope and Renewal｜Futian Catholic Church

In Guangfu Township, the pure-white spire of Futian Catholic Church immediately draws the eye. Located within the Tafalong Tribe, the church serves as both the community’s spiritual center and a popular photo destination for travelers. Its European-inspired architecture contrasts beautifully with the green fields and blue sky. Inside, biblical stories encircle the walls as murals, while columns feature Amis totems - merging Western religious tradition with local cultural aesthetics. Even after recent floods, the church stands steadfast, symbolizing hope and resilience for the community.

A ten-minute walk from the church, along country paths, leads to Mataian Wetland Ecological Park at the foot of Mt. Maxi. Known as Hualien’s “green heart,” it is the county’s largest ecological wetland. Along the boardwalk, visitors can ride bicycles amid bird songs and gentle breezes, and experience the traditional “Palakaw fishing technique,” learning how the Amis people use natural terrain and ecological principles to fish.

INFO｜Futian Catholic Church

Address: No. 16, Futian 1st St., Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8702338

Lavatory: Yes 

The Power of Faith Made Tangible｜Fumin Catholic Church, Ruisui

Located near TRA Fuyuan Station, Fumin Catholic Church has served local communities for over 70 years. The old church was rebuilt in 2013 in classical Baroque style, its position amid rice fields enhancing its beauty. When foreign priests first brought the faith to the tribes, they understood that only by respecting local culture and embracing the spiritual wisdom of tribal rituals could the Gospel truly take root. Over time, language, music, attire, and ceremonial practices gradually intertwined with Catholic traditions, giving rise to a church culture imbued with indigenous spirit. A notable example is the integration of the Amis Harvest Festival into Sunday Mass at Fumin Catholic Church, a unique expression of faith that honors both tradition and community. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Golden Trumpet Trees of Fuyuan, which bloom spectacularly in late March.

INFO｜Fumin Catholic Church, Ruisui

Address: No. 150, Sec. 1, Zhongzheng Rd., Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0977-153082

Lavatory: Yes 

A Pilgrimage to a Hidden Sanctuary｜The Stations of the Cross, Olaw, Hegang, Ruisui 

In Hegang, Ruisui Township, the Olaw community layers faith and culture like the surrounding hills, quietly telling the stories of its people. Here, there is no urban clamor, only birdsong and mountain breezes. A “Giant Cross” hidden in the forest serves as a spiritual landmark for locals. Climbing the stone steps of the “Stations of the Cross,” the winding path takes about 15 minutes, with each of the fourteen turns representing a stage of Christ’s Passion. At the summit, a monumental cross stands against the sky, symbolizing redemption and hope, while the pavilion offers sweeping, breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Originally the endpoint of the Easter Stations of the Cross ritual, this mountaintop has now become the tribe’s most spiritual hidden pilgrimage site - a tranquil sanctuary where visitors can reflect and find peace amidst stunning natural scenery.

Visitors to Olaw Village in Hegang, Ruisui can also experience a unique aspect of local culture: the “Lumberjack Dance (Milikilangay).” This traditional dance originated in the tribe’s historical practice of collectively lifting logs weighing over 100 kilograms. The movements convey the sweat, strength, and resilience of the community, offering a performance that is both solemn and full of vitality - a living legend of Taiwan’s eastern mountains.

INFO｜Stations of the Cross Trail, Olaw Village, Hegang, Ruisui Township

Address: Olaw Village, Hegang, Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: No

※Visitors are advised to park outside the village to avoid disrupting local life and to keep noise to a minimum.

Courtesy of Yu-Liu Chen & Editorial Office

From 2025 into a hopeful 2026, Hualien has crafted a series of festive celebrations just for you. From the warm, biblical-themed Christmas City to the electrifying New Year’s Eve concert and the dazzling lantern festival that follows, the entire city is filled with rich holiday spirit. Travelers can enjoy Hualien’s wintertime charm, letting its beauty and passion light up the new year.

Taiwan’s Most Distinctive Rural Arts Festival｜Fuli Rice Straw Art Festival

Fuli Township is renowned for organic, eco-friendly farming and biodiversity, and is also the first location certified Special A Rank by Japan’s Rice Paddy Environment Appraisal System. With about 2,500 hectares of rice fields, Fuli Farmers’ Association transforms post-harvest agricultural waste - such as rice straw and bamboo weaving - into creative artworks each winter. The Fuli Farmers’ Association embodies the Satoyama Initiative’s vision of “harmonious coexistence with nature,” creating a unique style of straw art culture.

From the start, the Fuli Rice Straw Art Festival has emphasized landscape co-creation with farmers. It combines bamboo-weaving craftsmanship with creative participation from local village schools. It has now become one of Hualien’s signature annual events, attracting visitors from near and far. Every piece carries an interesting story, offering both fun and educational value - it’s a world where children can learn ecological knowledge through straw art.

INFO｜The 7th Fuli Rice Straw Art Festival

Address: No. 6, Donghu, Neighborhood 9, Fuli Township, Hualien County (Behind Luoshan Exhibition and Sales Center, Fuli Township Farmers’ Association)

Telephone: 03-8821705

Business hours: 12/25 Starts

Lavatory: Yes

※Actual event dates and details will be announced on the official website.

The Warmest Christmas Blessings｜Hualien Happy Christmas Land

Spanning more than 33,000 square meters, Hualien Happy Christmas Land attracts nearly 100,000 visitors each year. Adults and children alike arrive with phones and cameras ready, snapping endless photos at its popular installations.

Among the most iconic attractions are the giant Christmas installations, dreamy spherical Christmas houses, and artistic displays showcasing Christmas traditions from different countries. The internationally themed Christmas market brings together vendors from around the world - perfect for capturing heartwarming moments of cultural exchange. From sparkling star lights to live performances of Jesus, the shepherds, and the Biblical Magi, visitors can immerse themselves in a Christmas story that is both romantic and reverent. You can savor foods from around the world while admiring the festive lights and feeling the warmth and blessings of the season.

INFO｜2025 Hualien Happy Christmas Land

Address: No. 192, Fuqian Road, Hualien City (Fuqian Stone Sculpture Museum Park)

Telephone: 03-8227171#366

Business hours: 12/24-12/28 Christmas Market

Lavatory: Yes

※Actual event dates and details will be announced on the official website.

Eastern Taiwan’s Grand New Year Celebration｜Hualien New Year’s Eve Concert

The “Hualien New Year’s Eve Party” concert has become the most anticipated year-end event in eastern Taiwan, now entering its 12th year. Each New Year’s Eve, huge crowds gather at Hualien’s Dongdamen Square. The event not only boasts a professional stage and lighting setup on par with Taipei Arena, but also brings together top Asian vocalists and Taiwan’s most captivating stars, delivering powerhouse performances on the same stage. Audiences can enjoy a world-class audiovisual spectacle - no passport required. The lineup always brings surprises, with superstar performances followed by spectacular fireworks that light up the sky, making Hualien’s New Year’s Eve both romantic and radiant.

Beyond music, the celebration continues with heartfelt programming. Right after the countdown, the “2026 New Year’s Day Walking Event” invites everyone to welcome the year’s first sunrise while strolling through Hualien’s fresh air and majestic natural scenery - beginning a hopeful new year.

INFO｜2025-2026 Hualien New Year’s Eve Party

Address: Dongdamen Square, Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8227171#524

Business hours: 12/31

Lavatory: Yes

※Actual event dates and details will be announced on the official website.

Blossoms Welcoming the Year of the Horse｜Hualien Pacific Ocean Lantern Festival

As the Lunar New Year approaches, the festive spirit fills every corner of Hualien. Walking along every street and alley, tens of thousands of red lanterns hang high above, filling the air with a festive, joyful atmosphere that seems to greet both returning locals and visiting travelers. To fully experience the holiday joy, start at the Sunrise Boulevard Lunar New Year Street Market to prepare your festive goods, then head to the Hualien Pacific Ocean Lantern Festival for a night of sparkling lantern displays.

This Year of the Snake lantern festival takes “Full Bloom” as its theme, serving as the opening chapter of the “We Bloom!” initiative - symbolizing light and hope. From blossoming flowers to flowing illuminations, the displays express vitality and renewal. The festival’s main lantern is once again a highlight, combining a magnificent light show, dynamic stage performances, and imaginative art installations for a visual feast. Traditional Lantern Festival activities such as lantern riddles and lantern giveaways add warmth and fun. Make Hualien part of your Lunar New Year journey! Here, you can savor local snacks, enjoy natural scenery, experience vibrant cultural diversity, and feel the genuine warmth of Hualien’s people.

INFO｜2026 Hualien Pacific Ocean Lantern Festival

Address: Hualien City Sunrise Boulevard (Performance Plaza next to Chongqing Market)

Telephone: 03-8227171#524

Business hours: 2026/02/07-03/08 (Tentative and closed Lunar New Year's Eve)

※Actual event dates and details will be announced on the official website.

VillaHome, located in Shoufeng Township, Hualien, has become a healing hideaway beloved by travelers in recent years. The lake, encircled by mountains, lies calm as a mirror, reflecting the bald cypress trees and drifting clouds - like stepping into a woodland fairyland. Most of the grounds are free to enter, with popular photo spots along the way, such as the Bald Cypress Waterfall and stepping stones. At dawn and dusk, shifting light and shadow reveal different kinds of charm. Boutique guesthouses and cafés are scattered around the lakeshore, their European-style buildings mirrored in the water - an enchanting scene for photographers. If you stay overnight, waking to birdsong and insects in the morning light becomes the gentlest love letter to Hualien.

INFO｜VillaHome & Menghuan Lake

Address: No. 18, Aly. 201, Ln. 2, Sec. 2, Fengping Rd., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0938-111111

Business hours: 08:00-17:00

※Please do not disturb private residences in the VillaHome area.

Hualien is a land of mountains and sea, where rich indigenous cultures thrive in every corner. Through the skillful hands of local artisans, vibrant woven creations emerge, each piece infused with the essence of Hualien. Choosing a woven souvenir on your autumn trip becomes the perfect way to hear and connect with their stories.

Weaving Life into Craft｜Dorcas Clever Workshop

Tzu-Hsuan Chen, a Taroko artisan, once worked in pet grooming. A friend’s love for handmade crafts and her own entrepreneurial experience drew her into the world of weaving. After immersing herself in her tribal culture, she fell in love with it completely. She laughs, saying she was “tricked into it” - soon after the studio opened, she became its director, leading the preservation and innovation of Taroko cultural arts. Her aunt Wan-Li Chen is also one of the workshop’s leaders. By entrusting Tzu-Hsuan Chen with the operation, she empowered a group of tribal sisters to weave beautiful creations that carry both artistry and cultural significance.

INFO｜Dorcas Clever Workshop

Address: No. 345, Dongxing Road, Hualien City

Telephone: 0905-072583 

Business hours: The workshop is not generally open to the public, but visitors can order or reserve custom pieces through the website or by phone.

Tribal Crafts Meet Modern Style｜Weaving the Threads of Cultural Heritage

The name “Dorcas” comes from the Bible, where she was a skilled weaver who joyfully helped others - mirroring the workshop’s mission: A team of tribal sisters ensures that indigenous culture is carried forward through woven crafts. Tzu-Hsuan often incorporates diamond patterns, representing the “eyes of ancestors,” which symbolize protection, guidance, and regulation. The workshop logo features overlapping diamonds, reflecting the collective creativity of many individuals.

Her work seamlessly blends traditional weaving with contemporary fashion. Each fabric and motif is carefully designed, with recent favorites combining leather and Taroko tribal weaves shaped like Taiwan. These creations have sold over a thousand units. Products include shoulder straps, tote bags, small pouches, and even crafted items that combine woodworking with other materials, such as phone stands. These creations transform traditional tribal patterns into practical, modern objects while also weaving a space for cultural heritage and its ongoing legac

Memories and Knowledge Woven from Tribal Craft｜Yuan Yang Workshop

Chun-Hsia Lin (formerly Yung-Mei Lin), born to a Sakizaya father and an Amis mother, returned to Hualien in 2009 after years working at a gown company in Taipei. With more than 20 years of sewing experience and a deep understanding of traditional techniques, she first guided mothers at the Taiwan Fund for Children and Families in Hualien in crafting handmade items. She also joined the Indigenous Product Design Competition in Taipei, spending seven days and nights creating a garment entirely by hand from hemp and jute, improvising as she went without relying on any design sketches. The resulting piece, called “Inheritance,” won fourth place and drew inspiration from her childhood memories of her grandfather weaving fishing nets. These early experiences ignited Chun-Hsia’s journey in weaving, embedding cultural recognition and the responsibility of heritage into her work.

Fusing Innovation with Tradition｜Connecting Life to the Future

Yuan Yang Workshop, just a five-minute drive from TRA Hualien Station, welcomes visitors with Chun-Hsia Lin’s award-winning and exhibited creations. Many of her pieces have gained recognition beyond competitions, including consecutive showcases at the “Yu Fu Fashion Show” at Dongli Cycling Station, where Eelin models couldn’t get enough of her designs.

Creating garments from tree bark is no simple feat. The process begins with carefully harvesting the bark from the paper mulberry, which alone can take an entire day. Afterward, the bark is soaked, bleached, and dyed with natural plant pigments before it can be transformed into usable fabric. There’s a wealth of knowledge involved - for instance, the trees are either male or female, and the bark from male trees tends to crack more easily. Chun-Hsia Lin laughs, noting, “Female trees, like women, are more resilient. She also incorporates the Amis tradition of knot tying into her clothing, blending aesthetics with cultural storytelling. Today, Chun-Hsia aims to bring these crafts into daily life - not just in clothing, but also in furniture and décor. Only by connecting these creations to everyday living can traditional craft truly continue into the future.

INFO｜Yuan Yang Workshop

Address: No. 99, Zili Road, Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0919-941823

Business hours: Visits or custom orders are available by appointment

In autumn, visiting Ruisui is not only a chance to soak in hot springs and warm both body and soul, but also an opportunity to savor local specialties such as honey black tea and pomelos. These offerings let travelers slowly appreciate the gentle, comforting flavors unique to Ruisui.

The Perfect Milk Tea Recipe｜Wuhe Honey Black Tea

As autumn arrives, there’s nothing better than enjoying the first cup of milk tea in Hualien. A good milk tea carries a delicate aroma with a lingering honeyed sweetness, and the secret lies in choosing Wuhe black tea. To prepare, brown the raw sugar in a dry pan to release its color, then add fresh milk and bring it to a boil before removing from the heat. With Wuhe honey black tea on hand, you can create at home the perfect milk tea favored by afternoon tea enthusiasts. While in Ruisui, visitors should not miss the golden-colored hot springs, whose warmth rivals Japan’s famous Arima Onsen. For instance, Ruisui Hot Spring Hotel boasts abundant hot spring resources, including charming four-person wooden cottages with spacious interiors. The large bathroom ceilings are fitted with glass panels that let in natural light, allowing guests to fully enjoy the energizing warmth of the golden hot spring water.

INFO｜Ruisui Hot Spring Hotel

Address: No.185, Sec. 3, Wenquan Rd., Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8872254 

Lavatory: Yes

Reviving Traditional Flavors｜Ruisui Farmers’ Association’s Local Specialties

Hualien has long been committed to sustainable environments and organic agriculture. In Ruisui, naturally grown, additive-free local products are more than food - they carry local sentiment and cultural value. For example, the “Handmade Hegang Pomelo Jam (手工鶴岡文旦柚果醬柚子醬)” uses locally grown Hegang pomelos. The fruit is peeled by hand, then simmered with sugar without adding water to preserve its natural flavor. Pomelo peel and lemon juice are added, retaining the whole fruit’s delicious essence. The jam can be brewed into hot or cold beverages or paired with oil and vinegar to make a pomelo salad dressing suitable for all ages.

Another specialty, “Pomelo Flower Tea Fermented Tofu,” uses fresh pomelo flowers from Ruisui, harvested each spring in March and April. The flowers are smoked together with local tea leaves, allowing their fragrance to deeply infuse the tea. This tea is then combined with traditional fermented tofu, resulting in a silky-smooth delicacy that fills the mouth with the gentle yet lingering aroma of pomelo flowers. The subtle, savory taste perfectly balances the floral notes, creating a layered and rich flavor experience that earned it first place in the pickled category of the 2024 Hualien Good Sauce Awards.

INFO｜Ruisui Farmers’ Association Supermarket

Address: No. 126, Sec. 1, Zhongshan Rd., Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8870897

Business hours: 07:45-21:00 

Lavatory: Yes

Courtesy of Chun-Hui Liu & Muchonfarm

Organic farming is more than just a cultivation method - it’s a lifestyle rooted in responsibility toward the land, health, and the future. Nestled in Songpu, Yuli, Hualien, Muchonfarm has quietly been cultivating this philosophy since 2004, striving to do better for both people and the land.

Kindred Spirits, Shared Goals｜Sustainability as a Mission

Muchonfarm was born from a shared vision among a group of friends in trade: a post-retirement plan centered on healthy living. They chose Yuli for its pure, natural environment, and as amateur farmers, they never treated abundance as a mandate; instead, they embraced quiet persistence. From sourcing fresh ingredients and making their own soybean pomace as fertilizer to open-air cultivation under the sun, they steadfastly refuse to use pesticides.

Organic farming is demanding - without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, every step is more challenging than in conventional methods. Soil health, stable climate, pest management, and crop rotation all require careful attention. Extreme weather or sudden pest outbreaks can sharply reduce yields. Yet these setbacks haven’t deterred Muchonfarm, because organic cultivation is not just a responsibility - it’s a commitment to sustainable development for the future.

Rare Organic Pineapples Across Taiwan｜A Self-Sustaining Mini-Ecosystem

Organic pineapples are labor-intensive, making their production scarce across Taiwan. Unpredictable weather and fast-growing weeds require hands-on care for each plant. Heavy rains, typhoons, or visits from wild boars can wipe out half a harvest.

Muchonfarm goes beyond pineapples. The farm raises free-range hens that produce chemical-free eggs and has recently begun cultivating organic small-fruit bitter tea seeds. Situated on volcanic ash soil along the eastern slopes of the Coastal Range, the land is rich in unique trace minerals, ideal for bitter tea trees. Their meticulously processed organic small-fruit bitter tea seed oil offers a distinct grassy and floral aroma. With rice, pineapples, dragon fruit, tea, and more, Muchonfarm has created a self-contained organic ecosystem. Visitors can purchase products directly from the farm or at local outlets like Tanhou and Simple Mart, continuing the philosophy of living in harmony with land and nature.

INFO｜Muchonfarm

Address: No. Wanli 211, Songpu Vil., Neighborhood 25, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0975-113940 

Lavatory: Yes

※Food and agricultural education visits are available by prior phone arrangement

Courtesy of Yoti Hsueh & Yuli Sera Coffee

Located in Songpu, Yuli Township, Yuli Sera Coffee is a farm-to-table space run by Sera, a returning Amis youth, and his partner Hsiao-ching. Housed in a converted old warehouse, the café preserves wooden beams, repurposed doors, and windows, blending family memories with tribal culture to create a warm, handmade, shared space.

The menu centers on ingredients from their own farm and local tribal produce. Signature dishes, such as the Maqaw Pepper Pork Bun Burger, combine traditional Amis spices, wild vegetables, and handmade buns, striking a balance between cultural creativity and flavor. The Maqaw Pepper Minced Pork and Vegetable dish pairs seasonal wild vegetables, tri-color organic rice, and fresh pork for a light, wholesome meal. For a deeper experience, the chef offers a reservation-only omakase-style menu that lets guests savor the flavors of the season and local terroir. Coffee is brewed from house-roasted beans, with the signature Colombian beans offering nuanced flavors reminiscent of millet wine, shifting in character from hot to cooled drinks - a favorite among regulars.

Reflecting on the Land Through the Table｜Seasonal Farm-to-Table Experiences

Here, food and agricultural education is not just a course - it’s an immersive experience. Observing crops, daily life, and cultural memory in the fields is transformed into an interactive learning experience. Visitors can participate in rattan weaving, DIY rice snacks, or customized half-day farm tours for groups. In the past, the café has collaborated with church children on activities such as bamboo cup making, mochi pounding, wild vegetable cooking, and shared meals, allowing kids to engage directly with ingredients and culture.

Through the ongoing “Mountain and Sea Kitchen” program, the café collaborates with local communities to promote sustainable farming and indigenous dietary practices. With generations of farming knowledge, the owners use their own rice and vegetables for lessons and product development, creating items such as shell ginger brown rice crackers and SERA rice egg rolls. This practice not only embodies the farm-to-table philosophy but gradually builds a micro-economy that supports sustainable rural development, in harmony with seasonal rhythms, agricultural cycles, and the natural pace of daily life - allowing travelers to truly experience Hualien’s slow living as genuine everyday life.

INFO｜Yuli Sera Coffee

Address: No. Songpu 40-1, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0912-541834 

Business hours: 12:00-18:00（Irregular holidays - call ahead to confirm） 

Lavatory: Yes

Worried about leaving your furry friend at a kennel while traveling? Last year, Hualien launched the “PetFAC Pet Friendly Accommodation Certificate,” a program with 66 rigorous standards that ensures pets can stay comfortably alongside their owners. Certified accommodations provide dedicated pet facilities so travelers can enjoy peace of mind while exploring Hualien with their four-legged companions.

A Healing Escape Close to Nature｜Hoya Spa Manor

Nestled at the base of Hutoushan, Hoya Spa Manor was personally crafted by Chang-Kuei Lin, affectionately nicknamed “Hoya,” meaning “Uncle Tiger” in Chinese. Named to convey health, peace, and fortune, the manor’s premium amber hot springs contain rare minerals such as carbonates, iron, and magnesium, earning it the nickname “The Spring for Conceiving Boys.” Beyond its spa pools, saunas, and steam rooms, Hoya Spa Manor is PetFAC certified, featuring pools, splash areas, and slides that ensure both pets and their owners can feel safe and enjoy themselves. Inside the park, guests can stargaze or watch fireflies, immersing themselves in the pure restorative energy of nature.

INFO｜Hoya Spa Manor

Address: No. 101-5, Sec. 2, Xiangbei Rd., Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8875505 

Business hours: Open all day

The Perfect Getaway for Pets and Their Humans｜Grand Cosmos Resort, Ruisui

Part of the Cosmos Hotels & Resorts Group, Grand Cosmos Resort in Ruisui combines the region’s famous “Golden Spring” hot springs with a European-style castle resort concept, aiming to be Taiwan’s most fun and luxurious hot spring destination. Centered on the theme “Enjoy the Hot Springs, Explore the Manor,” all guest rooms and the outdoor pools of the Water Park are fed by natural Ruisui spring water. Beyond castle and manor-style rooms, the resort offers family villas with slides and pet-friendly accommodations. Pet-friendly family rooms and garden villas allow pets and their owners to stay together comfortably, with thoughtfully provided amenities including towels, small beds, wash basins, hair dryers, carriers, pee pads, scoops, and even pet food - making travel with dogs easier and more enjoyable.

The resort’s lush parks and family-friendly green spaces provide the perfect setting for strolls with pets, letting everyone soak in the European castle manor ambiance. Its comprehensive pet-friendly services have earned Grand Cosmos Resort the PetFAC Pet Friendly Accommodation Certificate, creating an ideal environment for a relaxed getaway with furry friends.

INFO｜Grand Cosmos Resort, Ruisui

Address: No. 368, Sec. 2, Wenquan Rd., Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8876000 

Business hours: Open all day

Courtesy of Yosifu & Editorial Office

Yosifu, a renowned indigenous artist from the Matadim Tribe in Yuli, Taiwan, is the first Taiwanese indigenous artist to participate in the Edinburgh International Festival. Although he has lived in Edinburgh for many years, he has spent recent years traveling between Yuli and the UK, planting seeds of art that take root in his homeland.

Bold and Vivid Creations｜Coloring the Land of Matadim Tribe

In 2018, Yosifu returned to Yuli and transformed his family home into “Tribal Queen Art & Cafe.” Since then, visitors to Hualien have had the chance to encounter his work in person. Stepping into the café, one is immediately greeted by two large-scale pieces on the wall, Eye of the Sun and Harvest, which embody Yosifu’s signature style: bold, vivid, and intense colors that seem to capture the passionate spirit of the Amis people. Perhaps most striking is the Matadim Church Mosaic Art Wall, located diagonally across from the café. Infused with Amis cultural motifs and realized through community collaboration, it strengthens tribal cohesion. The wall has received the National Public Art Award and is a favorite spot for visitors to take photos.

Immersed in Yuli’s Landscape｜Rooted in the Essence of Indigenous Art

Returning to his homeland seems to fuel Yosifu’s creative energy. He continues to expand the reach of his art beyond the Matadim Church, with projects such as the Danongdafu South Entrance installation, public artworks in the Lalaulan Tribe in Taitung, and large-scale ship paintings at Grand Cosmos Resort in Ruisui.

Over the past year, Yosifu has curated numerous exhibitions. On November 29, “Tribal Queen Art & Cafe” hosted the lecture “Listening to the South Seas, where he shared that only by embracing one’s identity can one truly hear the ocean. As design director of the “Fali Fali Music Festival,” he created Golden Rice Waves, an installation inspired by the golden rippling rice fields he grew up with. He also organized the photography exhibition “Kilimen ko iayaway a pinangan (Rediscovering Our Original Self),” collecting historical photos to highlight the beauty and essence of local traditions, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the purity of his homeland.

INFO｜Tribal Queen Art & Cafe

Address: No. 29, Matadim Village, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0955-923242 

Business hours: 11:00-17:00，Sunday 12:00-17:00（Closed Tuesdays through Thursdays） 

Lavatory: Yes

Courtesy of Wei-Chun Chiang, Yoti Hsueh & Editorial Office

In the inaugural Taiwan Culture Base 2025 awards, five sites in Hualien were selected. Together with other cultural hubs, these bases weave the threads of local history and culture into spaces that embody the spirit of Hualien. Step inside, and you’ll discover the authentic flavor of this land and its people.

Practicing Life’s Lessons with Children｜Etude Bookstore

Located near Xincheng Catholic Church, Etude Bookstore was founded in 2017 by Steven Hu, who became a baseball coach and saw firsthand the family struggles and lack of educational resources in rural areas. He created the bookstore as a safe haven for children - a place where they could come after school to eat, do their homework, and read. The bookstore thus took on part of a family’s role, becoming a “home” that accompanied kids through their growth. Its visual identity features the baseball home plate as a symbol of foundation and unity, with block-like patterns suggesting solidarity, growth, and shared progress. The books here are for borrowing, not buying, making it an ideal place for travelers to spend a quiet afternoon surrounded by the fragrance of books.

INFO｜Etude Bookstore

Address: No. 252, Xinyi Rd., Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0929-102286 

Business hours: 09:00-18:00 

Lavatory: No

Ocean Sustainability Begins at the Table｜Fish Bar

Fish Bar was founded in 2016 by Wen-Chi Huang, whose mother’s family has long operated fixed-net fisheries in the Qixingtan Scenic Area of Hualien. Growing up in this environment, she naturally absorbed the knowledge of how fish are caught and prepared for the table. Initially focused on fish-eating education and preserving fishing culture, Fish Bar became Taiwan’s first fish-eating education center when it moved into the Qixingtan Visitor Center in 2024. Here, visitors learn about Taiwan’s marine species, responsible fishing, and ocean-friendly dining choices - from sea to table.

Although the center was severely impacted by earthquakes soon after its opening, government and private support helped it recover. By the end of last year, Fish Bar earned certification as a B Corporation, recognized for promoting sustainable seafood education. At Qixingtan, after watching the waves and stacking stones by the shore, visitors can stop by the Fish Bar to learn, taste, and embark on a journey together toward a sustainable future for people and the sea.

INFO｜ Fish Bar

Address: No. 32, Qixing St., Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8225898 

Business hours: 10:00-17:00（Closed every Wednesday） 

Lavatory: Yes

Hualien’s “Little Eslite”｜cafejade x Island of Light Shared Base

Opened in 1998, cafejade has spent over 20 years growing with Hualien, inspiring new possibilities along the way - and was once fondly called the city’s “Little Eslite.” Step inside and you’ll find leaflets and brochures filled with arts and cultural events. Over the years, countless piano and flute recitals by Hualien locals have taken place here. The café itself blends towering trees with an old house, while its expansive windows radiate a sense of boundless goodwill and quiet cultural influence.

Now run by the Island of Light Foundation, cafejade has transformed into a shared base for creativity, a name that reflects its new mission. Within this shared base, Hualien’s artists and cultural workers find not only space to create and showcase their work but also a supportive network that connects them with the local community through exhibitions, performances, and talks. It’s a place where creativity resonates with the land and its people, offering companionship to practitioners at every stage of their journey, and making it possible for them to truly build a life in Hualien—one where art is not only sustained but woven into the fabric of everyday living.

INFO｜ cafejade x Island of Light Shared Base

Address: No. 8, Mingli Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8345968 

Business hours: 13:00-17:00（Closed on Saturdays and Sundays） 

Lavatory: Yes

Connecting Children and Communities through Books｜Kita Bookshop

Kita Bookshop sits in the Rinahem community of the Amis people in Shoufeng Township. It was founded by former radio host Ching-Sheng Lin, who, after stepping away from broadcasting, committed himself to “walking alongside a whole generation of children with books.” In late 2024, he opened this community-based bookshop, devoted to the essence of reading. From its book selection to the way the space is arranged, everything reflects a quiet care for both children and the land. This is more than a place to buy books. It has become a cultural hub where local children can come and go freely, a third space woven into daily life where reading feels natural and accessible.

The shop also connects with nearby schools, indigenous communities, and travelers. It hosts book launches, film screenings, tarot readings, and participates in the “Bookstream Hualien” literary fair. Rather than being driven by commercial forces, Kita Bookshop moves gently forward on a foundation of romance and conviction. It has evolved into a gathering place for dialogue within the village and a destination for travelers seeking the soul-stirring experience of reading rooted in place.

INFO｜Kita Bookshop

Address: No. 86-1, Sec. 7, Zhongshan Rd., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Business hours: 13:00-18:00（Closed from Tuesday to Thursday） 

Lavatory: Yes

An Old Theater Reborn as a Community Landmark｜Fengtian Datong Theater

In the 1960s, the Datong Theater in Fengtian Village, Shoufeng Township, was the only entertainment venue in the area. After standing abandoned for more than forty years, it was revived in 2023 by a group of young people who had returned to their hometown. Today, it is run by the Nlica Community Association and has become a lively hub that combines a café and dessert space (Bando Studio), children’s play areas, stage performances, and art markets. It brings together local farmers, performers, and residents, creating a place where generations can share and interact across ages.

Guided by the vision of “the village as a classroom,” the association promotes child-friendly spaces and develops teaching tools for elder care. To address the real challenges of local development, it also collaborates closely with youth-led community groups through the “Mount County” platform, integrating local crafts, agriculture, and cultural performances. The reopening of the old theater is more than spatial reuse - it has become a living stage where everyday life itself is enacted as community practice.

INFO｜ Fengtian Datong Theater

Address: No. 28, Fengshan St., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8650338 

Business hours: 11:00-17:00（Closed every Sunday to Tuesday） 

Lavatory: Yes

A Place Where Spirits Meet｜Pising Bookstore

Located in Guangfu Township’s arts and culture base, Pising Bookstore was once known as “Pasela’an Slow Book House” in the former station master’s residence at TRA Guangfu Station. When the lease expired in 2024, it moved to its current location nearby. “Pising” means “face” in the Amis language, symbolizing the meeting of minds and hearts that strengthens community ties and sparks new cultural vitality.

The bookstore is run by Awa Liu from Changhua and her husband Moli Kati of the Tafalong Amis community. They first met through a theater camp in Hualien, and together they now shape this space with shared dedication. Pising Bookstore offers more than books for sale. It features picture books and indigenous works, exhibitions of local authors, regular reading events, and displays of local handicrafts. Collaborating with friendly businesses in Guangfu, it also hosts talks and activities. In this way, Pising is more than a bookstore - it is a space where intentions and affections converge, where hearts meet, and community grows.

INFO｜Pising Bookstore

Address: No. 127-1, Sec. 1, Zhongzheng Rd., Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0910-569143 

Business hours: 13:00-18:00（Thursday to Sunday） 

Lavatory: Yes

#HualienThreeMountainTownships

#EastYushanParkEntrance

#HomeOfTheBlackBear

#FifthLargestTownship319sqkm

#LargestCamelliaOilRegion

Courtesy of Editorial Office; Na Hai Hu Farm Studio; East Longitudinal Valley Festival

At Taiwan’s southwestern edge, Zhuoxi Township lies where the Central and Yushan mountain ranges meet, featuring over 20 peaks above 3,000 meters. The Bunun are the largest Indigenous group here, along with the Atayal and Taroko peoples. Connected to Nantou County, the historic Batongguan Traverse Trail, renovated during the Qing dynasty, cuts through the township, leaving a rich legacy of pristine ecology and cultural heritage. Known as the “Home of the Black Bear,” Zhuoxi is one of the best places in Taiwan to see these bears in the wild.

Golden Rice Waves Roll In:｜Nanan Visitor Center

Nanan Visitor Center sits at the eastern entrance of Walami Trail and the Batongguan Traverse Trail, surrounded by more than 30 hectares of rice fields, earning it the nickname “The First Field under Yushan.” When the rice ripens, golden waves sweep across the fields, offering a stunning view.

About six kilometers from the visitor center, the Walami Trail winds past the remnants of Shanfong Station, embraced by dense greenery. Along the way, hikers can admire Shanfong Bridge No. 1 and No. 2, as well as the Shanfong Waterfall. The trail offers a mix of cultural history, breathtaking landscapes, and chances to spot wildlife. Standing on a suspension bridge or resting beside a waterfall, visitors can feel fully rejuvenated.

Bunun × Mountains × Farming｜Na Hai Hu Farm Studio

“Na Hai Hu” comes from the original name of the tribe’s location, “Naai-vul,” meaning “whirlpool” in Bunun. Surrounded by mountains, the Nanan Tribe sits at the confluence of the Laklak and Qingshui Rivers, where the waters swirl like a whirlpool. Peter Lin, recognized as one of “Taiwan Agri Best 100 (Taiwan Top Young Farmers),” runs Na Hai Hu Farm Studio and is a key figure in developing tourism in the Nanan Tribe. He returned from military service to practice natural farming, develop the tribal brand, and grow organic rice through contract farming with private banks, while also promoting organic vegetables and fruits via the Tribal E-shop cooperative platform. By turning “Nanan” into a brand, farmers take greater pride in their crops.

Visitors to the Nanan Tribe can take part in immersive experiences that include working in the fields or venturing into the mountains for challenges. Tribal women prepare meals such as “Hunter’s Meal” and “Little Bear Bento,” made with organic ingredients like Bunun black beans. These experiences not only promote Bunun culture but also aim to attract travelers interested in Indigenous life, mountains, and rural communities, offering more than simple sightseeing and entertainment.

Experiencing Camellia Oil Farming｜33 Naliang Organic Farm

Zhuoxi Township, with the largest area of camellia oil cultivation in Taiwan, has a significant portion of its crops in the Dauqpusan community. Located at the northernmost and highest point of Zhuoxi, Dauqpusan is home to Meng-Hsien Na and Liang-Chen Shen. After retiring from military service, the couple returned home to develop organic camellia oil farming. They named their farm “33 Naliang Organic Farm” after themselves and set up a production and marketing cooperative to support the local camellia oil industry. With the rise of tribal tourism and cultural experiences, visitors to Dauqpusan can participate in educational farm tours, learn about camellia oil, and enjoy meals at the Izukan Bunun Tribal Environmental Education Center, deepening their understanding of the benefits of camellia oil and the importance of sustainable farming.

Recently, “Wongwong’s Private Kitchen,” an Indigenous culinary restaurant in the Sinkan community, has attracted attention. Led by Wongwong, travelers can explore the Bunun food culture, including the delicate flavors of Bunun beans, and taste cross-cultural dishes that blend his personal background, offering a flexible and creative Indigenous culinary experience that is as much about culture as it is about food.

The Southernmost Puzzle of Fertile Hualien｜Fuli Township

# Taiwan Last Postal Code

# Liushidan Mountain Daylily Flowers

# Cilamitay Little Tianxiang

# Fuli Farmers Association Flowers&Luoshan RecreationArea

# Rich Hakka Cultural Heritage

Hualien’s southernmost piece in the fertile East Longitudinal Valley, Fuli Township, is where the Xiuguluan and Beinan Rivers split at the southern end of the township. In summer and autumn, Liushidan Mountain’s daylily fields attract travelers from across Taiwan, while the Fuli Township Farmers’ Association maintains scenic flower fields year-round. Fuli’s rich soil has drawn settlers over time - not only the Indigenous peoples originally living here but also Hakka and Minnan communities. The combination of diverse cultures and natural beauty has shaped Fuli into the vibrant township it is today.

Harmony Between Flowers and Migration｜Daylily Flowers and the Trails of Settlers

Each late summer to early autumn, the mountains are blanketed with blooming daylily flowers. Life in Fuli town, where most residents are farmers, transforms from a quiet, sunrise-to-sunset rhythm into a bustling scene as cars head to Liushidan Mountain. From the top of Wangyou Pavilion, visitors can see the plains, rivers, terraces, and distant peaks, taking in the beauty of the township’s cultivated landscapes.

Many daylily farmers on Liushidan Mountain relocated from Yunlin County after the August 7th Flood, evident from the “Yun-Min” labels on their homes. At the foot of the mountains along Provincial Highway No. 9, earlier Hakka settlers formed villages such as Dongli (formerly Dazhuang), Zhutian, and Xuetian. These villages preserve a rich Hakka cultural heritage, including the Maliwang Memorial, which honors the pioneering efforts of early Han settlers, and the Chiu Residence – Henan Hall in Dongli. Cycling between these sites offers a leisurely, culturally rich journey through Hakka villages.

Savoring the Connection with Nature｜Fuli Farmers’ Association and Luoshan Recreation Area

Fuli Township, famous for its rice, offers visitors a chance to explore the Fuli Farmers’ Association sales center along Provincial Highway No. 9. Here, you can purchase locally branded packaged rice and carefully crafted agricultural products. Nearby, straw art installations transform the fields into creative stages: large-scale works built from harvested rice straw reflect a deep connection between each piece and the land.

At the nearby Luoshan Recreation Area, visitors are drawn to the mud volcano landscapes, handcrafted tofu, and Luoshan Falls. Walking along the neatly maintained Luoshan Bamboo Forest Trail (羅山竹林步道), one can feel the heroic spirit reminiscent of scenes from “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” From the Luoshan Great Fish Pond, you can admire Luoshan Falls from afar. A hands-on DIY experience lets visitors make tofu using the salt-rich soil from the so-called “Yanping” mud volcano. Pressing the tofu into molds, cutting it into blocks, and seeing the porous surface proves its handmade nature. The tofu’s rich soybean aroma and firm yet tender texture shine through naturally, requiring no seasoning to enjoy its pure flavor.

Living in Harmony with the Land｜Cilamitay Tribe

Traveling along Provincial Highway No. 9 through the East Longitudinal Valley, after passing the community center and the Little Tianxiang tunnel, you reach the Cilamitay Tribe in Fengnan Village. On the tribe’s northern side lies a settlement called Ciharaay, where fields sit at an elevation of 300 to 500 meters. Here, the Amis people maintain water channels and preserve the natural landscape using traditional reciprocal labor systems, creating terraces that soar to incredible heights, resembling a fairy tale landscape. This area was selected as one of the “Top 100 Green Destinations” in 2016.

Tenmoy Cinaw, a young tribal member and former singer, recognized the vital connection between rice, tribal ecology, and culture. He founded Palafalan Studio, designing exclusive tours such as the “Half-Day American Farming Classroom,” “Full-Day Bie River Rafting Adventure,” and the “Great Tree Roots Journey.” These tours include ecological and conservation-focused guided walks, wild vegetable hot pot experiences, bamboo raft trips on the Bie River, and opportunities to sing traditional Amis songs up close. Visitors gain a deep understanding of traditional tribal life and the commitment to coexistence with the land.

Courtesy of Editorial Office & Taiwan Cement DAKA Park

Located in Heping Village, Xiulin Township, Taiwan Cement DAKA Park has emerged from nearly a year of restoration after being affected by earthquakes. The park is reopening its facilities with a fresh new look, emphasizing sustainable tourism, and welcoming travelers back to experience its renewed charm.

Sustainable Design You Can Take Home｜The “Cement Wonders” Shop Opens

At the “Cement Wonders” shop in Taiwan Cement DAKA Park, the top-selling low-carbon cement backpack is inspired by Taiwan’s lowest-carbon “Portland Limestone Cement” of 2024. The backpack is waterproof, wearable, and playful - a unique way to carry cement on your back! The park also collaborates with up-and-coming designers from true nii to create the Heping Flower low-carbon cement magnet gift set. With macaron-like colors and sustainable design, it has become a favorite among female visitors and international travelers. Working with Taroko artisan Shih Ma Hsiu Hua, the park introduces “Valley Weave Placemats.” Using macaron tones of green and blue, the design incorporates traditional Taroko patterns, including the eyes of ancestors and bridge motifs, bringing tribal craftsmanship into everyday life.

INFO｜Taiwan Cement DAKA Park

Address: No. 263, Heping Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8681412

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: Yes

Coffee by the Sea｜The Nautilus Library - A Design Beyond Imagination

From above, the library reveals its perfect nautilus-shell shape, winning the international A&D Design Award. The Nautilus Library is the newest post-earthquake highlight of DAKA Park, scheduled to open after September. The offered experience requires reservations, and its content is so rich that travelers could easily spend three hours and still not explore it all. At the observation deck, visitors can enjoy a coffee while taking in views of the Pacific Ocean and the Heping Industrial Port, which has been certified as an EU EcoPort. A glass corridor offers an unobstructed view of how waste is transformed into reusable resources, emphasizing harmony with the environment.

The outdoor lawns display historic mining machinery, including a massive drill used for blasting and a loader for transporting stone. These machines now double as “Transformers” for children to photograph with, letting old equipment tell the story of the cement industry development in a new way.

Courtesy of Editorial Office, Hualien County Athletics Federation & Hualien City Office

In the crisp, golden breezes of autumn, Hualien is the perfect place to embrace outdoor adventures. Here, a health and wellness holiday is more than just a trip - it’s the starting point of a refreshing new lifestyle. Step into Hualien’s great outdoors: plant trees as you travel, breathe in phytoncides along forest trails, cycle through stunning landscapes, or take part in sports events. With the gentle rhythm of slow living, each moment becomes a healing journey back to nature.

The Joy of Sports｜Hualien Golf Course

Founded in 1928, Hualien Golf Course is the only golf course in eastern Taiwan. After lying dormant for a time following World War II, it was fully restored and reopened in 1970. Ever since, it has become a beloved home for golf enthusiasts across the region. Rain or shine, golfers gather here - stretching in the clubhouse before heading out to the nearly 40-hectare course. Rich in tree varieties, it’s a place where many prefer to complete a full round on foot, all while gazing out at the breathtaking ridges of the Hualien Mountains. Conveniently located near the downtown area, even golfers from northern Taiwan can easily make the trip and join the “Plant a Tree with Every Golf Ball” eco-tour program.

INFO｜Hualien Golf Course

Address: No. 120, Huadao Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8227528

Business hours: Summer tee times:05:30-14:00（（weekends until 13:30）；Winter tee times:06:00-13:30（weekends until 13:00）

Lavatory: Yes

Savor Slow Living on a Lake Cruise｜PAARK Waterfront

Located in Shoufeng Township along Provincial Highway No.11C, PAARK takes inspiration from the region’s abundant, pristine water resources. Fed by natural springs, a winding 7.7 km stream flows through the grounds, creating one of Taiwan’s most healing scenic getaways. The park’s name, “PAARK,” transforms “Park” by adding an extra “A” - symbolizing Air and Aura. It represents the essence of breath and the gentle halo of healing that embraces visitors, as though stepping straight into a living painting. Here, travelers can enjoy leisurely boat rides, snap photos and tour at the fairy-tale-like Starbucks Promisedland Store, and even join in tree-planting net-zero experiences.

Nearby, Lichuan Aquafarm offers a certified agritourism experience where visitors can savor signature golden Asian clam dishes and participate in the ever-popular “Clam Harvesting and Fun-filled Activities” - a playful tradition that has stood the test of time.

INFO｜PAARK

Address: No. 267, Sec. 3, Fengping Rd., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8651177 

Business hours: 08:00-19:00

Lavatory: Yes (Starbucks Promisedland Store)

※Boat ticket prices: please refer to the official website

Hualien’s Premier Maple Viewing Spot｜Maple Tree Trail

Located in Fuxing Village, Jian Township, the Maple Tree Trail stretches about 3 kilometers. Along the way, multiple viewing platforms and pavilions provide rest for weary travelers. From higher points, you can overlook the patchwork fields of Jian and, on clear days, enjoy panoramic views of Hualien City, Meilunshan, and even the deep blue Pacific Ocean. Set out on a bright and scenic day, following the winding trail lined with lush trees. In autumn, fiery red maple leaves adorn the treetops, creating a picture-perfect landscape. The elevated viewpoints also make this trail an ideal spot for night scenery.

INFO｜Maple Tree Trail

Address: Fuxing Village, Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8523126 

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: Yes

Mountains in Their Full Glory｜Liyushan Trail

Beside Liyu Lake stands Liyu Mountain, rising 601 meters and counted among Taiwan’s “small hundred mountains.” Visitors can enjoy stunning lake views while also taking in the scenic mountain landscape. Stretching approximately 10 kilometers, the Liyushan Trail offers six interconnected paths catering to various interests, including fitness, birdwatching, nature exploration, hiking, scenic overlooks, and picnicking, which together form a network that allows visitors to easily transition between experiences. Almost entirely covered by dense forest, the trail offers mostly gentle, sun-shielded paths, making it a popular route for locals seeking both fitness and relaxed, recreational strolls.

The picnic route features well-maintained boardwalks and rest areas, where sunlight filtering through the trees creates a soothing forest atmosphere. At the summit of Liyu Mountain, a trig point and viewing platform provides vistas of the surrounding Tso Tsang Trail fields. After descending, visitors can enjoy additional activities at Liyu Lake, such as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or swan boat rides.

INFO｜Liyushan Trail

Address: Liyu Lake Scenic Area, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8527526 

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: Yes

Connecting Meilun’s History and Culture｜Two-Rail Cycling Path

Starting from TRA Hualien Station and following the Meilun River, travelers can pause at Jiang Jun Fu 1936 Park, freshly renovated and reopened in 2024. In addition to preserving the historic Japanese-style dormitory buildings, the park has attracted renowned establishments such as “OOA By Jiang Jun Fun and Yoshi Bakery,” offering exclusive signature products and showcasing Hualien’s unique cultural landscape. This has established the park as Hualien City’s newest cultural hub where food and heritage come together. The two-rail cycling path spans approximately 2 kilometers, connecting rich historical sites along the way. Upon reaching its endpoint at Pacific Park (Beibin Section), travelers can continue along the Twin Lake Cycling Path, enjoying uninterrupted views of the vast, inviting blue Pacific Ocean.

INFO｜Jiang Jun Fu 1936 Park

Address: No. 6, Ln. 622, Zhongzheng Rd., Hualien City, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8316272 

Business hours: 10:00-23:30 

Lavatory: Yes

INFO｜OOA By Jiang Jun Fun and Yoshi Bakery

Address: No. 6, Ln. 622, Zhongzheng Rd., Hualien City, Hualien County

Business hours: 10:00-18:00

Lavatory: Yes

Bathed in the Forest’s Nourishment｜Danongdafu Forest Park Cycling Trails

Formerly the Hualien Sugar Factory, Danongdafu Forest Park spans approximately 1,250 hectares. Over a million trees, landscaped gardens, and green spaces create a seasonal paradise. The park is home to over 20 commonly found low-elevation tree species, including camphor, evergreen ash, Formosan gum, red cedar, and Taiwanese rain trees - trees that are not only beautiful and practical but also deeply intertwined with human life. Together, they create the lush, vibrant ecosystem of Danongdafu Forest Park, where visitors can naturally soak in the nourishing energy of the forest. Take deep breaths, inhale the abundant phytoncides, and let the experience relieve stress while restoring both body and mind.

The 15-kilometer cycling trail at Danongdafu Forest Park features both North and South Circumference Cycling Routes. Along the South Route, trees such as Woodland Elaeocarpus, Formosan gum, and Oliver maple gradually shift from green to yellow and then to fiery red in autumn. Riding through this vibrant forest, the rustling of maple leaves and the surrounding sea of red foliage create a uniquely romantic autumn-winter experience that can only be savored at Danongdafu.

INFO｜Danongdafu Forest Park Visitor Center

Address: No. 31, Nongchang Road, Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8700870#9 

Business hours: 08:00-17:00（Closed on Mondays） 

Lavatory: Yes

Sharpen Your Paddles and Row Hard｜2025 Hualien Pacific International Dragon Boat Festival

The 2025 Hualien Pacific International Dragon Boat Festival will be held from October 24 to 26 at Liyu Lake, surrounded by the dazzling beauty of the lake and mountains that instantly lifts your spirits. The event will welcome over 200 teams, including local teams from across Taiwan as well as competitors from the U.S., Australia, Singapore, Qatar, Hong Kong, Japan, Vietnam, and more. Hualien will also host the 2026 Club Crew World Championships (CCWC) for the first time, allowing participants and spectators from around the world to experience the charm of Hualien firsthand. Beyond enjoying Liyu Lake, visitors can explore indigenous villages, embrace nature, and slowly wander through small towns for a deeper, immersive Hualien experience.

INFO｜2025 Hualien Pacific International Dragon Boat Festival

Address: No. 100, Huantan North Road, Chihnan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8227171#206 

Business hours: 10/24-10/26 

Lavatory: Yes

The Thrill of Running Amid Scenic Views｜2025 Hualien Pacific Ocean & East Rift Valley Half Marathon

The 2025 Hualien Pacific Ocean & East Rift Valley Half Marathon has consistently ranked as the most popular event on Taiwan’s largest running platform, Sports Note, and has garnered extensive coverage in Japan’s top-selling Runner magazine. Each year, the race attracts over 6,000 participants. The course showcases the scenic beauty along the Twin Lake Cycling Path, integrating local culture to allow running enthusiasts to enjoy the stunning landscapes while engaging in low-carbon travel and celebrating their personal passion and glory.

Through the half marathon, not only are domestic and international travelers drawn to Hualien - enhancing the region’s international profile - but participants also get to break a sweat while planning two-day-one-night or three-day-two-night mini trips. Along the way, they can fully savor Hualien’s captivating natural landscapes, immerse themselves in its rich cultural heritage, and indulge in its flavorful local cuisine, making for a truly satisfying and memorable experience.

Course Highlights:

Meilun Track and Field Stadium → Twin Lake Cycling Path → Pacific Park (Beibin section) → Pacific Park (Nanbin section) → Huaren Seawall

INFO｜2025 Hualien Pacific Ocean & East Rift Valley Half Marathon

Address: Meilun Track and Field Stadium (No. 40, Minquan Rd, Hualien City)

Telephone: 03-8227171#206 

Business hours: 11/22 

Lavatory: Yes

Courtesy of Yu-Liu Chen & Editorial Office

As autumn’s harvest season arrives, Hualien is filled with the joy of abundance. There’s no better time to slip into the soothing embrace of its famous hot springs - Hero Spring and Beauty Spring - while answering the call of majestic mountains and the ocean’s rhythm. Nestled in the welcoming towns of Ruisui and Yuli, you’ll rediscover the pure beauty of Hualien’s nature, wrapped in warmth and tranquility.

Warm Springs, Wonderful Times in Hualien｜2025 Hualien Pacific Hot Spring Festival

Now in its sixth year, the Hualien Pacific Hot Spring Festival has become an eagerly awaited autumn celebration. Last year’s theme, “Bathe in a Feast for the Senses,” offered a truly immersive program: a six-meter “Dance of the Hot Spring Blossoms” installation at Ruisui Hot Spring Park; live music beneath the stars; the evocative aromas of Ruisui’s milk, pomelos, and Yuli noodles; exquisite flavors made from local ingredients; and - of course - complimentary outdoor foot baths and hot-spring soaking experiences that let visitors fully enjoy the simple pleasure of bathing in the springs. The 2025 festival will once again bring together the flavors, lodging, attractions, and unique souvenirs of Ruisui Township and Yuli Township. An autumn trip to Hualien’s hot springs promises nothing short of comfort, joy, and relaxation.

INFO｜2025 Hualien Pacific Hot Spring Festival

Address: Ruisui and Antong Hot Spring Areas

Telephone: 03-8227171#524

Business hours: 11/01-11/30

※Actual event dates and details will be announced on the official website.

The Warmest Welcome on Your Journey｜Hot Spring Shuttle Bus

The Hot Spring Shuttle Bus makes it easy for travelers to visit the two major hot spring areas as well as special attractions in the central and southern regions. It offers three routes: the Ruisui Line, the Yuli Line, and the Fuli Line. Sample itineraries are provided below, allowing visitors to explore the attractions independently.

Departing from Hualien Bus Station, the Ruisui Line stops at Jian Qingxiu Temple, filled with Japanese ambiance, then continues to Liyu Lake - listed among Taiwan Tourism’s 100 Spotlights - where travelers can enjoy the mountain-and-lake scenery. The journey also includes the Mataian Tribe and the Mataian Wetland, followed by a relaxing soak in the hot springs at the Ruisui Hot Spring Area, also known as “Hero Spring.” On the return trip, travelers can stop by San Kai Amai Dessert Shop to enjoy sweet treats. The Yuli Line features experiences such as the Fuxing Forest Train through pineapple fields, Chunri Songpu Paradise Road (天堂路), J J Farm, and Jiang Jun Fu - another of Taiwan Tourism’s 100 Spotlights. The Fuli Line takes travelers to the Nanan Visitor Center and the Fuli Rice Straw Art Festival Area. Every time registration opens, spots are snapped up almost instantly, making these itineraries among the most sought-after for visitors traveling to Hualien in autumn and winter.

A Town Shaped by Pomelos and Hot Springs｜Ruisui Township - A Warm Welcome

The “Twin Springs Cycling Adventure” itinerary, as its name suggests, connects the Ruisui Hot Spring Area and the Antong Hot Spring Area. No matter where travelers choose to stay or start their journey, they can hop on an e-bike and leisurely explore Ruisui and Yuli Townships. Even uphill climbs or longer rides feel effortless, allowing visitors to enjoy a profound experience of Hualien’s natural beauty, combined with its hot springs.

Starting from Ruisui Station, travelers ride e-bikes with professional guides to explore the Ruisui Hot Spring Area. Ruisui Hot Spring is renowned for its iron- and barium-rich waters, which have a distinctive reddish-brown hue and are affectionately called “Hero Spring.” Cycling along Ruisui’s country roads, visitors can stop at Sunny Pomelo Farm to join a DIY pomelo jam workshop, or wander the vast green meadows of J J Farm, where they can savor famous dairy products or pick up gifts to take home - the sweetest notes of the journey. Connecting to County Highway No. 193, travelers can continue their exploration of Hualien in depth. Along the route, small local chapels invite visitors to embark on their own “pilgrimage journey.”

INFO｜Ruisui Hot Spring Area

Address: Section 2, Wenquan Road, Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Toward the Beauty of County Highway No. 193｜Yuli Township - Healing for Body and Mind

From near TRA Yuli Station, travelers can set off along the Yufu Bikeway - the only bikeway in Asia that crosses two tectonic plates. The route winds through picturesque rural landscapes, and crossing Changhong Bridge offers the rare thrill of standing atop two plates at once. Cycling along the breathtaking County Highway No. 193, golden waves of rice fields stretch across the countryside, creating scenery so beautiful it leaves travelers in awe. When hunger strikes, they can stop by Yuli Sera Coffee, where the owner serves carefully crafted omakase-style cuisine or meals prepared with local ingredients.

Antong Hot Spring was once listed among the Eight Scenic Wonders of Hualien. Its spring is a weakly alkaline chloride sulfate type, with nearly transparent water reaching 66°C, earning it the name Beauty Spring. Visitors to Antong Hot Spring Area can soak in its waters, washing away the fatigue of body and mind. This journey blends hot spring healing with local culture, offering one of the most unique autumn and winter travel experiences.

INFO｜Antong Hot Spring Area

Address: Lehe Village, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Each late summer and autumn, Liushidan Mountain in Fuli bursts into vibrant daylily blooms, attracting travelers from across Taiwan. Thousands of blossoms stretch across the hills and meadows like a golden sea. As visitors wander through the flowers, misty mountains, and rustic landscapes, they feel as if time has paused, and the breathtaking scenery itself becomes a source of countless cherished memories.

INFO｜Liushidan Mountain Daylily Flower Sea

Address: Zhutian Vil., Fuli Township, Hualian County

Business hours:Open all day

Lavatory: YES

Courtesy of Yoti Hsueh (Yung-Ting Hsueh) & tutufoodaholic

The renowned British lifestyle magazine “Tatler” recently named Hualien one of Asia’s 8 most underrated foodie cities, praising its culinary scene influenced by indigenous and Hakka cultures. Highlights include wild boar sausage, flavor-packed seafood fried rice, Hualien beef noodles, and local craft beers, all drawing the attention of food lovers worldwide.

When Mullet Roe Meets Fried Rice｜Fu’s Handmade Wontons

Fu’s Handmade Wontons has been serving the community for some time. Known for its wontons and affordable fried rice dishes, it offers options from classic egg fried rice to Yangzhou fried rice and fried rice with sakura shrimp & eggs. The standout, however, is the mullet roe fried rice, where the aroma of egg and the savory depth of mullet roe create a rich, layered flavor. A subtle briny essence blossoms on the palate, making each bite so irresistible you just can’t stop.

Another local favorite is the handmade wontons. These thin skins contain savory, juicy fillings, and the broth is enhanced with shallots, giving it a sweet, clean flavor. The shop also offers spicy red oil wontons, which are tangy and appetite-whetting—a must-try for regulars.

INFO｜Fu’s Handmade Wontons

Address: No. 256, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 0981-123475

Business hours: 11:30-14:00、17:00-20:30（Closed every Friday）

Lavatory: No

Timeless Flavors Rooted in Craftsmanship｜Jin Ming Noodle House

Located on Nanjing Street, Jin Ming Noodle House opened in October last year. It specializes in beef noodles and herbal chicken soup noodles, and has even begun offering hot pots made from these beloved broths. The chef apprenticed under Chef Ming, a renowned culinary figure in Hualien, and named the restaurant “Jin Ming” in honor of his mentor.

Their braised beef noodles feature a bold, slightly spicy broth with springy noodles that soak up the flavor well. The long strips of beef are tender, juicy, and satisfyingly meaty. Meanwhile, the herbal chicken soup noodles use sliced boneless chicken thighs, served in a generous and hearty bowl. The broth is sweet and herbal without being bitter. Besides that, you absolutely can’t miss the freshly made daily side dishes - green beans with sausage and chilled tofu skin with wood ear mushrooms - both bursting with flavor and sure to whet your appetite. They’re waiting for you to come and enjoy!

INFO｜Jin Ming Noodle House

Address: 1F, No. 272, Nanjing St., Hualien City

Telephone: 0981-123475

Business hours: 11:30-14:00、17:00-20:00（Closed every Tuesday）

Lavatory: Yes

Bittersweet Pomelo - Organic Wheat Ale｜Dongfong Organic Farm

Located along County Highway No. 193 in Yuli, Dongfong Organic Farm has made a name for itself in recent years through its dedication to organic farming. To promote the philosophy of sustainable coexistence with nature and organic farming, Dongfong Organic Farm has developed an educational fish-rice symbiotic environment and offers a range of organic food and farming experiences. These include DIY organic rice pudding, organic tofu-making, and workshops on craft brewing with organic wheat.

Their signature craft beer, “A Brew Most Bittersweet”, is brewed with pomelo, wheat, and hops and undergoes a slow 45-day fermentation. What sets it apart is that the pomelo is brewed with the wheat rather than simply adding juice later. The result is a refreshing beer with a smooth mouthfeel and the natural fragrance of pomelo. The name “A Brew Most Bittersweet” plays on words to reflect the post-Mid-Autumn surplus of pomelos and the challenges of market balance. Travelers curious about Dongfong's organic soy milk, craft beer, or black bean tea don’t have to go all the way to Yuli - they’re also available right in Hualien City.

INFO｜Dongfong Organic Farm (Hualien Store)

Address: No. 96, Zhonghua Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8330668

Business hours: 11:00-19:00

Lavatory: No

Stop for the Scent｜Makauy Sausage at Jian Qingxiu Temple

Jian Qingxiu Temple in Jian Township is a must-visit attraction for many visitors to Hualien, and right by the temple’s parking lot is an equally unmissable treat—Makauy sausage. This indigenous-flavored sausage is a rare find in the city, and it’s the owner’s warm hospitality and expert grilling that truly take the flavor to the next level.

As the sausage sizzles on the grill, it slowly browns to perfection. You’ll notice generous bits of makauy (mountain pepper) studded throughout. Once cooked, it has a beautiful, even color. The casing is crisp but not dry, and the juicy filling is so hot it might burn your tongue! Its springy texture, balanced fat and lean meat, and the citrusy, peppery aroma of makauy make it utterly unforgettable. Paired with fresh makauy on the side, it delivers a refreshing, whole-body satisfaction. They close once sold out, so don’t come too late if you want a bite!

INFO｜Makauy Sausage at Jian Qingxiu Temple

所在地：Zhongxing Road, Jian Township, Hualien County (beside the parking lot of Telephone: 0918-204666

Business hours: 08:30-16:30（Closed every Monday）

Lavatory: No

When you visit Hualien in the summer to enjoy its majestic mountains and seas, don’t forget to check out the winners of the 2nd “Hundred Great Souvenirs of Hualien County.” Perfect for giving (or treating yourself).

A Century of Japanese Confectionery｜E Bi Su Pastry Shop “God-of-Fortune Gift Box”

Established in 1899 as “E Bi Su” - named after Ebisu, one of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods - the shop was founded by Japanese confectioner Koyuki Yasutomi, who co-developed the Hualien Sweet Potato pastry with Taiwanese pastry master Fang Chang, the first-generation Taiwanese owner. It became an iconic product of the Karenkō Prefecture and was a popular tribute gift for high-ranking officials and even the Emperor of Japan, earning numerous awards, many of which are still proudly displayed in the shop. Now run by the third-generation owner Shun-Pin Chang (and grooming a fourth), the Chang family continues the legacy of E Bi Su and the iconic sweet potato treat.

The God-of-Fortune Gift Box contains Hualien Sweet Potato (their signature pies), Hualien Taro, and Mochi. The elegant packaging features Ebisu and Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods, conveying goodwill - making it ideal for personal indulgence and gifting.

INFO｜E Bi Su Pastry Shop

Address: No. 65 Zhonghua Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8322856 

Business hours: 08:30-22:00

Lavatory: Yes

Returned Youth × Local Produce × Creative Marketing｜Always Taste Amazing - Bitter Tea Oil, Pickled Beans & Chili

Inspired by the flavors of Hualien, “Always Taste Amazing” develops healthy, delicious, and regionally inspired foods. Their flagship product - bitter tea oil with pickled beans and chili - combines locally sourced bitter tea oil, sautéed with no additives, offering a rich aroma and crisp flavor. Ideal for cooking or gifting.

Always Taste Amazing, established in 2021, was founded by a group of young people returning to their hometown. Driven by the desire to preserve the culinary skills passed down from their mothers and grandmothers, they transform these warm, nostalgic flavors into convenient dishes suited for modern lifestyles. The brand is committed to local production and carefully crafting every bite, combining regional agricultural products with innovative marketing. This fresh approach injects new vitality into Hualien’s souvenir market, making the delicious tastes of Hualien a cherished part of everyday life for both travelers and locals alike.

INFO｜ Available at Border Town - consignment shop

Address: No. 87 Datong St., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8346550 

Business hours: 11:00-13:30、17:00-20:30（Closed Sundays）

Lavatory: Yes

A Memory Worn on the Head｜Sa,opo Handmade Amis Calok (Mini Flower Hats)

In the Amis culture, the flower hat symbolizes identity, honor, and tribal belonging. The Sa,opo hats are handcrafted - an iron wire bent into shape without breaking - symbolizing the continuity of life and culture. Designs are meticulously drawn before assembly to ensure each hat blends tradition with modern sturdiness.

In the past, only elders, leaders, and those with special status within the tribe were allowed to wear the traditional flower hats. Creating these “small flower hats” not only introduces children to their cultural heritage from a young age but also transforms this craft into a meaningful cultural keepsake - perfect for gifting and commemorating. Through these handcrafted hats, people share a heartfelt cultural experience along with their gifts, allowing more individuals to appreciate the artistry of the Amis people. This tradition continues to shine and be passed down to future generations.

INFO｜Sa,opo Handmade

Address: No. 14, Ln. 218, Renli 5th St., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-846-0527

Lavatory: No

※Orders can be placed online, with options to discuss and customize colors and patterns.

A Tribute From Fenglin Soil｜Mayaw Coffee Honey Drip Bag Gift Box from Fenglin Coffee Estate, Hualien

A group of coffee farmers and roasters from Mayawcofe Art Word University in Fenglin Township, located near Cacora’an (an Amis term referring to Fenglin Mountain south of Fenglin, one of the origins of the Amis people), have selected premium local coffee and honey to create the Fenglin Coffee Estate’s Mayaw Coffee Honey Drip Bag Gift Box.

Inside the gift box are sun-dried and honey-processed coffees from Fenglin. Thanks to the region’s excellent climate, the coffee cherries are plump, glossy, and bright red. Made with scientific methods, the coffee offers a smooth, mellow taste with a delicate, fresh aroma that appeals to everyone. The honey is sourced from the Changqiao Longan Orchards of Fenglin, a naturally diverse wildflower longan honey with rich, deep throat notes and a sweet flavor that carries natural fruity and subtle floral scents - perfect for gifting or personal enjoyment.

INFO｜Mayawcofe Art Word University

Address: No. 140, Zhonghua Rd., Fenglin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0985-862200

Business hours: 08:00-12:00

Lavatory: No

Courtesy of Yoti Hsueh (Yung-Ting Hsueh) & FangShuh

Eating is an experience best savored slowly. Dining in a restaurant repurposed from an old building, where local organic ingredients are served with tea and coffee, brings comfort and joy to the table.

Hakka Flavor Passed Through Three Generations｜FangShuh

Named after its founder, Fang Shu Li, and now led by third-generation Chia Chun Li, FangShuh has been carefully renovated while preserving the charm of the original Japanese building. This is blended with Hakka cultural design and centered around a magnificent camphor tree over 200 years old - a silent witness to FangShuh’s three-decade story.

The restaurant’s foundation lies in three generations of Hakka culinary traditions. They insist on using family-recipe sauces and organic Hualien-sourced ingredients. One signature is “Lai Chun Pork Knuckle,” named in honor of their grandmother and made using her techniques - it offers a rich, lingering taste. Recently, they’ve added specialty pour-over coffee infused with Hakka leicha, creating a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and innovation - ideal for sipping slowly and appreciating the slow-life appeal of Fenglin.

INFO｜FangShuh

Address: No. 71 Zhonghe Rd., Fenglin Township, Hualien

Telephone: 03-8760437

Business hours: 11:00-14:00、17:00-20:00

Lavatory: No

A Century Old Home Renewed｜Kamimoto

Ten years ago, owner Chu settled in Fenglin and, driven by a love for plants, recently leased and lovingly restored a century-old Japanese immigrant farmhouse with his wife Chia Yu. The café opened in early 2021. The shop focuses on small and miniature potted plants, offering DIY workshops such as succulent arrangements and miniature plant creations. Moving forward, it will continue to center around the space itself - cultivating a slow-living lifestyle, plant aesthetics, and sharing of local culture.

Surrounded by greenery both inside and out, Kamimoto adheres to principles of freshness and small-batch culinary perfection. He creates dishes using local Hualien organic produce. Their standout is the karaage-style chicken, crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, with an irresistible savory flavor that leaves a lasting impression.

INFO｜Kamimoto

Address: No. 34 Darong 3rd Rd., Darong Vil., Fenglin Township, Hualien

Telephone: 0910-816809

Business hours: 11:00-17:00（Closed every Wednesday & Thursday）

Lavatory: No

Fenglin Township is known for its signature agricultural products, including peanuts, soy milk, and peeled chili peppers-collectively known as Fenglin’s Three Treasures. In recent years, organic turmeric has also become a rising star among the region’s farm-grown specialties.

Delicious Dishes Made with Organic Peanuts｜Southern-Style Peanut Rice Dumplings

During the recent Dragon Boat Festival, many may have enjoyed the traditional southern-style zongzi (rice dumplings) - and Fenglin is one of Taiwan’s key peanut-producing regions. The local handmade dumplings begin with fresh pork hindquarter, chopped and seared in hot oil to lock in the juices.

This flavorful meat, seasoned with a rich sauce, becomes the heart of the dumpling. It’s then paired with organic peanuts grown in Fenglin’s sandy soil and aged glutinous rice stored for a year. The dumplings are boiled in bubbling water for nearly 40 minutes and left to rest for the flavors to deepen further. The beauty of southern-style zongzi lies in how the original ingredients meld into one delicious harmony. If you’re visiting Fenglin, be sure to stop by Goodeats Peanuts to sample the wholesome flavors of organic peanuts.

INFO｜Goodeats Peanuts

Address: No. 46-1, Zhonghe Rd., Fenglin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8761330

Business hours: 10:00-17:30（Closed every Wednesday）

Lavatory: Yes

 Easy-to-Make and Delicious Snacks｜Turmeric Curry Puffs

The concept of nourishment through food - replacing medicine with ingredients and the pharmacy with the kitchen - is key for many health-conscious people. Organic turmeric, now widely cultivated in the mountain regions of Fenglin, has become a very popular ingredient. Ground into turmeric powder, this golden spice is a core ingredient in curry and a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine. Rich in curcumin, turmeric is highly valued for its health benefits and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Turmeric curry puffs are surprisingly easy to make. Using store-bought pastry dough, defrost and you’re ready to go - virtually foolproof. The filling requires only one onion, one apple, and a bit of pork floss for flavor. Chop the onion and apple into small cubes. Add turmeric powder with a bit of butter and oil in a pan, stir-frying until fragrant. Add the chopped ingredients and sauté over medium-low heat until soft. Mix in pork floss after turning off the heat to complete the filling. Wrap into dumpling shapes, bake or deep-fry, and you’ll have a delicious and nutritious snack - a golden treat that brings health and joy to the table.

INFO｜Siva Organic Life

※：See the feature on "Organic Delights" on pages 38-39 of this issue.

Traveling to Hualien in the summer now comes with even more peace of mind, thanks to the availability of HFS Healthcare-Friendly Service accommodations. These options are especially great for senior-friendly travel, where visitors can truly feel the care and attention provided by local hospitality providers.

Top Choice for Healthcare-Friendly Private Lodging｜Hakka Beauty House

Located in Jian Township, near the Cikasoan Forest Park, Hakka Beauty House is a standalone garden-style guesthouse that blends safe architecture, aesthetic design, and a healthcare-friendly philosophy. The exterior is solid and grand, while the interior is full of Hakka charm and warm hospitality.

As a fully private rental, Hakka Beauty House is perfect for families, groups of friends, or parent-child vacations. The property includes a shaded parking area, an outdoor BBQ zone, and themed family-friendly rooms that allow guests to unwind in their own way. Each of the five themed rooms offers a unique style, and the house is certified with HFS Healthcare-Friendly Service, providing accessible walkways, safety grab bars, antibacterial bedding, and inclusive spaces - ensuring both the elderly and travelers with special needs feel safe and welcome.

INFO｜Hakka Beauty House

Address: No. 22, Ln. 250, Sec. 2, Zhongzheng Rd., Renhe Village, Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0936-587558

Business hours: Open all day

A Peaceful Hideaway in Harmony with Nature｜Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory Hotel

Nestled in the serene landscape where mountains meet water, the Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory Hotel offers a tranquil retreat built with traditional Japanese wooden architecture. Here, guests can ride bicycles along lush green paths, breathe in the fresh air, and leisurely explore the charming corners of the sugar factory.

This 3-star hotel is recognized as a site of cultural interest and has earned five accommodation certifications from the Hualien County Government, including the HFS Healthcare-Friendly Service certification. It was also awarded the prestigious "Excellence in Service Quality Award." Beyond lodging, the Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory also offers educational programs that walk guests through the rich history of Taiwan’s sugar industry and showcase circular economy practices within the sugar-making process. A stay at this hotel becomes a meaningful and unforgettable part of any journey.

INFO｜Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory Hotel

Address: No. 19, Tangchang St., Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8705881

Business hours: Open all day

Courtesy of Siva Organic Life

In the rural fields of Fenglin Township, you might come across what looks like an overgrown patch of weeds. At first glance, one might assume the land has been abandoned - but in fact, it’s an organic turmeric field. By the end of 2020, it had reached a total area of 38 hectares, making it the world’s largest field of its kind. The founder of “Siva Organic Life,” Fang-Ming Liao, was even chosen as a representative brand for Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, putting Hualien’s organic turmeric on the global map.

 The Secret to Growing Turmeric｜Black Soil - The Key to Cultivation

Fang-Ming Liao previously worked in the finance industry in Taipei. But after spending years caring for his ailing father in and out of hospitals, witnessing the fragility of life firsthand, his father’s passing from liver cancer inspired him to re-evaluate his own path. He made the life-changing decision to move to Hualien and start anew as a farmer.

At the beginning of his farming journey, he experimented with various organic crops like peanuts and soybeans. Determined to improve his skills, he became the most diligent student at The Farmers’ Academy, logging over 1,000 hours of coursework. Organic turmeric is grown in harmony with weeds - a practice that puzzled even his mother, who once scolded him for not weeding the fields. But weeds, he explained, are turmeric’s best allies: they help shield the plants from extreme summer heat and keep the soil warm during winter. It took three years just to cultivate the ideal “black soil” needed for turmeric to thrive.

High-Quality Turmeric through Organic Farming｜Taking the Hualien Brand to the World

Turmeric takes three years to mature before it can be harvested. Because raw turmeric has a relatively low market price, Fang-Ming Liao partnered with the local farmers’ association to add value - slicing red turmeric thinly and drying it at 45°C for 18 hours to reduce its moisture content to 5%, making it possible to grind it into turmeric powder. This process increases its value a hundredfold, turning it into what he calls “orange gold” and boosting revenue significantly.

The organic turmeric fields are cultivated using natural farming methods and have been certified organic. Lab testing shows the curcuminoid content in Siva Organic Life’s turmeric powder reaches 20.8%, significantly higher than many other turmeric products. In 2017, their high-quality organic turmeric powder was awarded two stars by the International Taste Institute (ITQI), often called the Michelin of the food industry. In addition to being used in health supplements, turmeric is also a popular spice in Indian cuisine. Liao has collaborated with many nearby eateries to incorporate turmeric into their dishes, making the spice part of people’s everyday meals. Travelers visiting Fenglin not only get to admire its beautiful landscapes but also taste its terroir, turning their journey into a warm and lasting memory.

INFO｜Siva Organic Life

Address: No. 365, Sec. 1, Zhongzheng Rd., Fenglin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0987-869248

Business hours: 11:00-15:00

Lavatory: No

The Gouzaiwei area of Hualien City is known for its rich cultural atmosphere, with an abundance of local delicacies and traditional streets. It's one of the most popular areas where travelers linger and return. In addition to its food scene, a number of murals have recently appeared, catching travelers’ eyes and symbolizing Hualien’s efforts to rejuvenate and embrace a new future.

Breathing New Life into the Old Streets｜Gouzaiwei Murals

In the Gouzaiwei commercial district, murals appear at nearly every street corner. This artistic transformation can be traced back to the 2024 international street culture event, Meeting of Styles Taiwan (MOS), which brought together over a hundred local and international artists. Nearly 50 graffiti works were created around Nanjing Street, bringing a fresh new look to the city. These murals are not only a makeover for old buildings but also serve a practical function - many spray-painted walls gain water-resistant properties, providing structural and emotional restoration. The vibrant artworks have added a splash of color to the area, drawing travelers in to snap photos and linger.

INFO｜Gouzaiwei Murals

Address: Around Sunrise Boulevard, Hualien City

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: No

A Touch of Hakka Culture with an Unexpected Twist｜Hualien’s Monkey D. Luffy

On Changan Street, a kiln-fired ceramic tile mural bears a striking resemblance to Monkey D. Luffy, the protagonist of the popular Japanese manga “One Piece.” This resemblance has attracted anime fans eager to visit and take photos. The mural is part of Hualien City’s “Fresh River in Hakka Villages” beautification project, which uses 3D painting techniques to depict scenes from local Hakka villages and Indigenous communities, and includes artistic benches that highlight cultural harmony among the area's diverse groups.

In the main mural, a farmer is seen planting rice with his head down, wearing a straw hat, red shirt, and rolled-up blue pants - an image remarkably similar to Monkey D. Luffy. The mural incorporates imagery of ancestral life along the Cikasuan River, capturing the essence of the diverse groups who once lived side by side and now contribute to Hualien’s rich cultural identity.

INFO｜Hualien’s Monkey D. Luffy

Address: Intersection of Chongqing Road and Changan Street, Hualien City

Business hours: Open all day

Lavatory: No

Courtesy of Wei-Chun Chiang & Editorial Office

Nestled between the Central and Coastal Mountain Ranges, the East Longitudinal Valley is one of the key settlement areas for Hakka immigrants in eastern Taiwan. From the Japanese colonial era to the devastating 1959 Flood, Hakka communities migrating from western Taiwan worked tirelessly to transform the untamed wilderness into fertile farmland. Their cultural footprints are evident not only in the town of Fenglin but also in the rice-producing regions of Yuli and Fuli.

Preserving Yuli’s Tobacco Heritage｜Wen Family Tobacco Barn Story House

While Yuli is best known for its rice, it was once a thriving center for tobacco farming - particularly in Dayu Village, where a large Hakka population resided. Just a few years ago, many traditional tobacco barns still stood here, though time and natural disasters have gradually worn them down. Tucked away behind the old Dayu train station is the Wen Family Tobacco Barn Story House, lovingly restored by third-generation family member Hsiu-Mei Wen, a former dance instructor in Taipei. Wanting to preserve her parents’ lifelong connection to the tobacco trade, she returned home and led the restoration after nearly a decade of abandonment. The first phase of the barn’s revival now preserves key features like its mudbrick walls and farming tools, keeping the legacy alive.

The site also features vintage equipment and rare photos from the family’s final tobacco harvest. Many elders in the neighborhood, who watched Hsiu-Mei grow up, spent their youth working in tobacco farming. Now that they’ve aged, she hopes to give something back. Beyond preserving history, Hsiu-Mei also envisions the barn as a foundation for community life - developing rooftop gardens, public squares, and communal spaces where seniors can gather, and where intergenerational learning can foster a spirit of mutual support. She hopes it will become a warm, welcoming place for former tobacco farmers to revisit and reminisce.

INFO｜ Wen Family Tobacco Barn Story House

Address: No. 143-1, Dayu, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0905-536892

Business hours: Open irregularly - please call ahead to schedule a visit

Lavatory: Yes

Hualien’s Best-Preserved Hakka Heritage House｜Chiu Residence - Henan Hall

The Chiu Residence - Henan Hall is located in Dongli Village, Fuli Township, once known as “Dazhuang.” Though quiet and rural today, it was among the first settlements developed in Fuli. The Chiu Residence remains one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Hakka architecture in all of Hualien. Construction of the Chiu Residence began in 1928 by An-Te Chiu, proprietor of the “Yang Yuan Chinese Medicine Shop.” Eager to demonstrate his family’s social standing, he designed the home himself and commissioned Chinese craftsmen to bring his vision to life. Today, the house still radiates timeless charm with its classic architectural features.

INFO｜ Chiu Residence - Henan Hall

Address: No. 32, Daohua Rd., Fuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0905-536892

Business hours: 10:00-19:00（Closed every Monday）

Lavatory: No

Ticket price:Free; The adjacent structure is still a private residence - please keep noise to a minimum during visits.

1 of 3 Mountainous Indigenous Townships in Hualien

Malahtangia

Lintianshan

319km² in Area 10th Largest Township in Taiwan

Abundant in Wild Mountain Vegetables

Courtesy of Editorial Office & Wanrong Township

Wanrong Township is home primarily to the Taroko and Bunun peoples. Situated entirely within the Central Mountain Range, the township is surrounded by breathtaking forests and mountainous terrain. Due to its rugged landscape, most settlements are concentrated in the narrow alluvial plains near Fenglin Township on the eastern edge. In recent years, passionate local youth have been actively creating new possibilities for development - inviting travelers to explore the hidden stories of the township’s communities and Indigenous villages.

One of Taiwan’s Four Great Forestry Sites｜Lintianshan Forestry Cultural Park

Although officially located in Fenglin Township, Lintianshan Forestry Cultural Park is geographically within Wanrong Township - a charming historical quirk. Lintianshan was once Taiwan’s fourth-largest logging site. In 1918, the Japanese established the Eastern Taiwan Lumber Corporation in Hualien, and logging operations in Lintianshan began the following year. To transport timber, a railway system was later constructed. During the peak of the logging industry, the area was a fully equipped settlement, with facilities such as Zhongshan Hall, employee dormitories, a medical clinic, a welfare center, a rice shop, a grocery store, a laundry station, a barbershop, a fire brigade, as well as a kindergarten and an elementary school. At its height, the community was home to 400 to 500 households.

After Taiwan banned natural forest logging in 1991, the forestry industry faded, but the park’s historical wooden buildings remain beautifully preserved. Zhongshan Hall, built entirely of cypress, once served as a movie theater and community hub. A walk through Lintianshan Forestry Cultural Park offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich forestry heritage.

An In-Depth Experience of Bunun Cultureo｜Malahtangia Festival and Mayuan Village

Mayuan Village is a Bunun tribal settlement in Wanrong Township and home to the Dan subgroup (丹社群) of the Bunun people. Originally, they lived in Xinyi Township of Nantou County. In 1933, under the Japanese colonial policy of group relocation, the Bunun were ordered to cross the Central Mountain Range and resettle in the southern area of what is now Mayuan Village. The village's former name, Mahawan, means “place with wooden boxes” in the Bunun language. After WWII, it was renamed Mayuan based on the phonetic sound.

The Malahtangia Festival, held every two years, is one of the Bunun people’s most important rituals. It features not only the ear-shooting ceremony but also activities like bamboo shoot peeling, weighted relays, rice pounding, and wood sawing - showcasing the tribe’s strength, wisdom, skill, and unity. The Bunun are also known for their chui-yin (pestle rhythm vocal) culture. During millet harvests, families would visit one another to help pound rice with long and short wooden pestles, producing a range of rhythmic and melodic tones. These joyful sounds became the music of harvest celebrations in the community - an expression of unity and gratitude. The world-famous Pasibutbut (eight-part harmony) has its roots in this tradition.

Local Youth Creating Shared Futures｜Alang Ciyakang Brings You into Wanrong

Xilin Village in Wanrong is home to the Ciyakang Tribe of the Taroko people. The name “Ciyakang” comes from the mountain’s shape, resembling a water jar when viewed from above. A group of Taroko youth founded Alang Ciyakang, Wanrong’s first youth-led cultural enterprise. “Alang” is a Taroko transliteration of “Akay,” meaning rich, impressive, and memorable. The team is Wanrong Township’s first youth startup company, integrating tribal and natural resources to develop local culture and economy through curated tours. Their engaging tribal experience activities invite travelers to truly connect with Wanrong.

“Alang Ciyakang” creatively uses their website to design themed tours for visitors, whether half-day or full-day trips, storytelling meals, or fire-making dining experiences. Beyond collaborative cooking, cultural activities like weaving and archery are offered. From May to October each year, travelers can also join the Qingshui River tracing tour. Combining tribal, nature, and culinary elements, these experiences immerse visitors in Taroko culture and introduce the history and daily life of the Ciyakang tribe.

A Coastal Thread of Land, Sea, and Sky｜Fengbin Township

Located on Hualien’s eastern coast, Fengbin Township, once called Vakon (Amis for “Fakong”), has the smallest population in Hualien but boasts a long coastline and breathtaking natural scenery. It is home to several Indigenous communities, including Jingpu, Makotaay, Kudic, Vakon, Paterungan, Gao Shan, and Kaluluwan - making it a must-visit spot along the East Coast.

Unbeatable Sea View Front Row

Natural Geology Classroom Shitiping

One Of The Origins Of Amis Culture

North GaoShan Center Vakon South Jingpu

First-Row Ocean Views ｜A Harmonious Blend of Sea and Sky

Fengbin Township is located on the eastern side of the Coastal Mountain Range, with a coastline stretching several dozen kilometers. Although much of the coastline features steep rocky cliffs, it also creates many breathtaking coastal landscapes that instantly refresh the soul. Starting from the Baqi Gazebo lookout in the north, the hairpin turn here along the coastal highway from Hualien heading south is considered the most beautiful "turning point" of the route. From the gazebo, visitors can also enjoy a distant view of Guihou Cape and the Xinshe sea cliffs. The Dashibi Hill Trail is only 750 meters long and can be easily completed without much effort. At the summit, you are rewarded with a 360-degree panoramic view of Jiqi Bay and the vast, blue Pacific Ocean.

Further south lies Shitiping, a vast coastal terrace with dramatic marine erosion formations such as wave-cut platforms, uplifted coral reefs, potholes, and sea trenches. Nearby Shimen Cave, nicknamed the “March Cave” for its shape resembling a car, was even featured in international films.

 The Only Coastal-Dwelling Bunun｜GaoShan Forest Tribal Ranch

Although most Indigenous people in Fengbin Township are Amis, there is a Bunun Gao Shan (High Mountain) tribe located in the Jiqi mountainous area. It is said that over half a century ago, during a hunting trip, a family unexpectedly discovered a paradise-like new land in the mountains of Jiqi Village. The entire family then moved from the Central Mountain Range to settle here, becoming the only Bunun tribe living by the sea.

GaoShan Forest Tribal Ranch offers various experiential and customized programs, allowing travelers, under the guidance of instructors, to climb up to the Courage Rock to overlook the entire East Coast and the Pacific Ocean like an eagle soaring above. Visitors can also trek through mountain valleys and streams, exploring secret spots unknown to ordinary tourists - ancient trees, caves, and authentic Indigenous hunter meals - leading travelers to deeply experience the Bunun’s wisdom of living in harmony with nature.

 Where Mountains, Sea, Rivers, and Islands Intertwine｜Jingpu Tribe

Jingpu, called “Cawi’” in the Amis language, means “a flat land in the mountain valley.” It can also be pronounced “Zhaowei (找味),” meaning “to find the original taste.” In front of the tribe lies the vast Pacific Ocean, while the intertwined beauty of mountains, sea, rivers, and islands beckons travelers.

The Jingpu Tribe is located at the estuary of the Xiuguluan River. Its rich natural ecology has shaped a lifestyle centered on seafood and offshore fishing culture. By combining local natural resources with traditional culture, Jingpu has developed an eco-cultural journey over the years. Travelers can put on life jackets at the Plaza del Sol, walk down to the riverbank, and board rows of bamboo rafts heading toward Xibulan Island. They can also experience casting the traditional Amis fishing net, pulling ropes, preparing inner and outer nets, and using their body motion to cast the net, chasing the sand crab - locally known as the “reverse retreat” crab. Other experiences include traditional archery, DIY weaving of bracelets using rattan-like strips, and tasting Amis culinary specialties prepared in “earthen ovens” - making the journey nourishing for both body and soul.

The Shanlan train officially began operations on April 19. It runs between Hualien and Chishang and takes around 3.5 hours to complete each one-way journey. Along the way, the train stops at TRA Shoufeng Station and Yuli Station. Passengers disembark in Yuli for a curated walking tour, offering a fresh perspective and deeper appreciation of this charming small town.

Refined Comfort and Subtle Luxury｜Thoughtful Service to Accompany the Journey

Designed with a sleek, modern interior, the Shanlan features full-length panoramic windows and an intimate seating arrangement - fewer than 20 seats per car - creating a relaxed, comfortable ambiance for passengers. The onboard meals are curated by renowned chefs and beautifully blend local ingredients with creative flair. One example is the dish “Black Gold—Dewy Jade,” which combines traditional elements like pigeon peas, mochi, and a savory soy milk foam. As the train enters tunnels, a clever lighting design creates shifting hues and shadows that mirror the surroundings. Every detail, from cuisine to lighting and attentive service, ensures a delightful and immersive ride through the Hualien Valley.

Explore Yuli Through the Eyes of Locals｜Uncover the Story Behind a Small Town's Growth 

What makes the Shanlan itinerary special is that the outbound journey includes a stop in Yuli, while the return trip halts in Fenglin. Passengers step off the train and explore the local environment and culture on foot. In Yuli, a guided walking tour planned by The Town Studio reveals the town’s evolution through a series of then-and-now photo comparisons. Guests learn about sites like Yuli’s first cinema and its iconic fountain, uncovering the stories and history that shaped them.

The stop in Yuli lasts about an hour, but travelers may also choose to stay overnight. Nearby accommodations such as Forest 3030 Hostel offer their own immersive experiences, including morning walks through the bustling local market - perhaps with a bowl of Yuli noodles for breakfast - and chats with grandmothers selling freshly picked wild greens. You might also wander to the town’s spiritual heart, Yuli Sietian Temple, where the town’s scent, air, and rhythm seep into your senses - turning a trip into a deeper experience of belonging.

Editorial Office, Turumoan Whale Watching, Brothers Hangout, & LNTOKayak

Hualien’s summer sun shines brilliantly, irresistibly inviting people outdoors to enjoy water activities. With its unbeatable ocean views, simply being near the sea in Hualien can lift your spirits for the entire day. Water adventures stretch from sunrise to starry night, with exciting options such as rafting down the Xiuguluan River, paddleboarding or cruising on Liyu Lake, and the one-of-a-kind Dining on the River Experience. It’s a summer of water-filled fun waiting for travelers to dive in!

Taiwan’s Best Whale-Watching Spot｜Hualien’s Offshore Waters - A Magnet for Marine Life and Travelers

Hualien is the birthplace of whale watching in Taiwan, boasting a remarkable 96.55% sighting rate. Thanks to its unique geography - deep ocean trenches and the nutrient-rich Kuroshio Current - Hualien’s offshore waters attract vast schools of fish and, in turn, whales and dolphins. The calm summer seas make it perfect for marine excursions. From playful dolphins leaping between waves to majestic sperm whales, orcas, and pilot whales, this is an experience enhanced by expert commentary from onboard guides. It’s an unforgettable summer activity that’s both fun and educational.

INFO｜Whale World Whale Watching

Address: No. 315-1, Zhongmei Road, Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8238000

Business hours: 08:30-22:00、09:00-21:00 (Weekends only)

Lavatory: Yes

INFO｜Turumoan Whale Watching

Address: No. 37, Minquan Road, Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8333821

Business hours: 07:00-21:30

Lavatory: Yes

A Sky Full of Stars｜Ocean Moonlight Stargazing Tour

“Above the sea rises the bright moon; though far apart, we share this moment” - a line of poetry many know by heart. Hualien’s coastline draws star chasers each summer seeking romance beneath the celestial dome. The night sea carries a hint of mystery and dreamy charm. Gaze quietly at the night lights, listen to expert stargazing commentary, sway gently with the sea breeze, and lose yourself in a sky full of stars.

With the boat swaying gently on shimmering waters, feel your heart stir with every flash of moonlight—be it a supermoon or a meteor shower. Come evening, leave the crowds and neon lights behind. Instead, set sail to find your own tranquil sea of stars.

※INFO｜Mountain-Sea Stargazing - Moonlight Voyage

※：Visit the official website for details.

Watersports in Stunning Scenery｜SUP and Kayaking

One of the most popular summer experiences is watching the sunrise while paddleboarding or kayaking from Chongde gravel beach, with the vast ocean on one side and the majestic Qingshui Cliff on the other. Here, travelers can get up close to mountains and the sea, as the golden sun gradually lights up the ever-changing water. This breathtaking moment - where the ocean glitters with golden waves - is often described as a must-do once-in-a-lifetime journey.

For calmer waters, Liyu Lake offers a perfect setting for paddleboarding or kayaking. Known as one of the most beginner-friendly spots in Hualien, it allows visitors to enjoy tranquil waterscapes while staying cool and active.

INFO｜LNTOKayak

Address: No. 19, Tangchang St., Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8567880

Business hours: 04:00-20:00(Fri - Sat until 21:00)

INFO｜Brothers Hangout Watersports

Address: No. 72, Chongde Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0928-877399

Business hours: 04:00-18:00

A Longtime Favorite in Hualien｜Rafting the Xiuguluan River

Rafting the Xiuguluan River is a cherished memory for many visitors to Hualien. Starting at the Xiuguluan River Visitor Center, the 24-km route from Ruisui Bridge to Xinchanghong Bridge passes through more than 20 rapids and turbulent stretches - an exhilarating way to experience the river’s ever-changing rhythm. For safety, all participants are required to wear life jackets.

The ideal time for rafting is from May to October, when water levels are high. To avoid afternoon thunderstorms, launching after 3 PM is prohibited. At the journey’s end near Xinchanghong Bridge, you can rest at Jingpu Tribe, admire art installations at Plaza del Sol, or cross the sandbar to explore Xibulan Island - a perfect post-rafting plan.

INFO｜Xiuguluan River Visitor Center

Address: No. 215, Sec. 3, Zhongshan Rd., Ruisui Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8875400

Business hours: 08:30-17:00

Lavatory: Yes

Cool Down in the Valleys｜River Tracing and Shrimp Catching

Home to many pristine, unpolluted natural environments, Hualien is flanked by the Central and Coastal Mountain Ranges, giving rise to numerous rivers and streams flowing from the mountains. During the height of summer, these waterways are especially abundant, making it the perfect season for river tracing. Guided by professional and safety-conscious instructors, travelers can immerse themselves in Hualien’s natural beauty - absorbing phytoncides and negative ions in scenic river valleys, enjoying the refreshing clarity of the cool mountain waters, and letting go of urban and work-related stress. This is a liberating, light-hearted journey that also offers meaningful insights into local culture and nature.

At night, don a headlamp and follow your guide to Baibao River in Shoufeng Township for an eco-exploration. Watch for shrimp glowing red in your beam - an interactive, hands-on activity that delights all ages.

A Heartwarming Tribute to Tribal Memories｜Dining on the River Experience

Located in Guangfu Township, the Zong Gu Xian Studio focuses its activities across the Guangfu area and collaborates with multiple businesses within the local Amis Tafalong and Mataian Tribes. During spring and summer, the most popular experience among visitors is the Dining on the River Experience. The founder of Zong Gu Xian Studio spent childhood days picnicking with family on riverbanks, feet immersed in cool streams, enjoying food and conversations. These cherished memories have since been transformed into immersive experiences for travelers.

Among a wide array of activities, visitors can head into the mountains to handpick wild vegetables and learn traditional tribal survival skills. At night, there's even stream shrimp catching, providing a deep dive into the rich Amis culture.

INFO｜Zong Gu Xian Studio

Address: No. 6, Ln. 34, Guangfeng Rd., Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0912-383220

Business hours: Reservation required

Lavatory: Yes

Shoufeng’s Waterside Refreshment｜Clam Harvesting and Fun-filled Activities

Located within the Promisedland Resort, the Productive Valley Nature Park spans 5.7 hectares and emphasizes a symbiotic survival system between nature and life. Features include an ecological bamboo raft river, a fishing experience pool, an Australian tea tree zone, a bald cypress zone, and lakeside cabins. Activities such as Hualien stone painting and botanical journal DIY are offered, along with paid rides along the eco-river.

Nearby, Lichuan Aquafarm is known for cultivating Asian clams in pristine waters. Visitors flock here not only to feast on Asian clams at the Five Cake Two Fish Restaurant, but also to enjoy the beloved “Clam Harvesting and Fun-filled Activities,” a water play experience that’s a hit with both kids and adults.

INFO｜Productive Valley Nature Park

Address: No. 1, Lixiang Rd., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8656789

Lavatory: Yes

Ticket price: NTD 300 per person (price subject to on-site changes)

INFO｜Lichuan Aquafarm

Address: No. 45, Yuchi, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8651333

Business hours: 08:00-19:00

Lavatory: Yes

 A Summer Haven for All Ages｜Cikasoan Forest Park

Located in Jian Township, Cikasoan Forest Park is not far from downtown and remains a favorite destination for Hualien locals. The park's seasonal water amusement park, open during the summer, is filled with children’s laughter. Each summer, families flock to this nature-surrounded water park, where exciting attractions blend with scenic beauty. Features include kiddie splash zones, toddler pools, lazy rivers, and the wildly popular rainbow water slide. It’s a summer water adventure paradise where kids and adults lose track of time.

Thanks to excellent planning by the Hualien County Government, the park also boasts a vibrant nursery with a rich variety of plant life. Surrounded by lush greenery, fresh air, and natural phytoncides, visitors can leave the noise of the city behind. For those who love photography, the pure white transparent pyramid glass greenhouse garden offers the perfect backdrop for social media-worthy shots.

INFO｜Cikasoan Forest Park

Address: No. 299, Sec. 2, Zhongzheng Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8233575

Business hours: Cikasoan Forest Park water activities: 07/12-08/24

Lavatory: Yes

※For admission rules and event details, please check the official website

Courtesy of Yu-Liu Chen & Editorial Office

Let go and enjoy the whole summer! Hualien is rolling out a series of classic large-scale events throughout the summer - from the dazzling lights of the Hualien Muscovy Duck Fun Summer Vacation event and the star-studded Hualien Summer Festival, to the celebration of local culture and multicultural fusion at the Pacific Austronesian Joint Harvest Festival, and even serene summer nights under a sky full of stars. A colorful array of activities awaits, promising a uniquely joyful experience every single day of your summer trip to Hualien!

A Feast for the Eyes and Ears｜Hualien Summer Festival - Nonstop Fun and Entertainment

The Hualien Summer Festival, the grandest and most star-studded event during Taiwan’s summer vacation season, is about to begin! Every year, tens of thousands of music lovers flock to Hualien for this annual music pilgrimage. The festival invites top-charting artists and Asian superstars to bring the latest, most stylish, and high-energy pop performances to life, turning the event into a sensational music party and a visual and auditory treat for all. Right next to the concert grounds, the Dongdamen Night Market offers an abundance of local gourmet delicacies - be sure to stop by and savor the flavors of Hualien!

INFO｜2025 Hualien Summer Festival

Address: Hualien Dongdamen Square

Telephone: 03-8227171#524

Business hours: 07/23-07/27

Lavatory: Yes

※Refer to the official website for the event schedule and details.

Five Free Water Activities｜Hualien Muscovy Duck Fun Summer Vacation - A Family Splash Fest

Whether you're testing your coordination and balance on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) across the sparkling waters of Liyu Lake, paddling smoothly in a stable and easy-to-maneuver kayak, leisurely cruising on a water bike, zipping around in a cute bumper boat, or feeling the rush of a jet ski, all five water activities are free and open to the public! Every weekend, fun water competitions and creative performances draw curious crowds, while the food truck market keeps everyone happily fed. This summer, Liyu Lake becomes your ultimate water amusement park!

Friendly Reminder: All participants must wear a life jacket at all times and follow safety instructions from on-site coaches.

INFO｜2025 Hualien Muscovy Duck Fun Summer Vacation

Address: No. 100, Huantan North Road, Chihnan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8227171#524

Business hours: 07/12-08/10

Lavatory: Yes

※Refer to the official website for the event schedule and details.

Fun and Beautiful｜Pacific Austronesian Joint Harvest Festival - Come and Dance with Us!

The Pacific Austronesian Joint Harvest Festival is one of Hualien’s most iconic annual events, drawing countless domestic and international visitors each year. The highlight of the event is the Joint Harvest Festival Dance, where everyone joins hands and dances joyfully around the stage. This year, the festival proudly welcomes dancers from Rapa Nui (Easter Island) for the first time, showcasing warrior dances and ceremonial rituals that express a powerful spirit and a graceful sense of ancient heritage - embodying the idea that “the more local, the more global.”

The 2025 festival will be held July 18-20 at the Daxing Grass Turf (next to Hualien Stadium). The festival anthem, “Let’s Join Hands!”, was composed by Cikasuan Bear from the Cikasoan tribe, blending reggae with pop for an easy-to-sing, swaying melody. The venue will also feature slow food stalls, handcrafted goods, and Indigenous specialty products. Come join this major cultural celebration - take someone’s hand, and share in the resonance of blessings.

INFO｜2025 Pacific Austronesian Joint Harvest Festival

Address: No. 23, Daguhuwan Avenue, Hualien City (Daxing Grass Turf, next to Hualien Stadium)

Telephone: 03-8227171#291

Business hours: 07/18-07/20

Lavatory: Yes

※Refer to the official website for the event schedule and details.

A Romantic Summer Night Date｜Hualien Starry Night Concert - Embrace the Quiet Beauty

Since 2020, the Hualien Starry Night Concert has been a beloved event combining music, astronomy, and natural landscapes, offering locals and travelers a chance to experience the enchanting harmony of music and starlight. To enhance the stargazing experience, astronomy experts offer guided sky tours, and the venue features a charming starlight market. Several bands and musicians are also invited to perform, blending melodies with celestial wonder.

This year’s concerts will be held at the Luoshan Exhibition and Sales Center Lawn (Fuli Farmers’ Association) and the Qixingtan Scenic Area in Xincheng Township. In a special collaboration with the global classic “The Little Prince,” the concerts invite you to count the stars and relive childhood wonder in a low-light natural setting - uniting music, storytelling, and human connection. Immerse yourself in this serene, heartfelt experience and create enduring summer memories.

INFO｜2025 Hualien Starry Night Concert

Address: Luoshan Exhibition and Sales Center Lawn (Fuli Farmers’ Association)

Telephone: 03-8227171#522

Business hours: 08/02（Fuli Township）、08/23（Xincheng Township）

Lavatory: Yes

INFO｜2025 Mombo-Sinchen International Festival of Rock Balancing and Arts

Address:Qixingtan Scenic Area, Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Business hours:Open all day

Lavatory: YES

Despite changing seasons, the delightful offerings from Hualien are endless. Following last year’s list of winners, the 2nd Hundred Great Souvenirs of Hualien County continues to recommend gifts, allowing travelers to bring home thoughtful presents that will ensure a smooth and fulfilling year ahead.

The Ultimate Snack That’s Both Savory and Spicy｜Aunt Hsiu-Ling’s Spicy Braised Dried Tofu from Hualien Dawn Shelter Factory

Hualien Dawn Shelter Factory is famous for its "Aunt Hsiu-Ling’s Spicy Braised Dried Tofu," a beloved local snack that won recognition in the 2024 Hualien County Government’s second annual "Hundred Great Souvenirs of Hualien County." Crafted by sheltered workers under the guidance of social workers and staff, each piece of tofu is hand-cut, meticulously seasoned with a soul-warming sauce, and slow-cooked for over three hours. The result is a deeply flavorful snack, with just the right hint of spice that enhances the tofu’s subtle soybean aroma. It’s a perfect treat or side dish for any meal.

The braised dried tofu is crafted under the guidance of the cheerful and lively technical instructor, Aunt Hsiu-Ling. The name “Aunt Hsiu-Ling’s Spicy Braised Dried Tofu” comes from her signature touch, and the product is a perfect balance of color, aroma, and flavor. With a slightly chewy exterior and a tender, smooth interior, it has become a local favorite. Now available for delivery to other regions, each purchase is not just a delicious snack but also a meaningful way to support the sheltered workers on their path to independence.

INFO｜ Hualien Limin Shelter Factory

Address: No.38, Fuan Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-846-0527

Business hours: 08:00-17:00（Monday to Friday）

Lavatory: Yes

Let the Fragrance of Ruisui Pomelo Continue to Blossom｜Smallsteps Green’s Fangsis Ruisui Pomelo Scented Gift Box 

Hualien is home to 25% of Taiwan’s pomelo production. However, after the fall festival, thousands of tons of pomelos often go unsold, resulting in waste, loss for farmers, and environmental burdens. The Smallsteps Green team, leveraging years of online influence and fragrance production experience, has crafted the "Fangsis Ruisui Pomelo Scented Gift Box" using pomelo essential oils. It includes essential oils, scented candles, and handmade soaps, offering a new way to add value to local agricultural products.

Fangsis, derived from the Amis language, means “the fragrance of a flower.” It symbolizes the journey from the land, awakening memories of nature and culture through scent. Every crop carries the imprint of the land, and through industry upgrades, unsold produce is transformed into high-value products. By combining tourism and cultural heritage, Fangsis helps more people discover the beauty of Hualien. Change doesn’t come from one great action but from the countless small efforts of many people. Smallsteps Green uses the Ruisui pomelo as a medium to help more people experience the natural beauty of Hualien. Through its fragrances, the delightful scent of Ruisui pomelo continues to bloom, bringing the essence of the land to life.

INFO｜ Smallsteps Green

Telephone: 0972-072044

※There is no physical store; please order through the official website.

Active Use of Hualien’s Local Specialty - Tropical Pineapple｜Funnycake.Hualien Pineapple Mochi 

Carefully selected ingredients from the local countryside, bringing back the flavors of the past. While most people heavily rely on food machinery and synthetic spices, the bakers of "Funnycake.Hualien" are dedicated to preserving the old, authentic taste of local tropical pineapples. Ruisui Township’s Fuxing Village, located on the Tropic of Cancer, is one of Taiwan's top producers of tropical pineapples. Funnycake.Hualien aims to enhance Taiwan's premium agricultural products and create high-fiber, healthy foods as its core business value. Using Hualien’s unique Tainung No. 2 Tropical Pineapples and Tainung No. 17 Golden Diamond Pineapples as the primary filling, despite the high acidity and noticeable fiber of the tropical pineapples, its distinctive fragrance and the sweet-and-sour taste from the combination of pineapple enzymes and natural sweetness offer an irreplaceable flavor that feels like a gift from nature.

Pineapple Mochi combines the refreshing taste of pineapple with the soft and chewy texture of mochi. Whether for a casual afternoon tea or sharing with friends and family, it’s a great choice for gifting or personal indulgence, offering a delightful taste experience with the fresh fruit flavor.

INFO｜ Funnycake.Hualien

Address: No. 169, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8336255

Business hours: 09:00-21:30

Lavatory: No

The Green Gold Industry Reshaping Yuli’s “Sacha Inchi Impression”｜Pushgoo’s Valley Chief Sacha Inchi Oil Set

Since the “bad oil” crisis, Taiwanese consumers have become more mindful of the quality of cooking oils. Kun-Ping Lin, a young farmer from Yuli Township, planted the new crop Sacha Inchi, native to the Peruvian rainforest, on his father’s inherited hillside land. Sacha Inchi is a high-nutrient oilseed crop. In 2019, he established Taiwan’s first agricultural production and marketing group named after Sacha Inchi, and later launched "Pushgoo" to handle branding and sales, implementing a comprehensive strategy of production, processing, and marketing, truly realizing a six-level(all-round) industry strategy for production and sales.

Pushgoo collaborates with the Yuli Township Sacha Inchi Agricultural Production and Marketing Group, not only using locally grown, fresh Sacha Inchi from Yuli but also marking the first-ever use of AIoT smart agriculture technology to cultivate Sacha Inchi in Taiwan. From planting to harvest, the entire process is closely monitored to ensure stable quality. The Sacha Inchi grown in Yuli Township is cultivated using non-toxic, pesticide-free farming practices. Every Sacha Inchi seed is manually harvested and screened. Sacha Inchi Oil is ideal for cold dishes or direct consumption to preserve its rich nutritional value, avoiding high temperatures that could degrade its benefits. Pushgoo’s Sacha Inchi Oil has not only earned recognition as one of the Hundred Great Souvenirs of Hualien County but also won the highest A.A. Taste Award in the Netherlands for its exceptional quality and flavor, proving that high-quality oil can be both delicious and healthy.

INFO｜ Pushgoo

Address: No. 3, Sec. 1, Renai Rd., Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8886677

Business hours: 09:00-18:00（Monday to Saturday）

Lavatory: Yes

Courtesy of Tutu Foodaholic

Thanks to Michelin guides and culinary competition shows, many food lovers travel great distances just to taste acclaimed dishes after new rankings are announced. The 500 Bowls Award, hosted by United Daily News, highlights beloved street foods from a local perspective. And of course, Hualien has plenty of unforgettable flavors waiting for visitors to explore.

A Scallion Pancake with a Savory, Crispy Crust｜Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake

When it comes to Hualien’s famous fried egg scallion pancakes, most foodies already have a few must-visit spots in mind. Among them, Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake is often mentioned as a top local favorite. Located near the Mingli Road & Datong Street intersection, the stall has no flashy signs, but its Tiffany-green awning is a recognizable landmark.

Most places fry the pancake with the egg together, but here, the pancake and egg are cooked separately and combined at the end. The thinner, more elastic dough retains its chewiness, while the lighter sauce enhances the pancake’s natural aroma. Spice lovers, take note! Their house-made chili sauce packs a punch—even the mild version has a serious kick! If you’re looking for a savory afternoon snack while exploring Hualien City, Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake is sure to satisfy.

INFO｜ Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake

Address: No. 18-3, Mingli Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 0965-006589

Business hours: 13:00-18:00

Lavatory: No

Over 50 Years of Tradition｜Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup

Established in 1968, Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup has been serving up comforting bowls for over half a century. Though the building and shopfront bear the marks of time, the flavor has remained almost unchanged—except for slight adjustments to the thickness of the rice noodles over the years. Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup was recognized in the second 500 Bowls Award, drawing even more food lovers to line up for a taste. The dish was originally created by Mama Chuang from Yilan, who adapted her hometown’s recipe into a unique local specialty that has been enjoyed for 56 years—a true taste of nostalgia for Hualien residents.

The rice noodle soup is rich in ingredients, with thick rice noodles that are chewy and complemented by crunchy wood ear mushrooms, carrots, and Kamaboko(cured surimi), which add layers of flavor to the dish. The shop’s special tea-braised eggs are sweet and flavorful, with a texture similar to iron eggs, making them a satisfying accompaniment to the rice noodle soup. Popular items in the shop also include rice balls and rice pudding, but they tend to sell out quickly, so travelers should come early to try them.

INFO｜ Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup

Address: No. 284, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8323258

Business hours: 07:00-17:30

Lavatory: No

Jian Township in Hualien County is home to the “Three Treasures of Jian” — a trio of renowned local agricultural products, including taro and dragon beard vegetables. But how are these ingredients transformed into processed foods, and where can you taste them? That’s a big question.

Smooth and Lusciously Creamy｜Jian Taro Ice Cream

The Jian Township Farmers’ Association has revamped its production and sales center into a stylish, literary-inspired space named San Kai Amai, where visitors can indulge in over a dozen flavors of taro ice cream. For those with adventurous palates, they even offer cilantro ice cream and century egg ice cream!

Made using locally grown taro, this ice cream is exceptionally smooth and dense. What sets it apart is the use of natural mineral water, filtered through the rocky layers of the Central Mountain Range’s snowmelt. Combined with Jian’s soft and fluffy taro—rich in plant-based protein and mucopolysaccharides—this ice cream achieves a refined texture with minimal stabilizers, making it even creamier than traditional gelato. San Kai Amai also features exclusive flavors you won’t find in convenience stores. Plus, the more scoops you get, the more you save!

INFO｜ San Kai Amai

Address: No. 88, Sec. 2, Jian Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8536375

Business hours: 08:30-19:00（Closed on Tuesdays）

Lavatory: Yes

Pure, Natural, and Delicious｜Taifu Bento Shop

Many people don’t realize that dragon beard vegetables are the tender shoots of chayote vines. Packed with growth hormones, they’re considered highly nutritious—whether lightly blanched and dipped in sesame sauce or stir-fried, they’re incredibly delicious. Every township has its own specialty, and sourcing ingredients locally helps reduce carbon footprints. In Jian Township, arrow bamboo is a seasonal delicacy you won’t want to miss! This fiber-rich ingredient pairs well with Toban Djan (chili bean sauce) or peeled chili peppers in chicken soup, offering a crisp, aromatic bite that rivals the famed Shanghai dish Yanduxian (bamboo shoot soup).

Bathed in sunlight from the eastern mountains, Hualien's farmlands bring nature's best to Taipei. Eating a bento (lunch box) in Hualien is a true joy, and now Taifu Bento Shop, known for its use of Hualien's premium Fuli Rice and its focus on low-sodium, low-oil cooking, is bringing this beloved Hualien bento to Taipei. With the finest local rice and pesticide-free vegetables, Taifu Bento Shop is leading the way in the healthy bento trend, sharing the authentic taste and health of Hualien with Taipei.

INFO｜ Taifu Bento Shop

Address: No. 110, Sec. 1, Heping Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8463368

Business hours: 10:30-13:30、16:30-19:00（Closed on Sundays）

Lavatory: Yes

Hualien warmly welcomes travelers from all over Taiwan with the same unwavering enthusiasm. Ensuring high-quality accommodations for visitors has always been a top priority. In addition to ISQM and KLS hospitality certifications, Hualien has recently introduced the HFS (Healthcare-Friendly Service) certification. Whether during an earthquake or for senior-friendly travel, these certified accommodations provide visitors with a sense of security and thoughtful service.

Awarded for Excellence in Service Quality｜Jinguan - B&B

Located in the heart of Hualien City, Jinguan - B&B enjoys a prime location just a five-minute walk from Dongdamen Night Market, with convenient access to local amenities. Thanks to its meticulous service and well-equipped facilities, it has earned ISQM and KLS hospitality certifications, as well as the HFS Healthcare-Friendly Service certification. It has also been honored with the Excellence in Service Quality award, the most prestigious award in Hualien.

The B&B offers double rooms and family-friendly four-person rooms, featuring a minimalist design with bright natural lighting—ideal for couples and families. The thoughtful hosts provide complimentary airport and train station transfers, as well as bicycle rentals. Unlike many other B&Bs, it is equipped with an elevator, ensuring easy access for seniors and young children. Situated near the local market and downtown area, Jinguan - B&B allows guests to explore a variety of local delicacies and experience Hualien’s rich food culture. Through sustainable hospitality management, it creates lasting memories for every traveler.

INFO｜ Jinguan - B&B

Address: No. 30, Lane 353, Chongqing Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 0928-877333

Business hours: Open all day

 A Home in Every Traveler’s Memory｜Justlike Villa

Nestled among rice fields in Jian Township, Justlike Villa is a homely retreat where the host, affectionately known as "Luo-ge," welcomes guests with a warm cup of coffee and heartfelt conversations about life. Remarkably, he remembers changes in returning guests, making every visit a meaningful reunion. The Luo-ge Café has become a cherished memory for many travelers.

In addition to afternoon coffee, the villa provides a bed-and-breakfast experience with carefully crafted morning meals made from locally sourced, fresh ingredients. As a farm-stay, it offers guests the opportunity to interact with dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals. Recognized as a Pet-Friendly Accommodation, the villa has also earned the HFS Healthcare-Friendly Service certification, which involves extensive training in CPR, AED, and disaster preparedness for earthquakes and typhoons. More than just a countryside retreat, Justlike Villa provides a tranquil space for travelers to reconnect with themselves, immerse themselves in nature, and experience the healing power of the great outdoors. This vision of creating a sanctuary for the mind and body is what inspired the host to establish this home away from home.

INFO｜ Justlike Villa

Address: No. 219, Sec. 1, Guangxian Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0920-309568

Business hours: Open all day

First-Place Tour｜Sustainable Hualien Triathlon Adventure

This three-day, two-night deep experience tour combines sports challenges, cultural exploration, and sustainable principles. The tour connects Qixingtan, Liyu Lake, and the two-lake bicycle path, blending natural landscapes with indigenous cultural experiences. Travelers will visit the Chihsing Tan Katsuo Museum to learn about sustainable fishing practices and stay at low-carbon lakeside accommodations, enjoying meals made from locally sourced organic ingredients, embodying the core values of sustainable tourism.

DAY1｜Connecting the Two Lakes for Ultimate Relaxation

Upon arriving in Hualien, travelers can first relax and take a deep breath, soaking in the comfortable atmosphere created by the sea breeze and waves of Qixingtan. A leisurely walk along the shore allows visitors to experience the slow-paced lifestyle of the area. Nearby, the Chihsing Tan Katsuo Museum is the only museum in Taiwan dedicated to the display of bonito fish. Originally a disused bonito factory, it has been successfully transformed and now offers visitors the chance to experience bonito culture, slice bonito fish, and participate in activities that highlight the charm of sustainable fisheries. For dining, travelers can consider MuMing Restaurant, known for using local wild vegetables, herbs, and other ingredients. If dining with friends, they can experience the joy of eating generously, savoring both large portions of food and fish. The restaurant has gained such a good reputation that it has become a highly sought-after destination for food enthusiasts.

The two-lake bike path connecting Qixingtan and Liyu Lake is a sustainable tourism route linking two of Hualien's most famous scenic spots. Along the 35 km path, visitors can pass by Qixingtan Scenic Area, Hualien Aurora Bridge, and Pacific Park, while enjoying beautiful crescent-shaped bays and rich natural and cultural landscapes. They can also stop at popular photo spots like the Huaren Seawall, enjoying the leisurely pace of life and taking in the sights.

INFO｜ Qixingtan

Address: Coastal Road, Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8221592

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: Yes

INFO｜ Chihsing Tan Katsuo Museum

Address: No. 148, Qixing St., Xincheng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8236100

Business hours: 09:00-17:30

Lavatory: Yes

DAY2｜Multiple Ways to Enjoy the Scenic Liyu Lake

If staying near Liyu Lake the night before, travelers are bound to be naturally awakened by the chirping of insects and birds at dawn. A slow walk along the trail, surrounded by the fresh scent of phytoncides, offers a variety of mountain and lake views that leave little room in the mind for anything else.

For hiking enthusiasts, the six trails surrounding Liyu Mountain are a must-do. These easy-to-walk trails connect different regions, offering diverse scenic views. At the southern pier of Liyu Lake, travelers can enjoy the stunning sight of surrounding mountains and the shimmering lake surface, creating a romantic atmosphere reminiscent of a foreign land. Here, visitors can use a self-portrait system to easily capture perfect photos with the picturesque lake in the background. If travelers wish to dine around Liyu Lake, in addition to visiting the local food district and tasting regional specialties, the Cikasuan is also a great choice. The restaurant selects the best seasonal fruits and vegetables, and with the heart of preparing meals for family, it showcases indigenous flavors and is sure to satisfy even the most discerning food lovers.

INFO｜ Cikasuan

Address: No. 2, Huantan South Road, Chihnan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0955-996777

Business hours: Closed on Tuesdays, open all day on weekends

Lavatory: Yes

INFO｜ Liyu Lake

Address: Huantan North Road, Chihnan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8641691

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: Yes

DAY3｜The Sea Connecting Qixingtan to Chongde

If you stay near Qixingtan the previous night, on a clear evening, you can gather the shimmering stars filling the sky, enjoying the countless gentle starbeams shining on the land, and experience a sense of tranquility, resonating with the vast sky.

The sunrise at Qixingtan is beautiful and dazzling, as the golden light blocks the view, and after the golden spots jumping on the sea, joyful cheers follow. The original plan for the tour was a short competitive race or a small portion of a triathlon held on the beach, but when faced with such a serene and stunning view, why not find a comfortable spot, sit quietly by the bank, and watch the ebb and flow of the tide without worrying about sweating? Arriving at Chongde, the 22.7-kilometer-long Qingshui Cliff is one of the most magnificent landscapes along the Suhua Highway, formed by marble, gneiss, and greenstone. Canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding in the blue Pacific Ocean become the most unforgettable memories of the trip.

INFO｜ Brothers Hangout Water Activities

Address: No. 72, Chongde Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 0928-877399

Business hours: 04:00-18:00

INFO｜ Qingshui Cliff

Address: Between Heren, Xiulin Township, and Chongde, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8621100#321、322

Business hours: 08:00-17:00

※Due to earthquake damage, some roads are still under repair.

Courtesy of Yoti Hsueh (Yung-Ting Hsueh)

Actress Shih-Mei Tu, best known for her role as Hsiao-Man Lu in the hit TV series “Spicy Teacher”, has left a lasting impression on many audiences with her vibrant performances. Originally immersed in the fast-paced life of Taipei, fate led her to Hualien, where she settled down after marrying Chih-Lung Chuang in 2018. Together, the couple founded Mei Long House, a restaurant that officially opened in 2023, adding a fresh twist to Hualien’s thriving local food culture.

A few years ago, Tu was often seen helping out at a friend’s barbecue stall in Dongdamen Night Market, surprising many who never expected to spot a celebrity working behind the counter. Some even wondered how she could so effortlessly shed the trappings of fame. But for Tu, going with the flow has always been a way of life—her career in the entertainment industry has had its highs and lows, but when the spotlight isn't on her, she sees it as an opportunity to enjoy life at a different pace. Relocating from the bustling city to the relaxed atmosphere of Hualien felt like a perfect match. The slower rhythm of life allowed her to truly savor the moment—whether it was going on camping trips with her husband or indulging in her newfound passion for handcrafted textiles. She quickly embraced the "slow living" philosophy that defines Hualien.

Breathing New Life into an Old Space｜Honest, Quality Cooking That Keeps Diners Coming Back

After becoming a Hualien local, Tu and her husband dreamed of opening a restaurant together. The idea took shape when they stumbled upon an old dormitory once used by the Port of Hualien, Taiwan International Ports Corporation. Tu was immediately drawn to the towering pine trees surrounding the property, and the couple successfully bid on the site. They then invested millions in renovations, transforming the space into a chic, modern restaurant with a stunning glass-paneled entrance that floods the interior with natural light.

The name "Mei Long House" comes from a fusion of their names. Both Tu and Chuang had gained experience in the Dongdamen barbecue restaurant scene, and naturally, their menu centers around wood-fired grilling. Cooking over an open flame at high temperatures locks in moisture, ensuring that steaks, grilled fish, and other dishes remain irresistibly tender and juicy. For dinner, seasonal surf-and-turf options highlight the best local ingredients, featuring fresh seafood from nearby fishing ports, premium Hokkaido oysters, USDA Choice short ribs, locally sourced pork ribs, and free-range chicken from Hualien. Word-of-mouth alone brought in a flood of customers from the moment they opened—without the need for any grand promotional campaigns. Another signature feature of Mei Long House is its pet-friendly policy, which was inspired by their beloved dog and "resident manager," Niuniu. In fact, Niuniu has become so popular that she often steals the spotlight from her owners! After overcoming the challenges of the recent earthquake, Shih-Mei Tu has gained an even deeper appreciation for the rhythm of life in Hualien. With great food and heartfelt hospitality, she and her husband look forward to welcoming more travelers into their cozy culinary retreat.

INFO｜ Mei Long House

Address: No. 26-1, Minde 2nd St., Hualien City

Telephone: 0987-888737

Business hours: 14:00-17:00，17:30-21:30（Closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays; Thursdays open for dinner only）

Lavatory: Yes

※Pet-friendly restaurant

Nestled on the Pine Garden Plateau beside the Meilun River, Karenko Broadcasting Station stands adjacent to Pine Garden. Originally the Hualien Station of the Broadcasting Corporation of China, this historic building has stood for over 80 years. Recognized as a Hualien County Historic Building, it has recently undergone extensive restoration funded by the Ministry of Culture. With its grand reopening in late 2024, the site is set to become a cultural hub for sound art, offering immersive experiences for visitors.

During the final years of World War II, the Japanese government established Karenko Broadcasting Station in 1942 as part of its efforts to tighten control over Taiwan and extend its influence across South China and Southeast Asia through radio broadcasts. The station was also a key tool in the Japanese military’s Greater East Asia War propaganda campaign. It was not until 1944 that the station officially began operations. According to historical records, broadcasts within Taiwan were conducted in Hokkien, Hakka, and Fuzhou dialects, while international transmissions were aired in Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese, English, Malay, and Thai, underscoring the station’s strategic significance in Japan’s wartime communications. After the war, the station was taken over by the Broadcasting Corporation of China (BCC) and renamed Hualien Station, becoming a key broadcasting center in the region. It remained in operation until 2017, when the station was relocated to downtown Hualien, leaving behind a legacy of historical artifacts and invaluable records of Taiwan’s broadcasting history.

A Space That Preserves Hualien’s Voice｜A Frequency Tuned to Local Culture

Stepping into Karenko Broadcasting Station, visitors are greeted not only by the warmth of its historical architecture, but also by a curated exhibition lining the corridors, recounting the station’s history through carefully preserved records and narratives. As part of the station's opening exhibitions, visitors can explore not only the Karenko Broadcasting Station’s historical timeline but also a series of curated displays, including the BCC Cultural Relics Exhibition, the Broadcast Program Experience Room, the Hualien Soundscape Map, and the History of Recording Technology. These exhibits offer an immersive, hands-on experience, allowing guests to see, touch, and even sense the distinct atmosphere of vintage broadcasting equipment. Through these interactive elements, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Hualien’s broadcasting history and the enduring legacy of sound transmission from the past.

Among these, the Hualien Soundscape Map stands out as a particularly immersive experience. Through an audio-based exploration, visitors can travel through time and space—hearing the ebb and flow of ocean tides, the rustling of the sea breeze, or the roar of motorbikes along the coastal highway. Much like a living local publication, this exhibit captures the diverse soundscapes of Hualien, preserving the city’s stories and daily rhythms. As visitors listen, they begin to form a deep emotional connection with the region, resonating with the sounds that define Hualien’s unique charm.

INFO｜ Karenko Broadcasting Station

Address: No. 96, Songyuan St., Hualien City

Business hours: 10:00-17:00(Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)

Lavatory: Yes

※Free admission; Broadcast Program Experience Room requires reservation and additional fees

Courtesy of Chia-Jung Huang and Editorial Office

Back in the 1940s, Japanese settlers living in Hualien Port once said: “Hualien Port is the most beautiful city closest to our homeland.” These settlers braved turbulent seas in search of a new life, but after World War II, they were forced to return to Japan. Despite their departure, Hualien City still preserves many historic Japanese-era buildings, each a silent witness to history and an ideal place for cultural exploration.

Recommended Exploration Route: Jiang Jun Fu 1936 Park → Hualien Forestry Bureau Park (temporarily closed, but exterior can be viewed) → Taiwan Fertilizer Guesthouse (not open to the public, but exterior can be viewed) → Taiwan Fertilizer Hualien Deep Seawater Park

Hualien’s New Cultural Hotspot｜Jiang Jun Fu 1936 Park

Nestled along the banks of Meilun River, this cluster of Japanese-style dormitories sits beside Zhongzheng Bridge. During the Japanese era, it served as an officers’ residence for Karenkō Prefecture Hall, commonly referred to as Yasurato(dormitory complex). Legend has it that Colonel Mitsuo Nakamura of the Hualien Port Army Military Department once resided here, which is how it came to be known as Jiang Jun Fu, or “General’s Residence”. However, historical records show that after the war, the house was occupied by General Chih-Cheng Shan, then principal of the Army Engineering School. In the 1990s, the county government planned to redevelop the site into an apartment complex. Local advocates fought to preserve the historic buildings, successfully applying to the Cultural Affairs Bureau for its designation as a historic site under the name “Meilun Riverside Japanese Residences” in 2005. After extensive restoration work beginning in 2020, it officially reopened in April 2024 as Jiang Jun Fu 1936 Park—a vibrant cultural hub where history blends seamlessly with modern businesses.

INFO｜ Jiang Jun Fu 1936 Park

Address: No. 6, Ln. 622, Zhongzheng Rd., Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8316272

Business hours: 10:00-23:30

Lavatory: Yes

Historic Buildings Encircling Hualien Port｜Hualien Forestry Bureau Park & Taiwan Fertilizer’s Architectural Heritage

At the end of Jinghua Road lies Jinghua Forest Garden, once the residential quarters of the Hualien Port Timber Company during the Japanese era. In 2001, it was designated a historical building under the same name. Adjacent to it stands a unique blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles—the Hualien Forestry Bureau Park. With its tiled roof, terrazzo exterior walls, symmetrical geometric design, and Roman-style arch columns, the building has undergone careful restoration by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency’s Hualien Branch for over two years, with the project scheduled for completion in 2024.

Continuing along Zhongmei Road, you’ll find a serene Japanese-style mansion with a deep-set courtyard. Originally serving as the UACJ Corporation’s guesthouse, it later became Taiwan Fertilizer’s official guesthouse after the war. This residence, with its traditional Japanese tiled roof and towering ancient pines, remains an elegant landmark, though it is not open to the public. Further along County Highway No. 193, you’ll reach the Taiwan Fertilizer Hualien Deep Seawater Park, formerly the UACJ Corporation’s aluminum factory at Hualien Port. Through heritage revitalization efforts, the site has been transformed into Asia’s largest—and Taiwan’s only—marine deep-seawater-themed tourism and leisure park. The surrounding area still retains several Japanese-era tiled buildings, and the square-shaped administrative office and the brick-built air-raid shelter serve as historical witnesses to the bustling operations of the aluminum factory during the Japanese era and the tense atmosphere of World War II.

INFO｜ Taiwan Fertilizer Hualien Deep Seawater Park

Address: No. 15, Huadong, Hualien City, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8236168

Business hours: 09:00-17:00

Lavatory: Yes

Ticket price: Free Admission

A City Rich in Culture and Excellence｜Hualien City

#Highest Population Density

#The First Area to Be Developed

#Rich in Cultural and Historical Landmarks

#A Culinary Haven with Diverse Local Delicacies

#An Essential Stop for Any Hualien Traveler

Hualien City covers an area of approximately 30 square kilometers. From the Qing Dynasty to the Japanese era, this area was the most important in Hualien County. The city retains many historical and cultural buildings, and is a hub for exotic cuisine and street snacks. Travelers arriving at Hualien Station will find themselves navigating a city where the old and new coexist, creating the stunning landscape of present-day Hualien.

The Story Begins a Long Time Ago｜Sixteen Shares and Early Settlement in the Qing Dynasty

Hidden in the alleys near Shiliugu Blvd is the Hualien Koxinga Temple. According to the temple records, it was founded in 1851 during the Qing Dynasty’s Xianfeng era by wealthy farmer A-Feng Huang from Tamsui District, who gathered 16 shares and recruited over 2,000 tenant farmers to open up the Qilai Shiliugu settlement (Sixteen Shares settlement), thus starting the development of the Qilai Plain (the former name of Hualien City). It has a history of over 160 years.

As time progressed, following the arrival of the Japanese in Taiwan in 1895, many of the city's important historical buildings and landmarks were shaped during that period. The Hualien Port Office, which was responsible for overseeing the construction and operation of the Hualien-Taitung Railway, is now preserved as the Hualien Railway Cultural Park. The former Hualien Winery, after renovation, has transformed into a key venue for arts and cultural events, now known as the Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park. Nearby, Gouzaiwei, once a bustling area known as "Zaokiao" or the "kitchen" of Hualien, is now a vibrant district surrounded by Boai Street, Ziyou Street, and Mingyi Street. This area is now home to a blend of indie boutiques and longstanding traditional shops. Today, Sunrise Boulevard stands as a symbol of the fusion between old-world charm and contemporary trends.

There's Always Something to Do｜Activities Throughout the Year

In the 1970s, Hualien's marble processing factories and mines were the largest in Asia. Today, Hualien is home to many public artworks crafted by local artists from marble, especially the Hualien Stone Sculpture Museum, Taiwan’s first museum dedicated to stone carvings. In Dachen 1st Village, Meilun, you can find the Dachen Story House, which tells the story of the tumultuous period of the Chinese Civil War. The Kuo Tzu Chiu Memorial House, dedicated to the famous musician Tzu-Chiu Kuo, preserves many of his personal artifacts. The newly opened Hualien Disaster Prevention Education Center offers fun, interactive installations to teach visitors about disaster preparedness.

Hualien City also hosts many large-scale events throughout the year. In the summer, the Hualien Summer Festival and Pacific Austronesian Joint Harvests Festival take place, while around New Year's, the Hualien Happy Christmas Land and Hualien New Year's Eve Party bring festive cheer. The Lunar New Year Street Market and the Hualien Pacific Ocean Lantern Festival, which attracted much attention this year, offer memorable experiences for travelers at any time of the year.

A Fusion of International Cuisine and Local Delicacies｜The United Nations of Food in Hualien

Hualien is a city known for its fusion and inclusiveness. Various international cuisines cater to both local residents and travelers. Little Pulau Penang, known for its Southeast Asian flavors, serves a delicious Singaporean laksa, while "Rrawaddy Myanmar Restaurant," run by a former resident of Myanmar's Myitkyina, has been serving local favorites for over 30 years. "Show Green Pizza Focaccia" brings authentic Italian pizza and pasta to Hualien. Hualien’s strong sense of local connection is not just talk. Open Sesame, a popular eatery specializing in set meals, is run by an owner from Shikoku, Japan, who has been living locally for 20 years. Meanwhile, Mahi & Mandi’s Curry Corner serves authentic Indian curry and naan, offering true flavors from the heart of India.

Street food is also abundant, with "Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup" and "Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake" winning the 500 Bowls Award. The Dongdamen Night Market, a must-visit for any traveler, won the 2025 "King of Night Markets" title. With signature snacks like boneless beltfish rolls, mashed potato omelets, Yuli stinky tofu, and A Wol A Hemay Toron (bamboo rice), visitors can enjoy a delightful culinary journey filled with Indigenous and local flavors.

Immigrant Tracks and Agricultural Hakka Villages｜Jian Township

Jian Township, located next to Hualien City, was once regarded as a satellite city of Hualien. Many people lived in Jian but worked in the city, making it the second most populous area in Hualien and the second largest township in Taiwan. Though most of its land is flat, Jian Township is nestled between mountains and the sea and was once ranked as one of Taiwan’s best towns for retirement.

#Jian Qingxiu Temple

#Most Ideal Place for Retirement

#Hualien’s Exclusive Summer Paradise

#Jian's Three Treasures

#Hualien’s First Hakka Township

Significant Historical Sites of Japanese Immigrant Settlements｜Jian Qingxiu Temple

Jian Township is home to four main ethnic groups: Southern Min (Hokkien), Hakka, Mainland Chinese, and Indigenous people. The first historical mention of the area dates back to the Kangxi era (1696) in the "Records of Taiwan Prefecture”, recording the settlement of the "Zhi Jiao Xuan" (now known as Cikasuan). The name "Cikasoan," used by many travelers, is a transliteration from this Chinese name.

During the Japanese occupation, the Japanese government strengthened local administration by introducing large numbers of immigrants from Tokushima Prefecture, establishing well-planned model villages. Immigrants had to build everything from scratch and required spiritual solace, which led to the establishment of the Koyasan Shingon-shu Yoshino Temple in 1917. This temple, along with the 88 stone Buddhas from the Shikoku pilgrimage, became the precursor to the Jian Qingxiu Temple. Today, Jian Qingxiu Temple is a designated Level 3 historic site and one of Taiwan’s best-preserved Japanese-style temples. Jian’s Hakka population now exceeds 30%, and it is the most prominent Hakka township in Hualien. In addition to Hakka-related cultural festivals such as the Tung Blossom Festival, the local township office has been actively expanding Hakka affairs and infrastructure, welcoming visitors with the slogan "Come Together."

Promoting Jian’s Tourism Appeal｜Cikasoan and New Paradise Park

When people from Hualien mention Cikasoan, they are more likely to think of the "Cikasoan Forest Park" rather than its former name. This expansive park, which features seasonal flower plantings, is a popular place for relaxation. In the summer, it is a favorite spot for locals to cool off in the water.

Located along County Highway No. 193, New Paradise Park made a splash when it first opened, quickly becoming a hotspot. It featured one of the most unique Starbucks locations at the time—the Starbucks Huilan Store (Container Store)—and was envisioned as the trendiest shopping destination in Hualien, boasting a wide selection of well-known brands. One of its standout features is the world’s largest mosaic mural, incorporating elements of Amis Indigenous culture and covering an area equivalent to 2.5 soccer fields. Additionally, the park is home to the Guinness World Record-holding longest indoor slide, making it a major attraction that has drawn visitors from near and far, boosting tourism in Jian Township and Hualien. Beyond shopping and entertainment, Jian offers a variety of scenic spots for locals and visitors alike. The Maple Tree Trail is a favorite for leisurely strolls, while the Jian Waterfront Bicycle Route stretches from Jian Coast Park toward Hualien Bridge, lined with golden rain trees. In autumn, these trees transform into a breathtaking display of golden and reddish-brown hues, creating a picturesque landscape.

Premium Agricultural Products｜The Three Treasures and the Emperor’s Rice

Blessed with fertile soil and nourished by the pure mountain springs of Mount Qilai, Jian Township has long been known for its high-quality, meticulously cultivated agricultural products. Among them, leeks, taro, and dragon beard vegetables stand out as Jian’s signature crops, collectively earning the title “The Three Treasures of Jian”. Travelers driving along Provincial Highway No. 9 and venturing into the surrounding countryside will often see lush fields of dragon beard vegetables and taro growing side by side. Jian Township leads the nation in both production volume and cultivation area of dragon beard vegetables, while leeks thrive year-round. In particular, during the eighth lunar month, leek blossoms bloom in succession, creating a unique landscape exclusive to Jian.

During the Japanese colonial era, Japanese settlers crossbred Kikuchi River rice with Taiwan’s native rice varieties, resulting in the Yoshino No. 1 rice. This variety was characterized by its plump grains and distinct white core, resembling the Japanese flag. After being presented as tribute to the Emperor of Japan, it was dubbed the “Emperor’s Rice”. However, due to limitations in mass production, the Jian Township Farmers’ Association later developed a new generation of rice, known as Hualien City No. 16 Rice, also referred to as Jian Rice. With its pure white, full-bodied grains and unique fragrance and chewy texture, it continues Jian’s legacy of premium rice cultivation.

Shanlan is crafted from the EMU500 series electric train, inspired by the ever-changing landscapes of the East Rift Valley, blending the transitions of spring, summer, autumn, and winter into its design. This luxurious yet leisurely travel experience incorporates local revitalization efforts, offering gourmet bento meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Running between Hualien and Chishang, Taitung, this train invites travelers to experience the breathtaking beauty of the East Rift Valley.

TRA’s Aesthetic Tourism Train｜Shanlan Sets Off on Its Journey

Following the overwhelming popularity of Haifeng launched in 2024—where tickets quickly became a rarity— the all-new Shanlan train is set to commence operations soon. Running through the East Rift Valley, it grants travelers an unparalleled view of Hualien’s endlessly captivating mountain scenery. Named after the misty landscapes between Taiwan’s mountains and plains, Shanlan features a refreshing yellow-green color scheme, spacious interiors, and comfortable seating. Every passenger enjoys a panoramic view of Hualien's flowing mountain vistas through large windows. The train also serves exquisite meals crafted with local ingredients, including taro from Jian and wild greens with Indigenous flavors, ensuring a journey that is both a feast for the taste buds and a celebration of Hualien’s natural bounty.

Leisurely Exploring Small Towns｜Stopping at Various Scenic Stations

Similar to Haifeng, the Shanlan train is designed for an immersive travel experience, allowing passengers to disembark and explore along the way. Traveling between Hualien and Chishang, Taitung, Shanlan makes carefully selected stops that promise unique surprises. On the outbound journey, it stops at Shoufeng and Yuli, where passengers can take part in a town walk curated by The Town Studio in Yuli. This experience offers an intimate look into Yuli’s rich local culture, allowing travelers to savor the authentic charm of the town.

On the return journey to Hualien, Shanlan stops in Fenglin, a town internationally recognized as a Cittaslow Town. Fenglin, a traditional Hakka settlement, has long been renowned for its academic excellence, boasting the highest density of school principals in Taiwan—earning it the title “Hometown of Principals.” Here, visitors can explore Taiwan’s best-preserved tobacco barn settlements or indulge in local delicacies like the famous leek stinky tofu, perfectly paired with the refreshing Minghsin lemon juice. Before reboarding, don’t forget to pick up Fenglin’s Three Treasures— peanuts, soy milk, and peeled chili peppers—as delightful souvenirs to remember this unforgettable journey long after the mist has cleared.

Hualien remains as radiant as a flower in full bloom, with dedicated efforts to bringing lush floral beauty back to the land. A springtime journey through Hualien invites travelers to witness renewed vitality in every corner—whether visiting local shops, joining tours, or exploring scenic spots and indigenous villages.

Wildlife Amidst the Flower Fields｜Fuli Flower Landscape Area

Next to the Fuli Farmers’ Association, the Fuli Flower Landscape Area showcases a vibrant display of flowers year-round, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a breathtaking tapestry of colors. Like intricate embroidery, the landscape adorns the East Rift Valley with dazzling hues.

Following the annual golden rice harvest, the Fuli Farmers’ Association hosts the much-anticipated Fuli Rice Straw Art Festival. This year’s theme, Wildlife in the African Savannah, features life-sized animal sculptures crafted from rice straw, bamboo, and other agricultural materials. Local artists, community members, students, and young farmers have collaborated to bring the savannah to life with stunning depictions of elephants, lions, porcupines, rhinos, and zebras. Visitors flock to experience the seamless blend of creativity and nature.

INFO｜Fuli Farmers’ Association

Address: No. 6, Donghu, Neighborhood 9, Luoshan Village, Fuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8821705

Business hours: 08:00-17:00

Lavatory: Yes

With Cherry Blossoms in Bloom, Can Spring Be Far Behind?｜Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary & Shuhu Trai

Nestled near Liyu Lake, Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary is home to around 5,000 cherry trees, including yae sakura and Prunus taiwaniana, ensuring a month-long cherry blossom spectacle. Strolling leisurely along the mountain slopes, travelers are greeted by cherry blossoms in full bloom, set against a picturesque backdrop of shimmering lakes and rolling hills. Even in the lingering chill of early spring, the breathtaking scenery makes one forget the crisp breeze brushing against their skin. Continuing south to Shuhu Village in Shoufeng Township, visitors will find a stunning cherry blossom corridor brought to life by local farmers, who began planting cherry trees here more than two decades ago. Over time, their dedication has transformed the Shuhu Trail into a mesmerizing floral spectacle, where over 30,000 cherry trees bloom in unison, lining the forest path with a delicate canopy of pink. To reach this enchanting sight, travelers can follow Provincial Highway No. 9 south through Shoufeng Township. After passing Fengtian Village, keep an eye out for the roadside sign marked "Shuhu in Bloom", then simply follow the directions to arrive at the heart of the cherry blossom haven.

INFO｜Shuhu Cherry Blossom Trail

Address: Sec. 1, Shanbian Rd., (Shuhu No. 2 Bridge), Shoufeng Township, Hualien County 

Telephone: 0932-559468

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: No

INFO｜Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary

Address: No. 28, Sec. 1, Chinan Rd., Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8641101

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: Yes

A Forest 48 Times the Size of Daan Park｜Danongdafu Forest Park

During Hualien’s annual Rape Flower Blossom Season, farmers scatter rape flower seeds across fallow fields after the winter rice harvest, transforming the landscape into vast golden seas of blossoms. Meanwhile, garden cosmos—thriving in autumn, winter, and early spring—can be effortlessly grown by simply broadcasting seeds over the soil, making them an ideal choice for cultivating expansive floral fields. When it comes to sheer numbers, beauty follows—making these two blooms the most delightful and welcoming heralds of spring.

Once an expanse of sugarcane fields, Danongdafu Forest Park now spans 1,250 hectares, its history closely intertwined with the neighboring Guangfu Sugar Factory. When sugar production ceased in 2002, the park underwent a large-scale afforestation effort, introducing over 20 tree species—including Taiwan zelkova, evergreen ash, and Taiwanese rain trees. Today, it stands as one of the East Rift Valley’s most dazzling attractions.

Each winter break, Danongdafu Forest Park transforms into a breathtaking floral wonderland. Across five hectares, vast flower fields burst into bloom, featuring rape flower blossoms, garden cosmos, elegant zinnias, scarlet sage, and wild pansies in a kaleidoscope of colors. Over two hectares alone, more than a million rape flower blossoms blanket the land, followed by the garden cosmos, ensuring a seamless transition of floral beauty. On clear days, visitors are encouraged to rent a bicycle and revel in the sight of blossoms swaying gracefully in the wind.

INFO｜Sung-Meng Car Rental

Address: No. 19, Tangchang St., Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8706698

Business hours: Open all-day

A Must-Visit Spot for Railway Enthusiasts｜Kecheng Steel Bridge

Standing boldly in Yuli, the Kecheng Steel Bridge stretches across vast rice fields, its striking red frame set against a backdrop of ever-changing landscapes—lush green fields in spring, golden waves of rice before harvest, and reflective waters during fallow periods. Against the brilliant blue sky and drifting white clouds, passing trains add a dynamic touch to the picture-perfect scene. Dedicated railway enthusiasts carefully track train schedules, ensuring they capture the perfect shot of trains gliding across the bridge, seamlessly blending with the farmland below.

Beyond the bridge itself, the surrounding area hosts seasonal art festivals, while farmers plant rape flower blossoms and garden cosmos before the next rice cycle, further enhancing the picturesque scenery. Many visitors eagerly seek to capture that fleeting moment when a train rushes past—framed by verdant mountains, vivid blue skies, the striking red bridge, and waves of blooming flowers—making this one of Hualien’s most Instagram-worthy destinations.

INFO｜Kecheng Steel Bridge

Address: No. 294, Sec. 1, Renai Rd., Yuli Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8883166

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: No

Not Just for Summer—A Year-Round Destination｜Cikasoan Forest Park

For Hualien locals, Cikasoan Forest Park has long been synonymous with summer water fun, offering visitors a safe and refreshing escape during the hottest months. Formerly known simply as Cikasoan, the Jian Township area underwent a transformation in 1985 when the Hualien County Government relocated a tree nursery here, developing it into a nature-focused forest park that welcomes visitors year-round.

The park boasts a rich variety of plant life, with a dedicated Native Plant Zone showcasing rare indigenous flora. To enhance the visitor experience, Cikasoan Forest Park has introduced five interactive play areas, including: Organic Green Thumb Garden, Magical Music River, Wilderness Adventure Island, Hualien My Home, and Sky Tree of Forest Living. These attractions are a favorite among families with children. Additionally, seasonal floral displays, including the triangular glass greenhouse brimming with vibrant blossoms, ensure a stunning landscape year-round—lifting the spirits of every visitor who steps into Cikasoan.

INFO｜Cikasoan Forest Park 

Address: No. 299, Sec. 2, Zhongzheng Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8233575

Business hours: 08:00-17:30

Lavatory: Yes

Ticket price: fare: NT$50 for visitors and free for Hualien residents (Only summer water activities require a fee)

A Timeless Floral Wonderland｜Jiade Sea of Flowers & Liancheng Lotus Garden

Located in Jian Township, the "Jiade Sea of Flowers" is not only a place where flowers bloom year-round, but also offers the unique chance to enjoy the breathtaking sight of "golden daylilies" along the roadsides in Hualien, especially during their peak season. From Hualien No.1 to Hualien No.7, the Orange Day Lilies are in full bloom from March to June, and visitors can freely admire them in the Jiade Sea of Flowers during this time.

Hidden in the Jian Township of Hualien, Liancheng Lotus Garden offers a refreshing sense of coolness as you approach. The garden is irrigated by water channels fed by mountain spring water from Mount Qilai, making the water pure and natural—perfect for growing lotus flowers. This has helped Liancheng Lotus Garden become the largest lotus production area in Eastern Taiwan. The garden's owner is dedicated to cultivating various lotus species, with over 60 varieties currently in cultivation. The expansive garden is divided into areas for lotus, royal lotus, and water lilies, among others. Even outside the blooming season, the serene countryside landscape offers visitors a peaceful retreat.

INFO｜Jiade Sea of Flowers 

Address: Intersection of Guangfeng Road and Guangxian Road in   Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8521746

Lavatory: None

Ticket price: Free

INFO｜Liancheng Lotus Garden  

Address: No. 66, Nanhua 5th St., Jian Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8532828

Lavatory: Yes

Ticket price: Free

Childhood Memories Transformed｜Tulip Garden & Mama Farm

The Tulip Garden in Jian Township has long been a cherished memory for many young adults in their 20s and 30s. It first opened in 1988, and a few years later, a dreamy castle was added to the site. It became a must-visit destination for local elementary school students on field trips. After nearly 40 years of operation, the expansive Tulip Garden closed down as the owner prepared for retirement. However, it reopened at the end of 2023, and the township office has now developed a 'Happy Farm' within the area, open for Jian Township residents to claim. The township office first planted sunflowers, garden cosmos, and other flowers, allowing a vibrant display of blossoms to welcome the Lunar New Year. They also plan to establish a "Tulip Planting Area," and it is believed that, in due time, the beautiful memories of Tulip Garden will once again captivate visitors.

Mama Farm, also located in Jian Township, was once known as "Hualien Bay Happy Farm." Several years ago, it was the best place in Hualien City to view sunflower fields. Mama Farm will reopen in early 2025. The 14-hectare area is divided into a farm and a stable. In addition to growing a variety of organic crops, there is also a charming animal section. The ecological pond is home to graceful green-headed ducks and swans, while the stable allows visitors to purchase feed and interact closely with the horses. It's a perfect place for families to spend a relaxing and enjoyable day together.

INFO｜ Mama Farm 

Address: No. 100, Huazhong 1st Rd., Jian Township, Hualien County (next to New Paradise Park)

Telephone: 03-8751703

Lavatory: No

Ticket price: Free

INFO｜ Tulip Garden

Address: No. 330, Jixing 2nd St., Jian Township, Hualien County

Lavatory: No

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: No

Ticket price: Free

Romantic Floral Scenery with a Horizon of Sea and Sky｜Mambo Oceanic Recreation Park

Mambo Oceanic Recreation Park, due to its strategic location, was once an important military-controlled area and was not open to the public, shrouded in a layer of mystery. In recent years, however, the park has opened to tourism, gradually developing into a leisure park that promotes local industries and culture, all while ensuring national defense security.

Located near the Qixingtan Scenic Area, Mambo Oceanic Recreation Park offers sweeping views of the horizon, where the sea meets the sky and magnificent flower fields. The park also features diverse art installations, creating a romantic and beautiful floral landscape. The park has focused on providing a romantic and healing experience, using its facilities and natural beauty to spread an atmosphere of love. For example, a piano has been set up in one outdoor area, while the Farming Base is located in another. Additionally, there's a dreamy pumpkin carriage perfect for photo opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the flowers and have their hearts filled with joy.

INFO｜Mambo Oceanic Recreation Park 

Address: Intersection of Huaxi Road, Xincheng Township, Hualien County and Coastal Road, Hualien City

Telephone: 03-8233575

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: Yes (Hualien Farming Base)

Courtesy of Yu-Liu Chen and Editorial Office

Every spring and summer, twinkling fireflies begin their mesmerizing dance across Taiwan’s wilderness. The key to enjoying this breathtaking sight is a light pollution-free environment—a natural advantage that Hualien enjoys from north to south. The dazzling glow of fireflies creates a romantic spectacle, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories.

A Dreamscape Woven from Water and Fireflies｜Liyu Lake

Liyu Lake is one of Hualien’s most renowned destinations, a scenic wonder where mountains and water harmoniously blend. Travelers visiting Hualien often include this spot in their itinerary, indulging in activities such as hiking along the lakeside trail, taking a boat ride or paddleboarding, and enjoying a leisurely cycling trip along the waterfront. During spring and summer nights, fireflies can be spotted dancing gracefully in the darkness around Liyu Lake. Whether strolling along forested paths or simply sitting by the lakeside, visitors are treated to a magical ecological display, perfect for unwinding from the stresses of daily life.

Now in its fifth year, the Hualien Pacific Hot Spring Festival continues to promote the renowned Ruisui Hero’s Spring and Antong Beauty Hot Spring. With dazzling lights and glowing art installations adorning both hot spring areas, visitors can experience an enchanting nighttime ambiance. This festival has become a must-visit event during autumn and winter, drawing travelers to soak in therapeutic hot springs and enjoy festive activities. As the weather cools, the event only heats up! Stay tuned for special promotions on the official website, and don’t miss out on soothing hot spring baths and exclusive gifts.

INFO｜Liyu Lake Visitor Center

Address: No. 100, Huantan North Road, Chihnan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8821705

Business hours: 08:30-17:30

Lavatory: Yes

※The 2025 Liyu Lake Firefly Viewing Season will be hosted every Friday and Saturday in April and May. For details, call 03-8875306#662

A Century of Forestry Heritage｜Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area

Nestled near Liyu Lake, Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area is a hidden gem rich in history. Beyond its well-maintained forests and trails, the area also preserves a wealth of forestry history. From old locomotives to timber yard sites, and even a commemorative monument at the park’s highest point, every trail turn and intersecting path offers a close encounter with over a century of forestry heritage.

The Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area is a thriving natural habitat, making it an ideal environment for fireflies to flourish. As night falls, these tiny creatures light up the forest, creating a mesmerizing glow. Travelers joining guided tours can follow experienced guides to learn firefly-watching techniques and discover up to 10 genera and 21 species of these luminous insects. Under a starlit sky free from light pollution, watching fireflies twirl gracefully feels like stepping into a fairy tale—a world where the forest itself shimmers with light.

Firefly Viewing Tips:

Wear long-sleeved clothing to avoid mosquito bites.

Wear rain boots or sneakers and avoid stepping into grass to prevent snake encounters.

Fireflies glow best in darkness—if using a flashlight, cover it with red cellophane.

Do not make loud noises, disturb, or capture fireflies.

INFO｜Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area

Address: No. 65, Linyuan Road, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8641594

Business hours: 08:00-17:00

Lavatory: Yes

Ticket price: NT$40; Weekends: NT$50

※2025 Chihnan – Sparkling Fireflies Event will be hosted from 04/02 to 04/26. For details, please contact: 03-8641594#13

A Fireflies Season’s Feast for the Senses｜Mataian Wetland Ecological Park

At the foot of Mt. Maxi in Guangfu Township, the Mataian Wetland Ecological Park is Hualien’s largest wetland ecosystem and a cherished homeland of the Amis people. From March to May, as night falls, visitors can admire the tranquil beauty of fireflies flickering under the gentle evening breeze. Join an ecology tour guide for an exclusive exploration of this hidden paradise, where the glowing fireflies add a touch of romance to the season. For an unforgettable experience, consider staying overnight and falling asleep under a canopy of fireflies.

When you’re here, be sure to visit the Shin-Liu Farm in the park to observe the traditional fishing technique of the Amis people, known as "Palakaw." They use natural materials, such as bamboo, brush pot tree, and Taiwan crepe myrtle branches, to create a three-layer structure. This structure is then placed in the stream to provide a habitat and feeding space for fish and shrimp. This method helps prevent large-scale captures, ensuring the sustainable development of the ecosystem. The restaurant at Shin-Liu Farm offers local indigenous flavor dishes, especially their signature salt-grilled fresh fish, which is tender and juicy. Not only can you enjoy watching fireflies at night, but you can also savor delicious meals, leaving you both delighted and full.

INFO｜Mataian Wetland Ecological Park 

Address: No. 60, Daquan Street, Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8701861

Business hours: 10:00-17:00

Lavatory: Yes

※2025 Fireflies Season’s Feast will be hosted from 03/15-05/18 (Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.) For details, please contact: 0975-350520

Taiwan’s Grandest Firefly Spectacle｜Danongdafu Forest Park

The vast Danongdafu Forest Park, located not far from the Mataian Wetland Ecological Park, offers a different charm throughout the year. The park is rich in ecological resources and expansive in size, surrounded by both the Central Mountain Range and the Coastal Mountain Range, making it an ideal destination for leisurely exploration along its gentle, uninterrupted forest paths. During the day, you can ride a bike through the continuous tree canopies, listening to the sounds of insects and birds while inhaling the fresh air infused with nature's phytoncides.

In collaboration with the local Guangfu Tafalong Tribe, Danongdafu Forest Park offers visitors a variety of warm experiences, including a glowing dot market, friendly local farmers, and handmade crafts, all accompanied by delightful food and items. At night, alongside guided tours through the vast forest park to spot the twinkling glow of fireflies, visitors can also hop on the limited-time "Glowing Little Train." This unique experience feels like riding a little train to a firefly-lit party in the forest. In the spring nights, travelers are invited to come and seek out the mesmerizing glow of fireflies, adding a beautiful memory to their journey.

INFO｜Danongdafu Forest Park Visitor Center

Address: No. 31, Nongchang Road, Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Telephone: 03-8811878

Business hours: 08:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Lavatory: Yes

※2025 Danongdafu Forest Park - Dance with Fireflies in the Forest Event will be hosted from 03/14-04/06. For details, please contact: 03-8325141#262

At the border of Guangfu and Ruisui, the Xingquan Canal stretches for 300 meters and is lined with flourishing golden trumpet trees. Every March, as the trees burst into full bloom, their golden flowers create a striking contrast against the distant green mountains. Reflected in the gently flowing waters of the canal, the blossoms form a dazzling golden tableau, like a radiant oil painting coming to life. When a soft breeze passes through, petals drift down like golden raindrops, adding an enchanting touch of romance.

INFO｜Golden Trumpet Blooms Along Xingquan Canal

Address: Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Business hours: Open all-day

Lavatory: No