hualien taroko tour

HUALIEN TAROKO GORGE TOUR

花蓮 太魯閣（タロコ）観光 1 日ツアー

SMALL GROUP & PRIVATE TOUR

One Day Trips From Taipei or Huailen

One Day Trips From Taipei

Depart From Taipei Hotel

Drop-off to Taipei Hotel or Hualien Hotel

One Day Trips From Hualien

Depart From Hualien Hotel or Train Station

Drop-off to Hualien Hotel or Train Station

We focused on a day trip to Taroko National Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Taroko Gorge with our exclusive tour service. Explore the stunning marble cliffs, walk across suspension bridges, and marvel at cascading waterfalls. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's wonders. Book your Taroko Gorge tour now and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Discovery Tarokok Gorge in The Best Way

Chinese / Basic English Speaking Driver

Private Tour

Customizable Tours

Small Group

Transport by a/c car included

What to expect in Taroko National Park?

Shakadan trail

Swallow grotto trail

Shanyue Suspension Bridge

Tunnel of 9 turns trail

Baiyang Trail

Lushui Trail

Water curtain cave

Eternal spring shrine

Aboriginal Lunch (optional)

Qingshui cliff

Qixingtan beach

Sometimes will encounter scenic spots closed maintenance

Experience the beauty of Taiwan's most scenic destination, Taroko National Park, on a private day tour. With its diverse range of nature and wildlife, you'll travel through rugged coastlines, luscious forests, and dramatic cliff faces along the 19km Taroko Gorge. The highlight of the tour is the Swallow Grotto Trail, where you'll explore the heart of the park, passing through tunnels and witnessing the narrowest part of the gorge. From here, you'll have the best viewpoint for admiring the dramatic river and its surrounding landscape. After the hike, you'll enjoy a scenic lunch in Tianxiang before visiting the beautiful Changchung Shrine (also known as the Eternal Spring Shrine). This temple is nestled within the hillside and sits atop a waterfall stream that never stops running, giving the shrine its name. The tour will end at Qixingtan, a stunning pebble beach with fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Taroko National Park is not to be missed. Join us on this private day tour to experience its stunning beauty firsthand.

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Have a question or ready to book, we're here to help, about island life.

“An amazing experience with an experienced guide”

“Our friendly guide gave us a unique insight into the history and wildlife of the park. Things we would have been oblivious to without his guidance and experience. So thankful that we found Island Life and I’d definitely advise booking with them for an unforgettable experience”

Jennifer K.

“Exclusive and Extraordinary Tour in Hualien!!”

“We took 2 tours with Island Life: Zhuilu Old Trail and the Mugua River Gorge with Swimming Holes and Waterfalls. I must say both tours were epic and amazing for both of us! Thank you so much Island Life for the great memories!”

“What an amazing day! Island Life really took care of everything.”

“The Island Life team had the day planned perfectly, and all four children (and all four parents) had a great time. Hualien is such a beautiful place, we wish we could have spent a week exploring it with Island Life!”

Hualien Travel Blog

About island life taiwan.

Based in Hualien, Taiwan (adjacent to Taroko Gorge National Park), Island Life Taiwan designs all of our unique daily itineraries to help you discover the rich natural beauty and culture of Taiwan, in the most enjoyable, and most immersive way possible. We’re dedicated to showing you the most amazing locations in eastern Taiwan, while having the most fun and avoiding the crowds. More than just a tour operator and adventure outfitter, our team truly loves showing this awe-inspiring part of the world to our guests, and when you love what you do, it shows.

More Info On Enjoying Taroko Park

Click here to see more of our taroko gorge tours, hualien tours and other unique things to do in eastern taiwan.

How to Do a Day Trip to Taroko National Park from Hualien by Bus!

Categories Asia , Taiwan

Taroko National Park on the East Coast of Taiwan is most famous for Taroko Gorge and a popular way to go from Hualien to Taroko Gorge to explore Taroko National Park via car or moped. However, I do not ride mopeds and was travelling Taiwan solo so I did not want to rent a car, but, I really wanted to visit and go hiking in Taiwan!

So, my only options were either doing an   organised Taroko National Park Day Tour from Hualien  or to go on my own via bus from Hualien which is what I decided to do!

Hualien to Taroko Gorge

How to Get from Hualien to Taroko by Bus?

The morning buses you can get are 7:00am, 8:30am, 9:10am and 10:00am. I got the 8:30am bus which worked well. (Please double check these times when you arrive in Hualien)

The public bus from Taroko National Park leaves outside the train station in front of the orange building. I would suggest getting there early as if the bus fills up and you’re not on, you’ll need to wait until the next one!

There is a 7/11 supermarket in the train station where you can buy drinks and snacks for the day.

You can either purchase a 1 day Taroko National Park Pass in the orange building, I believe this is 210NTD or you can use your Easy Card which you’ll have if you’ve been in Taipei or any other City in Taiwan. I topped up by 500NTD just to be safe but I only used 200NTD in my day in the National Park.

Be sure to get an Easy Card at the start of your trip in a metro station or pick an Easy Card up in their airport via this service .

It takes 40 minutes to reach Taroko Visitor Centre by bus from Hualien and I got off there.

Best Day Tours to Taroko National Park

If you would rather take an Taroko Gorge Tour from Hualien or Taipei, which will enable you to see more and will make your day really easy, I recommend booking these tours online in advance:

Taroko Gorge Day Tour from Hualien.

Taroko Gorge, Swallow Gorge, Seven Star Lake Day Tour.

Zhuilu Old Trail Hiking Experience in Taroko National Park Day Tour.

Hualien & Taroko Park Day Tour from Taipei.

To help you plan your trip around Taiwan, have a look at all of my Taiwan Blog Posts here!

Taroko National Park Hiking Trails

From the visitor centre, I headed onto the main road, turned right and walked through the tunnel under the mountain in front of me. Halfway through the tunnel on the left is a pathway exiting the tunnel bringing you fully into the National Park!

There’s a cool rope bridge and from here I followed the signs for the  Shakadang Trailhead  Route which was my first Taroko Gorge Walk.

This pathway does go on very far but in order to have enough time to see the rest of the park I turned around when I got to the cabins. This route was nice and it is suggested that you walk along it slowly taking in the scenery however it was very busy when I went and I’m glad I got there as early as I did because it seems to be the first stop for many Taroko Gorge Tour Groups.

If you want to go on a harder hike in Taroko National Park, I suggest the  Zhuilu Old Trail Hiking Experience in Taroko National Park!

I headed up the stairs onto the big red bridge I had just passed under earlier on and waited for the bus at the bus stop opposite the car park (there are toilets at the car park too) which came at 10:45am.

It’s worth noting that the buses around Taroko National Park are not that regular. Each sign details what time the bus comes and how long it takes to get to the next stop. When walking from a bus stop if you plan to walk back to it and catch it to the next place in the park I recommend checking on the sign what time it comes so you don’t just miss it or have to wait a long time for it.

I also recommend double-checking these bus times with your accommodation in case they have changed since I visited in March 2019. World Inn have them all noted on a board in the common area!

I got off 2 stops up at Yanzikou also known as Swallow’s Grotto . There’s a cool looking rope bridge here and a good hiking trail but you need to get a permit in advance to walk it so if you are a keen hiker and want to do that be sure to look into it beforehand.

Instead I went along the road which forks to right and under the caves to Jinheng bridge. Just before the bridge is more toilets and a small cafe.

Look for the best flights to Hualien here!

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Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is the main attraction in Taroko National Park and in all honesty I don’t think I saw the best of it on my day trip from Hualien by bus however this section of the gorge was pretty impressive and you can walk all along it.

Unfortunately, it is a case of having to walk alongside a road too and turn back once the road joins with another main road. So I got the bus again from the stop I had got off at Swallow’s Grotto.

• More of my Must Read Taiwan Blog Posts:
• The Best Things To Do in Kaohsiung!
• How To Do a Day Trip from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake!
• The Best Things To Do in Taichung!

My next stop was Heliu camping (which also has toilets.. Taiwan is great for people with small bladders!). From where the bus drops you off there is a trail that heads away from the road all the way to Lushui which is also the next stop on the bus. This is called the  Lushui Heliu Trail  and was my favourite part of the day.

It’s a 2km walk said to take an hour but I don’t think it took me that long. What I loved is that it was completely away from the road and I only saw a few other people, it’s definitely not a popular walking route and therefore I’d really recommend it rather than getting the bus to Lushui.

Towards the end, I came upon a 30m long tunnel which was completely black until I turned a corner to see the light at the end of the tunnel quite literally which was really cool. The trail runs to the side of the gorge pretty high up giving great views of Taroko River below and the Mountains above.

At Lushui I walked along the road to Tianxiang which was my final stop. This wasn’t that great as it was by the main road but it’s worth walking it to finish off the day.

Towards the end, before reaching Tianxiang is  Xiangde Buddhist Temple which is worth a visit.

How to Get from Taroko to Hualien ?

Tianxiang has a 7/11 supermarket, toilets & a few local food places. I reached here at about 14:00 and was just in time to catch the bus at 14:10 from Tianxiang back to Hualien City which took 1 hour 10 minutes as you go all the way back through the park.

Buses from Tianxiang after this are at 15:00, 15:50 and 17:00 and again it’s good to get there early as if you don’t get on because it’s full you’ll have to wait.

A popular stop on the way back from Taroko National Park to Hualien is Qixingtan which is by the coast. The buses pass through here in the morning and on the way back. It’s right next to Hualien Airport and the Coastline looks absolutely fantastic!

Unfortunately, when I went it was very grey and windy so I decided not to get off but had it been a nicer day it would have been great.

If you have an extra day in Hualien, a popular thing to do in Hualien is to go down to the Coast at Qixingtan and hire a bike .

The last 3 buses from Qixingtan are at 15:57, 16:57 and 17:57. It’s just 10 minutes back to Hualien City Bus Station and Train Station.

What To Wear to Taroko National Park?

Whether you’re going to hike or just go on a bit of a walk I suggest you wear trainers / walking shoes / sturdy sandals and wear gym/hiking wear.

It can get quite rainy in Hualien and in Taroko National Park so I would recommend taking a waterproof jacket and umbrella just in case.

Things To Do in Hualien

First up you need to get yourself to Hualien City and get accommodation there. I stayed at World Inn Hostel in Hualien City for 2 nights which I loved.

It’s in a great location just minutes from the train station which is most definitely the best place to stay in Hualien. The staff there are lovely and gave me so much information on Hualien and the National Park and I never would have been able to have such a smooth-running day without their help!

They have a great social area downstairs and organise bike trips and night market trips throughout the week. Plus their dorm rooms have been thoroughly thought about and their private rooms are really comfy!

Here are some top things to do in Hualien, book the ones you fancy!

You can check rates & availability for World Inn Hostel here and Hualien & Taroko Gorge Accommodation here !

When it comes to what to do in Hualien, I didn’t find that there are many things to do in Hualien itself however I also didn’t give it much time. I did visit its night market though which I loved so you definitely need to go as Hualien is known for its good Taiwanese food!

Note – Taroko is not possible to visit on a Taipei Day Trip organised by yourself as it will be too rushed, so you’ll need to stay overnight and ideally for 2 nights unless you get a late train out.

With that being said, if you are tight on time in Taiwan you can do an organised day trip to Taroko National Park from Taipei like this day tour from Taipei to Taroko National Park !

Have you booked your flight to Hualien yet??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different dates and routes to help me find the best flight at the best price!  Open Skyscanner by clicking here and search for the best flights as you read this post.

Trains are the best way to get around Taiwan. You can’t book trains online via Taiwan’s train system but you can book them online using 12GO Asia, the top transport booking platform in Asia. Search for your trains here!

I hope this helps you plan your day to Taroko National Park . This is a great way to see the park if you are on a budget and/or a solo traveller as it’s inexpensive and easy to do alone!

To SEE my day in Taroko National Park, have a watch of my YouTube video here !

• For more of my Taiwan posts see:
• All My Taiwan Blog Posts

I stayed at World Inn complimentary however I do genuinely really recommend them. 

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Friday 26th of May 2023

Hi, the time of the busses from Hualien to Taroko is not up to date anymore. I just found out haha

The new bus times are: 06:30 - 08:10 - 09:40 - 10:40 - 12:10 - 13:40

Sunday 13th of October 2019

Hi! I watched your vlog on this trip and I'm wondering if you just walked from your hostel to the night market? I mapped the distance from the train station and it says it's a 30 minute walk. How was that?

TheWanderingQuinn

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Hello, yes I did walk, it's all flat and just down the road so yes it does take about 30 minutes but it's easy :) Enjoy!

Monday 26th of August 2019

Hello id like to know your process of asking for permit! Thanks for this guide by the way! I myself might be hiking alone in Taroko and it looks marvelous. Which month would be the best to hike this gorge?

Tuesday 27th of August 2019

Hello, I'm not sure on both of those answers, I just know what I did and when I went, I'd give them both a google to find the answer :)

Saturday 3rd of August 2019

Thank you for the tips. My friend and I planned to visit Taroko this coming Sept. Your blog helps us a lot in planning and early prediction of what happening in Hualien and Taroko.

That’s so good to hear! Thank you for letting me know. Enjoy it :)

Thursday 11th of April 2019

Ellie Quinn, Hualien night market must be exciting. The sights both on the way and in Taroko national Park are simply breathtaking. This is an unexplored part of Taiwan that I need to consider one day on my next trip!

Friday 12th of April 2019

I hope you do, yes it was so beautiful on the journey there too :)

Taroko National Park

Marvel at the spectacular gorge and the rapid river cutting through!

Taroko Gorge is a must-see in Taiwan. A stunning gorge lined with marble rock, Taroko offers beautiful hiking for every fitness level. From aggressive ridge hikes with names like ‘The Vertigo’ to more moderate hikes that will take you to deep blue creek, serene waterfalls, abandoned aboriginal villages, and wild hot springs , Taroko’s got it all. More extreme adventurers can also traverse the gorge’s 500 meter cliff faces and engage in close encounters with indigenous wildlife. Taroko National Park is nothing short of gorgeous, but don’t take our word for it. Come see it for yourself.

Named after the Truku word for “magnificent”, Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful sights. Created by the continual rising of the mountains combined with the erosive power of the Liwu River, Taroko Gorge is a true marvel to view. Besides the gorge, other attractions include aboriginal settlements, temples, museums, and numerous hiking trails for visitors to experience the true beauty of mountainous Hualien County and eastern Taiwan.

There is a wide range of wildlife in the park, including 34 species of mammals unique to Taiwan. Some notable species are the Taiwanese black bear, Formosan Macaque (a type of monkey), wild boar, and barking deer as well as 144 species of birds like Formosan blue magpies, finches, Swinhoe’s pheasants, and Formosan Laughingthrushes (a medium-size land bird). Around half of the mammal and butterfly species and roughly 90% of the bird species on Taiwan can be found in Taroko. Taroko is teeming with wildlife. While exploring the park trails, be aware of monkeys, snakes, and bees.

Entrance to the park is free. Always check the trail condition before you enter Taroko National Park.

https://www.taroko.gov.tw/zh-tw/Event/TrailCondition?id=111&brief=True

HOW TO GET THERE?

The cheapest way to get to Taroko Gorge from Hualien is by public bus. Buses depart from the orange bus station next to the train station on left side as you walk out of the main front exit. The earliest bus from Hualien leaves at 7:00, and the last one departs from Tianxiang at 17:00. This schedule is likely to change, so it’s important to get a copy of the timetable from the bus station before you leave. A 1-Day Pass costs NTD$250 and allows you to hop on and off at any bus stop along the Taroko Route. Purchase the ticket at the bus station, Family-Mart, or 7-11 before you get onto the bus.

Tourist Shuttle – 1133A Taroko Route from Hualien to TianXiang. Departs from Hualien Station: 07:00 / 08:30 / 09:10 / 10:00 / 11:10 / 12:00 / 13:20 / 14:10 / 15:10 Return from Tianxiang: 08:40 / 10:00 / 10:40 / 11:40 / 12:50 / 14:10 / 15:00 / 15:50 / 17:00 Bus fare: 1-Day Pass $250, 2-Days Pass $400 Journey Time: Approx. Approx. 1hour to Lushui Bus Stop Detailed Time Table: http://www.hualienbus.com.tw/bus/userfiles/files/149826391848833.pdf

You can also cycle there if you are fit enough. From Hualien city to the entrance of Taroko is about 25KM, and it’s another 20KM to Tianxiang along the amazing gorge. You will experience ultimate freedom in this way, but you might feel a bit tired on the way back.

For the experienced driver, you can hire either a car or a scooter; there are some scooter/car rental shops in front of the train station. It costs around NTD$500~800/day for a scooter, and NTD$1,600~2,000 for a car. The road inside Taroko is narrow and winding. It can be challenging with all the tourist buses on the same narrow road with you. Drive carefully.

Scenic Trails and Sights

Xiaozhuilu trail 小錐麓步道.

Xiaozhuilu (Little Zhuilu) Trail is on the slope next to the lower reaches of the Liwu River outside Shakadang Tunnel. The entrance to Xiaozhuilu Trail is at the eastern end ventilation opening of Shakadang Tunnel; setting off from Taroko Terrace, enter Shakadang Tunnel and walk along the pedestrian path on the left side of the tunnel. After about 330 meters, the eastern ventilation opening will be reached; the entrance to trail is at the other end of the ventilation opening.

Trail length: 650 meters Time required: around 20 minutes one way

Shakadang Trail 砂卡噹步道

Shakadang Trail is also known as “Mysterious Valley Trail" and was renamed to “Shakadang Trail" in 2001. This trail is built along the river cliff so travelers can easily observe both the rock folds and plant ecosystem beside in the river valley. After 4.1km you will arrive at 3D Cabin –phonetic sound Sanjianwu, which is the favorite of visitors. After the first curve there is a deep pool with clear water that enchants many visitors. In May, it is the season when Tung tree flowers bloom, turning the trail into corridor formed by pristine flowers.

Trail length : 4.1 kilometers from entrance to 3D Cabin Time required : around 120 minutes one way

 Eternal Spring Shrine 長春祠

The Eternal Spring Shrine was built in 1958 to commemorate the 212 workers who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. Its unique location, recessed into the side of the mountain and which makes use of Tang Dynasty architectural styles; creates an end result that is one of the most famous scenic spots in Taroko National Park. Natural spring water empties into the Liwu River below through the front of the shrine, giving it a surreal look, as if it were actually pouring forth from the heavens above. This is the Eternal Spring Waterfall and makes for an ideal photo opportunity.

Buluowan 布洛灣

Buluowan is divided into Upper Terrace and Lower Terrace. You start by walking on a trail to visit the river valley in the Lower Terrace (currently closed due to road construction). Proceed to the service station, the exhibition and Idas (meaning moon in the Truku tribe language) halls, see both the arts and crafts of the Taroko Tribe, and also multimedia presentations. Up the slope to Mountain Moon (Shanyue) Village, the Formosan Lily is probably the main attraction for spring visitors to Buluowan. The Lily season is from mid-April to mid-May. On the Upper Terrace, go through the service center of Leader Village Hotel and to find a 300 meter Bamboo Groves trail, where you can observe the strangling fig trees.

Swallow Grotto 燕子口步道

Swallow Grotto is an obvious stopover for visitors to appreciate the marvel of Taroko Gorge. This older portion of the highway diverges from the new thoroughway that services vehicular traffic and is meant to be walked to fully appreciate it. The Grotto trail is interspersed with tunnels and overlooks the narrowest portion of Taroko gorge where the river is most rapid. You’ll come to appreciate the awesome power of nature that carved its path eons ago. There are three spots you should make sure to focus on when visiting Swallow Grotto: the pothole on the cliff faces, the Zhuilu Cliff, and Rock of the Indian Chief.

Trail length : 1.37 kilometers Time required : around 20 minutes one way

Lushui-Heliu Trail 綠水合流步道

Lushui Trail was part of the Old Cross-Hehuan Mountain Road. The Taroko National Park Headquarters & Visitor Center rebuilt it into paths due to the good road condition, beautiful landscape and significant ecological value. The width of the path is about 2 meters, which is about the same as during the Japanese Era (1895-1945). This trail has a gentle slope and is easy to walk. It is a sight-seeing path that is suitable for all ages. There is a 30 meter tunnel along the trail, so please bring a flash light. Dense forest, cliff terrain, plants growing on the rock and historical monuments are the hallmarks of the Lushui Trail. Walking on this historic path you follow in the footsteps of earlier people. Standing on the cliff, you overlook the Liwu River valley and the Lushui terrace.

Trail length: 2 kilometers Time required: around 60 minutes one way

Baiyan Waterfall Trail 白楊步道

The Baiyang Waterfall Trail is characterized by the number of tunnels on it. Beginning with the entrance tunnel of 380 meters (by the Central Cross-Island Highway 900 meters west of Tianxiang) to the last tunnel before Water Curtain, you will pass through seven tunnels along the 2 kilometer trail. Some of the tunnels are as straight as a pencil and you can see the light at the end. Others however are curved such that you will be enveloped in pitch-black darkness for a short time. It’s advisable to take along a flashlight with you in the dark tunnels. Looking out of the tunnels from within, the lovely green Mountain View looks like a masterpiece. Water curtain is a special scene created by spring water falling from the tunnel roof.

Trail length: 2.2 kilometers Time required: around 60 minutes one way

Hiking Trails –

See our detailed introduction on these trails separately.

Dali Datong Trail

Hehuan Peaks

Zhuilu Old Trail

Lushui Wenshan Trail

Qingshui cliff清水斷崖 / chongde trail 崇德步道 / huide trail 匯德步道.

This amazing cliff is located between Heren and Chongde along Su-Hua Highway. The scenic beauty stretches about 21km and rises vertically 800 meters from the Pacific Ocean. The cliff is made up of Gneiss and marble. The cliff is believed to have existed from thousands of years and in 1953 was listed as one of Taiwan’s “Eight Wonders”. The route along the Qingshui Cliff is the only coastal road in Taroko National Park.

Among these cliffs, the east-south cliff of Mt. Qingshui is the steepest. The cliff facing the sea is 5km long and is very spectacular. Driving a car between the cliff and the boundless ocean makes you feel like you are flying. The enormous cliff above combined with the boundless ocean below, reminding us of the hardships faced by the workers who built the road.

Take the local train from Hualien train station; it’ll take you nearly 20 minutes to arrive at Chongde station. Walk from the train station for 2.5 km and you will arrive at the Chongde Recreational Area. Due to the narrow road with no shoulder to walk, busy traffic, and dark tunnels on Su-Hua Highway, it’s suggested to hitch-hike for safety reasons.

Trains schedule as following, ticket costs NT$32 per trip.

The train schedule is subject to change; always check the latest timetable on TRA official website.

https://www.railway.gov.tw/en/index.aspx

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A 2024 Guide to Taroko Gorge and Taroko National Park

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

Taroko Gorge, named after the Truku or Taroko aboriginal tribe, is arguably Taiwan’s top scenic attractions. Few people visit without being blown away by its sheer magnificence and raw natural beauty. It is the star attraction of Hualien, Taiwan’s largest county (see my Hualien guide and other places to visit in Hualien ), on the wild and visually stunning east coast.

Taroko Gorge can be reached in a mere 2-3 hours from the capital, Taipei, yet it feels world’s apart.

I wrote this guide to Taroko Gorge based on many visits I’ve made over the last 15 years. In it, I’m going to cover all the main things to do in Taroko Gorge, how to get there, where to stay, how to do Taroko Gorge as a day trip from Taipei, and why I think Island Life Taiwan offers the best Taroko Gorge tours .

For more general information about traveling in Taiwan, also be sure to see my introduction to Taiwan travel .

2024 Update: On April 3, 2024, a massive earthquake struck the Hualien region. Taroko Gorge is heavily damaged and all of Taroko National Park (including Taroko Gorge and Hehuanshan) is totally closed to visitors. It is expected that the gorge will be closed for a full year. Trains are now running again from Taipei to Hualien and onward to Taitung. Damage in Hualien city is less serious, but some hotels have closed for repairs. See my newest guide: things to do in Hualien which are still currently open .

Table of Contents

Welcome to Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is the country’s premier scenic attraction, along with Alishan and Sun Moon Lake . It is featured on my list of best places to visit in Taiwan and it is an essential stop on any Taiwan itinerary .

The area referred to as Taroko Gorge is a steep, dramatic valley created by the Liwu River (立霧溪), which flows from Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range east to the Pacific Ocean. The blue-green waters of the Liwu River have carved out immense, vertical cliffs of marble and gneiss.

The Japanese first made the area a national park, called Tsugitaka-Taroko National Park , during their colonial rule of Taiwan from 1895 to 1945. This was the first national park ever in Taiwan. After the Japanese left, the KMT government later abolished the national park, and it wasn’t reestablished again as Taroko National Park until 1986 (later than others, such as Kenting National Park ).

Many people don’t realize this, but Taroko National Park is much larger than just the famous tourist section called Taroko Gorge. In fact, the park extends all the way up to the Central Mountain range, including the famous mountain Hehuanshan , one of the best places in Taiwan to see snow .

Super-narrow Provincial Highway 8 runs up Taroko Gorge. The highway was first built in the late 1950s, and the 212 veterans who died while building it are today commemorated at Eternal Spring Shrine .

Highway 8 is actually the start of the Central Cross-Island Highway as it follows the Liwu River upstream and then continues over the high mountains all the way to Taichung City on the west coast. The first 19 kilometers or so of the highway are what we typically consider Taroko Gorge .

In the Central Mountain Range, Highway 8 also connects to Highway 14, which continues to famous attractions like Hehuanshan , Wuling Pass (Taiwan’s highest), Cingjing Farm , and Puli (access point for Sun Moon Lake).

2024 Taroko Gorge Closures

Taiwan’s high mountain roads are subject to frequent closures due to damage from typhoons and landslides. Several storms in 2022 and 2023 have caused multiple road closures on Highway 8, including one right in Taroko Gorge .

As of early 2024, there are five areas of construction on Highway 8, and two of these are inside Taroko Gorge.

For several months in 2023 and early 2024, one spot was only open to let cars pass five times per day. Because of this, bus 310 from Hualien city to Taroko Gorge and bus 302 from Xincheng to Taroko Gorge were reduced to only a few per day.

In March 2024, this was updated to 8 opening times per day (10 minutes every hour on the hour from 9 AM to 4 PM, then open all night from 5 PM to 8 AM and open on weekends and holidays). Bus 310 and 302 are back to normal schedule.

New updates about these road closures are released on the first day of every month on the Taroko NP park website (click small arrow beside Highway 8). However, this information can be difficult to understand. For interpretations of their information, including maps I made, please join my Taiwan Travel Planning group and see my most recent posts about Taroko Gorge.

These closures will also slow down anyone planning to drive from Taroko Gorge to Hehuanshan (or vice versa). The drive is still doable, but I suggest starting your day as early as possible because there are likely to be delays.

How Many Days for Visiting Taroko?

Most people spend one entire day visiting Taroko Gorge, whether they self drive, take a day tour , or hire a private driver for the day.

One option is to arrive in Hualien very early, do your day tour, spend the night, then continue to your next destination the next day. However, if you’re coming by train, note that even the first train of the day won’t get you there early enough to catch most tours .

Another option is to arrive and check in to your hotel on Day 1, do your Taroko day tour on Day 2, then head on to your next destination in the evening. To make your visit more relaxed, spend two nights or more there , so you don’t have to do any traveling on the same day as your Taroko tour.

With a full day, you’ll be able to visit most of the places I describe in this article, including at least one or two short hikes. You’ll also most likely be able to visit Qingshui Cliffs and Qixingtan Beach, two attractions outside of the gorge that are included on most Taroko day tours. I’ll further introduce both of these places below.

Taroko can even be done as a day trip from Taipei , but it makes for a very long day. You can book this day trip with transportation from Taipei , but it makes for a very long day, with 8-10 hours of driving. A better option is to go to Xincheng on your own by train and hire a driver from there.

If you have even more time in the area, you’ll want to check out more things to do in Hualien here , my recommended Hualien itinerary , my two guides to the east coast of Taiwan, covering Yilan to Hualien and Hualien to Taitung and Kenting National Park , as well what to do in Taitung , the county below Hualien.

If you visit Taroko Gorge during a long weekend or especially the latter half of the Lunar New Year holiday in Taiwan , be prepared for some serious crowds! You can see more information on the best times to visit Taroko Gorge in my guide to when to visit Taiwan .

Also note that, like most of Taiwan, Taroko Gorge are very safe for solo or female travelers, as this female traveler reports in her Hualien guide .

Best Taroko Gorge Tours

The most convenient way to see Taroko Gorge, especially if you want to cover the main sights in one day, is by taking a tour from Hualien city. There are several cheaper options available on Klook, but I personally recommend Island Life Taiwan Tours .

The reason I recommend them is because they specifically design their tours to avoid the crowds everywhere they go, including starting a little earlier than other tours. Also, their groups are small and their tours are conducted in English. They are also highly reviewed and have a five star rating on Tripadvisor .

To cover the main sights described in this article, choose the Better Taroko Gorge Tour . The tour also includes some off-the-beaten-track spots that other tours don’t, such as the Changuang Bell Tower Trail, the Baiyang Waterfall Trail, and the Water Curtain Cave, which you will read about below. They even provide flashlights and raincoats for entering the Water Curtain Cave. Because the tour starts at 7:30 AM, you’ll need to sleep in Hualien City or Xincheng the night before.

They also offer fully customized tours and can arrange permits and guide you through the thrilling Zhuilu Old Trail (which I’ll introduce below).

Getting to Hualien

Hualien city is the capital of Hualien county and the main access point for Taroko Gorge.

Most people take the regular (TRA) train to Hualien city, but there’s also the option to fly from Taipei’s Songshan Airport. Going from Taipei to Hualien by bus is not easy, fast, or practical. Driving is slower than taking the train, but the drive is quite scenic.

If you’re starting your trip in Taipei, be sure to check out my Taipei 4-day itinerary , list of 50 things to do in Taipei , and guide to the best hotels in Taipei .

Flying from Taipei to Hualien

This flight from Taipei Songshan Airport to Hualien only takes 50 minutes. This is quite convenient because Songshan Airport is right in the Taipei City center and you can even get there by MRT.

However, this option is not necessarily faster than taking the train. If you factor in the time needed to get to Songshan Airport, check in for your flight, then get from Hualien airport to Hualien city center, flying would actually take a little longer than the fastest train to Hualien.

The fastest express train to Hualien can get you from Taipei Main Station to Hualien Station in a mere 2 hours 6 minutes (the last time I checked), or 2 hours 1 minute to Xincheng Station (the station closest to Taroko Gorge).

However, these express trains often sell out, and there are only a few per day. So if that happens, and you don’t want to take a slower train, you might consider flying.

Train from Taipei to Hualien

Taking the train is by far the most common and preferred method for getting from Taipei to Hualien. However, demand for these trains is very high, especially the express ones (called Puyuma Express or Taroko Express), and they often sell out, especially on weekends, long weekends, and holidays.

Therefore, it’s crucial to book your train in advance (up to 28 days) on the official TRA website . Note that these trains are not High Speed Rails ( the HSR only goes down the west coast of Taiwan). After you book and pay online, you can pick up your physical ticket from a convenience store iBon machine or at the ticket window at the station in Taiwan.

There are two train stops that are relevant for getting from Taipei to Taroko Gorge. Tiny Xincheng (Taroko Gorge) station is much closer to the gorge, but has few facilities and accommodations. The next stop, Hualien station in Hualien City, the county capital, is further away from Taroko Gorge, but has way more hotels, hostels, restaurants, night markets, and so on.

The fastest trains from Taipei to Hualien take just over 2 hours (TWD 440). For these trains, you must have a reserved seat. No standing tickets are sold. So once the seats sell out, it is not possible to ride these trains. These trains are called Puyuma, Taroko, or Tze Chiang 3000.

Slower trains take anywhere from 2 hours 15 min to 3 hours 30 min(TWD 340). They are called Chu-Kuang, Tze Chiang (all numbers except 3000), or Fast Local. For these trains, booking a seat is still recommended. But even if the train sells out, you can still buy a standing ticket. Then you’ll need to stand in the aisle or sit on the floor in the space between train cars (it’s not comfortable, but I’ve done it many times).

For more information, see my guide to taking trains in Taiwan .

Driving to Hualien

For total freedom, you can rent a car from various locations in Taipei or across Taiwan. However, driving from Taipei to Hualien is actually quite a bit slower than taking the train, even the slower trains.

The main reason you might consider doing this is because it is a beautiful drive from Taipei to Hualien, especially the coastal section from Su’ao to Hualien. You could easily make a full day of it, passing places like Jiaoxi Hot Springs , Su’ao Cold Springs, Nanfangao Seafood Harbor, and (just before reaching Taroko Gorge) the beautiful Qingshui Cliffs.

Another plus is that once you get to Hualien, you don’t have to figure out how to get to Taroko Gorge, because you can just drive through the gorge by yourself.

If you do drive, take care on the coastal highway, as it is narrow in parts, with steep cliffs down the sea. Once in a while (though not commonly), landslides destroy this highway and he can take a few days to reopen again, as happened most recently in early 2023.

See my guide to road tripping from Yilan to Hualien for more details.

Getting to Taroko Gorge on Your Own

Once you arrive in Hualien city, it’s a 30 to 40-minute drive back to Taroko Gorge, and most Taroko day tours start with pick-up in Hualien city.

Some people get off the train in Xincheng, a small town that is closer to Taroko Gorge (5-10 minutes), but has fewer services. If you have arranged a private driver, it makes sense to have them pick you up at Xincheng.

Private Driver

Getting a private driver is not a bad or expensive way to explore Taroko Gorge, especially if you have a few people to share the cost. Most drivers have a proposed itinerary for Taroko Gorge, but you can also make your own customized schedule. The drivers will even wait for your if you want to do one of the hikes in Taroko Gorge.

Most taxis drivers in Hualien can do this, or you can book a private driver online .

If you want to get to Taroko Gorge by scooter, there are scooter rental stations outside of Xincheng and Hualien train stations. Helmet and rain jacket are provided, and you’ll need a local Taiwanese scooter license or IDP (international driver’s license). Your home country’s license won’t be good enough.

Riding a scooter in Taroko Gorge gives you the freedom and flexibility to stop wherever you go. Riding through the tunnels and between the valley walls of Taroko Gorge is an incredible experience. However, it must be noted that there have been multiple scooter accidents in Taroko Gorge in recent years, some tragic, so you should do so at your own risk .

Having said that, we have even visited Taroko Gorge by scooter with our kids.

Taking the Bus to Taroko Gorge

Visiting Taroko Gorge by bus is the slowest and most inconvenient, but cheapest way. The buses are infrequent, so you really need to time it well. Still, the bus isn’t a bad option, and with some planning and an early start, you can still see a few of the main highlights of Taroko Gorge in a day.

Hualien county runs regular buses (NT170 per person, no change given, four per day) and tourist shuttles (NT 250 day pass, 13 per day) from Hualien through Taroko Gorge to Tianxiang, the village at the head of the Gorge, stopping at Xincheng station on the way. The whole drive takes about 1.5 hours one way (but you’ll likely get off sooner). Here are the schedules for route 310 from Hualien and route 302 from Xincheng .

Here’s the most recent Taroko Gorge bus route and schedule . When you land on the page, it might revert to Chinese. So you need to switch the language to English, click on Hualien on the map, then click on “Taroko Route”.

Cycling to Taroko Gorge

Cycling Taroko Gorge is the most adventurous way to take in the dramatic scenery that Taroko Gorge has to offer. You might want to avoid weekends and holidays, when traffic is much heavier.

Be warned that some of the roads in Taroko Gorge are very narrow and don’t provide much space between you and passing tour buses. Also, don’t go cycling in Taroko Gorge during or after heavy rain or a typhoon during summer in Taiwan . In 2017, a Japanese cyclist died from a landslide in Taroko Gorge for this reason.

You can rent bicycles around Hualien and Xincheng stations for about NT250 per day, but I’d suggest not wasting your time riding all the way from Hualien station to the entrance of Taroko. A smart thing to do is to rent a Giant bicycle near Hualien station, take your bike on the local train to Xincheng, the ride on from there.

From Xincheng station, it only takes 15 minutes to cycle to the entrance of Taroko, or you can take the bus to the entrance and rent a bike there.

Cycling into Taroko Gorge, the road is going to be uphill the whole way, but it’s not super steep. If you’re a beginner biker, you may find it tough, but for experienced cyclists, it should be a breeze.

Where to Stay in Taroko Gorge

Choosing where to stay when you visit Taroko Gorge can be a tough decision. Three main options are staying right in Taroko Gorge, staying in Xincheng (the small town near the entrance to Taroko), or staying in Hualien city.

Hotels in Taroko Gorge are limited and pricey. Xinxheng is very convenient and close to Taroko, especially because it has its own train station (Xincheng station, which is one stop before Hualien City). Hualien City is the furthest, but it has the best choice of budget accomodations and many things to do .

Hotels inside Taroko Gorge

For the full Taroko experience, you can stay right inside the gorge. Driving there is best, but the hotels can also arrange pickup from Xincheng or Hualien.

Silks Place Resort ( see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ) at Tianxiang, the small village at the top of Taroko Gorge, is the only 5-star hotel in Taroko Gorge National Park. It’s got a fancy swimming pool and incredible views. See my other recommended 5-star hotels in Taiwan .

Taroko Village Hotel ( see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ) offers wooden huts and aboriginal buffet dinners. We stopped here for a lavish feast when we camped at Heliu campground to enjoy the best of both worlds! (If you want to learn how to cook aboriginal cuisine, check out this cooking course in Hualien !)

If you want to spend a night at the head of Taroko Gorge without breaking the bank, try the Tienhsiang Youth Activity Center ( see on Agoda / TripAdvisor ). You’ll need to get there on your own. From the hostel, you can walk to a few (but not all) of Taroko’s attractions.

Hotels in Xincheng

If you want to stay very close to Taroko Gorge, but also have train access, then staying in Xincheng is best. Get off the train at Xincheng (Taroko Gorge) station.

Taroko Liiko Hotel (see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ) is an excellent choice very close to the train station. Most rooms come with beautiful views.

Liwu Hotel ( see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ) is the closest you can get to Taroko Gorge without actually being inside the national park. It’s a 6-minute drive (or 45-minute walk) from Xincheng Station.

From a very quiet stay in a beautiful local house, try Crossing the Rainbow B&B ( see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ). This is a simple local guesthouse. It is slightly closer to Xincheng but further from Taroko. It’s a 30-minute walk out of town in the direction of Qingshui Cliffs.

For an off-the-beaten track experience, try Songyue Guesthouse (see on Booking ). It is located in Sanzhan, a small aboriginal village 10 minutes’ drive from Xincheng. Sanzhan is a great spot for swimming and jumping into the river (see the end of the article for pictures).

Hotels in Hualien City

Hualien City offers by far the largest range of accommodation options, but it is furthest away from Taroko Gorge. Staying in Hualien allows you to enjoy the city’s restaurants and night markets at night. Taroko Gorge is a 30-40 minute drive away.

If going by public transportation, choosing something near Hualien train station is smart.

Two of the best hostels in Hualien are Just Walk Backpacker Hostel ( see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ) and View Hostel ( see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ).  

For a good mid-range option, Happiness is My Home ( see on Booking ) lives up to its name – the owners of this guesthouse are super welcoming and helpful. Another excellent choice near Hualien night market is 1999 B&B (see on Booking / Agoda ).

Hualien Farglory Hotel ( see on Booking / Agoda / Klook / TripAdvisor ) is the best resort option. It features both ocean and mountain views and swimming pool, in a quiet, remote location south of Hualien City.

Camping in Taroko Gorge

16.5km up the valley, Heliu Campground offers 12 wooden platforms for first-come-first-serve camping at NT200 per space. There is also overflow camping at nearby Lushui Campground. There’s are very basic campgrounds with limited amenities, so you need to bring everything you need, including food and water. There’s a self-pay system at Heliu, while the even more basic Lushui is free.

I stayed here with my family several years ago, and while the facilities are lacking, it was an awesome setting. If you need to pick one up before your trip, this guide covers some recommended tents . The campgrounds are close to a few attractions and a hike, which I will cover below.

Things to Do in Taroko Gorge

Taiwan is a geologically active island, and in few places is this more apparent than at Taroko Gorge. Earthquakes, typhoons, and landslides regularly destroy roads and trails in the gorge, continually reshaping its landscape. For this reason, you must keep in mind that one or more of the attractions or trails in Taroko Gorge might be closed when you go.

Every time I’ve ever been to Taroko Gorge, at least one or more of the main sights or trails has been closed. One time when I visited many years ago, the entire highway was closed for set times every day past the Swallow’s Grove, which meant I couldn’t make it to several spots.

You can avoid disappointment by checking what’s open and closed before you go on the Taroko Gorge National Park website . Click “News” then “Roads and Trails”. Under Road Conditions Highway 8, you can find out if any sections of highway are closed. Then, Level 0 to 5 refers to the various hikes in Taroko Gorge by difficulty.

Having said all that, here are the main things to see and do in Taroko Gorge, in the order you would encounter them going in. More places to visit near Taroko Gorge will be covered in the next section below.

Taroko Gorge Entrance Gate

Welcome to Taroko Gorge! Tacky as it may seem, we can never resist stopping here for a photo, and you will probably want to do the same 🙂

The entrance gate (called 東西橫貫公路牌樓 on GoogleMaps) officially marks the entrance to Taroko Gorge . Just past the gate, turn right and cross the bridge over the river to reach Shakandang Trail (see below) or the Taroko National Park Visitor’s Center. You can see the bridge on the right side of the above photo.

For all other sights in Taroko Gorge, keep to the left, passing through the iconic rock arch visible in the photo above.

If you stay at one of the hotels I mentioned in Xincheng, like Liwu Hotel , you would be only five minutes’ walk from here.

Shakadang Trail

Shakadang Trail (砂卡噹步道), or “Mystery Valley Trail”, is an easy trail that follows a creek with crystal clear, sapphire pools of water. You WILL want to jump in, but you aren’t technically allowed to swim or go off the trail since people have died here.

This easy 4km walk takes about 2 hours return if you go the whole way (when the whole trail is open – check the national park site for current opening situation). This trail is a great one for visitors with kids , as it is mostly flat and you only need to walk as far as you want then turn back.

The trail passes through a Truku aboriginal village, where locals sometimes sell crafts or snacks along the trail.

To get there, cross the bridge that goes over the river at the Taroko Gorge Entrance Gate. Just turn right after the entrance gate from the previous entry. Turn left after crossing the bridge, and drive about five minutes past the Taroko National Park information center .

Buses also stop at the start of Shakadang Trail. If you come here with a private driver, they will be willing to park and wait for you while you do the hike. Note that the trail is sometimes closed for maintenance, so it’s best to find out before you come.

If you’ve walked into Taroko Gorge, you can walk from the Visitor’s Center to the start of Shakadang Trail on a trail along the river (also called Shakadang Trail on GoogleMaps), which is nicer than walking along the road.

Eternal Spring Shrine

The Eternal Spring Shrine (長春祠) is probably the most recognizable sight in Taroko Gorge and often crowded with tour groups. A picturesque waterfall streams out from the mountain, with a large colorful shrine built up around it to honor the many who died when the highway was first carved out by the Japanese in the 1910s.

From the large parking lot, the walking trail to the shrine goes through a tunnel that contains some smaller shrines. However, these tunnels and access to the shrine are sometimes closed due to damage by landslides.

When accessible, you can walk right up to the stream that runs through the shrine before it spills down to the valley floor below. If that part is closed, you can simply admire the shrine from the viewpoint next to the large parking lot.

Changuang Temple

A lesser known stop right next to the famous Eternal Spring Shrine is Chuanguang Temple (禪光寺). Although it looks very large in the above photo (shot by a drone), you won’t actually notice it when you drive through Taroko Gorge or visit Eternal Spring Shrine. That’s because it is uphill from the main road and hidden by the trees.

The easiest way to get to Changuang Temple is by walking up the car road to it. Going this way, it only takes about 15 minutes to walk from Eternal Spring Shrine to Changuang Temple . It is also possible to take a longer but more scenic hiking route there via Eternal Spring Bell Tower (see below), but the trail is partially closed as of 2024 (see link in next entry for latest info).

Eternal Spring Bell Tower

Although you can’t actually see Changuang Temple from below, you can see the beautiful Eternal Spring Bell Tower (長春鐘樓), also sometimes called Changuang Bell Tower (禪光鐘樓) from the Eternal Spring Shrine area, as in the above photo. On GoogleMaps , the bell town might look very close to the main highway, but it’s actually far, far above the highway on top of a cliff.

The Bell Tower is on a hiking trail called Eternal Shrine Trail (Changchun Shrine Trail) that starts at Eternal Spring Shrine and ends at Changchun Temple, so you can normally get to the Bell Tower from either. However, both ends of the trail appear to be closed due to landslide damage as of early 2024.

If you walk to the Bell Tower from Changuang Temple, the steep trail takes approximately 20 minute . This trail crosses a suspension bridge before getting there. If you start from Eternal Spring Shrine, the trail is longer (approximate 1 hour) but more scenic. The trail passes Guanyin Cave (觀音洞), which seems to be currently closed, and Taroko Tower before reaching the Bell Tower.

This guide to Eternal Spring (Changchun) Bell Tower Trail on the official Taroko website has a map of the trail and information about current closed sections (although the information is a little confusing). If you manage to reach the Bell Tower from either side, please let me know in the comments!

For temples lovers, be sure to check out my guide to the top 30 temples in northern Taiwan .

Buluowan is a grassy terrace sitting above the highway. It used to be the site of a real Truku (Taroko) aboriginal village . Today, the Buluowan Service Station (布洛灣遊憩區) has some small exhibits on Truku culture and handicrafts, sculptures, and simple lunchboxes and other snacks.

From the service center, you can follow a walking trail to Buluowan Terrace and Buluowan Suspension Bridge (布洛灣吊橋). At 152 meters above the Liwu River and 196 meters in length, it is the tallest and longest suspension bridge in Taroko National Park . The trail there is flat and easy to walk.

Taiwan tourist shuttle 310 (when running) makes a stop at Buluowan Service Center as it drives through Taroko Gorge.

Taroko Village Hotel sits on another plateau a little higher up from the service center. This is the only place where you can stay in cabins with aboriginal design in Taroko Gorge.

During one of our trips to Taroko Gorge, we visited here to enjoy an aboriginal buffet meal for dinner, which was excellent.

Swallow Grotto

Swallow Grotto/Swallow’s Grove (燕子口 or Yanzikou) is a stretch of road that veers off from the main highway and through multiple tunnels . You can park at the side then walk along the road, peering over sheer vertical drops to the river far below—classic Taroko Gorge scenery.

The vantage points and short walking trail here get their name from the swallows who build nests in the cliff face. You can also cross Zhuilu Suspension Bridge nearby, which is the start of the Zhuilu Old Trail (see next entry).

You’ll want to take caution here, as most of the walking path shares the road with vehicles, including a series of dark tunnels. If driving though, do so very slowly and watch for pedestrians.

The road that goes through these tunnels continues for one kilometer (one way direction for vehicles) before joining up again with the main highway. Because the road is prone to landslides, don’t be surprised if it is closed when you visit.

There’s a cliff that looks like a Native American chief , small cafe named “The Chief” after it, and a spot where if you look up, the rock cliffs make a Taiwan shape in the sky.

Taroko National Park headquarters suggest wearing helmets when visiting Swallow’s Grotto, which are available for free at the visitor’s center and at the spot marked “Free Helmet Rental” (太魯閣峽谷安全帽發放處) on GoogleMaps, on the main road about 1 km before Swallow Grotto.

Zhuilu Old Trail

Taroko Park’s most exhilarating hike, Zhuilu Old Trail or Zhuilu Old Road (錐麓古道), features narrow trails along sheer 500m+ cliffs and expansive, bird’s eye views over Taroko Gorge. This fairly tough 6-km hike takes 2-6 hours (depending on how much of it is open) and officially requires a permit and guide . Also, you must begin before 10am.

To arrange a guide and permit, simply book the tour online with Island Life Taiwan Tours and they will arrange it for you. This hike is still on my Taiwan bucket list, so I’ve used a friend’s photo above.

At the time of writing, only the first 3.1km were open, so definitely check the status on the national park website or with the tour company before you go. Sometimes, even though it says “open”, only a small part of the trail is open.

The trail starts by crossing Zhuilu Suspension Bridge (錐麓吊橋) across the Liwu River just before Swallow Grotto. If you don’t have a permit, you can still cross this bridge, but you can’t go any further up the trail.

Liufang Bridge Observation Deck

Stop at this small parking lot and observation deck, called Liufang Observation Deck (流芳橋觀景台), for a unique and impressive view.

Climb the wooden stairs up to the observation deck and you can look down on the highway as it emerges from two tunnels through the mountain, one for traffic in each direction, and then crosses Liufang Bridge (流芳橋).

Unfortunately, there is no bus stop here.

Tunnel of Nine Turns

The Tunnel of Nine Turns (九曲洞隧道 or Jiuqudong ) is a dramatic stretch of walking-only tunnels that was closed for six years due to major damage from a landslide. Fortunately, the tunnel was finally reopened to the public in 2019 , after being fully renovated and made safe.

The 700-meter pedestrian-only road features several tunnels and used to be a part of the original highway through Taroko Gorge. It features some of Taroko Gorge’s most epic views and definitely should not be missed. Watch for the beautiful waterfall between the cliffs on the other side.

The trail is about 700 meters and most visitors spend around 30 minutes here. Unfortunately there’s no parking lot here. If you have a driver, the driver will drop you off and pick you up. There’s also a bus stop nearby. If you’re driving and really want to see it, you could park around Lushui and walk there, about 30 minutes each way.

Cimuting, Lanting, Heliuting, and Lushui Trail

There is a small collection of sights around Cimu Bridge (慈母橋). I don’t really consider these essential stops in Taroko Gorge, but if you have more time, or are staying at one of the campgrounds nearby, you may want to visit them.

Cimuting (Cimu Pavilion or 慈母亭) and Lanting (蘭亭) are two small pavilions next to the bridge, but they are a little old and not easy to stop at, as there is very little parking. Further down the road, Yuewangting (岳王亭) is another one, which most people stop at for walking across yet another suspension bridge there.

A little further down the highway, Heliu Campground and the overflow Lushui Campground are the two main campgrounds in Taroko Gorge (see the “where to stay in Taroko Gorge section above”).

Heliu Campground is the start of the Lushui Trail (綠水步道), a pleasant trail that includes sections of forest, a 30-meter cave, a spirit tablet, and river views. It’s an easy trail that takes about an hour.

Tianxiang (Tienhsiang) Recreation Area

Tienhsiang (Tianxiang) is the only “town” in Taroko Gorge, if we could even call it that. It is the terminal bus stop of buses running up the gorge, beside which you can find a few aboriginal and Taiwanese food stalls and the only 7-Eleven in Taroko Gorge (often low on supplies).

The view from the grassy area marked Tianxiang Recreation Area (天祥遊憩區) on GoogleMaps is good. A short walk from town, can cross Taroko Pudu Bridge (太魯閣菩渡橋, pictured above) and walk up many stairs to the Buddhist Xiangde Temple (祥德寺) and the towering Tianfeng Pagoda (天峯塔, visible at the top of the above photo). There’s a small vegetarian restaurant (素食義賣) on the way up – opening hours may be limited.

Tianxiang is also the location of Silks Place , the fanciest hotel in Taroko Gorge by a long shot, as well as the budget friendly Tienhsiang Youth Activity Center . You can walk to the following trail from this town.

Baiyang Trail and Water Curtain Cave

Baiyang Trail (白楊步道) is another easy trail starting 900 meters past Tianxiang , taking you to gorgeous Baiyang Waterfall (白楊瀑布). Past the falls and requiring a little more uphill of a hike is Water Curtain Cave (水濂洞), a tunnel in which water spills down on top of your head as you walk through.

The trail takes less than an hour each way. Parts or all of the trail are sometimes closed for maintenance, so do check on the official site before you go. For most of 2023 and going into 2024, the trail has been open up to Baiyang Waterfall only .

On this tour , you can get flashlights and raincoats for entering Water Curtain Cave, so you don’t get too wet. If you visit on your own and want to walk through the tunnel, it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella or raincoat like we did (see image below).

Wenshan Hot Spring

Wenshan Hot Spring (文山溫泉) was once the most famous wild hot springs in Taiwan , being located right inside Taroko Gorge. Destroyed by a typhoon in 2005, it is now technically closed and not recommended to visit by the offiicial Taroko National Park headquarters.

However, by sneaking around a few fences, you can still visit what’s left of it. You can still bathe here, but the conditions are not ideal. To find out exactly how to do so, see my guide to visiting Wenshan Hot Spring .

The hot spring is located 2.5 kilometers past Tianxiang, and is probably the furthest point that you will consider going in Taroko Gorge unless you are planning to on traveling up the long, winding, and often closed road to Hehuanshan (see below).

If you’re looking for a longer hike in Taroko Gorge with virtually no people on it , check out the Lushui Wenshan Trail , which starts around the same point as the trailhead for Wenshan hot spring.

Things to Do around Taroko Gorge

Besides all the sights mentioned above inside Taroko Gorge, there are several other attractions near the gorge that can be combined with your day trip to Taroko Gorge.

You can find more information about these sights, plus many more things to do, in my guide to Hualien and recommended Hualien itinerary .

Qingshui Cliffs

The dramatic Qingshui Cliffs are on the Suhua Highway, which leads from Hualien to Su’ao in Yilan County . The cliffs are located on a stretch of the coast just 10 minutes’ drive north of the entrance to Taroko Gorge, with a few different spots along the coast where you can pull over to see them.

If you’re driving through Taroko Gorge on your own, it would make sense to see them in at the end of your visit. You could also walk to them in about an hour if you’re staying in Xincheng.

Most tours to Taroko Gorge, such as this one , this one , and this one , include a visit to Qingshui Cliffs, but sometimes only if there’s enough time at the end of day.

You can also go whale watching off the coast of Hualien!

Qixingtan Beach

Gorgeous Qixingtan is a beautiful pebble beach between Hualien and Taroko Gorge, so it’s easy to stop there where traveling between the city and the gorge. Most day tours to Taroko Gorge stop at the beach on the way to or from the gorge. You can’t swim there because the tide and waves are very strong, but the views are unbeatable.

There are usually some stalls selling food and drinks at Qixingtan. At busy times you can also rent bikes there to ride along the coast or all the way back to Hualien City, where you can arrange for them to meet you and pick up the bike (some Mandarin skills may be necessary to arrange this).

Qixingtan is included on this tour and this tour .

Hehuanshan and Cingjing Farm

It is even possible to continue further up Provincial Highway 8, the highway that runs through Taroko Gorge, to the Central Mountain Range of Taiwan.

Eventually the highway splits, with Highway 8 continuing across the Central Mountains to Taichung (called the Central Cross Island Highway). Highway 14 goes south and then also traverses Taiwan via Wuling Pass (the highest navigable pass in Taiwan, at 3275 m) and Hehuanshan (Hehuan Mountain). This 3416-meter mountain is considered one of the best places to see snow in Taiwan.

People don’t often realize this, but Hehuanshan is actually in Taroko National Park. Learn all about visiting it in my Hehuanshan guide .

A lot of visitors to Taiwan want to visit Hehuanshan, but it’s not easy to get to. There is no public transportation going from Taroko Gorge to there (there used to be a private shuttle bus from Hualien and Taroko Gorge to Hehuanshan, but it’s no longer running). What’s more, the highway above Taroko Gorge is often closed due to damage by landslides/typhoons (see the section about this at the top of the article).

Therefore, it is much easier and safer to visit Hehuanshan from Taichung on the west side of Taiwan. You can do so by joining this  Hehuanshan tour. There’s only one hotel at Hehuanshan and its hard to book – read about it in my guide to staying at Songsyue Lodge .

After Hehuanshan (if you are able to get there from Taroko Gorge), the highway continues on to the popular Cingjing Farm , a gorgeous high-mountain, European-style farm. Again, it is best to get to Cingjing from Taichung , not from Taroko Gorge.

If you keep going, you can continue all the way to Sun Moon Lake and Alishan and then descend to the west coast of Taiwan.

Find all the information about this area in my guide to Cingjing Farm and how to get from Taichung to Cingjing and Hehuanshan .

The small aboriginal village of Sanzhan (三棧) is only about 10 minute’s drive from Xincheng Train Station and the entrance to Taroko Gorge. The Sanzhan River, which runs past the village, has several great spots for jumping into the water. This is a real treat after a long day of hiking in Taroko Gorge, especially in summer.

To find the jumping spots, search “Sanzhan River Playing Area ( 三棧溪戲水區 )” on GoogleMaps. You can also jump in from the rocks below the bridge just before town, which is where I shot the above photo. There are even more spots around here and a little further up on the Sanzhan River, which is the start of the route to Golden Grotto (see below).

Sanzhan is the starting point for the infamous river trace to Golden Grotto (黃金峽谷), a long, difficult, and at times unsafe river trace that is considered one of the best in Taiwan.

If you want to stay in Sanzhan, perhaps as a very quiet and off-the-beaten-track alternative to Xincheng and Hualien, or because you plan to do river tracing or enjoy jumping in the water, you can spend the night at Songyue Guesthouse . There are a few very basic restaurants in town.

Well, I hope you’ve found all the information you needed for planning your trip to Taroko National Park. Let me know how your trip goes, and be sure to check out my other articles below on the area!

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33 thoughts on “A 2024 Guide to Taroko Gorge and Taroko National Park”

This is an awesome guide! Wish we would have had this before we visited Taroko Gorge last year. We’d love to go back and camp inside the park, and to do more hiking!

Wow! Grand Canyon indeed. What a magical place. I’d enjoy doing it by scooter. A simple rental than off I’d go, with wife in tow. Amazing experience because it mixes such lush greens with dramatic mountain and canyon scenery. Taiwan has much to offer. I feel the place is still well off the tourist beaten path in many regards. Rocking post dude!

Your post makes me SUPER excited about my upcoming trip to Hualien! I’ll be there for five days and will be exploring the area. Never heard of Shakadang Trail before your blog post but it’s now on my to-do list!

Do you need a license to rent a scooter and are there a lot of bugs? I ask because I just came from NZ and they had crazy, crazy sandflies at gorges!

Great post avout Taroko Gorge! Just wondering if the places you’ve mentioned here are the exact order from the start of the Gorge until Tianxiang? If not can you give me a rundown of places to see starting from the start until the end? And if you rent bicycles, do they also give you a helmet and a lock for the bike? Hoping for your response!!!

Yes, the order of sights above is pretty much exactly as you would encounter them. Only Shakadang trail is off the main road. Right after the Taroko Gorge entrance gate, the main road continues on the same side up Taroko Gorge. But for Shakadang trail, you have to cross a bridge right after the entrance gate to the other side of the gorge, where you’ll find the visitor’s center, and a little further down, the Shakadang trail. Everything else after that is in order, on the main side of the road. As for bicycles, I haven’t personally rented from those shops myself, so I can’t say for sure. I would hope they offer helmets. In Taiwan, it’s fairly common, outside of cities especially, for people to not bother using locks though. It’s really quite safe. Please let me know when you find out though, so I can know in the future!

Hello Nick,

Thanks for the awesome post about Taroko Gorge. I’m planning to visit Taiwan in August and would like to spend a weekend in Taroko Gorge. I’ve been researching on the NP and find your website super useful. I’d like to bring my camping gear from US to camp at the Heliu Campground. There’re 2 things I’m trying to figure out:

1/ As I read about the Heliu Campground, it is on 1st-come 1st-served basis. So what times would the campground be opened for walk-up and how would I pay the fees (in cash)?

2/ Is it safe to claim a campsite, set up my tent, and hop on the shuttle bus for day hikes in the Gorge, leaving my camping gears at the campsite to come back later at night? This is quite normal in the US but I’ve never had a chance to camp anywhere else so I’m a little bit worried about the safety.

Hoping for your response!!!

Hi Huy, Sounds like you’ve got an awesome trip planned. I’ve only stayed at the campground once, but it was way back in 2008, so I can’t guarantee nothing has changed. When I stayed there, I remember we just walked in, chose a platform, and set up our tent. There was nobody even working there. I don’t even remember paying the fee, but maybe somebody came around later to collect it. For best luck to get a spot, you should try to come early, especially on weekends. Taiwan is extremely safe, and I think you can leave your things and not worry about them. Taiwan is the kind of place where people leave their laptops unattended for half an hour in a cafe. It’s probably smart to keep your most important valuables on you though, because you never know.

Hi, I am drawing an itinerary for Taiwan trip (Oct 14th morning – 19th afternoon) with my family – twin (26), my parents (55 & 65) who are not the most active adults. Thinking of sightseeing Taipei on 14,15 and spend 16 at Taroko Gorge. Should I arrive from Taipei in the evening of 15th, stay overnight at Taroko and start early 17th oct at the national park and take train back or stay at Hualien. Take train back to taipei 18th morning/afternoon. Or take a train in the morning 17th and leave bags at hotel, continue to Taroko during midday and rest overnight at Taroko. Take train back to taipei 18th morning/afternoon. (Is there much to see at Hualien or worth skipping?) I wish to continue to Sunmoon lake next morning… but realise there are no trains connecting Hualien/Taroko to Sunmoon Lake. I realise driving from Taroko would take 5-6 hours and it would be too much for elderys their age. Do you think it’s worth doing another one-day trip down there from Taipei-Taichung-(bust) Sun Moon Lake? If so how long would it take? Please kindly advise. Many thanks

Hi Nick, do you know by chance if Island Life tours in Hualien/Taroko are still operating? I tried to contact them via multiple channels to arrange a private tour or two, but no luck. It’s weird that most recent reviews they have on FB and Google maps are from 2020 :-/

Hey Ivan, Island Life Tours, like most tour companies in Taiwan, relied on foreign tourists. Their business has been devastated by the lack of tourists coming to the island, so it’s not at all surprising that they aren’t running tours right now. We can only hope that they will manage to get their business back up and running again after Taiwan starts allowing tourists to come.

Hey Nick! Thank you for the comprehensive guide to a Taroko tour. I’m hoping to do it by bike and so far research hasn’t shown us a giant station next to xincheng. Have you had any experience with this?

Greetings from a Belgian traveller!

Hi Elise, sorry for my belated reply, I just saw this! At Xincheng Station you can rent bikes at “TR9-Xinchengzu Station” or “太魯閣車頭前機車腳踏車出租”, both right outside the station. I’m not sure whether the have Giant brand, but they definitely rent bikes. Best of luck!

Hi Elise, Happy New Year 2023. I plan to go to Taiwan this Feb. Did you have great time in Taiwan? Stefan – also from Belgium [email protected]

Hi Nick, where do you think is a good base to visit Taroko Gorge when travelling with a 3 year old and a 1 year old? My kids do not do great on long car rides. I am planning to drive through from Hualien to Cingjing, visiting Taroko Gorge in between. Obviously with kids, I am not going to be able to visit Taroko in single day. I do not mind too not visiting all of it. If you have any suggestions on how to make this visit to Taroko the most workable and ‘pain-free’ for parents with little kids, I’ll be most grateful. Thank you!

Hi Mel, and sorry about my slow reply. Please also see the Taroko Gorge section of my article “Taiwan with kids”, in which I describe our visit with kids and some kid-friendly hotels in the area. Hualien City has the best selection of rooms, but it also the furthest away. You said obviously you can’t visit taroko in a single day, but I feel you actually can. Simply driving through, you get to see a lot of the scenery. Stop at a few of the main stops, like Eternal Spring Shrine, Tunnel of Nine Turns, and Swallow’s Grotto, each which require a very short or almost no walk, and you’ve essentially seen the best of Taroko Gorge. As for your drive to Cingjing with kids, I would say that if you’re kids are prone to car sickness like mine, expect an extremely winding road. Let me know if you have any more questions!

Hi Nick Thanks for all the info you provide on your various blogs ! it has been super helpful in planning our taiwan trip. We need to travel from Sunmoon lake to taroko gorge- and we were considering renting a car and driving between the 2 locations and stopping at cinqing farm for 1 night. I am a bit concerned after reading your comment about the road being closed due to land slides? What would your back up options be ? is this not recommended? we are planning to visit in Late sep- oct. Thanks

Highway 8 above Taroko Gorge was badly damaged in three different spots several months ago in 2022. Right now the construction crews are still fixing the road, but they let cars pass through at some specific times every day. The exact times and locations are listed on the Taroko Gorge National Park website (click news, roads and trails, small arrow beside Highway 8 for updated details). It could be totally fixed before your trip, but also possible it’s not. It’s also possible that another typhoon could strike this year and cause more damage again (typhoon seasons is July to October). So this part is impossible to predict. So I suggest you plan to do it, but also have a backup plan in case it’s not possible. Maybe book a hotel in Cingjing that has a cancellation policy. And if you can’t go, you can just drive from SML to Taroko via Taipei, which will take longer, but still possible.

Hi Nick, thanks for all the recommendations and info provided! They are so useful! Can I check if any of the following trails at taroko is doable with a baby stroller? Do these trails have stairs such that bringing a stroller along will cause problems? 1）Baiyang Trail 2）Buluowan Suspension Bridge 3）Eternal Spring Shrine 4) Taroko Shakadang trail

All four of these are pretty flat and easy enough with kids. However, the ground is sometimes bumpy, and there could be a few stairs on all of them. So it’s better if you can bring a baby carrier, not stroller, like we did. If you have a small stroller that is easy to push over bumps or carry sometimes, then it would probably be OK.

Hi Nick, good day. grateful for your blog on Taroko gorge. I would like to enquire are there any options to go Taroko from Taichung using public transportation or tours? Instead of the usual route from Hualien to Taroko. I understand the mountain route from Taroko to Hualien is commonly closed due to natural disasters. I would be coming from the south and its quite troublesome to go to taipei and then go to hualien to taroko. Thank you.

There is no faster or easier way to do this. The cross-island highway is damaged and repairs are not finished yet. Even when it’s open, there are no buses or tours going across the mountain range. The faster way from Taichung to Taroko is HSR to Taipei (1 hr) and express train to Hualien (2 hrs). Even if the road is safe to pass, it would take longer to drive across the mountains than going via Taipei.

Hi Nick! Do you know of any taxi services I can book that will take me from Hualien back to Taipei after my day tour?

You can use the Tripool app, contact Steven Hsieh (search “drivers” on my website’s search function to find my article with his contact info), or you can take the train, which is faster than driving.

Outstanding guide. What a legend. Thank you very much for the huge effort!

Good afternoon,

First and foremost, we wanted to express our gratitude for your detailed blog post about Taiwan. It has proven immensely helpful while planning our upcoming trip to Taiwan in November.

While your blog suggests touring Taroko Gorge either with a guided tour or a private vehicle, we’re more inclined towards using public transportation for our travels. We find comfort in buses and the freedom to explore at our own pace. Could you please advise if it’s possible to visit Taroko Gorge in a day using public transportation? If so, we would greatly appreciate guidance on where we can find information such as timetables, station details, and other relevant transport-related details.

Additionally, for context, we’ll be arriving in Hualien and plan to depart for Yuli on the same day after our visit to Taroko Gorge.

Thank you very much for your assistance. We’ll wait for your answer. Have a nice day!

I almost always feel the same, but this is one case when I would personally go for the driver. The thing about bussing to Taroko is that it’s slower, and you’re coming to spend your whole day watching the bus schedule, trying to visit places fast or slow enough to catch the next bus, and waiting for the bus. There are at least half a dozen spots you’ll want to see in Taroko, so to heave to catch a bus to and between each of those will be tedious. By hiring a driver, you can create a customized tour, and not worry about how much or how little time you spend at each stop. If you decide to go by bus, it’s surely still doable, but I think you just have to accept that you’ll be able to see as many spots as if you have a driver. Having a driver also allows you to tack on Qingshui Cliffs, Qixingtan Beach, and if you want to swim in a lovely river, the Sanzhan swimming spot. By bus, you’ll probably have to leave these three spots out, too.

Thank you for the great blog post! My friend and I were planning on getting the train then bus to get to takoro gorge on a DIY day trip from Taipei. Once we get off the bus at the Takoro stop, is it going to be easy to see the main sights on foot or are there busses or taxis available to take us around? Thank you!

Seeing the gorge by bus is not ideal. There are around half a dozen main stops/hikes in the gorge (and many smaller ones) spanning a distance of about 20 kilometers. So definitely you can’t walk to all of them, or even a few, and there will definitely be no taxis there. You will be at the mercy of the bus to get between stops. The bus is infrequent, so you’ll need to figure out the schedule, then try to always be at the bus stop for catching it to your next stop. It means you’ll probably only be able to see 2-3 stops in the gorge, and miss out on some of them. This is why I usually recommend splurging on a tour or private driver for Taroko Gorge, even though I normally always prefer to do things DIY or just drive there myself. Having a driver or joining a tour means you’ll be able to see all the main stops with ease.

Hi Nick, Thank you so much for an incredible post. It is very helpful and detailed. I’d like to ask if it’s safe to drive to taroko by ourselves from Hualien. We’re thinking of driving from Taipei to Hualien for the view and since the car will be there anyway I figured we could do a chill tour at Taroko by ourselves but I’ve heard from other travelers that it might not be the easiest road. Also we usually drive on the right side so if the road is too difficult that could be a problem?

I think under normal times the road in Taroko is fine. It’s a little narrow and winding in some places, but as long as you drive carefully, it’s OK. However, the biggest problem now is that the road in Taroko is damaged from landslides and under construction around Xipan Dam, in the middle of the tourist visiting part of the gorge. The road is only open 5 times per day for cars to pass. So you must know those times and plan accordingly. Please join my Facebook group “Taiwan Travel Planning” where we have many posts and updated information about this.

hmm, is there any food in taroko?

Yes, there are some snacks and lunchboxes for sale at Buluowan Terrace and an aboriginal restaurant in the hotel there. Option two is the 7-11 and some simple restaurants at Tianxiang.

Hi Nick, hopefully you and your family are safe and not affected by the earhquake this morning. My family booked tickets to visit Taipei and Hualien, supposed to take train on 7 April from taipei to Hualien. Taroko was our main destination in Hualien (booked private driver from klook), with the earthquake this morning, do you know whether it is still open for visit ? I tried googling for any information on this but couldnt find any reference. Thank you in advance! Also, thank you for your comprehensive information on Taiwan! It helps me a lot in planning my family trip 🙂

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Asia , Outdoor Guides , Taiwan · July 13, 2019

Visiting Taroko Gorge: Ultimate Taroko National Park Guide

Visiting Taroko Gorge for the first time and not sure how to plan the perfect Taroko tour? This post has you covered!

Taroko Gorge (太魯閣) is one of the most popular tourist spots in Taiwan and a huge must on any Taiwan itinerary . Situated in Xiulin Township on Taiwan’s mind-blowing east coast, this dramatic 19-km gorge is the shining star of Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園) – one of the country’s nine national parks. The park spans more than 920 km² and actually lies over three counties; Taichung, Nantou, and Hualien.

Taroko Gorge is famous for many things; it’s more than 200 million years old, it’s home to some of Taiwan’s highest peaks, and the Truku tribe (the area’s indigenous tribe) is settled here. However, what really makes Taroko Gorge so special is its stunning scenery.

The gorge was shaped by thousands of years of erosion and carved out by the Liwu River that flows right through it. With breathtaking natural beauty featuring high mountain tops, steep gorges, dreamy waterfalls, and abundant plant and animal life, it’s not hard to see why Taroko Gorge is a must-visit attraction in Taiwan. What’s more, Taroko is absolutely littered with colorful temples, glorious hikes through lush jungles, and easy trails along high-rising marble walls.

In this guide, I’ll cover absolutely everything you need to know about visiting Taroko Gorge for the first time. I’ve also included tons of tips from how to get to Taroko, where to stay, the best Taroko Gorge hiking trails, and more!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Tips for visiting Taroko Gorge Taiwan

Before visiting Taroko Gorge National Park, here are a couple of quick tips to make your trip all the easier. 

• Hualien City is the main gateway to Taroko Gorge. Find out exactly how to get to Hualien , and also read my detailed Hualien guide to discover the best things to do, where to stay, and so much more! 
• Taroko Gorge is Taiwan’s #1 attraction, and as a result, it’s important to book accommodation a few weeks in advance . There are several hotels within and near the park, but you’ll find more choices in Hualien. Find the best hotel deals here on Agoda. Book at least one night’s stay to experience all of Taroko’s best bits.
• If you don’t want to plan a thing, this  day tour from Hualien  is your best bet. And if you’d like to plan all of your stops without worrying about any transport hassles, this  private car charter  is a great stress-free option. 
• Don’t forget to bring your  Easy Card  (Taiwan’s transport card) so that you can travel on trains and buses easily. 
• Some of Taroko’s hiking trails, like Zhuilu Old Road, require permits. See the  official park website  for more details on fees and permits, or  apply for a permit  here. 
• Pack bug spray, sunscreen,  and a  hat  for your trip. Also wear  comfortable non-slip walking shoes  or  hiking boots  when tackling longer trails. 
• Check the weather  before visiting Taroko National Park because the east coast is prone to unpredictable weather conditions.
• Check the  road and trail conditions  before your Taroko trip. Trails often close due to safety precautions or construction.
• Taroko Gorge is full of animal life. Remember to keep an eye out for poisonous snakes and giant hornets when hiking.

How to get from Taipei to Taroko Gorge

While it’s possible to access Taroko Gorge via several places in Taiwan, Hualien City on Taiwan’s east coast is its main gateway. Hualien is a picturesque city with loads to keep you busy. So if you have a few days to spare, definitely also check out these great things to do in Hualien .

Since Hualien is the main access point to Taroko Gorge, it’s very easy to reach from practically anywhere in Taiwan. I’ve written a detailed guide on exactly how to get to Hualien from Taipei . But if you’re in a rush, here’s a quick look at all the ways to get there.

Taking the Train from Taipei to Hualien

The quickest way to get to Taroko Gorge from Taipei is via Hualien by train. Loads of trains run daily from  Taipei , but take a  Taroko Express  or  Puyuma train  for the fastest route. The journey to Hualien takes less than 2.5 hours and costs NT$440 per way. See prices and time schedules  here . 

Trains bound for Hualien fill up quite quickly, so it’s best to book tickets well in advance . You can buy tickets directly at any train station across Taiwan or online (up to 14 days in advance).

Flying from Taipei to Hualien

If you want to maximize your time in Taroko Gorge National Park or have limited time, you might want to consider flying to Hualien.

Uni Air  flies daily from Taipei’s Songshan Airport , and  Mandarin Airlines  has direct flights to Hualien from  Kaohsiung . One-way tickets shouldn’t set you back more than NT$2500, but as prices often change, it’s best to check individual sites directly.

Once you arrive at the Hualien airport, you could either hop on the Hualien Bus ( more details and schedules here ), rent a car, or grab a taxi.

Taking the bus from Taipei to Hualien

It is possible to take a bus directly from Taipei to Hualien. Both  Taipei Bus  and  Ubus  offer cheap rides from Taipei to Hualien. Buses depart from Nangang Bus Station in Taipei City and take about 3 hours to reach Hualien.

Taipei Bus 1071 departs from platform 1, while Ubus 1663 departs at platform 3. If you’re traveling via the Lunar New Year holidays, it’s quite common to find greatly discounted tickets which will easily cost half than a Puyuma train ticket. See more details here (only in Chinese):  Taipei Bus  |  Ubus

Alternatively, take a bus to Luodong  and continue your journey by  train to Hualien . However, as these combo tickets are only slightly cheaper and the travel time is nearly the same as the train, I wouldn’t recommend using this transport option.

Joining a Taroko Gorge day trip Tour from Taipei

Another option you might want to consider is taking a  shared sightseeing car from Taipei to Hualien . The journey takes about 8 hours, but it’s a great way to see a bit more of Taiwan’s beautiful coastline. The charter stops by several iconic sights in Taiwan, including Jiufen, Qingshui Cliff, the Nanfang-ao viewing platform, and Yilan Jimmy Park.

How to get from Hualien to Taroko Gorge

Unless you stay within the Taroko National Park at Tianxiang or near the park’s entrance, the best place to stay is in Hualien.  (More on accommodation later).  Although it is a 40-minute ride to the National Park, basing yourself here would give you so much more freedom to explore the city and surrounding areas. Not to mention, you’ll have better accommodation and food options.

There are a few ways to travel between Taroko Park and Hualien, the easiest being driving a car or renting a scooter. Buses also run daily between Hualien and Taroko. Here’s what you need to know about each one.

Getting to Taroko Gorge By Car

There are plenty of car rental companies available in Hualien itself, so you could easily take the train to Hualien and then rent a car upon arrival. However, it is important to note that you need a valid local or international license .

Another thing to know is that driving within the park has some constraints – the roads are quite narrow with tons of twists and turns, and traffic can get congested easily – especially if there are roadworks underway. Also, you’ll need to watch out for the huge tour buses, and finding a parking spot can sometimes be a total pain. Nonetheless, if you want to explore the park at your own pace, this is a great way to do so.

For a hassle-free journey, consider booking a  private car charter   instead. 

Driving a Scooter to Taroko Gorge

A great way to explore Taroko National Park at your own pace is by renting a scooter. This way, you’ll also get to visit some of the amazing attractions in and around Hualien.

You can rent a scooter right outside the Hualien train station – there are a plethora of scooter shops lining the parking lot towards the left. Near the exit, and between the bus and train station, is another great little shop. The owner speaks excellent English, and rentals go for NT$500 a day.

However, to rent a scooter anywhere in Taiwan, you must have a valid local license or an international license for a scooter. It’s also highly likely that you will need to leave some kind of identification at the shop to guarantee you return the scooter. So, be sure to bring some form of identification along – apart from your passport or ARC card .

If you are traveling on a shoestring, you might want to check with your accommodation beforehand whether it is possible to rent a scooter or even a vehicle through them. Many of the hotels and hostels in Hualien offer this service – often at a lower price than the scooter shops near the train station.

Taking the Hualien Bus to Taroko Gorge

The best way to reach Taroko Gorge via public transport is by bus. Buses run daily from the Hualien Bus Station (the orange building near the train station) towards Tianxiang. Although it’s pretty hassle-free to use the bus, keep in mind that the buses aren’t that frequent. So you may spend more time waiting for a bus than actually sightseeing. The best tip I can give you is to plan your schedule properly beforehand.

If you choose to use the bus to travel to/ within Taroko Gorge, I highly recommend investing in an Easy card. That way, you won’t need to bother with small change. Alternatively, you can also buy a 1-Day Pass (NT$250) or a 2-Day Pass (NT$400) at the bus station.

The earliest bus leaves Hualien at 6:30 am, and the last bus from Tianxiang is at 5 pm. The journey takes about 1 hour, and buses leave every 1.5hrs or so.

For more details, see the Taroko shuttle bus timetables .

When to visit Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge generally enjoys mild temperatures year-round, which drop as the elevation rises. Seeing that the elevation here rises from 60 m to 3,742 m, you might want to bring a light jacket and an umbrella along, no matter which time of year you visit.

Taiwan’s East Coast is also prone to heavy rainfall and earthquakes, so it’s vital to always keep an eye on the weather forecast before traveling here. Taroko Gorge, in particular, sees about 2000mm of rain a year, and typhoons are common from July to September.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best not to visit mountainous areas anywhere in Taiwan after extended periods of rain as rockfalls and landslides can occur here.

Like  Alishan  and  Sun Moon Lake , it’s also best to time your visit to Taroko National Park. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays when most crowds and large tour groups come.

How long to stay in Taroko Park

How much time you spend in Taroko Gorge will ultimately depend on what you’d like to get out of your trip. While it’s possible to visit Taroko on a day trip, I highly recommend staying longer as there is so much to do and see! To really get a feel of what the area offers, stay at least two to three days . This will allow sufficient time to do a few hikes and explore some of the stunning places around Hualien.

However, if you are pressed for time, this  Hualien Day Tour from Taipei is your best bet. The tour lasts 11hrs and includes a visit to Qixingtan Beach and the Swallow Grotto Trail in Taroko. 

Taroko Gorge Hotels

Taiwan’s east coast has loads of excellent accommodation options to match any budget. With that said, though, to really maximize your time in Taroko Gorge, I highly recommend staying in one of these three areas:

• Tianxiang (If you want to stay in Taroko National Park)
• Fushi Village (If you’re looking for a cheaper option, right beside the park)
• Hualien (If you’re looking for more choice and want to see more of Taiwan’s east coast)

Where to stay in Tianxiang

Silks Place  is the only 5-star hotel right in the heart of Taroko Park and the best Taroko Gorge hotel. It has beautiful rooms, a restaurant, a dreamy swimming pool, and a gym. 

Nearby you’ll also find the  Taroko Tienhsiang Youth Activity Centre  with basic rooms and a much friendlier price tag.

If you are traveling on a tight budget but still wish to stay a few nights, you could consider camping. There are two campgrounds near Tianxiang, namely Heliu and Lushui Campgrounds .

Heliu, near Cimu Bridge, has 12 wooden platforms where visitors can pitch tents. There are also bathrooms with cold water showers. A platform costs NT$300 per day and works on a “first-come, first-serve basis.”

A little further along, you will also find Lushui. Here you’ll need to pitch your tent on the grass as there are no tent platforms. Water and lighting are available too. No reservations or fees are necessary. For more details on camping, you can check out the park’s website  here .

Where to stay in Fushi Village

Fushi Village is just a stone’s throw from the Taroko National Park’s East Entrance Arch Gate. Don’t expect anything too fancy here, as this area mainly caters to budget travelers. But, if you want to base yourself near the park, this is a great option. Popular Taroko Gorge hotel options here include  Liwu Hotel  and  Yong Ying B&B .

Where to stay in Hualien

Hualien is the biggest city near Taroko Gorge and is an excellent base, especially if traveling further afield. There are many accommodation options to suit every pocket and traveling style. Here are a few places I highly recommend staying at: 

Meci Hotel   is an excellent mid-range hotel only a few hundred meters from the Hualien train station.  While the hotel’s exterior may look somewhat outdated, the interior is top-notch. You’ll find clean, trendy rooms, great staff, and lots of food choices nearby.  

Wow Hostel  is a great alternative for those traveling on a tight budget. Choose between dorm rooms or rooms with private bathrooms. The hostel is a stone’s throw away from the train station, and you can spot its bright green exterior a mile away! 

You’ll find a few posher options a bit further away from the train station. Both  Lakeshore Hotel Hualien  and   LeaLea Garden Hotels – Hualien  are excellent choices if you’re looking for an upscale stay.

What to pack for Taroko Gorge

Since most of the activities in Taroko National Park are centered around hiking, make sure to pack  comfortable walking shoes  or sturdy non-slip  hiking boots . It’s also a good idea to bring along  sunscreen  if you’re visiting during the warmer months. Other must-pack items include  mosquito repellant , a refillable  water bottle , and an umbrella . Oh, and don’t forget your  camera  – you’re going to need it!

Also, check out my Taiwan packing list for more tips on what to pack. 

Best Taroko Gorge Hiking Trails & Things to do

Great, now that you know all the ins and outs of planning a Taroko Gorge trip, it’s time to find out what to do!

There are loads of amazing things to do in Taroko Gorge. The National Park is home to some of the most incredible  hiking trails in Taiwan , and it’s easy to explore the area whether you’re planning a  day trip from Taipei  or a bit longer. Here are the best Taroko Gorge hiking trails and top things to do in Taroko National Park.

Shakadang Trail

Altitude: 60m | Length of trail: 4.4km | Time: 3-4 hrs | Difficulty: Fairly Easy |  MAP

Just a short drive or walk from the park’s Visitors Center, you will find the Shakadang trail. There is a small parking area near the Shakadang bridge’s entrance if you need parking. The trailhead starts to the right of the bridge – follow the small staircase down to start the hike.

The Shakadang trail, also known as the “Mysterious Valley trail,” is an easy hike and one not to miss while visiting Taroko National Park. The course takes you past the river valley, renowned for its deep azure rock pools, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse plant and animal life.

Note this trail runs near a restricted area home to the local Truku people – please pass by respectfully. You might also see some of the locals selling snacks and handmade souvenirs along the trail from time to time.

The trail ends at 3D Cabin, and if you want to continue past this point, you would need an entry permit to do so. You can find more details on obtaining permits for Dali and Datung  here .

If you happen to visit Taroko in May, this is a great place to see the beautiful Tung blossoms in bloom.

Eternal Spring Shrine Trail (Changchun Trail)

Altitude: 85m | Length of trail: 1.35km | Time: 30mins | Difficulty: Fairly Easy |  MAP

No visit to Taroko Gorge would be complete without dropping by one of the most iconic landmarks in Taiwan – the Eternal Spring Shrine. The shrine was built in memory of 226 veterans who died constructing the Central Cross-Island Highway between 1956-1960 and plays an important role in the park’s history.

The small shrine is perched on the side of a mountain, and a beautiful waterfall flows nearby. It’s a spectacular sight to see and one you definitely shouldn’t miss when visiting Taroko Gorge.

The trail leading to the shrine is currently only partially open, so best to keep an eye on the  park’s road and trails page  for any updates before you visit. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the path is quite slippery.

If you don’t feel like hiking via the East trailhead, you can still get an amazing view from the observation deck. The small coffee shop beneath the walkway also offers an excellent vantage point and is a terrific spot to enjoy a cuppa while marveling at the shrine from a distance. The entrance is right next to the bus stop.

The Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou Trail)

Altitude: 274m | Length of trail: 1.37km | Time: 10-30 mins | Difficulty: Easy |  MAP

The Swallow Grotto trail takes you past towering marble walls covered in lush vegetation, with the Liwu rushing by below.

The hike follows the old road all the way to Jinheng Bridge and is an easy walk. Generally, you only need about 20 minutes to finish a leg but as the scenery is mindblowing, work on more if you want to stop for photo ops. Apart from getting a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent gorge, potholes resembling swallow nests, and weird rock formations, you can also spot the” Chieftain Profile Rock” along the way. This rockface has been carved out by years and years of water erosion. The best place to spot this rockface is from the observation deck at Jingheng Park, at the trail’s end. It’s also an excellent spot to take a breather and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There is a small coffee shop where you can enjoy a bite to eat, grab some refreshments or shop for local souvenirs too.

You should ideally wear a hardhat/ helmet when following this trail, as rockfalls aren’t uncommon. You can borrow a hard hat at the Xipan check-in/check-out Service Station, but many visitors wear a scooter helmet.

Zhuilu Old Road Trail

Altitude: 765m | Length of trail: 3.1km | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate |  MAP  

At the Swallow Grotto’s east trailhead, you’ll spot the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge – this is where the Zhuilu Old Trail starts.

The Zhuilu Old Trail is one of the most famous (and dangerous trails) in Taroko Gorge. It follows through lush jungle and along a narrow path with sweeping views over the valley below. The Zhuilu Old Road plays an important role in Taroko’s history as it’s part of the Old Cross-Hehuan Mountain Road – a former means to connect to the local Truku villages.

The trail is only partially open (Zhuilu Suspension Bridge to the Cliff Outpost) due to rockfall damages, but it’s still worth doing. However, to complete this hike you’ll need to apply for a Park Entry Permit . Only 96 permits are issued per weekday, and 156 on weekends and holidays, so plan in advance. You’ll also need two copies of the permit, an ID card and NT$200 cash, which you need to take to the small office near the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge before accessing the trail.

The trail is open from 7 am – 6 pm, but you’re only allowed to enter it between 7 am – 10 am. If you decide to do this hike, it’s important to know that the terrain is very rugged and the cliff is narrow. You should really  only  attempt this hike if you are  fit  and  not scared of heights . Spotting poisonous creatures along the trail isn’t uncommon either.

Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail (Jiuqudong)

Altitude: 300m | Length of trail: 700m | Time: 30-40 mins | Difficulty: Easy |  MAP

The Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail is one of the most amazing trails in Taroko and well worth your time.

You can only enter and exit at the west end of the trailhead, but the trail takes you along an underpass lined with cliffs, dramatic marble walls, waterfalls, and the Liwu River. Just a stone’s throw from the entrance, you can follow the Waterscape trail to get closer to the valley and the Liwu River.

Other important points of interest, such as the “Fish Leaping over the Dragon’s Gate” and the “Coiled Dragon of the Nine Turns,” can also be found on the way.

Tianxiang ( map ) is a large terraced area and also the biggest village within Taroko National Park. Here you will find the prestigious 5-star Silks Place Taroko as well as a few cheaper options to stay at.

Apart from popping by the Sakuma Samata Shrine, you can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many vendors or small restaurants, dishing up local delicacies before heading out to the Pudu bridge. From here, you can access the Tianfeng Pagoda and some small temples.

Baiyang Waterfall Trail

Altitude: 480m | Length of trail: 2.1km | Time: 1hr | Difficulty: Fairly Easy |  MAP

Another famous trail is the Baiyang Waterfall Trail – a few hundred meters west of Tianxiang. The trail leads you past several tunnels before reaching this  breathtaking Taiwan waterfall . Please note that you can only enter the first Water Curtain due to safety reasons.

It takes about 2 hours to complete a round trip, and you might want to bring a flashlight as the tunnels can be a bit dark. It’s also extremely important to check the Taroko website for safety warnings before attempting this hike.

Taroko Park in Conclusion

If you’re spending some time in Taiwan, you should definitely add Taroko Gorge to your list of things to do! It’s one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan and one you certainly won’t regret visiting!

Well, that wraps up this Taroko Gorge guide. If you have any tips or suggestions for fellow travelers visiting Taroko Gorge, let me know in the comments below so that I can add to this list of epic things to do in Taroko!

Ready to plan your trip? Pin this Guide to Visiting Taroko Gorge for quick reference later.

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July 14, 2019 at

Love Taiwan! I Loved the food there too!

Glad to hear that – it is indeed an amazing place to explore! Thanks for stopping by.

September 11, 2022 at

Do you think it’s feasible to do Zhuilu Old Road followed by several (2 or 3) of the other trails in one day? We stay in Hualien, will go by bus to Taroko, don’t have car/scooter, and we have the permit for Zhuilu. We’ll rely on Uber or public transport to go from one start point to another. Thanks!

September 17, 2022 at

Hey Maxim, the Zhuili Old trail is quite an intense hike taking roughly 6 hours. You also need to enter and exit at specific times, so you might not have enough time (or energy) to tackle a few other trails. If possible, I suggest adding another day to your itinerary so that you can explore the rest of the trails at a more relaxed pace.

March 19, 2023 at

Hi! Our family will be there in Taiwan this April. We plan to go to Taroko even if we have a 2yr old and a 7yr old with us. My question – I read there are easy trails that are paved all the way. Can I use the baby stroller in these trails? I am interested in these trails: 1. Swallow Grotto Trail 2. Eternal Spring Shrine Trail 3. Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail 4. Cimu Bridge 5. Xiangde Temple Trail

Super thanks in advance for your inputs!

March 28, 2023 at

Hey Binky, you should be fine. The only trail that you probably won’t be able to use the stroller is the Eternal Shrine one, cause the path to the shrine is cut out in the rock face. There are quite a few stairs to climb down to the entrance and the path itself is very uneven. It’s not that far to the actual shrine, though, but if you want to do the entire circular route it takes about an hour.

June 12, 2023 at

Love this!! I’m a solo traveller and have found this super helpful!! I stayed at meci Hotel and took the bus to taroko gorge and it worked perfectly well. I even used the links you provided for buying my train ticket from taipei to hualien. Also checked out your recommended trails!

Thanks for being so thorough!

June 13, 2023 at

That’s amazing, Ri – thank you! So glad you had an amazing trip!

July 2, 2023 at

I am going to travel Solo to Taiwan in the next 2 weeks, I just want to know how you went navigating Taroko Gorge? Did you walk everywhere or did you rent a bicycle?

Hopefully, you will see this!

July 7, 2023 at

Hey Vic – no, I usually rent a scooter or we drive a car. But you can also take the bus there and I believe it stops at some of the places inside the park.

August 22, 2023 at

thank you very much for the detailed explanation each time! I follow quite some travel blogs, but yours is definitely one of the top on my list of sites to check for details! 😉

September 2, 2023 at

Thanks so much David – that’s so lovely to hear. Glad you find it useful.

August 30, 2023 at

Hi, Thanks for the great information on all your blogs. We have 1 day in taroko, we have a 8 yo and a 6 yo ( so realistically approx 6 hrs); we will have a car. What would your top 3-4 trails be to do?

September 3, 2023 at

Hey Doreen – my faves are the Eternal Shrine, Swallow Grotto and the Shakadang trail. They are all low key hikes, so suitable for kids. You probably won’t have time to finish the entire Shakadang trail, but you can see a good portion of it with the time you have. Hope that helps!

September 27, 2023 at

Hi. We are planning our trip in December and have limited time. We’re debating whether to visit Tarogo Gorge and Hualien. We are travelling with 2 seniors with limited mobility. It seems it’s mostly trails and hikes and the two seniors will not be able to participate much. Is it still worthwhile to visit or spend the time elsewhere? Would love your expertise. Thank you!

September 28, 2023 at

Hey Christina, Taroko is mostly a hiking area, but you don’t necessarily need to hike to enjoy the scenery. Some of the areas are wheelchair friendly and you could also just drive through the park without walking around much. The scenery is really spectacular, so if you can, it’s worth a visit.

October 23, 2023 at

Hi. Thank you for a detailed write up. I am travelling with my husband in November 2023 and I have a phobia of monkeys. Is it safe to hike there and what should I expect ?

October 24, 2023 at

Hi Preeti – you should be fine. I don’t recall ever spotting monkeys there, and I’ve been a bunch times! Expect to see spiders and bugs at most.

October 25, 2023 at

Thanks Mariza. I really appreciate that 😊

October 26, 2023 at

No problem, Preeti. If you do happen to spot some, just remain calm and don’t make eye contact.

November 4, 2023 at

Hi, thanks for all the great info and tips! Based on your write-up (and the fact that the Tienhsiang Youth Activity Centre is unfortunately booked up during our travel dates), we are thinking of staying in Fushi Village. Just curious, is further transportation needed between Fushi and the gorge and all of the hikes? You noted it’s a stone’s throw, so was hoping we could just step out of the B&B’s in the village and essentially start walking! Thanks!

Hey Justin, sorry to hear the hostel is all booked up for your dates – that’s a real bummer. But yes, there are a few places to stay outside the park, right near the entrance gate. You want to specifically search for “ Xiulin Township ” on Google Maps, and look for accommodation within walking distance to the Taroko Archway (the entrance gate to the park). From the entrance gate, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Visitor’s Center, where you can access some trails (incl. one that connects to the Shakadang Trail). However, if you want to go all the way to Tianxiang, it will probably take a few hours to walk because it’s about 30 mins (17km) away by car/scooter. If that’s too intense and you want to avoid renting your own wheels, you can consider taking the bus or check with your hotel if they offer bike rentals.

February 15, 2024 at

Hello, thanks so much for all the info on this blog…. Taroko National Park. The only part I am still confused is , how to tour around to the rest of the points once get to Tianxiang (by bus). Is the bus like a shuttle I can hop on/off to drop me at certain vista points? And if I ride the bus from Hualien to Tianxiang… on the way there are points like Changchun Shrine, Buluowan Bridge or Tunnel of nine turn, can I get off the bus to walk around then hop back on next bus to keep going to Tianxiang.? Thank so much… I am planning to go Taiwan, first time, stay there for a week from 4/19 to 4/26.

Hey Joy, thanks for stopping by. There are a couple of buses you can take to Taroko Gorge but I think your best bet is to take Ubus 310 . It’s like a hop-on-hop-off bus and allows you to get on/off at any of the stops along the route. You can check out the schedule and stops for Ubus #310 here. From quickly looking at the schedule though, it doesn’t look like bus 310 stops at the Eternal Spring Shrine, but you can try bus 310A . It’s the bus that goes back to Hualien, so you’ll need to be in the park already to take it to the temple. It might require a bit of planning, but Google Maps works very well in TW, especially in more touristy spots.

The bus info page on the Taroko Gorge website summarizes all the options you can take, so have a look at that too. Hope that helps!

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Explore Hualien: A 3-Day Itinerary Through Mountains and Seas

Welcome to Hualien, a jewel nestled between the majestic Pacific Ocean and the towering Central Mountain Range of Taiwan. This enchanting city, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and vibrant local cuisine, promises an unforgettable journey for every traveler. Whether you’re an avid adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature, Hualien has something special in store for you.

Over the next three days, we’ll take you on a journey through the heart of Hualien, from the awe-inspiring Taroko Gorge to tranquil Liyu Lake, and from the bustling streets of Hualien City to the serene countryside that surrounds it. You’ll discover hidden gems, savor local flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich indigenous culture that makes this destination truly unique.

Day 1: Exploring the Majestic Taroko Gorge

Start your Hualien adventure with a visit to the breathtaking Taroko Gorge , one of Taiwan’s natural crown jewels. Located within the Taroko National Park, this stunning marble gorge is known for its towering cliffs, deep valleys, and rushing river.

Morning: Departure & Taroko Gorge Entrance

• Depart from Hualien City early in the morning to make the most of your day. The drive to Taroko Gorge takes approximately 40 minutes.
• Stop by the Visitor Center to pick up maps and check on any trail closures or safety information.

Mid-Morning: Shakadang Trail

• Begin your exploration with the Shakadang Trail , an easy 4.1m trek known for its crystal-clear river and vibrant turquoise waters.
• The trail offers stunning views of the gorge’s marble walls and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Lunch: Local Cuisine near the Gorge

• Enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the local restaurants near the park’s entrance. We recommend trying the local specialty, bamboo rice , for an authentic taste of Hualien.

Afternoon: Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) & Cihmu Bridge

• After lunch, take a short drive to the Swallow Grotto , where you can witness the gorge’s narrowest and most impressive section.
• Walk along the trail overlooking the river, and don’t forget to wear a helmet to protect from falling rocks.
• Next, visit the Cihmu Bridge , an elegant arch bridge surrounded by lush landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Evening: Return to Hualien & Dinner

• Return to Hualien City in the late afternoon and rest after a day full of adventure.
• For dinner, head to the Dongdamen Night Market for a variety of street foods and local delicacies. An absolute must-try is the famous mochi and seafood skewers .

Recommended Accommodation

Book your stay at one of Hualien’s top-rated hotels on Agoda.com to ensure a comfortable rest.

Day 2: Immersion in Hualien City’s Culture and Cuisine

Morning: breakfast and pine garden.

• Begin your day with a visit to a popular local café for breakfast, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and Taiwanese coffee.
• After breakfast, head to Pine Garden , a historic site surrounded by over 60 pine trees and offering panoramic views of Hualien City and the Pacific Ocean.

Mid-Morning: Hualien Cultural & Creative Industries Park

• Next, visit the Hualien Cultural & Creative Industries Park , a hub for local artists and craftspeople. Explore the galleries and shops showcasing traditional and contemporary Taiwanese arts and crafts.

Lunch: Local Specialties

• For lunch, explore Hualien’s vibrant food scene. Try local specialties such as dan bing (Taiwanese egg crepe) and stinky tofu at one of the city’s numerous eateries.

Afternoon: Qixingtan Beach

• After lunch, take a leisurely drive or bike ride to Qixingtan Beach , known for its pebble-covered shoreline and clear blue waters. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
• Enjoy a walk along the beach, dip your toes in the water, and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Evening: Hualien City

• Return to Hualien City and spend your evening at a local restaurant.

Stay a second night in the comfort of your chosen Hualien accommodation. To explore more options, visit Agoda.com for Hualien accommodations .

Day 3: Discovering the Rural Charms and Hidden Gems of Hualien

Morning: liyu lake.

• Start your morning with a scenic drive to Liyu Lake , the largest freshwater lake in Hualien. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll around the lake to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
• Don’t miss the opportunity to try paddle boating on the lake, offering a fun and relaxing way to experience the beauty of the area.

Mid-Morning: Lintian Mountain Forestry Center

• Next, visit the Lintian Mountain Forestry Center , a former logging camp turned museum. Here, you’ll learn about Taiwan’s logging history and the importance of conservation.
• Explore the well-preserved Japanese-style buildings and the outdoor exhibits of old steam locomotives and logging equipment.

Lunch: Rural Delights

• For lunch, savor the flavors of the countryside at a local restaurant serving traditional Hakka or indigenous cuisine. Enjoy dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Afternoon: Ruisui Ranch

• After lunch, make your way to Ruisui Ranch , where you can interact with farm animals and taste fresh dairy products, including the delicious Ruisui cheese.
• Take part in a guided tour to learn about the dairy production process and the importance of sustainable farming practices in Hualien.

Evening: Farewell Dinner at Hualien City

• Return to Hualien City for your final evening. Celebrate the end of an unforgettable journey with a farewell dinner at one of Hualien’s top-rated restaurants, offering gourmet Taiwanese cuisine.
• Reflect on your adventures in Hualien as you enjoy local specialties and the warm hospitality of the people.

For your final night, ensure a restful sleep by staying at a comfortable hotel. Discover more lodging options at Agoda.com for Hualien accommodations .

Conclusion: Your Hualien Adventure Awaits

Hualien, with its unparalleled landscapes and vibrant culture, has shown us that there’s beauty and excitement in every nook and cranny. It reminds us that the journey is about more than just the destinations; it’s about the stories, the people we meet, the food we taste, and the memories we make. Whether you’re trekking through the wilderness, exploring city streets, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the sea, Hualien offers an endless array of experiences waiting to be discovered.

If you’re ready to explore more of what Hualien and Taiwan have to offer, remember that the stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality are just a visit away. Book your stay, plan your adventures, and prepare for an unforgettable exploration of this beautiful land.

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