Attractions
Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園)
Taroko National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature and experience the beauty of Taiwan’s landscapes.
One of the park’s main attractions is the Taroko Gorge, a dramatic canyon that stretches for about 19 kilometers. In addition, the sheer marble walls of the gorge rise hundreds of meters high, creating a majestic and awe-inspiring sight. You can explore the gorge on foot, following well-maintained trails that lead to various landmarks and scenic spots.
The other of the most famous landmarks within Taroko National Park is the Eternal Spring Shrine. Perched on a hillside, the shrine is dedicated to the memory of the workers who lost their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. It is surrounded by stunning cascading waterfalls and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Overall, Taroko National Park offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. You can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and river tracing. It is the top 1 attraction for Hualien!
Also check out previous blog of Explore Taroko Gorge and East Rift Valley.
Qixingtan Beach (七星潭)
Qixingtan Beach is a picturesque pebble beach located on the outskirts of Hualien City in Taiwan. Additionally, the beach gets its name, which translates to “Seven Star Lake,” from the seven rock formations that resemble stars scattered along the shoreline. The pebbles on the beach are smooth and round, ranging in size and color, creating a unique and enchanting landscape.
It is known for its stunning natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. You can enjoy the view, take leisurely strolls, or simply admire the breathtaking coastal scenery. Besides, the expansive beachfront provides ample space for various activities, such as beachcombing, picnicking, flying kites, or enjoying a leisurely swim in the ocean.
Do you like watching sunrise? Qixingtan Beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunrise. You can wake up early in the morning to witness the sun emerging from the horizon, casting its golden rays over the tranquil waters and creating a magical ambiance.
Farglory Ocean Park (遠雄海洋公園)
Farglory Ocean Park is a popular amusement park and ocean-themed attraction. It offers a wide range of exciting rides, entertaining shows, and educational exhibits, making it a popular destination for a Taiwan family trip!
The park is divided into different themed zones, each offering a unique experience. One of the main highlights is the Marine Life Encounter Area, where you can get up close to various marine creatures and learn about marine conservation. Also features thrilling rides that cater to adrenaline enthusiasts such as, roller coasters, water slides, etc.
In addition to the rides and marine exhibits, the park offers a variety of entertaining shows and performances. You can enjoy animal shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and birds, as well as acrobatic performances and cultural displays. So what are you waiting for? Come planning a Taiwan family trip with us.
Whale Watching
Hualien is one of the popular destinations in Taiwan for whale watching, providing whale enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating marine creatures. In Hualien, you can join professional guided tours on whale-watching boats to observe whales and dolphins.
The best time for whale watching is usually during spring and summer (April to October) when whale and dolphin activities are more frequent, increasing the chances of sightings. However, please note that whale-watching activities are subject to weather and ocean conditions, and adjustments may sometimes be necessary based on the day’s circumstances.
Whale-watching excursions offer an exciting and memorable experience, allowing you to witness these magnificent creatures in their marine environment!
Pine Garden (松園別館)
Pine Garden, also known as Songyuan Villa, is a former military dependents’ village transformed into a cultural park, featuring art exhibitions, historical buildings, and beautiful gardens. Additionally, the park is named after the numerous pine trees that dot the landscape, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
It features a collection of well-preserved Japanese-style wooden houses that were originally built during the Japanese colonial period. These houses have been restored and repurposed as exhibition spaces, galleries, cafes, and shops, adding to the park’s cultural charm. You can explore the various buildings and learn about the history and heritage of the area.
On top of that, the park offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a popular spot for capturing memorable photos and enjoying breathtaking sunsets.
Indigenous Culture
Hualien is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Amis and Taroko tribes. If you were interested in learning about indigenous culture, you can visit tribal villages, experience traditional music and dance, and savor local delicacies.
Amis Tribe is the largest indigenous group in Taiwan. Traditionally, the Amis people relied on fishing, agriculture, and hunting for their livelihood. Today, some members of the tribe continue to engage in these activities, while others are involved in modern industries. In addition, the Amis have various festivals that celebrate their culture, spirituality, and harvests. The most notable is the annual “Pas-ta’ai” Harvest Festival, where they express gratitude to the gods for a bountiful harvest.
Taroko Tribe is named after the famous Taroko Gorge. Historically, the Taroko tribe relied on hunting and gathering, as well as some agriculture. Today, like other indigenous groups, they engage in various professions and businesses. Furthermore, the Taroko people are skilled in traditional crafts such as weaving, making bamboo utensils, and producing intricate handwoven baskets.
Local Delicacies
Mochi
Hualien is famous for its delicious and chewy mochi, a sweet rice cake often filled with ingredients like red bean paste, peanuts, or sesame. Furthermore, the mochi in Hualien is typically made from glutinous rice, which is pounded into a smooth and elastic dough. The dough is then shaped into small, bite-sized pieces and filled with a variety of sweet fillings. Some popular fillings include red bean paste, peanut, sesame, taro, and matcha (green tea).
You can find mochi shops and stalls throughout the city, particularly in the famous Dongdamen Night Market. Overall, Hualien’s mochi is not only a delicious treat but also a wonderful souvenir to bring back home! Many mochi shops package their products beautifully, making them perfect gifts for friends and family.
Dongdamen Night Market (東大門夜市)
Come to Dongdamen Night Market to sample a variety of local street food, including oyster omelets, grilled squid, stinky tofu, and more!
You can indulge in a mouthwatering array of street food, including seafood, grilled meats, fried snacks, stinky tofu, bubble tea, etc. The market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a chance to taste the flavors of Hualien’s culinary scene.
The night market is not just about eating and shopping; it also offers various entertainment options. You can enjoy live performances, street artists, and games that add to the lively ambiance of the market. Dongdamen Night Market is open in the evening and continues late into the night. It’s a bustling and vibrant place where everybody gathers to have fun, socialize, and experience the local culture.
Rice Noodles (Mi Xian 米粉)
Hualien-style rice noodles are a must-try, with a rich broth and toppings like braised pork, minced pork, and fresh herbs. They are made from rice flour and water, resulting in a translucent and smooth texture. In addition, rice noodles have a delicate and slightly chewy texture, allowing them to absorb flavors from sauces and broths. They are often cooked quickly, requiring only a short boiling or soaking time before being added to the final dish.
Try these Hualien mi xian restaurants:
The café and restaurant in Qixingtan Beach
The café and restaurant near Qixingtan Beach is a scenic destination that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. With its unbeatable panoramic view, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while gazing out into the vast expanse of the ocean. For those seeking a tranquil atmosphere and stunning ocean views, try 原野牧場 café.
Dai Ji Bian Shi (戴記扁食)
Dai Ji Bian Shi’s dumplings, which has been passed down through four generations, is one of the local delicacies. Besides, the broth of dumplings is not greasy, and is flavored with fried shallots and celery, creating a delightful combination. Their dumplings are handmade, making it a must-try delicacy for both locals and visitors in Hualien.
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