taroko gorge day trip from taipei

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 🍃 How to Plan a Taroko Gorge Day Trip from Taipei

Taroko Gorge, the landmark of Taroko National Park, is one of Taiwan’s best natural attractions and a great day trip from Taipei.

Taroko Gorge was one of the highlights of my Taiwan trip , and here, I share practical tips on visiting it . This post covers:

• 🚗 How to get to it from Taipei
• 🚙 How to get around
• 🗓️ A day trip itinerary
• ⭐️ Top 11 attractions
• 📍 Map with key places
• 🎒 What to pack

Planning a trip? Here’s  what to know about Taiwan .

Taroko Gorge at a Glance

• Organized Tour
• Public Transportation
• Getting Around

Taroko Gorge Map

• Day Trip Itinerary
• 1. Shakadang Trail
• 2. Eternal Spring Shrine
• 3. Buluowan Suspension Bridge

1. Swallow Grotto

• 2. Taroko Village Hotel

3. Zhuilu Old Trail

4. tunnel of nine turns, 5. changuang shrine, 6. baiyang trail and falls, 7. qixingtan beach, 8. qingshui cliffs.

• What To Pack

Taiwan Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Here is some general information on Taroko Gorge National Park to help you plan your trip.

⛰️ What Is Taroko Gorge Known For?

Taroko Gorge, a stunning marble gorge carved by the Liwu River millions of years ago, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes .

It is particularly known for its marble formations , which include the canyons, tunnels, and cliffs.

📍Where Is Taroko Gorge Located?

Taroko National Park is located in Hualien County on the eastern side of Taiwan.

Most park visitors travel from the capital city of Taipei or the nearby city of Hualien City:

• Taipei – From Taipei, you’ll have to travel about 90 miles (approximately a two-and-a-half-hour train journey) southeast to the national park.
• Hualien – From Hualien City, you’ll have to travel about 15 miles north (about a 30-minute drive) to the national park.

For a closer day trip from Taipei, visit the picturesque town of Jiufen .

☀️ Best Time To Visit Taroko Gorge

The best time to visit Taroko Gorge is from November to April when the weather is pleasantly mild (65 °F to 78 °F) and there is a lower chance of rain. That said, Taroko Gorge has decent weather year-round.

The rainiest months are between June and September and the most humid months are between May and September.

🕜 When Is Taroko Gorge Open?

According to Taroko National Park’s official website , the park is “open to the public at all times and all days of the year.”

⏳ How Long To Spend in Taroko Gorge?

Taroko National Park is 26 miles wide and has over a dozen attractions.

You can spend a full day visiting its top attractions or stay for two to three days to deeply explore the park and do its numerous hiking trails.

In this post, I will  focus on how to do a full-day trip  to Taroko Gorge because I did just that and can talk about it from firsthand experience.

I recommend staying  in Hualien City  for a night if you’re coming from Taipei. Getting to Taroko Gorge from Taipei takes five hours, so it’s a long one-day trip. You’ll also get to explore  Hualien’s night market , which was my favorite Taiwanese night market.

💰 Does Taroko Gorge Have an Entrance Fee?

Taroko National Park has no entrance fee , so it’s free. The only exception is  Zhuilu Old Trail , a narrow trail with limited edge protection with a 200 NT (roughly $6) fee.

If you visit Taroko Gorge with a full-day tour group, expect to pay over $100 . This is especially true if you want the tour guide to speak English (tours in Mandarin are cheaper). Multi-day tours are also available for over $500.

I share my travel expenses in this Taiwan cost breakdown .

All prices mentioned here are in USD 💵 .

How To Get to Taroko Gorge From Taipei

You can reach Taroko National Park from Taipei by booking a tour that includes transportation or taking public transit to Hualien City, where the park is located.

🚗 Option 1: Taroko Gorge Guided Tour

The easiest way to visit Taroko National Park from Taipei is by booking an organized tour with a local guide, which will include round-trip transportation.

Taroko Gorge tour groups will provide a  private vehicle  to drive you or  take care of train tickets on your behalf.

Since it takes two and a half hours to travel one way, Taroko Gorge tours from Taipei usually have early morning pickup times (e.g., 5:30 am or 6:30 am).

🚆 Option 2: Public Transportation

The more affordable way to get to Taroko Gorge from Taipei is to take a train to Hualien Station.

From the Hualien train station, you have two options:

• Book a tour –  Taroko Gorge guided tours usually pick visitors up from the Hualien station. This is what I did.
• Visit independently – From the station, you can visit the national park on your own. See the Taroko Gorge itinerary below .

Here’s how to take the train from Taipei to Taroko Gorge:

Which Train to Take from Taipei to Taroko Gorge

You have two train options to get from Taipei to Hualien Station:

• Express Train – These trains will take you to Hualien City in under three hours. The fastest trains to Hualien City are the Taroko Express and Puyuma Express, which cost 440 NT (about $14) per trip.
• Local Train – These trains will take three to four hours.

You can see all train schedules on Taiwan Railway’s website .

How To Purchase a Train Ticket to Taroko Gorge

To purchase a train ticket from Taipei to Hualien Station, you can do it online or in person.

Option #1: Online

The most convenient way to get a train ticket online is through the TRA mobile app ( iOS , Android ) since the train’s website is confusing and doesn’t let you claim the ticket. Here are three tips to keep in mind:

• You must claim your ticket – Booking a train ticket only reserves it. If you don’t claim your ticket (in person or digitally) within 20 minutes of departure time, they can release your ticket to another passenger.
• Turn on “English mode” on the TRA app – Once you overcome the small annoyance of figuring out how to turn on English mode, booking and claiming your ticket on the app is easy.
• Each rider needs to claim their own ticket – One rider cannot claim multiple tickets. This means that each rider will have to download the app separately.

Option #2: In Person

You can purchase a train ticket in person if you don’t want to deal with the potentially confusing mobile app.

Some Hualien train times are very popular and need to be booked in advance . Some afternoon departures were already sold out when I booked a train to Hualien a week in advance.

Most trains will depart from the Taipei Main Station . Google Maps has several “Taipei Main Stations,” depending on whether you’re catching a train, bus, or the MRT. Double-check the “Subway services” section of the location on Google Maps to make sure it is the right place .

How To Get Around Taroko Gorge

Once in Hualien’s city center, Taroko Gorge’s entrance is about a 30-minute drive away.

You can explore Taroko Gorge by  car, train, cycling, bus, or an organized tour. 

A  mountain highway runs east-west across Taroko National Park (see yellow line in the map below). Every hiking trail and attraction is located near the highway, sometimes on the side of the road.

🚗 Option 1: Car or Motorbike Rental

You can rent a car or motorbike to explore Taroko Gorge National Park.

You must have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Taiwan legally. Once you’re in the park, you can navigate to the different attractions on your own.

👍 Pros : This option offers the most flexibility. Navigating Taroko Gorge is not difficult as most attractions are either on or near the main road, Zhongbu Cross-island Highway.

👎 Cons : Parking can be difficult. Many attractions do not have sufficient parking when they are crowded (I experienced this firsthand). You also need to be aware of any road closures and research the best times to visit each attraction to avoid crowds.

🛞 Option 2: Hire a Driver

If you can’t or don’t want to drive or navigate yourself, you can  hire a driver  to take you to the various attractions in Taroko Gorge.

This option will give you  some flexibility.  A driver will have basic knowledge of the park but will not give you an in-depth tour like a professional tour guide.

🗺️ Option 3: Taroko Gorge Guided Tour

The most convenient way to get to and see Taraoko Gorge is to hire a guide . They’ll pick you up at your accommodation or the Hualien Station. You won’t need to plan much and get the opportunity to learn a lot about the park.

I did my tour through  Island Life Taiwan  and highly recommend my tour guide, Iris, who was energetic, entertaining, and knowledgeable (e.g., she knew a lot about the park’s history and the best way to avoid crowds and road closures).

🚌 Option 4: Public Bus

For the most affordable, but inconvenient option, you can also explore Taroko Park by a tourist shuttle bus.

You want the  1133A bus  (catch it from a bright orange building next to the train station), and it costs  250 NT (about $8) for a full-day pass.

You’ll need to look up bus stop locations and the bus timetable to ensure you can visit all the attractions within a reasonable time as  the bus doesn’t come that frequently.

🚴 Option 5: Cycling

For those who are more adventurous, you can get to and explore Taroko Gorge by cycling. You can do this on your own by renting a bike or by taking a guided cycling tour ,

It’s best to cycle through the park when it’s less crowded (e.g., not during holidays or the weekends) as some roads are fairly narrow, and you’ll need to share them with vehicles.

This map has all the Taroko Gorge attractions mentioned in this post.

Taroko Gorge Day Trip Itinerary

This Taroko Gorge itinerary  efficiently sequences attractions  and activities the park is famous for.

I’ve also included  suggested times for each activity  based on my firsthand experience.

The Taiwan trip planner below has this itinerary prefilled.

🗓️ With More Time in Taroko Gorge

If you have extra time or days in Taroko Gorge, consider making these modifications to the itinerary above:

• After visiting the Eternal Spring Shrine , head to the Changuang Temple . The two attractions share one parking lot.
• After visiting the Tunnel of Nine Turns , head west to hike the Baiyang Waterfall Trail .
• If you have a second day in Hualien City , I highly recommend visiting Hualien’s night market . If you like hiking, I recommend doing more hikes in Taroko Gorge, including the Zhuilu Old Trail , which requires advanced preparation. If you’re not much of a hiker, check out the dramatic Qingshui Cliffs , located 20 minutes north.

Top 3 Attractions in Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge has over a dozen attractions and things to do, including waterfalls, trail hikes, and shrines.

Here are the top three attractions based on hundreds of reviews and my firsthand experience.

1. Hike the Shakadang Trail

🤔 Why : The Shakadang Trail, also called the Mysterious Valley Trail, is a crowd favorite and likely the best place to visit in Taroko Gorge.

The trail requires an easy 3-mile hike through a lush forest following a river with stunning, sky-blue water. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some wildlife.

About a mile into the trail, you’ll come across Trukku people, a Taiwanese aboriginal tribe, selling beverages, snacks, and gifts in a few small stalls. Make sure to bring some cash if you want to buy something and support them.

📍 Getting There : The Shakadang Trail starts here , near the entrance of Taroko National Park.

⏰ Suggested Duration : The trail takes approximately two hours to hike.

Being one of the most popular attractions in Tarako Gorge and closest to the entrance, Shakadang Trail can get extremely crowded so it’s best to go as early as possible and make it your first stop.

🍀 Lukiih’s Take: I was on the trail by 9 am and it was mostly empty, so there were fewer tourists than usual. Walking through the tranquil Shakadang Trail while admiring the turquoise-blue water was an amazing way to start my trip.

Return to itinerary ↑

2. Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine

🤔 Why : The Eternal Spring Shrine, another popular tourist stop, is a cluster of colorful shrines tucked into the mountain with a waterfall spewing out underneath.

It was built to honor the 200+ workers who died while working on the highway in the early 1900s.

📍 Getting There : You can see the Eternal Spring Shrine from the parking lot here , which is also where you can start the walk to the shrine after crossing a bridge and going into some tunnels.

⏰ Suggested Duration : If you take the tunnel to the Eternal Spring Shrine, budget 20 minutes walking and visiting it. If the tunnels are closed due to landslides, 10 minutes looking at the surrounding area is sufficient.

🍀 Lukiih’s Take: The shrine is great to admire both from far away and up close. Although the shrine is not as intricate as other Taiwanese temples I’ve seen, it’s still fun to walk through the tunnels leading up to it and see the waterfall.

3. Walk the Buluowan Suspension Bridge

🤔 Why : The Buluowan Suspension Bridge is one of Taiwan’s tallest bridges, but it leads to nowhere. It was built to give visitors the chance to admire the stunning panoramic view of the valley.

📍 Getting There : To visit the Buluowan Suspension Bridge, you can park here and walk to the terrace before crossing the bridge.

⏰ Suggested Duration : Budget 20 to 30 minutes to cross the bridge.

🍀 Lukiih’s Take: I found the suspension bridge a bit odd since it didn’t lead anywhere, but I can’t deny that the views from it were breathtaking even on a rainy day.

8 Great Things To Do in Taroko Gorge

If you can spend an entire day or more at Taroko Gorge, here are eight other great things you can see and do there.

Swallow Grotto is one of the narrowest parts of Taroko Gorge , with amazing sheer cliffs.

While walking the short 0.7-mile-long Swallow Grotto Trail, you can see the steep marble cliffs that have little holes in them, which are popular nesting spots for swallows .

Due to falling rocks, you’re advised to wear a hard hat when visiting this area. The park provides them for free at the entrance.

2. Lunch at Taroko Village Hotel

There are several restaurants you can eat at in Taroko Gorge and Tarako Village Hotel is one of the few where you can have an amazing, delicious aboriginal meal . My lunch was included as part of my tour package.

Zhuilu Old Trail is a narrow trail with limited edge protection next to a 1,500+ feet cliff drop. It’s a difficult, but adventurous hike that takes hours and requires a permit.

The number of visitors is limited to ~100 per day on weekdays and increases to ~150 a day on the weekends. Had I known about this trail in advance, I would have liked to hike it on my second day in Taroko Gorge.

Zhuilu Old Trail is the only attraction in Taroko National Park that has an entrance fee .

The Tunnel of Nine Turns is a well-maintained 30-minute walk featuring nine turns. It’s a fairly scenic route and showcases impressive engineering as the builders had to build it through the gorge.

Changuang Temple is near the Eternal Spring Shrine and can be barely seen from far away. You can visit the temple if you walk 15 minutes further from the Eternal Spring Shrine.

Although not many people make the trek to it, you will be rewarded with a higher gorgeous view of the surrounding area if you do. I wasn’t able to make it since I was running on a tight schedule with the tour, but I would have liked to.

The Baiyang Trail is an easy hike that is less than an hour long and features a waterfall, cliffs, and tunnels. It’s recommended that you bring a flashlight if you plan to visit it, as there are no lights in the tunnels.

Between the Tunnel of Nine Turns and the Baiyang Trail, you can also make a quick stop by a nice red bridge called the Cimu Bridge .

Qixingtan Beach is not inside Taroko Gorge, but it’s a good halfway stop between the national park and Hualien City. This makes it a great last stop during your trip. The beach is filled with gray and silver pebbles that contrast against a clear, blue ocean.

Qingshui Cliffs is located 20 minutes north of Taroko Gorge and another place with beautiful scenery. At 2,600 feet tall, it features some of Taiwan’s highest coastal cliffs.

What To Pack and Wear for Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge has a subtropical climate, so you can expect a mix of humidity, rain and sunshine when visiting.

Depending on which attractions you plan to visit, you can wear casual clothes or more active, athletic ones .

Here’s a complete packing list for Taroko Gorge:

• Light rain jacket or poncho – Taroko Gorge has four seasons, and it can rain all year around, with the wettest month being October and the driest month being December. When I visited in October, the day started dry, but rained in the afternoon, so I was glad I brought my rain jacket . If you prefer to carry something lighter to save space, these rain ponchos also work well.
• Umbrella (optional)  – Many other visitors brought umbrellas instead since the rain can be abrupt and hard. Some areas, like the Buluowan Bridge, can get windy, so make sure to pack a windproof umbrella .

• Running shoes or hiking shoes – The paths in Taroko National Park are well-maintained, so you can visit most of the park with just a pair of running shoes . I wore my hiking shoes , which I didn’t think was necessary for the terrain, but I was glad that they were waterproof.
• Water – Most attractions in the park will not have water readily available, so bring some water. I brought my reusable water bottle that kept my water cold for hours, which is great since the weather is mostly humid and warm in Taroko Gorge.
• Mosquito repellent – Taiwan has mosquitos that can spread dengue fever (you’ll see signs in Taipei encouraging you to protect yourself), so you’ll want to pack bug spray. I like to use this bug-repellent lotion since I think it works better than the spray alternatives.
• Sunscreen (optional) – Since you’ll be outdoors the entire day, make sure to wear some sunscreen. I like to wear this dermatologist-approved and water-resistant sunscreen since it applies easily and doesn’t feel oily.
• Flashlight (optional)  – If you plan to visit Baiyang Trail, bringing a flashlight is recommended since some tunnels don’t have light.
• Snacks – The park doesn’t have food and snack stations readily available (and some of them run low on inventory), so you might also want to bring some snacks.

The Taiwan trip planner below has the above packing list in a downloadable Notion.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Taiwan Travel Guides

• 🇹🇼 Planning a Trip to Taiwan: 11 Practical Things To Know
• 🧋 Taiwan Guide: 5-7 Day Itinerary + 20 Great Things To Do
• 💰 My 2024 Taiwan Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown
• 🏮 Jiufen Day Trip From Taipei: 9 Great Things To Do + Itinerary

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Asia , Outdoor Guides , Taiwan · July 13, 2019

Visiting Taroko Gorge: Ultimate Taroko National Park Guide

Visiting Taroko Gorge for the first time and not sure how to plan the perfect Taroko tour? This post has you covered!

Taroko Gorge (太魯閣) is one of the most popular tourist spots in Taiwan and a huge must on any Taiwan itinerary . Situated in Xiulin Township on Taiwan’s mind-blowing east coast, this dramatic 19-km gorge is the shining star of Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園) – one of the country’s nine national parks. The park spans more than 920 km² and actually lies over three counties; Taichung, Nantou, and Hualien.

Taroko Gorge is famous for many things; it’s more than 200 million years old, it’s home to some of Taiwan’s highest peaks, and the Truku tribe (the area’s indigenous tribe) is settled here. However, what really makes Taroko Gorge so special is its stunning scenery.

The gorge was shaped by thousands of years of erosion and carved out by the Liwu River that flows right through it. With breathtaking natural beauty featuring high mountain tops, steep gorges, dreamy waterfalls, and abundant plant and animal life, it’s not hard to see why Taroko Gorge is a must-visit attraction in Taiwan. What’s more, Taroko is absolutely littered with colorful temples, glorious hikes through lush jungles, and easy trails along high-rising marble walls.

In this guide, I’ll cover absolutely everything you need to know about visiting Taroko Gorge for the first time. I’ve also included tons of tips from how to get to Taroko, where to stay, the best Taroko Gorge hiking trails, and more!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Tips for visiting Taroko Gorge Taiwan

Before visiting Taroko Gorge National Park, here are a couple of quick tips to make your trip all the easier. 

• Hualien City is the main gateway to Taroko Gorge. Find out exactly how to get to Hualien , and also read my detailed Hualien guide to discover the best things to do, where to stay, and so much more! 
• Taroko Gorge is Taiwan’s #1 attraction, and as a result, it’s important to book accommodation a few weeks in advance . There are several hotels within and near the park, but you’ll find more choices in Hualien. Find the best hotel deals here on Agoda. Book at least one night’s stay to experience all of Taroko’s best bits.
• If you don’t want to plan a thing, this  day tour from Hualien  is your best bet. And if you’d like to plan all of your stops without worrying about any transport hassles, this  private car charter  is a great stress-free option. 
• Don’t forget to bring your  Easy Card  (Taiwan’s transport card) so that you can travel on trains and buses easily. 
• Some of Taroko’s hiking trails, like Zhuilu Old Road, require permits. See the  official park website  for more details on fees and permits, or  apply for a permit  here. 
• Pack bug spray, sunscreen,  and a  hat  for your trip. Also wear  comfortable non-slip walking shoes  or  hiking boots  when tackling longer trails. 
• Check the weather  before visiting Taroko National Park because the east coast is prone to unpredictable weather conditions.
• Check the  road and trail conditions  before your Taroko trip. Trails often close due to safety precautions or construction.
• Taroko Gorge is full of animal life. Remember to keep an eye out for poisonous snakes and giant hornets when hiking.

How to get from Taipei to Taroko Gorge

While it’s possible to access Taroko Gorge via several places in Taiwan, Hualien City on Taiwan’s east coast is its main gateway. Hualien is a picturesque city with loads to keep you busy. So if you have a few days to spare, definitely also check out these great things to do in Hualien .

Since Hualien is the main access point to Taroko Gorge, it’s very easy to reach from practically anywhere in Taiwan. I’ve written a detailed guide on exactly how to get to Hualien from Taipei . But if you’re in a rush, here’s a quick look at all the ways to get there.

Taking the Train from Taipei to Hualien

The quickest way to get to Taroko Gorge from Taipei is via Hualien by train. Loads of trains run daily from  Taipei , but take a  Taroko Express  or  Puyuma train  for the fastest route. The journey to Hualien takes less than 2.5 hours and costs NT$440 per way. See prices and time schedules  here . 

Trains bound for Hualien fill up quite quickly, so it’s best to book tickets well in advance . You can buy tickets directly at any train station across Taiwan or online (up to 14 days in advance).

Flying from Taipei to Hualien

If you want to maximize your time in Taroko Gorge National Park or have limited time, you might want to consider flying to Hualien.

Uni Air  flies daily from Taipei’s Songshan Airport , and  Mandarin Airlines  has direct flights to Hualien from  Kaohsiung . One-way tickets shouldn’t set you back more than NT$2500, but as prices often change, it’s best to check individual sites directly.

Once you arrive at the Hualien airport, you could either hop on the Hualien Bus ( more details and schedules here ), rent a car, or grab a taxi.

Taking the bus from Taipei to Hualien

It is possible to take a bus directly from Taipei to Hualien. Both  Taipei Bus  and  Ubus  offer cheap rides from Taipei to Hualien. Buses depart from Nangang Bus Station in Taipei City and take about 3 hours to reach Hualien.

Taipei Bus 1071 departs from platform 1, while Ubus 1663 departs at platform 3. If you’re traveling via the Lunar New Year holidays, it’s quite common to find greatly discounted tickets which will easily cost half than a Puyuma train ticket. See more details here (only in Chinese):  Taipei Bus  |  Ubus

Alternatively, take a bus to Luodong  and continue your journey by  train to Hualien . However, as these combo tickets are only slightly cheaper and the travel time is nearly the same as the train, I wouldn’t recommend using this transport option.

Joining a Taroko Gorge day trip Tour from Taipei

Another option you might want to consider is taking a  shared sightseeing car from Taipei to Hualien . The journey takes about 8 hours, but it’s a great way to see a bit more of Taiwan’s beautiful coastline. The charter stops by several iconic sights in Taiwan, including Jiufen, Qingshui Cliff, the Nanfang-ao viewing platform, and Yilan Jimmy Park.

How to get from Hualien to Taroko Gorge

Unless you stay within the Taroko National Park at Tianxiang or near the park’s entrance, the best place to stay is in Hualien.  (More on accommodation later).  Although it is a 40-minute ride to the National Park, basing yourself here would give you so much more freedom to explore the city and surrounding areas. Not to mention, you’ll have better accommodation and food options.

There are a few ways to travel between Taroko Park and Hualien, the easiest being driving a car or renting a scooter. Buses also run daily between Hualien and Taroko. Here’s what you need to know about each one.

Getting to Taroko Gorge By Car

There are plenty of car rental companies available in Hualien itself, so you could easily take the train to Hualien and then rent a car upon arrival. However, it is important to note that you need a valid local or international license .

Another thing to know is that driving within the park has some constraints – the roads are quite narrow with tons of twists and turns, and traffic can get congested easily – especially if there are roadworks underway. Also, you’ll need to watch out for the huge tour buses, and finding a parking spot can sometimes be a total pain. Nonetheless, if you want to explore the park at your own pace, this is a great way to do so.

For a hassle-free journey, consider booking a  private car charter   instead. 

Driving a Scooter to Taroko Gorge

A great way to explore Taroko National Park at your own pace is by renting a scooter. This way, you’ll also get to visit some of the amazing attractions in and around Hualien.

You can rent a scooter right outside the Hualien train station – there are a plethora of scooter shops lining the parking lot towards the left. Near the exit, and between the bus and train station, is another great little shop. The owner speaks excellent English, and rentals go for NT$500 a day.

However, to rent a scooter anywhere in Taiwan, you must have a valid local license or an international license for a scooter. It’s also highly likely that you will need to leave some kind of identification at the shop to guarantee you return the scooter. So, be sure to bring some form of identification along – apart from your passport or ARC card .

If you are traveling on a shoestring, you might want to check with your accommodation beforehand whether it is possible to rent a scooter or even a vehicle through them. Many of the hotels and hostels in Hualien offer this service – often at a lower price than the scooter shops near the train station.

Taking the Hualien Bus to Taroko Gorge

The best way to reach Taroko Gorge via public transport is by bus. Buses run daily from the Hualien Bus Station (the orange building near the train station) towards Tianxiang. Although it’s pretty hassle-free to use the bus, keep in mind that the buses aren’t that frequent. So you may spend more time waiting for a bus than actually sightseeing. The best tip I can give you is to plan your schedule properly beforehand.

If you choose to use the bus to travel to/ within Taroko Gorge, I highly recommend investing in an Easy card. That way, you won’t need to bother with small change. Alternatively, you can also buy a 1-Day Pass (NT$250) or a 2-Day Pass (NT$400) at the bus station.

The earliest bus leaves Hualien at 6:30 am, and the last bus from Tianxiang is at 5 pm. The journey takes about 1 hour, and buses leave every 1.5hrs or so.

For more details, see the Taroko shuttle bus timetables .

When to visit Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge generally enjoys mild temperatures year-round, which drop as the elevation rises. Seeing that the elevation here rises from 60 m to 3,742 m, you might want to bring a light jacket and an umbrella along, no matter which time of year you visit.

Taiwan’s East Coast is also prone to heavy rainfall and earthquakes, so it’s vital to always keep an eye on the weather forecast before traveling here. Taroko Gorge, in particular, sees about 2000mm of rain a year, and typhoons are common from July to September.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best not to visit mountainous areas anywhere in Taiwan after extended periods of rain as rockfalls and landslides can occur here.

Like  Alishan  and  Sun Moon Lake , it’s also best to time your visit to Taroko National Park. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays when most crowds and large tour groups come.

How long to stay in Taroko Park

How much time you spend in Taroko Gorge will ultimately depend on what you’d like to get out of your trip. While it’s possible to visit Taroko on a day trip, I highly recommend staying longer as there is so much to do and see! To really get a feel of what the area offers, stay at least two to three days . This will allow sufficient time to do a few hikes and explore some of the stunning places around Hualien.

However, if you are pressed for time, this  Hualien Day Tour from Taipei is your best bet. The tour lasts 11hrs and includes a visit to Qixingtan Beach and the Swallow Grotto Trail in Taroko. 

Taroko Gorge Hotels

Taiwan’s east coast has loads of excellent accommodation options to match any budget. With that said, though, to really maximize your time in Taroko Gorge, I highly recommend staying in one of these three areas:

• Tianxiang (If you want to stay in Taroko National Park)
• Fushi Village (If you’re looking for a cheaper option, right beside the park)
• Hualien (If you’re looking for more choice and want to see more of Taiwan’s east coast)

Where to stay in Tianxiang

Silks Place  is the only 5-star hotel right in the heart of Taroko Park and the best Taroko Gorge hotel. It has beautiful rooms, a restaurant, a dreamy swimming pool, and a gym. 

Nearby you’ll also find the  Taroko Tienhsiang Youth Activity Centre  with basic rooms and a much friendlier price tag.

If you are traveling on a tight budget but still wish to stay a few nights, you could consider camping. There are two campgrounds near Tianxiang, namely Heliu and Lushui Campgrounds .

Heliu, near Cimu Bridge, has 12 wooden platforms where visitors can pitch tents. There are also bathrooms with cold water showers. A platform costs NT$300 per day and works on a “first-come, first-serve basis.”

A little further along, you will also find Lushui. Here you’ll need to pitch your tent on the grass as there are no tent platforms. Water and lighting are available too. No reservations or fees are necessary. For more details on camping, you can check out the park’s website  here .

Where to stay in Fushi Village

Fushi Village is just a stone’s throw from the Taroko National Park’s East Entrance Arch Gate. Don’t expect anything too fancy here, as this area mainly caters to budget travelers. But, if you want to base yourself near the park, this is a great option. Popular Taroko Gorge hotel options here include  Liwu Hotel  and  Yong Ying B&B .

Where to stay in Hualien

Hualien is the biggest city near Taroko Gorge and is an excellent base, especially if traveling further afield. There are many accommodation options to suit every pocket and traveling style. Here are a few places I highly recommend staying at: 

Meci Hotel   is an excellent mid-range hotel only a few hundred meters from the Hualien train station.  While the hotel’s exterior may look somewhat outdated, the interior is top-notch. You’ll find clean, trendy rooms, great staff, and lots of food choices nearby.  

Wow Hostel  is a great alternative for those traveling on a tight budget. Choose between dorm rooms or rooms with private bathrooms. The hostel is a stone’s throw away from the train station, and you can spot its bright green exterior a mile away! 

You’ll find a few posher options a bit further away from the train station. Both  Lakeshore Hotel Hualien  and   LeaLea Garden Hotels – Hualien  are excellent choices if you’re looking for an upscale stay.

What to pack for Taroko Gorge

Since most of the activities in Taroko National Park are centered around hiking, make sure to pack  comfortable walking shoes  or sturdy non-slip  hiking boots . It’s also a good idea to bring along  sunscreen  if you’re visiting during the warmer months. Other must-pack items include  mosquito repellant , a refillable  water bottle , and an umbrella . Oh, and don’t forget your  camera  – you’re going to need it!

Also, check out my Taiwan packing list for more tips on what to pack. 

Best Taroko Gorge Hiking Trails & Things to do

Great, now that you know all the ins and outs of planning a Taroko Gorge trip, it’s time to find out what to do!

There are loads of amazing things to do in Taroko Gorge. The National Park is home to some of the most incredible  hiking trails in Taiwan , and it’s easy to explore the area whether you’re planning a  day trip from Taipei  or a bit longer. Here are the best Taroko Gorge hiking trails and top things to do in Taroko National Park.

Shakadang Trail

Altitude: 60m | Length of trail: 4.4km | Time: 3-4 hrs | Difficulty: Fairly Easy |  MAP

Just a short drive or walk from the park’s Visitors Center, you will find the Shakadang trail. There is a small parking area near the Shakadang bridge’s entrance if you need parking. The trailhead starts to the right of the bridge – follow the small staircase down to start the hike.

The Shakadang trail, also known as the “Mysterious Valley trail,” is an easy hike and one not to miss while visiting Taroko National Park. The course takes you past the river valley, renowned for its deep azure rock pools, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse plant and animal life.

Note this trail runs near a restricted area home to the local Truku people – please pass by respectfully. You might also see some of the locals selling snacks and handmade souvenirs along the trail from time to time.

The trail ends at 3D Cabin, and if you want to continue past this point, you would need an entry permit to do so. You can find more details on obtaining permits for Dali and Datung  here .

If you happen to visit Taroko in May, this is a great place to see the beautiful Tung blossoms in bloom.

Eternal Spring Shrine Trail (Changchun Trail)

Altitude: 85m | Length of trail: 1.35km | Time: 30mins | Difficulty: Fairly Easy |  MAP

No visit to Taroko Gorge would be complete without dropping by one of the most iconic landmarks in Taiwan – the Eternal Spring Shrine. The shrine was built in memory of 226 veterans who died constructing the Central Cross-Island Highway between 1956-1960 and plays an important role in the park’s history.

The small shrine is perched on the side of a mountain, and a beautiful waterfall flows nearby. It’s a spectacular sight to see and one you definitely shouldn’t miss when visiting Taroko Gorge.

The trail leading to the shrine is currently only partially open, so best to keep an eye on the  park’s road and trails page  for any updates before you visit. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the path is quite slippery.

If you don’t feel like hiking via the East trailhead, you can still get an amazing view from the observation deck. The small coffee shop beneath the walkway also offers an excellent vantage point and is a terrific spot to enjoy a cuppa while marveling at the shrine from a distance. The entrance is right next to the bus stop.

The Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou Trail)

Altitude: 274m | Length of trail: 1.37km | Time: 10-30 mins | Difficulty: Easy |  MAP

The Swallow Grotto trail takes you past towering marble walls covered in lush vegetation, with the Liwu rushing by below.

The hike follows the old road all the way to Jinheng Bridge and is an easy walk. Generally, you only need about 20 minutes to finish a leg but as the scenery is mindblowing, work on more if you want to stop for photo ops. Apart from getting a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent gorge, potholes resembling swallow nests, and weird rock formations, you can also spot the” Chieftain Profile Rock” along the way. This rockface has been carved out by years and years of water erosion. The best place to spot this rockface is from the observation deck at Jingheng Park, at the trail’s end. It’s also an excellent spot to take a breather and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There is a small coffee shop where you can enjoy a bite to eat, grab some refreshments or shop for local souvenirs too.

You should ideally wear a hardhat/ helmet when following this trail, as rockfalls aren’t uncommon. You can borrow a hard hat at the Xipan check-in/check-out Service Station, but many visitors wear a scooter helmet.

Zhuilu Old Road Trail

Altitude: 765m | Length of trail: 3.1km | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate |  MAP  

At the Swallow Grotto’s east trailhead, you’ll spot the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge – this is where the Zhuilu Old Trail starts.

The Zhuilu Old Trail is one of the most famous (and dangerous trails) in Taroko Gorge. It follows through lush jungle and along a narrow path with sweeping views over the valley below. The Zhuilu Old Road plays an important role in Taroko’s history as it’s part of the Old Cross-Hehuan Mountain Road – a former means to connect to the local Truku villages.

The trail is only partially open (Zhuilu Suspension Bridge to the Cliff Outpost) due to rockfall damages, but it’s still worth doing. However, to complete this hike you’ll need to apply for a Park Entry Permit . Only 96 permits are issued per weekday, and 156 on weekends and holidays, so plan in advance. You’ll also need two copies of the permit, an ID card and NT$200 cash, which you need to take to the small office near the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge before accessing the trail.

The trail is open from 7 am – 6 pm, but you’re only allowed to enter it between 7 am – 10 am. If you decide to do this hike, it’s important to know that the terrain is very rugged and the cliff is narrow. You should really  only  attempt this hike if you are  fit  and  not scared of heights . Spotting poisonous creatures along the trail isn’t uncommon either.

Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail (Jiuqudong)

Altitude: 300m | Length of trail: 700m | Time: 30-40 mins | Difficulty: Easy |  MAP

The Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail is one of the most amazing trails in Taroko and well worth your time.

You can only enter and exit at the west end of the trailhead, but the trail takes you along an underpass lined with cliffs, dramatic marble walls, waterfalls, and the Liwu River. Just a stone’s throw from the entrance, you can follow the Waterscape trail to get closer to the valley and the Liwu River.

Other important points of interest, such as the “Fish Leaping over the Dragon’s Gate” and the “Coiled Dragon of the Nine Turns,” can also be found on the way.

Tianxiang ( map ) is a large terraced area and also the biggest village within Taroko National Park. Here you will find the prestigious 5-star Silks Place Taroko as well as a few cheaper options to stay at.

Apart from popping by the Sakuma Samata Shrine, you can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many vendors or small restaurants, dishing up local delicacies before heading out to the Pudu bridge. From here, you can access the Tianfeng Pagoda and some small temples.

Baiyang Waterfall Trail

Altitude: 480m | Length of trail: 2.1km | Time: 1hr | Difficulty: Fairly Easy |  MAP

Another famous trail is the Baiyang Waterfall Trail – a few hundred meters west of Tianxiang. The trail leads you past several tunnels before reaching this  breathtaking Taiwan waterfall . Please note that you can only enter the first Water Curtain due to safety reasons.

It takes about 2 hours to complete a round trip, and you might want to bring a flashlight as the tunnels can be a bit dark. It’s also extremely important to check the Taroko website for safety warnings before attempting this hike.

Taroko Park in Conclusion

If you’re spending some time in Taiwan, you should definitely add Taroko Gorge to your list of things to do! It’s one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan and one you certainly won’t regret visiting!

Well, that wraps up this Taroko Gorge guide. If you have any tips or suggestions for fellow travelers visiting Taroko Gorge, let me know in the comments below so that I can add to this list of epic things to do in Taroko!

Ready to plan your trip? Pin this Guide to Visiting Taroko Gorge for quick reference later.

join the club

You’ll also love.

July 14, 2019 at

Love Taiwan! I Loved the food there too!

Glad to hear that – it is indeed an amazing place to explore! Thanks for stopping by.

September 11, 2022 at

Do you think it’s feasible to do Zhuilu Old Road followed by several (2 or 3) of the other trails in one day? We stay in Hualien, will go by bus to Taroko, don’t have car/scooter, and we have the permit for Zhuilu. We’ll rely on Uber or public transport to go from one start point to another. Thanks!

September 17, 2022 at

Hey Maxim, the Zhuili Old trail is quite an intense hike taking roughly 6 hours. You also need to enter and exit at specific times, so you might not have enough time (or energy) to tackle a few other trails. If possible, I suggest adding another day to your itinerary so that you can explore the rest of the trails at a more relaxed pace.

March 19, 2023 at

Hi! Our family will be there in Taiwan this April. We plan to go to Taroko even if we have a 2yr old and a 7yr old with us. My question – I read there are easy trails that are paved all the way. Can I use the baby stroller in these trails? I am interested in these trails: 1. Swallow Grotto Trail 2. Eternal Spring Shrine Trail 3. Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail 4. Cimu Bridge 5. Xiangde Temple Trail

Super thanks in advance for your inputs!

March 28, 2023 at

Hey Binky, you should be fine. The only trail that you probably won’t be able to use the stroller is the Eternal Shrine one, cause the path to the shrine is cut out in the rock face. There are quite a few stairs to climb down to the entrance and the path itself is very uneven. It’s not that far to the actual shrine, though, but if you want to do the entire circular route it takes about an hour.

June 12, 2023 at

Love this!! I’m a solo traveller and have found this super helpful!! I stayed at meci Hotel and took the bus to taroko gorge and it worked perfectly well. I even used the links you provided for buying my train ticket from taipei to hualien. Also checked out your recommended trails!

Thanks for being so thorough!

June 13, 2023 at

That’s amazing, Ri – thank you! So glad you had an amazing trip!

July 2, 2023 at

I am going to travel Solo to Taiwan in the next 2 weeks, I just want to know how you went navigating Taroko Gorge? Did you walk everywhere or did you rent a bicycle?

Hopefully, you will see this!

July 7, 2023 at

Hey Vic – no, I usually rent a scooter or we drive a car. But you can also take the bus there and I believe it stops at some of the places inside the park.

August 22, 2023 at

thank you very much for the detailed explanation each time! I follow quite some travel blogs, but yours is definitely one of the top on my list of sites to check for details! 😉

September 2, 2023 at

Thanks so much David – that’s so lovely to hear. Glad you find it useful.

August 30, 2023 at

Hi, Thanks for the great information on all your blogs. We have 1 day in taroko, we have a 8 yo and a 6 yo ( so realistically approx 6 hrs); we will have a car. What would your top 3-4 trails be to do?

September 3, 2023 at

Hey Doreen – my faves are the Eternal Shrine, Swallow Grotto and the Shakadang trail. They are all low key hikes, so suitable for kids. You probably won’t have time to finish the entire Shakadang trail, but you can see a good portion of it with the time you have. Hope that helps!

September 27, 2023 at

Hi. We are planning our trip in December and have limited time. We’re debating whether to visit Tarogo Gorge and Hualien. We are travelling with 2 seniors with limited mobility. It seems it’s mostly trails and hikes and the two seniors will not be able to participate much. Is it still worthwhile to visit or spend the time elsewhere? Would love your expertise. Thank you!

September 28, 2023 at

Hey Christina, Taroko is mostly a hiking area, but you don’t necessarily need to hike to enjoy the scenery. Some of the areas are wheelchair friendly and you could also just drive through the park without walking around much. The scenery is really spectacular, so if you can, it’s worth a visit.

October 23, 2023 at

Hi. Thank you for a detailed write up. I am travelling with my husband in November 2023 and I have a phobia of monkeys. Is it safe to hike there and what should I expect ?

October 24, 2023 at

Hi Preeti – you should be fine. I don’t recall ever spotting monkeys there, and I’ve been a bunch times! Expect to see spiders and bugs at most.

October 25, 2023 at

Thanks Mariza. I really appreciate that 😊

October 26, 2023 at

No problem, Preeti. If you do happen to spot some, just remain calm and don’t make eye contact.

November 4, 2023 at

Hi, thanks for all the great info and tips! Based on your write-up (and the fact that the Tienhsiang Youth Activity Centre is unfortunately booked up during our travel dates), we are thinking of staying in Fushi Village. Just curious, is further transportation needed between Fushi and the gorge and all of the hikes? You noted it’s a stone’s throw, so was hoping we could just step out of the B&B’s in the village and essentially start walking! Thanks!

Hey Justin, sorry to hear the hostel is all booked up for your dates – that’s a real bummer. But yes, there are a few places to stay outside the park, right near the entrance gate. You want to specifically search for “ Xiulin Township ” on Google Maps, and look for accommodation within walking distance to the Taroko Archway (the entrance gate to the park). From the entrance gate, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Visitor’s Center, where you can access some trails (incl. one that connects to the Shakadang Trail). However, if you want to go all the way to Tianxiang, it will probably take a few hours to walk because it’s about 30 mins (17km) away by car/scooter. If that’s too intense and you want to avoid renting your own wheels, you can consider taking the bus or check with your hotel if they offer bike rentals.

February 15, 2024 at

Hello, thanks so much for all the info on this blog…. Taroko National Park. The only part I am still confused is , how to tour around to the rest of the points once get to Tianxiang (by bus). Is the bus like a shuttle I can hop on/off to drop me at certain vista points? And if I ride the bus from Hualien to Tianxiang… on the way there are points like Changchun Shrine, Buluowan Bridge or Tunnel of nine turn, can I get off the bus to walk around then hop back on next bus to keep going to Tianxiang.? Thank so much… I am planning to go Taiwan, first time, stay there for a week from 4/19 to 4/26.

Hey Joy, thanks for stopping by. There are a couple of buses you can take to Taroko Gorge but I think your best bet is to take Ubus 310 . It’s like a hop-on-hop-off bus and allows you to get on/off at any of the stops along the route. You can check out the schedule and stops for Ubus #310 here. From quickly looking at the schedule though, it doesn’t look like bus 310 stops at the Eternal Spring Shrine, but you can try bus 310A . It’s the bus that goes back to Hualien, so you’ll need to be in the park already to take it to the temple. It might require a bit of planning, but Google Maps works very well in TW, especially in more touristy spots.

The bus info page on the Taroko Gorge website summarizes all the options you can take, so have a look at that too. Hope that helps!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

25 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Malaysia

Trending now.

Follow @ Hoponworld

Travel guides

• Travel Guides
• Itineraries
• City Guides
• Beach Guides
• Outdoor Guides
• Tips & Inspo

Get exclusive access to detailed travel guides & tips!

Work with me

• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Hoponworld · Theme by 17th Avenue

updated on February 1, 2022

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations

• Plan Your Trip

Discover Taroko Gorge

Personally, the biggest surprise of my Taroko Gorge hike was how little hiking it entailed. This was born of necessity: I arrived to the park under thick, cloudy skies, which opened up the moment I got out of my rental.

The good news, if the same fate happens to befall you, is that Taroko Gorge isn’t just home to some of the best hikes in Taiwan. Much of the scenery is accessible via road, including roads served by bus (if you don’t have your own set of wheels).

The better news? Whether you stay overnight in Hualien before your day in Taroko, or attempt to extremely ambitious task of travel from Taipei to Taroko (and back) in a single day, I’ll explain everything you need to know in my Taroko Gorge travel guide below.

The Logistics of Visiting Taroko Gorge

Now, I don’t want to curse you: Let’s go ahead and assume, if only for the sake of optimistic, that your Taroko Gorge hike will go off completely without a hitch. Thing is, you’re still going to need to get there. Two parallel but quite different tracks for doing this exist: Visiting Taroko Gorge for the day from nearby Hualien, or visiting Taroko Gorge from Taipei on a day trip.

Unless you have an extreme time constraint (i.e. you’re spending less than a week in Taiwan ), I would suggest the first option. This entails traveling from Taipei to Hualien, either in a rental car or by train, and spending the night in this underrated city before your full day in the park, which is accessible both by car and public transport. If you do want to do Taipei to Taroko (and back) in a day, on the other hand, I’d say the only realistic way is to rent a car.

Places to See in Taroko National Park

Swallow grotto (yanzikou) trail.

When it comes to Taroko Gorge trails, this one is one of the easiest, but also the most satisfying. After parking your car (assuming your don’t take the bus or walk all the way from the visitor’s center), you’ll be asked to don a mildewy yellow helmet, which I personally removed as soon as I passed the entrance to the cave. Although I didn’t see any massive number of the namesake birds of Swallow Grotto , hiking Yanzikou is fulfilling nonetheless.

Changchun Shrine

Known in English as the Shrine of Eternal Spring , this is another relatively easy Taroko Gorge hike—at least it is if you come on a rainy day like I did, and hike the 1 km or so from the parking lot to the shrine itself. Do eep in mind that while the journey is absolutely worth it, the best view of the destination ( Changchun Shrine has a waterfall—an eternal spring—seemingly flowing from it) is from far away.

Shakadang Trail

Arriving at Shakadang Bridge already situates you at one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan. In fact, this is just the beginning of the Shakadang Trail , which extends 1.5 miles out and up along the tranquil Shakadang Stream . Note that while tourism authorities suggest an official return hike time of 3-4 hours, I can’t imagine it taking this long for most travelers. It’s a pretty easy trail, and never takes me longer than two hours return.

Baiyang Waterfall

Another favorite Taroko Gorge hike is the Baiyang Trail , which runs about 2 km from a well-marked trailhead to a waterfall of the same name. In addition to the cascade itself, the turquoise pools it leaves in its wake are some of the most beautiful in Taroko Gorge, although you can’t swim in any of them (and it would be very difficult to reach them anyway!). Note that like many natural attractions in Taiwan, there is no way to reach Baiyang Waterfall except on foot.

Chongde Trail

I’ll state straight off that this trail is not part of the traditional Taroko National Park cachement area, and also isn’t reachable by public transport. With this being said, if you want to reach eastern Taiwan’s famous Qingshui Cliff , the easy 15-minute walk along Chongde Trail is a great way to do it. Many travelers will stop here on their way into Hualien, be it from Taipei or from Yilan , another coastal city farther north.

Is Hualien Worth Visiting?

On one hand, the array of things to do in Hualien doesn’t match what you find in Taipei or even, say, Taichung . On the other hand, there’s plenty to keep you busy in the city, including:

• Street eats at Dongdamen Night Market
• Pine Garden cultural center
• My favorite Cong You Bing in Taiwan at Lao Pai
• Oceanfront Beibin Park

More than anything, Hualien makes for a nearby and relaxing place to return “home” after your Taroko Gorge hike. It’s a lot more of a relief than if you’d need to trek all the way back to Taipei !

Taiwan’s East Coast Scenic Route

I’ve previously written about how to take a Taiwan road trip , but if you don’t want to read that post, I’ll sum it up here. Hualien, for all intents and purposes, is the beginning of Taiwan’s East Coast Scenic Route . After leaving the city behind, drive through the rice fields of Yuli County , emerging onto the Pacific shoreline at Sanxiantai , aka the Bridge of the Three Immortals.

More beautiful coastal scenery exists along the journey from Hualien to Taitung , notably Lisong Hot Spring in the East Rift Valley . However, the most beautiful places in Taiwan (in my opinion, anyway) are found beyond Taitung City , namely Taimali Beach . From here you’ll continue southward to Kenting National Park , where you’ll sleep for at least a night before concluding in Kaohsiung , where you’ll return your car.

Other FAQ About Visiting Taroko Gorge

How do i get to taroko gorge.

Although you can travel by bus from Taipei and Hualien to Taroko Gorge, it’s really best to have your own set of wheels. I recommend taking a Limited Express train from Taipei to Hualien and then renting a car there, as the drive from Taipei to Hualien is long and not especially exciting.

How many days do you need in Taroko Gorge?

Whether or not you spend the night within Taroko National Park, I recommend spreading your trip over at least a couple of days (which may simply end up being two day trips from Hualien to Taroko Gorge). This allows you to take your time hiking and to see many different parts of the gorge.

What is special about Taroko Gorge?

Taroko Gorge, in addition to being beautiful and dramatic, is made primarily of marble, which gives its towering walls an especially beautiful experience. This marble can actually be found paving the streets of nearby Hualien, which gives the city a grand feel.

The Bottom Line

Whether or not you precisely follow my Taroko Gorge travel guide isn’t the point. From the Shrine of Eternal Spring to Swallow Grotto, many of the most beautiful sights in the Taroko area are accessible by car and bus, even if this is not quite as exhilarating as getting there on foot. Taroko Gorge, to be sure, is only the beginning of Taiwan’s beautiful east coast, whether you continue southward to Taitung and Kenting National Park by car or bike, or simply stay in Hualien a couple of days and discover that underrated city.

Plan Your Taiwan Trip

Subscribe to email updates!

Words, images and design ©2020-2024 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap .

Taroko Gorge Day Tour from Taipei by Train

• Operation Day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
• Departure Morning
• Duration 1 Day
• Pick-up Time 06:10
• Vehicle Type 43-seater bus, 20-seater mini bus or 9-seater mini van (according to the number of participants)
• Meeting Point Exit East 2 of Taipei Main Station (near the train locomotive installation)
• Drop-off Point Taipei Main Station
• Discover the wonders of the world’s biggest marble gorge—Taroko Gorge
• Take in the stunning view of the soaring marble cliffs while rambling through the trails
• Enjoy a scenic train ride along the east coast of Taiwan
• Witness the beauty of the most romantic beach in Taiwan—Qixingtan Beach
• Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 1 participant

Famed for the stunning marble gorge, Taroko National Park is regarded as one of the top nature wonders in Asia. If you are traveling from Taipei, a train journey can be an attractive option to start your adventure, which offers you a chance to experience a different mode of transportation, and connect with the local people.

The awe-inspiring deep gorge cut by the flow of water for millions of years resulted in the natural masterpieces such as Swallow Grotto Trail, Tunnel of Nine Turns, etc. On this one-day tour, you will ramble through the trails in the gorge while enjoying the stunning view of the soaring marble cliffs. Make sure you have enough storage space on your phone! The beauty of Taroko Gorge will make you want to capture every moment.

Additionally, you will also visit the classic attractions in Hualien County during this tour: the marble factory and Qixingtan Beach.

• Description

Meet Edison Tour’s representative at the Exit East 2 of Taipei Main Station (near the train locomotive installation)

Meet Edison Tour’s representative in the early morning, and then take an express train bound for Hualien on your own. Don’t worry! Just sit back and enjoy this 3-hour journey.

Entrain for Hualien (#406, ETD 06:40, ETA 08:57)

Enbus for the Archway of Taroko Gorge

Upon your arrival in Hualien, your tour guide will greet you at the train station. Your one-day tour to Taroko Gorge National Park will start from the Archway of Taroko Gorge. This remarkable arch not only serves as the gateway to Taroko Gorge but also stands as a profound symbol of the dedication of those who built the Central Cross-Island Highway. Take advantage of this moment to capture your joyful smile alongside this iconic landmark.

From the entry to Tianxiang, this 20km section of Central Cross-Island Highway winding through the steep marble cliffs and tunnels of the gorge will blow you away.

Shakadang Trail

Your first stop is Shakadang Trail, one of the most popular hiking trails in Taroko National Park, also known as “Mysterious Valley Trail”. 

The river gently flowing through the marble boulders as you meanders along the trail in parallel. The turquoise blue water of the river is crystal clear that you can see the riverbed from above. 

Swallow Grotto Trail

The next stop of your Taroko Gorge tour is Swallow Grotto Trail. The potholes on the cliff surface were created by the ground water and the rapid stream of the river. In the past, they were the natural nesting location of swallows, hence the name.

Walking through the tunnels, you will be amazed by the stunning views of the marble cliffs reaching up to the sky.  

Your lunch will be served in a restaurant in Taroko National Park.

Cimu Bridge (pass by)

After lunch, you will pass by Cimu Bridge. The name “Cimu” directly translates to “loving mother”, as a homage to a touching story of maternal love. At the eastern end of the bridge proudly stands the Cimu Pavilion, a structure commissioned by the late president Chiang Kai-shek in the memory of his own mother.

Originally constructed with white marble from the region, this red steel bridge, resembling a cable-stayed design, was known as the “Marble Bridge” before being swept away by a typhoon in 1990. On its eastern end, visitors can take in the scenic beauty of a riverbend where millions of years of powerful rapids have artistically shaped the riverbed.

Tunnel of Nine Turns

Your tour continues with a visit to Tunnel of Nine Turns. Hold your breath, because this natural masterpiece will take your breath away!

Tunnel of Nine Turns is considered the most scenic section of Taroko Gorge, which reopened to public in 2019 after years of repair works. As you walk along the trail, you can see the meandering river running through the deep and spectacular canyon from above, and you can also have a closer look at the faults and folds of the sheer marble cliffs, as well as the vegetation on the walls.

Eternal Spring Shrine (pass by)

After that, you will pass by Eternal Spring Shrine, a memorial shrine established in 1958, to commemorate the 225 personnel (military veterans) who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway.

From afar, you can see the waterfall cascading over the sheer cliff below the shrine, creating a picturesque view.

Marble Factory

On the way back to the train station, your will visit a local marble factory, where you can get some handcrafts made of marble or souvenirs featuring the local characters, to enrich your travel collection.

Qixingtan Beach

Before you return to the train station for your train back to Taipei, you will visit the most romantic beach in Taiwan. Qixingtan Beach, a crescent-shaped beach covered with sprawling pebbles.

Here you can take a walk, chill yourself and enjoy the sea breeze along the beach, or challenge yourself to stack a stone tower with the pebbles.

Arrive at Hualien Train Station

Entrain for taipei (formosa express, etd 16:49, eta 19:28) (#229, etd 16 :30, eta 18 :56), drop off at taipei main station.

After 13 hours and 20 minutes of exploration, your journey concludes with a convenient drop-off at Taipei Main Station, leaving you with cherished memories to hold onto.

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Professional licensed tour guide (Mandarin / English / Japanese)
• Local transfer by air-conditioned vehicle
• Round-trip TRA express train ride between Taipei and Hualien
• Local general liabilities insurance
• Tour will be conducted in Mandarin, English and Japanese. (Please note that Japanese commentary will only be available on Mondays and Thursdays starting on April 1, 2024.)
• Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• The sequence and time of stay at tour stops may be adjusted according to the traffic/weather condition.
• If the tour has to be cancelled due to bad weather, we will contact you no later than the evening before the excursion day by email or SMS.
• Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes earlier than the pick-up time.
• Each guest is allowed to bring one piece of carry-on baggage.
• This tour is not recommended for wheelchair users and people with physical disabilities.
• Ensure you carry enough cash with you to cover your expenses for snacks, beverages, souvenirs, tips, etc. Convenience stores and most of the eateries in Taiwan don't accept credit cards as a form of payment.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, you must cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the listing ’ s local pick-up time(GMT+8). Please contact us by email or phone. 

Email: [email protected] 

Phone: +886 2 25635313

No-shows are defined as passengers who do not show up on time for the tours. In this event, the bookings will be cancelled and non-refundable.

Cancellations made 24 hours or more in advance of the listing’s pick-up time in the local time zone: full refund

Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance of the listing’s pick-up time in the local time zone: non-refundable

Related Posts

Indulge into the Natural Wonders of Taroko Gorge

5-Day Best of Taiwan – Taroko Gorge

More Tours You May Like

5-Day Best of Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Lukang

Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi Day Tour from Taipei

Pinglin Tea Culture & Maokong Day Tour from Taipei

Child (age 2-11)

This program is not exactly what you're looking for? Customize Now

Single Traveler Contact Form

A single room supplement is required for a solo traveler. Please fill out the form below and click submit for further information.

Nomadic Notes

Travel blog and weekly travel newsletter

Taroko National Park – highlights, and how to visit on a day trip from Taipei

August 28, 2019 By James Clark 11 Comments

Taroko National Park is one of the highlights of Taiwan, with the Taroko Gorge ranking among the great natural wonders of Asia.

When I was planning my trip most of the information I found was from travel agents selling tours. If you are in Taipei on a short visit it is possible to visit Taroko National Park independently as a day trip from Taipei. It will take a bit of planning though as it’s a full day of travel and not something you can just roll out of bed and go to.

The closest big city to Taroko is Hualien on the east coast of the island. Getting there from the west coast is more time consuming as there is no direct bus or train across the middle of the island.

The Central Mountain Range runs from north to south down the middle of the island, and once you visit Taroko you will understand why there is no easy access across the island (hint: the mountain range is HUGE). It’s this mountain range, and the rivers that have carved their way through it, that makes Taroko so spectacular.

This guide details how to visit Taroko National Park as a day trip from Taipei, the best sites to visit in the park, and where to stay if you prefer to stay longer than a day. This itinerary is for public transport, using the train and the useful local bus that serves the park. There are scooter rental agents near the Hualien Railway Station if you prefer to go by motorbike.

Taroko National Park Map

This map shows Taroko National Park in relation to Hualien and Taipei.

Getting to Hualien / Taroko National Park

Hualien is the gateway city to Taroko National Park, and the train is the best way to get there.

The first train leaves Taipei at 06:14 and arrives at Hualien at 08:20. I bought a ticket the night before at Taipei Main Station to make sure I had a seat.

Depending on what train you get the trip will take between 2 hours and 3 hours, 40 minutes. Check train times online at Taiwan Railways Timetable Information .

I got one of the Mountain Line trains to Hualien, and living up to its name you pass through some lovely mountain scenery on the way. This is nothing though compared to what you will experience later.

The station at Hualien is an architectural highlight of the city with its wavy wooden roof.

At Hualien there is a tourist information centre outside the station. The bus for Taroko National Park departs from here, and you can get tickets and a timetable from the office. The ticket cost NT$ 250 ($7.95 USD), and that can be used all day.

The bus runs throughout the day, stopping at the main spots within the park. Get the timetable so you can plan the day ahead. As much as I enjoy wandering at my own pace, if you are doing Taroko in a day then you will need to be mindful of the bus timetable. A missed bus could mean an hour or more waiting for the next one.

It takes 40 minutes to get from Hualien to Taroko National Park. The bus also stops at Xincheng Railway Station on the way to the park. You could technically get off at this station coming from Taipei, but the fast trains don’t stop here anyway.

Highlights of Taroko National Park

The highlights of Taroko National Park are spread out along a long road that runs through the gorge, so it’s not like you can just turn up and walk around. The bus stops at the most interesting sites, giving an ideal introduction to the park. Entrance to the park is free.

Visitor Centre

The first stop in the park is at the information centre.

There are some walking paths here and an information movie on show, but in hindsight I should have just kept going to the first big walk. If you only have a day then your time is better spent going to the next stop.

Shakadang Trail

It’s at the Shakadang Trail that you start to see why this park is so famous. The bus stop is on a bridge on the other side of a tunnel.

From the bridge there are stairs that go down to the walking path that follows a river. At the path level the Shakadang Bridge reveals itself to be more photogenic.

The trail is carved into the side of the cliff that follows the crystal-clear waters of the Shakadang River.

Some sections of the river are so blue and green that it’s hard to believe it’s a natural colour.

I saw plenty of big spiders, but fortunately there were no encounters with poisonous bees and snakes.

The bees and snakes warning somehow reminded me of a Simpsons episode with this quote:

“Oh yeah, what are you gonna do? Release the dogs? Or the bees? Or the dogs with bees in their mouth and when they bark they shoot bees at you?”

In this case I thought of snakes with bees in their mouth and when they hiss they shoot bees at you. That is something you would expect in Australia.

Getting back to the trail, there is only one way so you have to backtrack to get to the bus stop. The great thing about this walk is that you pass through rugged mountain scenery but it is almost entirely flat, so there are no arduous mountain climbs. This is the sort of nature walk I can get behind (apart from the poisonous bees).

Keep track of how long you have been walking to make sure you can walk back and get the next bus.

Swallow Grotto

After a walk that would rank as a highlight for any other national park, it’s on to the main attraction of the park – the gorge.

The bus stop to get off at is Yanzikou (Swallow Grotto). At the stop you will see two suspension bridges, but they are reserved for those who have booked a walk on the Zhuilu Old Road. That gives me a good excuse to come back.

A short walk from the bus stop is the Swallow Grotto. The water in river is grey from the marble stone, and the road and walkway is carved inside the mountain with openings to view the river and gorge.

Like the Grand Canyon in the US, I found that no picture can do justice the feeling of seeing this in real life. This gorge is indeed gorgeous, and no one who has seen this gorge will begrudge you of using this pun.

On the other side of the tunnel system is a refreshment area with a cafe and restaurant. The prices here are at tourist prices, so if you can hold out until the next stop there are more food options.

Xiangde Temple

At the end of the bus route is the township of Tianxiang. There are hotels, restaurants and convenience stores here, and walking paths from the town.

The highlight here is the Xiangde Temple, which has a good view of the town and its bridges.

There are a troop of Formosan Macaques in the town as well.

One of the things I didn’t stop at but I saw through the bus window was the Changchun (Eternal Spring) Shrine. The bus only stops here on the way back from the park, so allow for that if you want to see it.

Bonus Stop: Xincheng Beach

If you have time left in your day then make a stop at Xincheng Beach. This is the last stop on the bus between the park and Hualien. The beach is made of large stones, sort of like Brighton Beach and Nice in the south of France. I’m more of a white sandy beach kind of guy, but I was surprised with how smooth the stones were, and how soothing the waves from the Pacific Ocean sounded when filtering through the stones. When you sit on the “sand” you make a little dent as the stones give way to your weight. It’s like a cold stone massage.

There is a walkway along the beach with a market, though that wasn’t open during the day.

Returning to Taipei

At the time of my visit the last bus leaves Tianxiang at 17:55 and arrives at Hualien Railway Station at 19.25. The last train from Hualien to Taipei departs at 22:00 so it’s possible to stay in the park for the entire day and have time for dinner in Hualien.

I booked a ticket in advance just to be sure I had a return seat. It turned out that my ride back to Taipei was on the Hello Kitty Train.

There is no high-speed rail on the east coast of Taiwan, but it’s still pretty fast compared to where I’m from (Australia via Vietnam).

And back at Taipei Main Station after a great day out at Taroko Gorge.

Where to stay for Taroko National Park

If you have more time than a day trip from Taipei then staying near the park will be more relaxing. I stayed in Hualien City, where there are many hotels near the train station. The centre of town is further away from the station (at least not comfortably walkable), so I picked a hotel near the station to save time getting to Taroko.

I stayed at the Classic Hotel City Resort , and here are more hotels in Hualien .

Another option is to stay at Xiulin Township. This is at the Taroko Arched Gate at the stop before the Taroko Visitor Center. This would be a better option if you plan to spend more than a day exploring the park and don’t care to stay in a city. Accommodation is limited here so book in advance if you plan to stay here. The closest hotels to the entrance is Liwu Hotel Taroko and Hong Ying B&B .

Inside the park there is the Taroko Village Hotel , and if you want to splash out there is the 5-star Silks Place Taroko Hotel in Tianxiang (deep in the park at the last stop on the bus).

For official park information visit Taroko National Park .

About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

August 28, 2019 at 11:13 am

Thank you James for this wonderful input about Taroko National Park..A great inclusion for the itinerary when visiting Taipei.. Ive never seen this in the tour packages and posts from those who who visited Taipei.

More Power..

August 29, 2019 at 8:00 pm

It’s great the way you decipher this place, excellent photography and great narrative work during your trip. You have a unique style, continue that well with your work.

August 31, 2019 at 10:08 am

A brilliant set of photos from Taroko and lots of useful info. Thanks for sharing, James.

September 5, 2019 at 10:35 am

Thanks for giving this useful information, with beautiful pictures. I hope you have enjoyed your trip to Taroko National Park.

December 15, 2020 at 10:27 pm

Great content. There´s not a lot of information about the details you have to consider if you want to visit Toroko National Park.

I´ll be aware of the bees and snakes when I visit. Btw, great pictures!

January 12, 2021 at 6:02 pm

Finally, I found a nice photo of Shakadang Bridge. I was told this place holds some sort of mystery. Could you feel that? Great post! Will be heading to Taipei soon

February 16, 2021 at 4:09 pm

I guess seeing macaques walking between the streets is normal in Tapei.

February 18, 2021 at 8:27 pm

Wow, I´ve never been to a beach made of stones, and tho I think I like sandy beaches more, I´m curious to know how smooth are those stones.

Great post!

March 13, 2021 at 5:19 pm

Views are amazin!

Their architecture sims to be mixed between the old and the modern. It’s pretty cool. Also, I would like to see some of the macaques.

Great work! Thanks for the info.

March 22, 2021 at 11:17 pm

This year I plan to travel to Taipei, haha it was a coincidence to find your blog. I’ve already taken note of many things you mention in your post.

March 29, 2021 at 6:40 pm

I love the fact that there is a Hello Kitty train. I definitely would take a ride there.

The weather seems kind of cloudy but still astonishing with all the mountains and vegetation.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

About Nomadic Notes

Search nomadic notes, travel notes, travel resources, where to stay in…, travel newsletter.

• Bosnia + Herzegovina
• Faroe Islands
• Philippines
• South Africa
• French Polynesia
• Solomon Islands
• Work With Me

Taroko Gorge: How To Plan The Perfect Day Trip + Essential Tips For Your Visit

15 February 2020.

Veering away from the coastline, Taroko Gorge carves its way inland; a wide canyon blanketed in verdant forest. Onwards, the lush vegetation gives way to steep cliff walls that twist and turn like a jagged tear in the earth.

It’s a remarkable sight and well deserving of its spot as Taiwan’s crowned jewel, but it is the wonders that lie hidden within its furthest reaches that make a trip here truly spectacular.

Eden-like valleys conceal thundering waterfalls that cascade between the trees culminating in a serpentine stream of clear, glimmering blue. High mountain trails will test even the most intrepid visitors and reward them with astounding vistas from above. While down below, a series of bridges, tunnels and cliff-hugging roads will bring you to temples, shrines and caves that sit nestled amongst the forest.

As one of the most popular places to visit in Taiwan , don’t expect to have the place to yourself. In fact, you’ll likely be sharing it with hundreds or thousands of others. But don’t let that put you off either. Many of the day-trippers stick to the same attractions and remain in the park for just a few hours meaning that on a well-planned trip, it’s entirely possible to find moments of tranquillity and places where you’re not overwhelmed by the crowds.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ve outlined my top tips for visiting Taroko National Park, how to plan your day trip itinerary, the best hiking trails and what single thing you absolutely must do if you’re a keen hiker.

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, these are a few helpful tips to consider when planning your visit to Taroko National Park.

Not all trails are open all the time

For me, this was the biggest frustration as so many of the hiking trails I had earmarked for my visit, including the Shakadang and Lushui-Wenshan Trails, were actually closed.

As it turns out, this is fairly common.

Typhoons, strong winds and heavy rain can be seriously destructive within the narrow canyon and, at any given time, it’s likely that a number of the Taroko Gorge trails will be closed, either due to weather damage, routine maintenance or environmental rehabilitation.

As your trip approaches, I’d highly recommend checking the national park website to confirm which trails are open. This list covers the entire Taroko National Park, but the official trails that lie within Taroko Gorge are:

Scenic Trails  |   Taroko Terrace, Shakadang, Xiao Zhuilu, Buluowan, Yanzikhou (Swallow Grotto), Lushui, Baiyang and the Tunnel of Nine Turns.

Hiking Trails  |   Dali-Datong, Dekalun, Changchun Shrine (Eternal Spring) and Huoran Pavilion.

Mountaineering Trails  |   Zhuilu Old Trail and Lushui-Wenshan Trail.

Taroko National Park Is Free To Enter, BUT You Do Need A Permit For Some Hikes

The devil is in the detail, and this one is crucial!

If you’re an avid hiker, the one thing you absolutely MUST DO is apply for a permit to hike the stunning Zhuilu Old Trail in advance.

As beautiful as many of Taroko’s other trails are, most are relatively short, paved and flat and just don’t give that feeling of being off on an adventure. The Zhuilu Old Trail is one of the few ‘real’ hiking trails in Taroko Gorge that will see you clambering through dense forest and scuttling along a narrow, cliff-hugging trail high up in the mountains.

The permit itself is relatively easy to acquire, provided you apply in time. Applications open 30 days in advance and close at 3 p.m. on the working day prior to the hike. The entry fee is $200 (€6).

Apply for your permit here and select ‘Standard Application’ if your visit is within 30 days. A new system also allows a limited number of foreign tourists to apply via ‘Advance Application’ between 35 days and 4 months ahead.

There is a daily quota of 96 hikers on weekdays, plus 12 from advance applications, and 156 hikers on weekends and holidays. As some sections of the trail are tortuously narrow, this helps to maintain safety and limit numbers which is refreshing given how crowded many other parts of Taroko can become.

Once your dates are locked in, apply as soon as your application period opens. I tried to apply 10 days in advance after discovering I even needed a permit and was unable to secure one at all, even for a day mid-week and in low season.

If all this sounds like too much hassle, this hiking tour will take care of the process for you provided you book early enough and includes a fun guided experience of the Zhuilu Old Trail.

READ NEXT:   17 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN TAIWAN

It’s perfectly manageable as a day trip from hualien, unless you do the longer trails.

My day trip to Taroko Gorge from Hualien was fantastic and allowed a decent amount of time to enjoy a handful of the shorter trails and iconic sights of the area. But had I tackled any of the longer trails which would have taken up the better part of my day, there’s a good chance I’d have wanted to return to explore a little further. 

If you think this might be you, consider factoring a second day into your itinerary, or at least arrive early enough to squeeze in a few extra stops in the afternoon.

Reconsider Visiting Taroko National Park As A Day Trip From Taipei

Despite being one of the most popular ways to see Taroko National Park, a day trip from Taipei is not something I would recommend.

Most tours use the local trains to get between Taipei and Hualien which means 2.5 to 3 hours of travel each way before you even reach the gorge. While you’ll thankfully get a dedicated bus to shuttle you between the main attractions, you won’t be left with many opportunities to actually walk around.

Attempting to make the trip independently would mean an even longer affair with far too much time spent juggling transport and not enough time to actually enjoy and explore the beauty of the gorge.

Even if you’re exceptionally pushed for time, cramming just one night in Hualien into your itinerary will allow for a much better experience. You could travel to Hualien from Taipei in the evening, visit Taroko Gorge either independently or as a tour the following day and then return to Taipei in the evening.

If a trip from Taipei is really the only way for you to visit, this tour is available in English and includes stops at Qixingtan to take in the dramatic sea cliffs along Taiwan’s east coast as well as Swallow Grotto and Chimu Bridge within Taroko Gorge.

If you’re visiting by bus, have a game plan for the day

If you’re visiting Taroko Gorge by bus, I would highly recommend planning out your day beforehand.

Most buses come just once an hour and if you were to miss one, it would be a shame to have to waste a whole other hour, potentially multiple times in one day, just to reach the next stop. Figuring out which hikes you’re interested in (and are actually open), where they start and how long they take and roughly coordinating this with the bus schedule will allow for a much more pleasant day and mean you hopefully won’t miss out on any of the highlights.

Generally, I’d suggest starting as far from the entrance as possible and working your way back, but if you’re doing any of the longer hikes, I would make these your first stop before travelling elsewhere in the park.

Avoid Visiting On Weekends

Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most popular destinations, especially among day-trippers from Taipei and Hualien, and so it should come as no surprise that the place can get incredibly crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays.

If you can plan your visit around weekends, you’ll have a much better experience.

Even if you’re visiting during the week, I’d still suggest making your way to the favourite spots either early in the day or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. The gorgeous Baiyang and Shakadang Trails both receive plenty of visitors, while the Swallow Grotto is frequently swamped by tour buses.

ESSENTIAL READING:   24 HELPFUL TRAVEL TIPS FOR VISITING TAIWAN

There’s far more to taroko national park than taroko gorge.

Given its popularity and how easy it is to access, you’d be forgiven for thinking this stunning canyon makes up the entirety of Taroko National Park.

But continue on beyond Tianxiang and you’ll quickly find yourself weaving through a sea of rugged mountains and lush alpine pastures as you make your way across the stunning Central Mountain Range of Taiwan.

Though there are numerous places along this ridiculously scenic drive that will have you diving for your camera, on the far side you’ll find Hehuanshan , a spectacular cluster of peaks that soar above 3,000m. It’s also one of few high altitude areas in Taiwan that doesn’t require a hiking permit and one of the best places catch the sunset, sunrise and a magnificent night sky.

Travelling beyond the gorge is somewhat challenging though with just one daily bus from Hualien reaching as far as Lishan, several kilometres short of Hehuanshan. Private transport is the best way to travel between the two although it is rather pricy. Otherwise day tours also make the journey into a full-day adventure.

Bring Plenty of Water And Snacks

Dining options are very limited in Taroko Gorge and the ones I did see were either fairly pricy or didn’t seem to have much choice.

Instead, I’d recommend bringing a packed lunch or enough snacks to tide you through the day. This will also allow you to eat anywhere in the park rather than having to backtrack to the rest stops when your belly begins to growl.

There aren’t all that many places to fill up with water either so I’d suggest bringing plenty with you, especially if you’re tackling any of the major hikes.

If you are in need of somewhere to eat, you’ll find a few small cafes in Tianxiang, one cafe at Jinheng Park near Yanzikou/Swallow Grotto, a cafe at the Eternal Spring Shrine and a few options at the Taroko Visitor Centre.

The Weather Is Highly Changeable

The day may begin with wonderfully sunny skies, but afternoon cloud and rain are a frequent occurrence which is hardly surprising given how green the place is.

A rain jacket is essential and if you’re planning on doing any of the longer hikes a good pair of hiking boots are also a good idea in case of muddy trails.

It doesn’t happen often, but during bouts of severe weather, some trails way also be closed temporarily for safety which is something to keep in mind if you’re visiting during typhoon season (June to October).

DON’T MISS:   THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ALISHAN, TAIWAN’S MAGICAL ANCIENT FOREST

There are 14 official trails in Taroko Gorge divided into scenic trails, hiking trails and mountaineering trails based on their difficulty.

The majority are relatively short and flat and can be comfortably completed in around an hour, while just a few are proper hiking trails that cover more rugged terrain and will take up a bigger portion of your day. The longer or more scenic trails are outlined below but you’ll find the full list of trails marked on the park map. Keep in mind that all the trails might not be open during your visit and that you won’t be able to complete all of these in a one day visit.

Baiyang Waterfall Trail

With so many other trails being closed, this incredibly beautiful walk was my first stop and became the absolute highlight of my visit to Taroko Gorge. Weaving between pitch-black tunnels and soaring canyon walls, the trail ends in a scene fit for a fairytale where a trio of waterfalls tumble gracefully amidst the dense forest and a picturesque suspension bridge provides a sublime vantage point from which to take it all in.

On your return journey, be sure to take the short detour to the waterfall cave where you’ll walk alongside an icy river before emerging on the far side through a deluge of water. Obviously, a poncho or raincoat is a good idea, as is a torch.

To reach the trailhead, you’ll need to walk around 15-minutes along the main road from Tianxiang. The walk itself is 2km return and is flat and paved with a recomended walking time of 2 hours. If you’re a fast walker you can certainly complete it in less time, but I thoroughly enjoyed wandering this gorgeous area at a leisurely pace and snapping a gazillion photos along the way. The roundtrip from Tianxiang took me around 3 hours.

Zhuilu Old Trail

One of Taroko’s most challenging hikes, Zhuilu Old Trail begins along a suspension bridge that hangs across the lush walls of the canyon before climbing upwards through dense forest and emerging high upon the craggy cliffs. Some sections will have you scurrying along a precariously narrow cliff’s edge that is not for the faint-hearted – this is a big reason why hiker numbers are restricted on this trail – but the views are fantastic and provide you with one of few vantage points where you’ll get a birds-eye view of the canyon.

In the past, the trail was 10km and took the better part of a day, but since being damaged by a typhoon, just 3km is accessible – 6km return beginning from Yanzikou / Swallow’s Grotto – which can be completed in around 3 to 5 hours.

As mentioned above, permits are essential for this hike and must be applied for in advance. On the day, arrive in time to begin the hike between 7 and 10 a.m. armed with your passport and permit. Any later and you will not be permitted to begin the trail. Given the tricky terrain, the hiking trail can also be closed at the last minute due to bad weather.

To skip the fuss of applying for permits, this hiking tour will take care of the process for you provided you book early enough and takes you on a fun guided experience. If permits cannot be acquired, you’ll also be given a full refund.

Lushui-Wenshan Trail

Not to be confused with the much shorter scenic Lushui Trail which is currently partially closed, the Lushui-Wenshan Trail is a 5.5km through hike and another of Taroko’s ‘proper’ hiking trail.

Climbing behind Lushui, the trail has plenty of steep sections, both up and down, which are occasionally aided by ropes and chains. The way is mostly shaded offering some reprieve from the intense Taiwanese sun and can be completed in 2 to 3 hours at a good pace.

The hike ends in Wenshan which lies 3km north of Tianxiang and is unfortunately not served by bus meaning you’ll need to make your way back along the road.

Jiuqudong or Tunnel Of Nine Turns

Following a 6 year closure period for renovation and maintenance, the Tunnel of Nine Turns reopened in June 2019 and takes in one of the most dramatic stretches of Taroko Gorge.

Built within the cliff walls, the paved trail follows the old mountain highway for 700m each way and can be completed in 40 minutes return at a leisurely pace with plenty of photo stops. It is fully accessible and also recieves far fewer crowds than the Swallow’s Grotto which takes in similar landscapes.

Yanzikou Trail or Swallow Grotto

Without a doubt the most popular stop in Taroko Gorge, the Yanzikou Trail or Swallow Grotto is carved within the mountain and takes in one of the narrowest sections of the canyon where the far wall seems close enough to touch and the Liwu River gushes by far down below.

It’s an incredibly scenic spot that puts you right in the belly of the canyon, but it’s also one of the few places where you’ll be swamped by crowds and spend much of your time weaving between selfie-stick waving tour groups that seem to have little regard for anyone else around them which can detract heavily from the beauty of the place.

Normally I’d suggest waiting it out, but during busier times of the day, the stream of tour buses is almost constant with each arriving to drop off their groups before moving on the waiting area a short way down the road.

Of course, that’s not to say this spot isn’t worth visiting, but arriving later in the day when many of the day-trippers have left will certainly make the experience more enjoyable.

The trail is 1.3km ending at Jinheng Park where you’ll find a small cafe and a shaded area with picnic tables which makes a good spot for a break if you’ve brought a packed lunch. The path hugs the road which is not ideal given the level of traffic so keep an eye out and if you’re visiting by bus, you’ll need to return the way you came.

Shakadang Trail

Tracing the contours of the brilliant turquoise river of the same name, the Shakadang Trail funnels you away from the main canyon weaving through rocky overhangs and lush forest.

It’s one of the longer hikes in the park and is mostly flat making it a great option for those looking to get a little off the beaten path and enjoy the beautiful nature found in this part of Taiwan without too much of a challenge. It’s a popular trail, however most visitors walk just the first section so by getting an early start and completing the entire walk, you’ll be able to avoid most of the crowds.

Changchun Or Eternal Spring Shrine Trail

Nestled amidst a sea of greenery, Eternal Spring Shrine commemorates the military veterans who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. At its centre, spring water cascades beneath a white archway to join the Liwu River.

Set right beside the main road, Changchun is another icon of Taroko Gorge and a very popular spot for visitors.

Across the red Zhangchun Bridge, you’ll find the Guanyin Cave and entrance to the Changchun Shrine Trail though at the time of visiting the trail was inaccessible from here. Instead, you can follow the road uphill to the Changchun Temple, cross over the suspension bridge and climb the steep rocky staircase to the Changchun Temple Bell Tower perched high above the valley. Beyond here the trail is closed but don’t miss climbing the bell tower for sublime views a rare opportunity to see the gorge from above.

Changchun Temple to the bell tower takes around 15 minutes and if you arrive here late in the day you may be lucky enough to have the place all to yourself.

Dekalun Trail and Dali-Datong Trail

Departing from behind the Taroko Visitor Centre, the Dekalun and Dali-Datong Trails are unique in that they pass through the last remaining villages of the Truku aboriginal tribes that once resided in Taroko Gorge.

The Dakalun and Dali Trails intersect and climb steeply through dense forest to Dali where you’ll find an abandoned church and spectacular views across the surrounding mountains. Onwards, the trail continues along a more gentle slope towards the remote village of Datong. As a protected area for indigenous land, it important to be respectful of the local culture and considerate of their property. 

The full hike is 9.4km one way to Datong and takes around 9 hours round trip at a good pace, though it can also be broken up into shorter sections, either as a two-day hike or by only going as far as Dali which takes 2 to 3 hours one way. There are a couple of different trails that lead between the villages so if you are doing the full hike it’s possible to go in and out along different paths.

If you’ve done any amount of hiking in Taiwan, you’ve likely become accustomed to seeing warning signs for venomous snakes on the trail. While I never encountered any snakes in Taiwan, as one of the least visited trails in Taroko Gorge, there is a higher chance of spotting them here. Keep an eye out!

Read this post for further information.

GET HIKING:   EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING HEHUANSHAN

Hualien to taroko gorge by bus.

There are 9 buses a day between Hualien Station and Tianxiang at the far end of Taroko Gorge. The trip takes 40 minutes to reach the Visitor Centre or an hour and 15 minutes for the full journey.

The bus departs from outside the Hualien Station in front of a large orange stand to the left when facing away from the station. You’ll find a small information booth here where you can buy a bus ticket if you need to and collect a map which includes a list of all the hiking trails and the current bus timetable.

Bus passes are available for 1 or 2 days ($250/€7.50 or $400/€12) and allow you to hop on and off the bus anywhere along the route. However, depending on how many buses you take, it can actually work out much cheaper just using your EasyCard which is what I’d recommend doing.

An EasyCard is essentially a top-up card that can be used on transport throughout Taiwan by tapping on and off for each trip. You can buy one at any convenience store or order one in advance here for collection at the airport on arrival. Using an EasyCard for visiting Taroko Gorge will also give you a discounted fare compared with paying in cash.

On a day trip, I would highly recommend aiming to be on the very first bus of the day so you can hit the trails before the tour buses arrive and enjoy the empty roads as you weave your way between the narrow cliffs. Trust me, catching those early morning rays gleaming through the canyon will be well worth the early alarm.

Weather also tends to be best in the morning so you may as well make use of the sunshine before the afternoon clouds blanket the mountains.

Also be sure to be back in time to catch the last bus out of the park! It departs at 5 p.m. from Tianxiang and 5:30 p.m. from the Visitor Centre.

As of October 2019, the bus schedule was:

Hualien Station to Tianxiang  |  7:00, 8:30, 9:10, 10:00, 11:10, 12:00, 13:20, 14:10 and 15:10.

Tianxiang to Hualien Station   |   8:40, 10:00, 10:40, 11:40, 12:50, 14:10, 15:00, 15:50 and 17:00.

Hualien To Taroko Gorge By Scooter

Scattered around Hualien Station, you’ll find plenty of shops renting out scooters and bikes.

Although this is a great way to explore the area and would give you far more freedom than relying on the bus, like many other places in Taiwan, following a slew of unfortunate accidents involving tourists, regulations are becoming stricter. Officially foreigners renting scooters need an International Driver’s Permit that states that you’re allowed to ride a motorbike, though of course this isn’t always enforced.

Scooters can be rented for around $500 (€15) per day and it’s 30km along the main road from Hualien Station to the entrance to Taroko Gorge.

It’s also possible to visit Taroko Gorge by car, but the roads are narrow and windy and get very congested with buses and cars having to reverse and manoeuvre around each other in order to pass so this is not something I’d recommend unless you’re going with a private driver.

Taroko Gorge Tour

While I’ll always choose to explore independently if I can rather than take a tour, it’s certainly the more popular way to visit Taroko Gorge, so if you’d rather remove the hassle of planning out your day or would prefer to have a knowledgable guide by your side, these are a few of the best tour options.

Taroko Gorge Day Trips From Hualien   |  This popular, top-rated day tour includes stops at the dramatic Qingshui Cliffs, Changchun Shrine, Swallow’s Grotto, Shakadang Trail and the famous Pudu Bridge at Tianxiang (may vary by what trails are open at the time). Unlike many other tours, there’s also the option for an English-speaking guide, while the Chinese tours follow a slightly different itinerary. Prices are also very reasonable starting from €27. Book your tour here.

Zhuilu Old Trail Hiking Experience   |   Hike Taroko Gorge’s most magnificent trail with an experienced guide and none of the fuss. They’ll arrange permits for you, provide helmets and make an early start to allow you plenty of time to explore in the afternoon if you’ve got any puff left. If permits cannot be acquired, you’ll also be given a full refund. Book your tour here.

While getting to and from Taroko National Park is simple, unfortunately the buses running within the gorge aren’t all that frequent.

Although it’s still perfectly manageable on a well-planned day trip, I would suggest planning your route out in advance with where you want to visit and which buses you’ll need to take to fit everything in.

Now, this may sound a bit pernickety (would doesn’t love that word) and admittedly I’m normally more of a fly-by-the-seat of your pants kind of traveller, not having at least a vague plan could mean you could end up wasting several hours of your day waiting by the roadside for the bus to arrive between hikes. That said, buses are also occasionally late, sometimes as much as 30 minutes late, so it’s a good idea to factor in some extra time in case of delays. 

Bus timetables are clearly listed on the Taroko Route map available from Hualien Station and at every bus stop with how long it takes to get between each destination. Aside from the orange Hualien Buses, there are buses from a different company which travel the Taroko Gorge route. If you have a day pass, it will not be valid on these other services, while an EasyCard can be used for either.

It’s also important to note that buses travelling inbound and outbound may stop at different stops and between the Visitor Centre and the Changchun Shrine there are two separate roads. When entering the park you’ll pass via the Shakadang Trail, but when exiting the park you’ll use a different road the other side of the river. The distances in this section are not far apart so you could easily walk between the different stops but, for example, if the day is wearing on, don’t wait at the Shakadang Trail for a bus to leave the park as there may not be one.

READ NEXT:   A WONDERFUL DAY CYCLING TAIWAN’S EAST RIFT VALLEY

Hualien accommodation.

Hualien makes an ideal base from which to visit Taroko National Park. It’s well serviced by transport, has plenty of great cafes and restaurants and has a comfortable laidback vibe which makes it an easy place to chill out for a few days.

Most options in Hualien are clustered around either the train station or the downtown area which are a few kilometres apart so consider which area will suit you best for your visit. If you plan to spend several days in Hualien and don’t necessarily need easy access to the train station, I’d recommend staying in the centre. For those only visiting for Taroko Gorge, you’ll be better off choosing somewhere near the station.

Wow Hostel   |   Located in the big green building opposite the train station, Wow Hostel is one of Hualien’s most popular options for budget travellers. The industrial-themed interior has plenty of chill-out space, dormitories are capsule-style, staff are friendly, a simple breakfast is included and there’s a guest kitchen available. It’s also perfectly located for an early morning departure to Taroko Gorge. Check rates and availability here.

Cave Hostel   |   Located in the downtown area, Cave Hostel is another great budget choice for those wanting to be near Hualien’s lively centre. Beds are large (seriously, I lucked out with a double in the dorm) and capsule-style, breakfast is included and there’s plenty of information available on exploring the area. The dumpling place a few doors down is also excellent and has plenty of veggie options. Check rates and availability here.

Travel Charger Hostel   | This funky hostel is set a short walk from the train station and comes with a slightly higher price tag but is a firm favourite among those looking for a trendy space to kick back. Check rates and availability here.

You’ll also find several top-rated homestays on offer. Among the best rated are Com Inn ,  Happiness is my Home   and   Hometown B&B   which are all located near the train station and offer bright, excellent value private rooms with friendly hosts.

Check more options for Hualien here.

Camping In Taroko National Park

Prefer to stay inside Taroko Gorge? It’s also possible to camp with two camping grounds available within the park. 

The Heliu and Lushui Campgrounds are less than 1km apart in the further reaches of the gorge and are relatively basic but provide a perfect spot for adventurous visitors looking to experience the beauty of Taroko by night or the increasing number of cyclists travelling Taiwan’s spectacular east coast. You’ll need to bring your own tent and spaces are given on a first come first serve basis. 

Heliu provides raised wooden sites for $300 (€9) per night, while Lushui is free and has a large grassy space.

See here for more information.

Your Taroko Gorge visit will very much be determined by what is open at the time and how much hiking you’re keen to do, but for anyone looking to follow a similar route, this was my exact itinerary.

Firstly, it’s important to add that unfortunately the Shakadang and Lushui-Wenshan Trails were closed during my visit and I was also unable to secure a permit for the Zhuilu Old Trail despite attempting to apply days in advance. Had I been able to complete these longer trails, I likely would have planned my time very differently and even considered returning for a second day.

Regardless, it was an excellent trip and I’d still recommend this route for anyone looking to cover a lot of ground and discover some beautiful corners of the gorge but not necessarily tackle any of the major trails.

I left Hualien on the first bus of the day arriving at Tianxiang around 8:15 a.m. Here, I spent some time snapping photos of the iconic Pudu Bridge which leads across the gorge towards the perfectly situated Tianfeng Pagoda, before setting off along the road to start the Baiyang Trail.

With early morning light gushing over the mountain tops and waterfalls aplenty, this magical corner of the park made a perfect start to the day. Though the walk is short, I enjoyed it slowly, snapped hundreds of photos and took the detour through the waterfall cave which is quite an experience.

By 12:15 p.m. I was back at Tianxiang with plenty of time for a snack and a few more photos before the bus at 12:50 p.m., though unfortunately it was half an hour late.

My next stop was the dramatic and surprisingly quiet Tunnel Of Nine Turns before jumping straight on the next bus to Yanzikou or the Swallow Grotto. Weaving through the steep wall of the canyon along with what felt like half of Hualien, I made my way to Jinheng Park for lunch.

Next, I made my way over to Changchun or Eternal Spring Shrine and meandered back to the Visitor Centre on foot. A pagoda nestled high on the hillside caught my eye and I decided to go and investigate, crossing the large red bridge and climbing the steep hill to Changchun Temple.

From here, a suspension bridge lead me into the forest and up a steep trail towards the Changchun Temple Bell Tower which offers up sensational views across Taroko Gorge.

With darkness quickly falling, I made my way back on foot via the Shakadang Trail to get a closer look at the turqouise water I ha been so eager to see before pushing on to the Visitor Centre in time to catch the final bus of the day back to Hualien.

Most of this section is within a tunnel and as it was so late in the day there wasn’t much traffic, but I wouldn’t suggest walking here at busier times of day.

17 Incredible Things To Do In Taiwan

Taiwan Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things To Know Before You Go

Cycling Sun Moon Lake – Is It Worth It?

What To Do In Jiufen + Jinguashi | Lanterns, Mountains + Pretty Streets

4 Beautiful Hiking Trails From Taipei

54 Photos That Will Make You Want To Get Your Butt To Taiwan NOW!

Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail: An Easy Half-Day Hike From Taipei

A Short Guide To Shizhao + Fenchihu | Two Serene Alternatives For Visiting Alishan

The Ultimate Guide To Alishan | Taiwan’s Magical Ancient Forest Area

Beitou Hot Springs: How To Handle A Traditional Taiwanese Bath Experience Like A Pro

How To Get To Kenting National Park From Anywhere In Taiwan

Teapot Mountain: A Fantastic Day Hike In Northern Taiwan

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Adventures in Destinations Unknown

The Taroko Gorge in Taiwan: A Day Trip Itinerary

Last modified on February 12th, 2024 at 21:09

Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s top tourist destinations. A spectacular area containing marble-walled canyons, emerald vegetation and picturesque shrines, the park is a dream destination for lovers of hiking, culture and splendid scenery.

The national park’s massive mountains are awe-inspiring. They tower over the chiseled Taroko Gorge, concealing temples and rivers and waterfalls. The national park—speckled with pagodas and surrounded by green forests—is a scenic wonderland that is worlds away from the bright city lights of Taiwan’s urban centers.

Bisecting this emerald wonderland is the Taroko Gorge–a masterpiece of geologic craftsmanship that, all puns intended, puts the ‘gorge’ in gorgeous. 

Table of Contents

TAROKO NATIONAL PARK IN TAIWAN

Taroko  National Park lies on the eastern coast of Taiwan, near the city of Hualien. Not only is the park one of the top places to visit in Taiwan, but it is also sometimes considered to be one of the most beautiful national parks in Asia.

A highlight of travel outside Taipei , Taroko’s scenery is varied and dramatic. Within an area of less than 60km, its landscapes rise from sea level to over 3,00o meters.

The Taroko Gorge is the national park’s landmark attraction. Its precipitous cliffs line the snaking Liwu River and practically beg to be photographed.

In addition to the gorge, Taroko National Park boasts waterfalls, shrines, sea cliffs, and 27 peaks over 3,000 meters in height.

TAROKO NATIONAL PARK DAY TRIP ITINERARY

Taroko National Park is a popular day trip destination from Hualien. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even visit as a day trip from Taipei.

We spent two nights in Hualien and explored the gorge over the course of a day. Taking a public bus through the Taroko Gorge meant adhering to posted timetables. Since we were visiting the Taroko Gorge as a day trip from Hualien, we didn’t have time to do extensive hiking in the area. With that in mind, we skipped the longer hiking trails in the park and opted to spend more time at viewpoints along the way.

Our itinerary consisted of five main stops along the tourist circuit: the Swallow Tail Grotto, the Tunnel of Nine Turns, Tianxiang, the Eternal Spring Shrine and Qixingtan Beach.

THE SWALLOWTAIL GROTTO

The Swallowtail Grotto was the first stop on our self-guided itinerary of Taroko National Park. The grotto derived its name from the eponymous swallows that have found a home in these sheer cliff walls. Sitting smack dab in the middle of the canyon, the grotto is a narrow stretch of gorge that affords jaw-dropping views at every turn. Sheer cliff faces soar skyward and plunge into the ravine below. At the Swallowtail Grotto, Taroko National Park is at its most dramatic. A narrow canyon has been chiseled by the blue-green Liwu River over millenia, creating one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Taiwan.

The Swallowtail Grotto Trail takes about half an hour to complete. The path runs parallel to the vehicular road that cuts through the canyon.

Beware of falling rocks. The path through the canyon has rocky overhangs that can potentially be dangerous. As a result, many pedestrians at the Swallowtail Grotto and nearby Tunnel of Nine Turns choose to wear hardhats for protection.

THE TUNNEL OF NINE TURNS

Just down the road from the Swallowtail Grotto, the Tunnel of Nine Turns is another must-see attraction along the Taroko Gorge.

The tortuous course of the Liwu River has carved a narrow canyon in the heart of the national park. A highway cuts alongside the canyon, winding along the precipitous cliffs, through a series of tunnels. This area of the park features vertical marble facades and some of Taiwan’s most astonishing natural craftsmanship. The path offers views of layered stone strata, narrow canyon walls and the snaking Liwu River below.

Like the Swallowtail Grotto, the Tunnel of Nine Turns takes about 30 minutes to walk and follows the main vehicular road through the park.

TIANXIANG PAGODA

From the dramatic and narrow gorge, we hopped back onto the 1137A and took the bus all the way to the final stop of Tianxiang–the largest village in Taroko National Park. Tianxiang offers limited food and accommodation options for those who choose to stay in the national park overnight.

Set amidst a dramatic mountainous landscape, Tianxiang is yet another highlight of the Taroko Gorge. The Xiangde Temple in Tianxiang is the centerpiece of of the area’s attractions and a popular spot for visitors and worshippers. A short steep trail leads to the temple and adjacent pagoda.

From the temple overlooking Tianxiang, 360 degree views of the chiseled limestone formations are nothing short of breathtaking.

ETERNAL SPRINGS SHRINE

After about an hour of soaking in the views of the surrounding mountains in Tianxiang, we continued our Taroko Park day trip with a stop at the Eternal Springs Shrine–a haunting memorial to the workers who died while constructing the park’s Cross-Island Highway. The shrine–one of the most photographed and beloved scenes of the park– sits atop a series of waterfalls that gush into the river below.

The Eternal Springs Shrine sits near the entrance to the park, just beyond the visitor’s center. Shuttle buses only stop by the site on their return trips from Tianxiang to Hualien. Thus, while the shrine is one of the closest park highlights to the entrance, it was the penultimate stop on our Taroko National Park itinerary.

The Eternal Springs Shrine is a ten minute walk from the parking lot and bus stop. Those wishing for a longer hike can follow a 2.2km trail behind the shrine. The uphill trail leads to the Guanyin Cave and Taroko Bell Tower.

QIXINGTAN BEACH

Qixingtan, about 3km north of Hualien, features a wild and rugged coastline of emerald cliffs and ebony shores. Lying just outside the Taroko National Park boundaries, this sweeping crescent of black pebbled beach was the final stop on our return journey from Tianxiang to Hualien.

Qixingtan isn’t a typical beach escape. The scenery is wild, raw and unforgiving. One of Taiwan’s most iconic beaches, Qixingtan is a force of nature. The sky-blue waters of the Pacific crash agains the black-rock beach, churning its waters into a frothy foam.

The water at Qixingtan Beach is too rough for swimming. Nevertheless, the rugged stretch of oceanfront is a fantastic spot to bring a picnic lunch and photograph the crashing ocean waves.

HIKING IN TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

Admittedly, my visit to Taroko National Park consisted of very little hiking. Though my itinerary included short walks to some of the park’s highlights, I didn’t have the time to complete any of the longer treks in the area. Traveling to the Taroko Gorge by public bus meant I had to adhere to a strict transportation timetable. And so with only one day to explore the stunning gorge, I had to prioritize.

Based on my independent research prior to visiting the park, however, I gathered that there are quite a few beautiful trails along the Taroko Gorge. Most popular, are the Shakadang Trail, the Baiyang Waterfall Trail and the Zhuilu Old Trail.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

Hualien’s proximity to the Taroko Gorge entrance makes it a logical place to stay while exploring the national park. We stayed at the Flower Time Guesthouse for two nights during our trip to the Taroko Gorge. The guesthouse– centrally located near the train station in Hualien—provides a clean and inexpensive base for exploring the area.

Other highly-rated places to Stay in Hualien include the Visual Range B&B and 1999 B&B for a budget room and the Kindness Hotel for a higher-end stay.

WHAT TO DO IN HUALIEN TAIWAN

Hualien was a delightful surprise. Though we primarily used the city as a launching pad for our day trip to the national park, we took the opportunity to wander the streets of Hualien during our free evenings in town.

If you’ve got only a day or two to explore Hualien’s surroundings, I suggest you focus your itinerary on the Taroko Gorge Attractions.

But if you have extra time to spare, you can check out some of the places to visit in Hualien that we couldn’t squeeze into our itinerary: Pine Garden, the Manor House, and Martyr’s Shrine.

Hualien’s undeniable highlight the Dongdamen Night Market. We found the market to be one of the best we visited during our short trip to Taiwan.

TRAVEL FROM HUALIEN TO TAIPEI

The train journey from Taipei to Hualien takes two hours. Due to its popularity, however, tickets sell out fast–usually two weeks in advance. For those who choose to map out their travel itineraries last-minute, bus/train combo tickets are a convenient and affordable alternative.

Since we planned on visiting Hualien a mere two days before departure, we had no choice but to purchase a combo ticket. From the Taipei City Hall Station, we took a bus to Luodong, followed by a local commuter train from Luodong to Hualien. The total journey took around three hours.

If you have limited time in Taiwan and don’t want to worry about planning and logistics, you can opt to join a day tour of the Taroko Gorge from Taipei.

GETTING AROUND TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

The scenic wonders of Taroko National Park are accessible by both public bus and private tour. There are several bus companies that travel through the gorge. We took Taroko Bus route 1133A, which departs from Hualien’s train station seven times a day.

The public bus is an affordable way of seeing the park’s highlights. An unlimited day pass on the 1133A costs NT$250.

Alternatively, you can join a tour of Taroko National Park from Hualien. Tours of the gorge provide reliable transport and bring you to all the main highlights in the park.

The Taroko National Park is one of the most beautiful attractions in Taiwan. From gushing waterfalls to black sand beaches to soaring granite peaks, the park affords photo opportunities at every bend.

Portuguese explorers in the 1500s landed in Taiwan and named the island ‘Ihla Formosa’ or ‘Beautiful Isle.’

By traveling to Taroko National Park and immersing myself in the island’s natural beauty, it was not difficult for me to understand why.

______________________

Did you find this Taroko Gorge National Park Guide helpful? Pin it! 

RENT A MOTORBIKE AT TAROKO GORGE AND IN TAIWAN

Riding a motorbike in Taroko Gorge made our day really special and fun! The rental price was $400 TWD (€11) for the day, which seemed fair to us. Also we preferred not to haggle the price due to the driving license matter. At the end of the day we topped up the tank with €2, petrol in Taiwan costs $30 TWD, or €0.90 cents per litre!

Obviously we recommend that you equip yourself with an IDP before leaving home and that you respect the laws of the country. In Taiwan everyone always uses a helmet unlike in Thailand or Vietnam , the only exception we saw was on the islet of Xiao Liu Qiu in the south.

If you have experience on a scooter and have a standard driving license you should still be able to rent one. Be careful though, because driving without an international license might invalidate your travel insurance in the event of an accident.

Drive carefully around Taroko Gorge. The road is narrow in some places, there is always a guardrail, but it has steep sections overlooking the canyon.

Speaking of which, you can get up to 20% off  with A Million Travels on Heymondo travel insurance here , or request a quote with World Nomads insurance here .

TAROKO GORGE BY BUS

Note that it is also possible to use the “Taroko Route” bus that travels through the Gorge. This will be the slowest and most inconvenient way, but the day ticket is quite cheap.

Buses are infrequent, once per hour , and stop at the highlights of the gorge. From there you can continue on foot, and then wait for the next bus when you return to the stop. We recommend using them only as a last resort if you have no alternatives.

The Taroko Bus travels between Hualien railway station and Tianxiang terminal (see below). A day pass costs $250 TWD (€7) per person, you can find all the info and timetables about the Taroko Bus here .

BACK TO HUALIEN / TRAIN TO TAIPEI

Time to go back to Hualien, mission accomplished!

Recharge your energy with food in a restaurant or at Hualien night market if you stay overnight, alternatively there are good take-aways at the train station. We opted for Popcorn Chicken, sushi and Bubble Milk Tea.

After returning the scooter to the rental, we headed to the station, tired but happy from the memorable day at Taroko Gorge.

Our guide to visiting Taroko Gorge in one day from Taipei or in two days from Hualien ends here. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions!

We wish you an epic trip to Taroko Gorge!

• What to see in 3 days in Taipei
• Day trip to Shifen and Jiufen, Taiwan
• Alishan train, sunrise and best trails
• Guide to trains in Taiwan

ONLINE IDP – INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT We recommend getting an International Driving Permit online if you’re planning to drive a vehicle abroad. The International Drivers Association offers a reliable online service that allows to get a digital+physical licence even if you’re already travelling, valid and accepted in 150+ countries worldwide. More info on the official website .

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Better safe than sorry. We recommend two options for you to compare. Get a quote with Worldnomads here , and get up to 20% off your travel insurance  with Heymondo here.

COMPARE PRICES, BOOK FLIGHTS + STAYS

Did you know? Besides hotels and stays, you can now compare and book your flights + stays in one place on Booking Flights .  Search and compare deals on destinations and flights here .

Disclaimer: this post contains links to products and services for which we may be compensated, at no additional cost for you. Thanks for your support that helps us keep our blog free and operating!

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

As you found this post useful...

Follow us on social media!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

You may also enjoy:

2 days in amman, jordan: what to see&…, sleeper train from nha trang to danang, guide to alishan train, sunrise & best trails – …, chiang mai-pai-mae hong son loop: a 3-day …, leave a reply cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

SEARCH OUR BLOG

Subscribe to our youtube, disclaimer & privacy.

This site uses affiliate links. If you buy products following our links, we get a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read our full Disclaimer & Privacy policy here.

Instagram @amilliontravels

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Taiwanese Secrets Travel Guide

Taipei to Taroko Gorge by Train, Bus, or Car

Traveling from Taipei to Taroko Gorge is pretty straightforward. On this page I will show you how to get from Taipei to Taroko National Park by train and bus . I will also show you the best way to drive or ride to the gorge all the way from Taiwan’s capital city.

The distance from Taipei to Taroko is roughly 150km.

Important Note: A lot of people think the only way to visit the gorge is with a package tour or tour bus with guide. Not true! It is totally, easily do-able to arrange your own DIY day-trip to Taroko from Taipei City.

Let me show you how to plan your journey…

Table of Contents

Taipei to Taroko Gorge: Train+Bus

Fastest train is the Puyuma: 2 hours, 403NT$ Slow Train: 02h 41m, 311NT$

Most people use the train+bus option. It’s easy: get on the train at Taipei Main Station 台北車站 all the way to Xincheng 新城, a small village at the park entrance. Some people make the mistake to take the train all the way to Hualien City 花蓮市. You do not need to go all the way to Hualien City   if you’re only doing a one-day trip. You can then take bus #302 from Xincheng Train Station to Taroko Gorge and Tianxiang 天祥.

Of course, if you’re planning to be more than a day in the area, and will be spending a night or two in Hualien, it would make total sense to first take the train all the way to Hualien Train Station to check-in and drop your bags at your hotel, then take a bus from there to Taroko without all your luggage. Shuttle Bus 1133A runs between Hualien Train Station and Taroko Gorge all day long.

Taipei to Taroko Gorge by Bus

There is no direct bus from Taipei to Taroko. You must first take the train to Xincheng Station or Hualien City, then take a local bus into the gorge.

Getting Around by Taxi

If you are pressed by time, and/or don’t have your own vehicle, and/or don’t feel like using public buses, you can always take the taxi to tour Taroko Gorge . Taxis can be hired at either Hualien Train Station or Xincheng Train Station. It will be more expensive, but you’ll be able to stop wherever you want whenever you want. Prices vary wildly depending on the kind of itinerary you wish to have for your tour. Agree to a fixed price first – don’t pay by the meter.

Taroko National Park From Taipei by Car

Renting a car is a great option if you want to arrange your own schedule and travel at your own pace. Here are the directions I usually follow: From Taipei, get on Freeway #3 heading east, then south on Freeway #5 all the way to Suao 蘇澳, then Provincial Highway #9 south all the way to the park entrance in Xincheng where you turn right onto Provincial Hwy #8. You have arrived! Welcome to Taroko! The whole drive from Taipei to Taroko takes roughly 3 hours.

Know that the Suao Highway (#9) from Suao to Xincheng is considered to be the most dangerous road in Taiwan . Truck drivers drive like crazy psychopath maniacs lunatics and will cut you in blind corners and push you down the cliff just for fun – I’m serious! It has happened to me many times. The weather is often horrible (mist / rain / clouds / fog) and landslides are frequent. Great drive!

Riding a Scooter from Taipei to Taroko

Same as above, but you cannot take the freeways from Taipei to Suao. You can instead take the murderous highway #9 from Xindian, through Pinglin. Jokes aside, be extremely careful if you do decide to ride a scooter or motorcycle from Taipei to Taroko. This road trip is serious business on two wheels.

Getting to Taroko Gorge by High-Speed Rail (HSR)

The HSR doesn’t have a line along Taiwan’s East coast and does not get to Taroko. You cannot travel from Taipei to Taroko Gorge by HSR.

If you are wanting to travel from Tainan, Taichung, Miaoli, Hsinchu, Taoyuan, or any other city along the West Coast of the island, you first need to take the HSR to either Taipei Main Station or Kaohsiung (Zuoying Station), then take a normal TRA train to Xincheng Taroko Station.

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

Taroko Gorge Itinerary – Taroko Day Trip From Hualien

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I loved my time in Taipei, all 10 days of it, but I was keen to get out of the city and see more of Taiwan. As an island comprising of 50% forest, there are so many natural gems to explore.

In this guide, I’m going to share my Taroko Gorge itinerary to help you plan your Taroko Gorge day trip!

I love how easy it is in Taiwan to get from a city to the countryside. A 20-minute train from Taipei will take you to the Thermal Valley and Natural Hot Springs and a 40-minute drive will get you to Yangminshan National Park. There’s nature everywhere in Taiwan and I was excited to get fully immersed during my visit to Hualien. Hualien is the city closest to Taroko that most people stay in while visiting the National Park.

Hualien is a city on Taiwan’s east coast, just a 2-3 hour journey from Taipei depending whether you take the fast or slow train. While there are a few other things to do in Hualien, including a massive night market, most people come for one reason: 

Taroko Gorge National Park

This 920km National Park is characterised by its enormous limestone cliffs and the ancient rivers cutting through them. The tree-lined mountains disappear into the misty skyline, visible from the curving cliff side roads that make for a spectacular road trip. To explore Taroko is to get a real feel for Taiwan’s untouched scenery and natural charm. In this guide, I’ll share my itinerary for Taroko National Park. This is tried and tested as I took it myself while exploring asa day trip from Hualien.

Taroko Gorge day trip by public transport

Unless you’re hiring a car or taking an organised day trip (which cost around NT$700), you might wonder how to get around the national park. It’s actually really easy to visit Taroko National Park by public transport – the 1133A shuttle bus runs from Hualien Train Station and stops at all the points of interest in the park. A day pass costs NT$250 and a 2-day pass costs NT$400.  The only downside of a Taroko National Park day trip by public transport is timing your day around the bus (it runs once per hour). I got off at one stop to find the hike closed for the day, so had to wait an hour on the roadside for the next bus. It’s the cheap and cheerful option so I guess you get what you pay for. Overall, I’d recommend it because it’s so much cheaper than a day tour.

How long to spend in Hualien 

This depends how many days you want to spend hiking in Taroko. There are a lot of things to see and many, many hikes. If you just have one day, I’d recommend picking a few stops and exploring them properly. To do all the hikes, you’ll want a second day or more realistically a whole week! I actually met a guy who’d spent four days hiking and not yet seen everything. If one day is enough for you, you could spend a night either side based in Hualien. I visited Hualien for 3 nights and spent my second day exploring the city and checking out some restaurants. More active things to do in Hualien include whale and dolphin watching. 

Where to stay in Hualien 

I stayed at On My Way Hostel which was a very convenient base. From the train station’s back exit to the hostel is a 3-minute walk. Since the Taroko National Park Shuttle bus leaves from the front of the train station, it couldn’t be easier to visit Taroko. On My Way is a cute backpackers hostel with a social area, big dining table, tea and coffee facilities, and bunks with private curtains and lockers. With rooms from NT$400 night, you won’t find a better value base than this! I liked the social feel of the shared area, as well as the fact that held movie nights sometimes in the evenings. The staff were absolutely lovely. On my final morning, it was tipping down with rain and I needed to walk to the train station. The girl on reception walked me there so I could use a hostel umbrella and she could bring it back. How kind is that!?

More places to stay in Hualien

• Budget hotel: Most air-conditioned rooms at Fly House have a sea view and balcony. This cosy homestay is just moments away from the beach and Dongdamen Night Market. Check availability from US$36 .
• Mid-range:  Each spotless room at Near B&B has a city or mountain view. The homestay is spacious and conveniently located, with a shared lounge and kitchen. Check availability from US$60 .
• Splash-out: Hualien isn’t known for its luxury hotels, but you’ll find space to unwind in a deluxe room with a garden, river and mountain view at Happiness is Coming . The property has a barbecue, sun terrace, and bike rental available. Check availability from US$163.

Taroko Gorge itinerary

I set off bright and early for my Taroko Gorge day trip from Hualien, boarding the shuttle bus at 8.30am and getting back at 5pm (I took the second earliest bus there and second latest one back). It was such a gorgeous day! Here are the best places to visit in Taroko National Park…

9.30am – Tianxiang 

The first place on my Taroko itinerary was Tianxing. When visiting Taroko National Park by public transport, I rode the bus to the end of the line then worked my way back. Apart from this pagoda and goddess statue, there wasn’t loads to see at Tianxing. Another option is to skip it and start at Swallow’s Trail. However, I was happy because this stop is home to the only 7Eleven in the park which was a godsend as I hadn’t brought lunch, assuming there would be places to buy it. Actually, food was limited and overpriced so I was glad to grab some NT$75 sushi!

I heard that the Baiyang Trail is a nice 2-hour trek in the Tianxiang area so you could look that one up.

11am – Yanzikou / Swallow’s Trail

One of the best places to include in your Taroko Gorge itinerary is the Swallow’s Trail, a name you’ll understand when you visit. Over the smooth limestone gauges, swallows dip and dance all day long, putting on the most amazing acrobatic show for visitors. The valley with its swinging bridges is a must-see viewpoint, although I was disappointed I couldn’t walk on them without a special permit.

While the views were stunning here, it’s all set along a main road and pretty busy with other tourists, so I was keen to get into the green heart of Taroko on a proper hike.

12.30pm – Changchun Shrine & Trail

This gorgeous temple built into the rugged cliff is a must for your Taroko Gorge itinerary. It was built to commemorate the men who died building the Central Cross-Island Highway connecting the north and south of Taiwan, something that was completed in just 4 years. It sounds like a gruelling job fraught with accidents and 220 of the 5,000 workers died during the construction. 

I hoped to do the 1-hour return hike to the temple but it was closed due to an inland earthquake a few days earlier. It wasn’t the worst thing to happen because the best view of Changchun Shrine is from across the water, but it meant I had an hour killing time before my bus. 

2pm – Shakadang Trail

Finally, I made it to my first proper hiking trail in Taroko. The Shakadang Trail is a great one with incredible river views to your left. The full trail takes four hours : two there and two back. I did about an hour either way and made it to a point where you could paddle in a refreshing stream.

The only thing I found strange about my Taroko day trip was that everything was overly orderly with boardwalks and handrails the whole time. There was nowhere to get off-grid and swim in a waterfall like there usually is in Asia. It felt more like the hikes of Australia and New Zealand where everyone has safety and insurance in mind. I did see a sign at Shakadang warning about snakes and wild boar so perhaps that’s why! The shuttle bus drops at Shakadang on the way from Hualien but not the way back. However, you can walk 20 minutes from Taroko Visitor’s Centre along the Xiaozhuilu Trail or follow signs through the bridge tunnel.

4pm: head back to Hualien

After hiking for two hours, I caught the bus back to Hualien. I hope this Taroko itinerary works as well for you as it didn’t for me!

Other things to do in Hualien

Really, there aren’t too many other things to do in Hualien . Like many cities in Taiwan, eating is a big focus. Suits me! After your day trip to Taroko National Park, you’ll want to take a shower and reward yourself with a good dinner. I spent a second day in Hualien but instead of hiking, I had a laptop day, drank coffee and got stuck into the foodie scene.

Dongdamen  Night Market

As I mentioned, eating is one of the best things to do in Hualien. Dongdamen Night Market is absolutely enormous and very vibey. Unlike the tourist markets of Southeast Asia, it’s a real local spot where Taiwanese people of all ages come to socialise and listen to live music. I was the only Westerner there which I think is why I liked it. Also, it was so cheap, almost half the price of Taipei’s night markets.

One of the best things to try at Dongdamen is coffin toast. Stay with me here! This local delicacy is a deep-fried sandwich filled with a choice of ingredients. I went with pepper chicken in a rich sauce. It reminded me of bunny chow in South Africa but even more unhealthy as it was deep fried. Find this stall at the back right corner of the market. As soon as you see the long queue of locals, you’ll have found it. I paid NT$65 for coffin toast and sweet tea.

Mochi tasting

Tzen-Mochi is renowned throughout Taiwan. I thought it would be a deli where I could buy just a few pieces, however it’s a wholesale store so they come in packs of 50 starting at NT$120. The guy at the counter offered me some samples which I ate my way through with no shame. And didn’t buy a pack of 50, tempting as that was. They’re sealed so would last ages and I bet they’d make you popular when you got home!

Zhou Jia Dumplings (2 locations)

The tastiest meal I had in Hualien was at this modest dumpling restaurant. They serve steamed pork buns (pictured) as well as dumplings. Both types are a bargain at NT$5 each. I had 5 but I saw people eating 10 to themselves. It would be easy to do – they were so moreish. If you have any doubts about how fresh these buns are, simply watch the women freshly needing the dough outside the restaurant. So fresh, delicious and cheap! There are two branches of Zhou Jia Dumplings, both on Zhongshan Road. One is at 509 Zhongshan and the other is just on the corner at 4-20 Gongzheng Street .

Coffee in Hualien

Like the rest of Taipei, there’s so much good coffee in Hualien. There are endless bubble teas and iced fruit teas but you can also sip on a classic flat white if that’s what you fancy. I paid a stupid amount for this adorable dog coffee but I realised after it was actually at a dog cafe, something I don’t really condone. I think cat cafes can be okay sometimes but dogs really shouldn’t be kept in such a confined space. For that reason, I won’t mention this particular cafe but you’ll find so many others in Hualien. I’ve heard good things about King Tang Cafe and Cafe Fiore .

Thanks for reading my Taroko Gorge itinerary!

Check out my other Taiwan guides:

• The ultimate 2 week Taiwan itinerary
• How expensive is Taiwan? Complete budget guide
• Solo travellers guide to Taiwan
• 17 travel tips for Taiwan
• Taipei itineraries for 3 and 5 days
• The ultimate Taiwan food guide
• How to visit the Rainbow Village Taichung
• Things to do in Jiufen and Shifen
• Visiting Yehliu Geopark from Taipei
• Things to do in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s most vibrant city!
• 10 facts about Taiwan to know before visiting

See you next time for more adventures,

Note: During my stay, I was hosted by On My Way Hostel however all opinions are my own.

Ps. Liked this Taroko Gorge day trip? Pin it for later!

TAIWAN QUICK LINKS Getting there – it’s easy to arrive by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. Stay connected with an unlimited 4G SIM card for 3, 5, 7, 10, 15 or 30 days. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Taiwan . Car hire – I recommend RentalCars.com for car hire in Taiwan and around the world. For Taiwan High SpeedTrains , use 12Go . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

1 thoughts on “ Taroko Gorge Itinerary – Taroko Day Trip From Hualien ”

Your photos are so great here Rose. Taiwan is high on my list.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Taroko Gorge Day Tour from Taipei

Due to damage from recent earthquake, Taroko National Park (Taroko Gorge) is temporarily closed and this tour is temporarily not available for booking. . Travel directly to Taroko Gorge from Taipei, with a quick stop at Qingshui Cliff on the way there and Nanfangou Lookout at the way back. Recommended 7am pick-up time in the morning to avoid heavy traffic.

• Child safety seat available
• English service available
• Private tour, flexible pick-up time
• Up to 8 guests per vehicle only. More than 8 guests require 2 or more vehicles.
• Pick up at Taipei City

Hotel, BnB or any place within the city

Always a good start for any trip in Hualien, this mountain-meets-the-ocean Qingshui Cliff is situated not far from the Taroko National Park.

Visit many places of Taroko National Park including Baiyang Waterfall (trail), Changchun Waterfall (trail), and Lushui Waterfall (trail), Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou), Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong), Tianxiang, Buluowan

Take in the view of the whole Nanfangao Fishing Harbor and the Yilan coastline at this vantage point.

• Drop off at Taipei City

Wanna make changes to the itinerary?

1 - 5 of 98

Cancellation Policy

Cancel 7 days before the trip and get a full refund.

• $6720 TWD per group
• Book You won't be charged yet
• Available tomorrow
• Confirmation within 24 hours

You might also like...

HUALIEN TAROKO GORGE TOUR

花蓮 太魯閣（タロコ）観光 1 日ツアー

SMALL GROUP & PRIVATE TOUR

One Day Trips From Taipei or Huailen

One Day Trips From Taipei

Depart From Taipei Hotel

Drop-off to Taipei Hotel or Hualien Hotel

One Day Trips From Hualien

Depart From Hualien Hotel or Train Station

Drop-off to Hualien Hotel or Train Station

We focused on a day trip to Taroko National Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Taroko Gorge with our exclusive tour service. Explore the stunning marble cliffs, walk across suspension bridges, and marvel at cascading waterfalls. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's wonders. Book your Taroko Gorge tour now and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Discovery Tarokok Gorge in The Best Way

Chinese / Basic English Speaking Driver

Private Tour

Customizable Tours

Small Group

Transport by a/c car included

What to expect in Taroko National Park?

Shakadan trail

Swallow grotto trail

Shanyue Suspension Bridge

Tunnel of 9 turns trail

Baiyang Trail

Lushui Trail

Water curtain cave

Eternal spring shrine

Aboriginal Lunch (optional)

Qingshui cliff

Qixingtan beach

Sometimes will encounter scenic spots closed maintenance

Experience the beauty of Taiwan's most scenic destination, Taroko National Park, on a private day tour. With its diverse range of nature and wildlife, you'll travel through rugged coastlines, luscious forests, and dramatic cliff faces along the 19km Taroko Gorge. The highlight of the tour is the Swallow Grotto Trail, where you'll explore the heart of the park, passing through tunnels and witnessing the narrowest part of the gorge. From here, you'll have the best viewpoint for admiring the dramatic river and its surrounding landscape. After the hike, you'll enjoy a scenic lunch in Tianxiang before visiting the beautiful Changchung Shrine (also known as the Eternal Spring Shrine). This temple is nestled within the hillside and sits atop a waterfall stream that never stops running, giving the shrine its name. The tour will end at Qixingtan, a stunning pebble beach with fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Taroko National Park is not to be missed. Join us on this private day tour to experience its stunning beauty firsthand.

Thank you dear customers

Get in touch with us

[email protected]

+886-908-373-773 (Whatsapp)

09:00 AM ~ 05:00 PM / Mon ~ Fri / GMT +8

Book 3 Days In Advance

Taroko Gorge Tour Service [ OPEN ]

Tour Inquiry

WhatsApp us