Taiwan · Region
Hualien
Hualien is Taiwan's dramatic east-coast gateway, where the Pacific Ocean meets marble-walled canyons and forested peaks. It's best known as the launchpad for Taroko National Park, one of the island's most spectacular natural landmarks, while the city itself offers a laid-back mix of night markets, indigenous Amis culture, and coastal scenery.
Top attractions
attraction Farglory Ocean Park: Hualien Travel Guide (4.4★)
Farglory Ocean Park, in Shoufeng Township just north of Hualien City, is a combined aquarium, animal-show theme park and gondola ride built around a mock 19th-century British pier. 4.4★ (28,086 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Hualien Railway Culture Park: Travel Guide
Hualien Railway Culture Park is a cluster of restored 1932 Japanese-era railway administration buildings and workshop yards in Hualien City, a short walk or cycle from the old downtown near Nan Bin Park.
Top-rated things to do in Hualien
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Where to stay in Hualien
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Plan your trip to Hualien
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Frequently asked questions about Hualien
How do I get to Hualien?
Most travelers reach Hualien by train from Taipei on the Taiwan Railways Administration's East line, with the fastest express services (Taroko, Puyuma, or Tze-Chiang) taking ~2 hours to Hualien Station; visitors headed straight for Taroko Gorge can instead alight at the closer Xincheng-Taroko station. A small domestic airport (HUN) also connects Hualien with Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung for those short on time.
How many days should I spend in Hualien?
Plan on ~2-3 days to cover Taroko Gorge's main trails and viewpoints plus a relaxed day exploring Hualien City and its coastline.
What is Hualien known for?
Hualien is Taiwan's dramatic east-coast gateway, where the Pacific Ocean meets marble-walled canyons and forested peaks. It's best known as the launchpad for Taroko National Park, one of the island's most spectacular natural landmarks, while the city itself offers a laid-back mix of night markets, indigenous Amis culture, and coastal scenery.