The Great Taroko Gorge - Hualien (花蓮) in-depth 2 Day Tour
Hualien is a region rich with natural resources and a bustling hub of activity for tourists.
It is famous for its rift valley plain that lies just beside a mountainous range, and rocky seashore overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The tribal culture here offers an extra diverse travel experience. The countryside in Hualien has one of the best natural environments in Taiwan. Both foreign and local travelers plan their weekend get-aways down to Hualien to escape the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle.
Features:
Family fun
Great Food
Photo Spots
Outdoor
Highlights
Aboriginal Specialty - Savor the Origin of Taiwan
Aboriginal specialty includes dishes that utilize the mountain vegetables and fresh seafood of the region. Learn about the many aboriginal cultures that comprise nearly one third of Hualien County’s population.
The Great Taroko Gorge
Taroko Gorge is an impressive 19km long canyon famous for its spectacular mountains and marble cliffs that stretch along the Liwu River. Such special geography has also bred special flora and fauna in this area. Some people get immense satisfaction taking in the majestic scenery just touring the park in a bus, car or taxi. For the more active, there are a few hiking trails and great water areas to go swimming and river tracing.
Unveiling the Mysterious Shakadang (砂卡噹) Trail
Shakagang Trail, also known as "mysterious valley trail", is built along a river cliff. Travellers can easily observe the folds in rocks and the natural ecosystem beside the river shore. After passing a 3D cabin, the trail will lead visitors to the old Datong tribal village - a perennial favorite for our visitors.
Wind of Pacific Ocean – Seven Star Bay (Qixingtan 七星潭)
At the northeast of Hualien City, the moon-shaped Seven Star Bay has a pebble beach that extends along the shore for several kilometers. You don’t need to fully plan what to do here since what you do can be quite spontaneous, which includes cycling, picnicking, taking a long walk, enjoying the geological sights. If you come at the right time of morning, you may see some fishermen working along the shore.
The Military Command Center: Pine Garden
Due to its vantage point atop mountain, and camouflage provided by lush towering pines. The Japanese military established a command center here during WWII. After the war, buildings and the pine trees are remained, and becomes one of the most popular sight in Hualien city. Visitors can explore the history of Japanese army, such as the well-known suicide attack team “Kamikaze attack unit” here.
Surrounding by mountains – The Carps Lake
Surrounded by the mountains, Carp Lake maintains its own quietness and unique scenery. Here, you can take a leisure walk, cycle around the lake, or traverse the lake by pedal boat. If you’re lucky enough, you might spot fireflies along the lake in April and May!
Itinerary
Day1
07 : 30 Departure from Taipei. Meet your tour guide at Taipei Main Station West 3 Gate (台北車站西3門) and take the train to Hualien
12 : 30 Lunch: Aboriginal Specialty
13 : 30 Great Taroko Gorge
16 : 00 Shakadang Trail
17 : 50 Dinner at Hualien night market
Overnight at a local high quality B&B or 3-star hotel in Hualien
Day2
09 : 00 Depart from B&B or hotel
09 : 30 The Military Command Center: Pine Garden
11 : 00 The story of Japanese immigration – Chinghsiu temple
12 : 00 Lunch
13 : 30 Surrounding by Mountains – The Carps Lake
15 : 30 Wind of Pacific Ocean – Seven Star Bay
16 : 40 Head back to Taipei by train (The tour will end at Taipei Train Station)
Tour Details
Minimum Numbers
2 people
Availability
Departs on every Tuesday and Thursday
Meeting point
07:30 am at Taipei Main Station West 3 Gate (台北車站西3門)
When to book
Book 3 days in advance
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, a light coat, anti-mosquito measures. Please avoid wearing colorful clothes and perfume to prevent wasp attacks.
Price
Infant (0 to 1 years old)
Free of charge. (Please note there must be at least one adult accompanying the tour with infant.)
Child (1 to 6 years old)
205 USD per person
Adult (Over 6 years old)
410 USD per person * If your group is 4 adults or over, the special price is 355USD per person.
Inclusion
Accommodation
1 night of local high quality B&B
Food
1st Day: Lunch & Dinner / 2nd Day: Breakfast & Lunch
Admissions
Pine Garden, Chinghsiu Temple and bike rental at The Carps Lake
Tour Guide
A great English/Chinese -speaking guide
Transportation
Round way Taipei – Hualien train tickets and van or sedan in Hualien
Others
Travel insurance and of course, memories that money can't buy!
Please note that tips for your tour guide are NOT included.
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