Made up of nine villages, Xiulin is an enchanting township nestled in the mountains of Hualien County. Visit Xiulin for a fascinating window into the customs and traditions of the indigenous Taroko people, who make up most of the population. Travel through the mountains and gorges to enjoy the unspoiled topography.
Among the highlights of the district is Taroko National Park, which surrounds the Taroko Gorge. Enter the park via the Gate of Taroko, around which stands a range of stalls and the Taroko National Park Visitor Center.
Make your way west to reach the Eternal Spring Shrine, a majestic temple through which a waterfall flows. Meander through the Tunnels of Nine Turns for excellent views of the Liwu River.
Continue west past the Lushui Trail and cross Cimu Bridge to see the Cimu Pavilion, which was built to remember President Chiang Kai-shek’s mother. You’ll find the Hsiang-Te Temple in the Tianxiang district. Explore the Tianxiang Scenic Area for its multi-tiered pagoda and temples shrouded by green mountains.
Climb the trails meandering up the various peaks of the Central Mountain Range. These include Dayu Mountain, Qilai Mountain and Shimen Mountain. See the waterfalls and pools of the Golden Canyon.
Back east, stroll along coastal walkways and relax on pristine beaches. The Qingshui Cliffs are particularly outstanding. Head south to the Chihnan National Forest Recreation Area and climb to the top of Carp Hill for stunning vistas of Papaya Hill and Carp Lake.
The township of Xiulin covers the northern sector of Hualien County on the eastern edge of Taiwan. Arrive at Hualien Airport and head north into this mountainous region, which borders Yilan County and the eastern parts of Taichung City.
Xiulin offers a glimpse of a remarkable gorge and insights into the traditions of the Taroko people.
