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Hualien, Taiwan

Destination Guide

Hualien

Taiwan

Best things to do in Hualien

24 curated attractions in Hualien, Taiwan. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - November

Average temp

22°C/72°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Generally safe

About Hualien

Hualien is Taiwan's gateway to nature, known primarily for its proximity to Taroko National Park, where impressive marble gorges and steep cliffs attract outdoor enthusiasts. The city itself has a laid-back vibe, with a collection of coastal attractions like Qixingtan Beach and the famous Qingshui Cliff that keep visitors close to the ocean. Hualien is also home to the Dongdamen Night Market, where culinary curiosities draw in locals and tourists alike. With a population that swells during peak tourist seasons, it's a mix of city comfort and natural wonder, making it a good base for those looking to explore the striking landscapes of the region. People come for the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, such as hiking and beach time, with the added bonus of local food to enjoy after a long day.

Who it's for

Great for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and foodies looking for a laid-back trip. Those after city life or a fast-paced experience may find the pace of Hualien a bit too relaxed. If you dislike crowds, avoid visiting during peak travel seasons when the city fills up with tourists.

Getting around

Public transport: Moderate

  • The city centre is small enough to walk in about twenty minutes
  • Public buses connect to major attractions like Taroko National Park but services can be infrequent
  • Taxis and ride-hailing are available but can vary in wait times
  • Hualien Airport is just a short drive from the city
Liyu Lake

Liyu Lake

Lakes
Jinghua Bridge

Jinghua Bridge

Urban Attractions
Mataian Wetlands Ecological Park

Mataian Wetlands Ecological Park

National parks & nature reserves
Mugumuyu

Mugumuyu

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Tunnel of Nine Turns

Tunnel of Nine Turns

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Lichuan Fish Market

Lichuan Fish Market

Food markets & food halls
Hualien Sugar Factory

Hualien Sugar Factory

Specialty & quirky museums
Chishingtan Scenic Area

Chishingtan Scenic Area

Beaches
Lintianshan Forestry Culture Park

Lintianshan Forestry Culture Park

Forests & jungles
Farglory Ocean Park

Farglory Ocean Park

Theme parks
Mei Lun Mountain

Mei Lun Mountain

Mountains & volcanoes
The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean

Beaches
Hualien Railway Cultural Area

Hualien Railway Cultural Area

Specialty & quirky museums
Shin Kong Chao Feng Ranch and Resort

Shin Kong Chao Feng Ranch and Resort

Wildlife sanctuaries
Tzu Chi Cultural Park

Tzu Chi Cultural Park

Formal & Japanese gardens
Qingshui Cliff

Qingshui Cliff

Coastal walks & sea cliffs
Shakadang Trail

Shakadang Trail

Hiking trails
Taroko National Park

Taroko National Park

National parks & nature reserves
Qixingtan Beach

Qixingtan Beach

Beaches
Eternal Spring Shrine

Eternal Spring Shrine

Monuments & memorials
Swallow Grotto

Swallow Grotto

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Xiangde Temple

Xiangde Temple

Religious Sites
Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park

Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park

Streets & neighbourhoods
Dongdamen Night Market

Dongdamen Night Market

Street food & night markets

Where to eat in Hualien

The places worth planning a meal around.

老時光燒肉酒肴

老時光燒肉酒肴

Japanese · $$

★ 4.8 · 12,099 reviews

Whirl Lan Bay View Restaurant

Whirl Lan Bay View Restaurant

Fusion Seafood · $15–$30

★ 4.8 · 7,574 reviews

花蓮香扁食

花蓮香扁食

Taiwanese · $

★ 4.2 · 4,650 reviews

瑪丁娜印度小館 Est.2010 Madina Indian & Pakistan Restaurant Original

瑪丁娜印度小館 Est.2010 Madina Indian & Pakistan Restaurant Original

Indian, Pakistani · $10–$30

★ 4.7 · 3,112 reviews

Salt Lick Smokehouse & Grill

Salt Lick Smokehouse & Grill

American, Hamburger, Pizza, Barbecue, Bar · $$

★ 4.4 · 2,946 reviews

Lemongrass Kitchen

Lemongrass Kitchen

Southeast Asian · $10–$20

★ 4.9 · 2,703 reviews

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