The seat of scenic Hualien County, Hualien City is a compact and fascinating place, often used as a base for outdoor explorations in the surrounding tropical countryside. Formerly known as Qilai, it is a relatively new city, with the first major settlements built in the area around the 1850s. Learn how the city’s name changed in the early 20th century when it came under Japanese rule following China’s defeat in the Sino-Japanese war.
Hualien City Centre offers great dining opportunities, plus a range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Sample rich, locally ground coffee in the budding café scene. Stroll around the lively street food markets. The laid-back city is easy to navigate and most places can be reached on foot. Rent a bike and cycle along the well-planned coastal cycle paths.
Learn how the city is home to one of Taiwan’s largest aboriginal communities. Visit the Hualien County Stone Sculpture Museum to admire local stone carvings. See visual and performing arts at the Hualien County Cultural Affairs Bureau.
Explore Hualien’s military history at the Pine Garden, a former World War II Japanese base that is now an interesting museum with beautiful gardens. The Japanese General House along the Meilun River is worth visiting to see where several high-ranking officials lived during the colonial era.
Venture farther to find several areas of outstanding natural beauty away from the city center. Go south to Nanbin Park for sea views and scenic pathways. The park is just minutes from a handful of popular local markets, such as Hualien Dongdamen Night Market. Enjoy watersports and other recreational activities at Beibin Park. The Hualien Railway Culture Park is a great spot for a scenic stroll among restored 1930s railway structures.
The best way to reach Hualien is by express train from Taipei, which takes less than three hours. When you’re done exploring the city center, travel to the impressive Taroko Gorge farther north along the coast.
