Location & Transportation
The dock is about a 5 km walk from Hualien town center, making it quite convenient if you’re up for a stroll. You can also catch city buses such as:
- Bus 308 – with extra shifts when cruise ships call, shuttling passengers between Hualien City and TRA Hualien Station.
- Bus 105 or 1123 – departing from near the port’s main entrance at the Shalom Mennonite Center, heading to various spots around town.
Nearby Lodging
Hualien offers a range of accommodations from budget hostels to boutique hotels. Many are located near the train station or in the bustling town center, giving you easy access to local shops and restaurants.
Nearest Airport
Hualien Airport is just a short drive from the city center. With domestic flights and occasional international services available, it’s a practical entry point if you’re flying in before boarding your cruise.
Sightseeing
Hualien is nestled between the vast Pacific Ocean and the majestic Central Mountain Range, offering breathtaking scenery wherever you go. Whether you’re here for a day or a longer stay, there’s plenty to see and do:
- Visit the iconic Taroko Gorge, a 19 km long canyon known for its eternal spring shrine, Shakadang Trail, and dramatic marble cliffs.
- Explore Beibin Seashore Park and its companion sites—Nanbin and Meilun Seashore Parks—which feature landscaped greenery, palm trees, and stunning ocean views, especially at sunrise.
- Wander through the peaceful Pine Garden along Zhongmei Road, a quiet retreat with 63 stately pine trees.
- Head to Chishingtan along the bike path from Nanbin Seashore Park. Enjoy delicious local seafood and even try a unique goat milk coffee at the specialty restaurant nearby.
- Stop by local temples like the Abode of Still Thoughts—a simple Buddhist temple with a Japanese garden—and the historic Yenpin Prefectural Temple near Zhongyang Road.
- Check out the Hualien County Stone Sculpture Museum at the Cultural Center (open daily 9am-5pm, admission NT$20) to see traditional and contemporary stone art.
Tours & Excursions
Hualien’s compact city center is perfect for exploring on foot. If you’d like to venture further:
- Rent a scooter for about NT$400 per day to discover hidden corners of the city at your own pace.
- Consider joining a guided tour to Taroko Gorge. There are numerous local operators who can arrange day trips that include transportation, highlights like the Eternal Spring Shrine and Shakadang Trail, and insider knowledge about the gorge’s natural history.
- Enjoy a walking tour that introduces you to Hualien’s blend of indigenous culture and modern life—many tours offer bilingual guides to make communication a breeze.
Shopping
Night markets are a must when in Hualien. These vibrant open-air markets offer a mix of souvenirs, local snacks, clothing, and unique handmade crafts. Strolling through these busy alleys:
- You can sample traditional Taiwanese street food.
- Find local handicrafts perfect for gifts or mementos.
- Experience the lively ambiance that truly brings out the local flavor.
Dining
Hualien’s food scene is a blend of mountain-fresh ingredients and ocean delights. When you’re here, don’t miss out on:
- Sampling local seafood at the markets or seaside eateries.
- Visiting night market stalls for Taiwanese snacks like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, or bubble tea.
- Trying unique local specialties such as dishes that incorporate indigenous influences, giving you a taste of Hualien’s cultural heritage.
- Enjoying a meal near Chishingtan, where the sound of waves and a cool sea breeze make dining all the more enjoyable.
Culture & Local Events
Hualien is a city where natural beauty meets deep cultural traditions. While exploring, keep in mind:
- Currency & Payments: Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Most hotels and department stores accept credit cards, but many local eateries and small shops are cash-only.
- Communication: English is spoken sporadically. It’s a good idea to have a translation app or a bilingual map handy, especially when chatting with taxi drivers or small vendors.
- Opening Hours: Shops generally stay open as long as there’s business. However, during major holidays like Chinese New Year, transportation can be busier than usual.
- Local Events & Festivals: Hualien celebrates its local culture with vibrant festivals and indigenous traditions. Look out for events featuring local music, dance, and art. For instance, seasonal performances and cultural exhibitions often take place in community centers around the city.
Safety & Awareness
Hualien is known for its welcoming atmosphere and low crime rate. Still, be mindful of the following:
- Watch your step on busy city streets or when exploring nature trails.
- If renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and follow local traffic regulations.
- In any emergency, Taiwan’s hotline numbers are reliable.