Taroko Gorge, Taiwan

Taroko Gorge National Park is the main reason to visit Hualien, a city on Taiwan’s eastern side. Spanish prospectors knew of its golden bounty before it became one of Taiwan’s top tourism spots, but you certainly don’t go there for a history lesson. The town, only 150 years old, is the gateway for stunning Taroko Gorge where you’ll find 19km of river lying below forested slopes.

Getting to Taroko Gorge is not difficult at all. If you are coming from Taipei, you can get a direct two-hour train to Hualien; the best time to arrive is during daylight. Try to get your train ticket for the left-hand side of the train as the tracks follow the coastline for a majority of the ride and offer excellent views of the ocean. The “Beautiful Island (Ihla Formosa)” does not leave you wondering about its name. The river cuts between steep cliffs and waterfalls. There are dozens of hiking trails that allow you to find your own way and your own favourite spots. Taroko Gorge National Park also offers plenty of scope for wildlife viewing, with plentiful bird life and even boar!

Accommodation options in Hualien are rather varied, but there are no Taroko Gorge hotels! Hualien seldom fills up and there are good prices to be found within walking distance of the train station. Hostels are also available for people on a major budget.

To get to Taroko Gorge National Park from Hualien, you can:

1. A chartered tour. There are many different companies offering tours, but none in English. Your guide will probably speak Mandarin.

2. Use a scooter. It will take around 1/3 of an hour to make the journey. Have an international, or preferably a Taiwan driving licence.

3. Rent a taxi. You can shuttle between Taroko gorge and Hualien easily by taxi. Negotiate a deal to have your driver act as a tour guide and you’ll be able to investigate some narrow roads that bus tours certainly can’t navigate!

Learn more about Taroko Gorge. Stop byIndie Travel Podcast where you can find out all about Taroko and independent travel. This article, Taroko Gorge, Taiwan is available for free reprint.