Hmong Cuisine

A series of decent bike paths are scattered around Taiwan, and those in Hualien, East Coast, and East Rift Valley are especially loved. These suburban oases allow cyclists to breathe in the fresh air as they enjoy the charming natural landscapes of lush green mountains and the vast Pacific Ocean that spreads out to the horizon. Friendly local people might even cheer for you along the route – the eastern Taiwan is no doubt a paradise for passionate bikers.

The 15-kilometer-long Hualien City Coastal Bikeway links several local attractions such as Nanbin Park, Beibin Park, Qixingtan, and Hualien Fishing Harbor. Why not make a brief stop at the harbor and have a freshly prepared seafood feast before hitting the road again. Along the way, you will spot many locals make fishing a part of their everyday life as if the grand Pacific Ocean is their refrigerator.

Not good at cycling? No worries as this coastal bikeway is sufficiently wide to provide separate demarcated spaces for people walking and bicycling. Just take in the magnificent views and enjoy that two to three hours ride along the coast with sea breezes brushing against your face.

Notice:

Bike rentals are available near Hualien Train Station (front exit). For example, at Giant (捷安特), the prices range from TWD100 to 300 per day, depending on the type of the bike selected.

The world's second largest warm current Kuroshio flows through the east coast of Taiwan and brings shoals of migratory fish to the waters near Hualien. Ocean sunfish (曼波魚), sailfish (旗魚), and dolphinfish (鯕鰍) are common visitors to Hualien Fishing Harbor. At the fish market here, you will find fish balls freshly made from dolphinfish every day. The most authentic way is to order the seafood from various vendors and have them cooked by your favorite restaurant in the market, so you can sate your craving right on the spot and save on the dishes. Doesn’t it sound like the best dining option ever?

Located at the northeastern tip of Hualien, Hualien Fishing Harbor is a man-made harbor and one of the four main commercial harbors in Taiwan. It is only ten minutes’ drive away from downtown Hualien, and many tourists arrive at this whale-watching wharf to take a ride on the boat and sail on the Pacific Ocean – let the wild and happy dolphins surprise you from every possible direction.

Converted from the old Hualien Winery complex of just over three hectares, A-Zone is now a creative park and cultural hub where the former 26 warehouses are open to the public as exhibition spaces, performance venues, restaurants, shops and tourist information center. The winery used to produce saké during the Japanese Colonial Era, and the quaint charms of its Japanese architecture are fortunately retained, making A-Zone a highly raved hotspot in the city of Hualien.

There is a lot to do here. Check out some local bands in the former packing house, which is now a live house where indie music is free to be expressed. If you are more interested in the local art scenes, head to the art gallery that was converted from the old lab where the recipes for rice wines were once perfected. You will also find several shops selling locally made products, everything from fashion items to antiques, music, artworks, and many more. If you ever get hungry, just so you know, the old admin building now houses a Western-themed restaurant named Andante Bistro. What’s worth noting is that Andante House provides 13 separate cabins in a Japanese setting, all of which are fully-equipped with parlors, bedrooms and Japanese gardens, to those who would like to experience how it is like to live like a real Japanese.

Bai Bao Creek, located in Chi Nan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County, is a tributary of the Hualien River, originating from Mount Mugua in the Central Mountain Range. Stretching approximately 9,000 meters with a watershed area of 2,200 hectares, this creek boasts unique natural scenery that attracts many visitors looking for an experience.

One of the most striking features of Bai Bao Creek is its natural swimming pools and water-friendly areas. Here, the clear creek waters provide an excellent spot for visitors to splash around. The creek features not only waterfalls and walking paths but also stones along the riverbed, creating diverse natural beauty. Whether families looking for water fun or visitors seeking a tranquil environment to enjoy the surroundings, Bai Bao Creek offers suitable spaces for everyone.

The aquatic ecology is equally captivating, with various aquatic creatures such as freshwater shrimp, bitterling fish, and Liu's crab thriving in the waters. Visitors also have the chance to find colorful stones like "Toyota jade" and "serpentine" along the creek, making every visit potentially full of surprises.

In recent years, the Bai Bao Creek bike path has become another popular attraction. This approximately 7-kilometer trail winds through clear waters and pristine forests, featuring several pavilions for rest, allowing cyclists to enjoy the natural beauty around them while riding. The various plants and animals encountered along the way create a deep connection with nature.

Surrounding Bai Bao Creek, there are also several noteworthy spots to see. For example, the swimming area beneath the Lao Creek Bridge, known for its clear water and beautiful scenery, draws many locals and tourists seeking to cool off. It offers parking and paths for convenience. Additionally, the sand-bar waterfall in the water-friendly area of Bai Bao Creek has become a secret spot for photography and play, with facilities designed to maintain the purity of the natural environment.

Bai Bao Creek combines natural ecology with outdoor activities, providing a rare opportunity for exploration. Whether you are seeking aquatic fun or chasing the beauty of nature, this creek offers visitors a rich experience filled with lasting memories.

Mu Gu Mu Yu is located in Tongmen Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County, and is a travel destination that combines natural landscapes with cultural experiences. Situated at the northern end of the Huadong Valley National Scenic Area, it is adjacent to the Mugua River and surrounded by natural wonders such as cliffs, ancient tunnels, and mountain waterfalls. The natural environment of Mu Gu Mu Yu attracts many visitors, but what is even more noteworthy is the cultural imprint found here.

Tongmen Village is a place deeply rooted in the culture of the Taroko people, known for its unique knife-forging techniques. The village still preserves the traditional lifestyle of the Taroko tribe and is the only indigenous community in Taiwan famous for forging knives, earning the title "Hometown of Mountain Knives." At this destination, visitors can personally experience this invaluable craft and learn about the history and beliefs of the Taroko people.

Mu Gu Mu Yu offers a variety of travel activities that allow visitors to explore the land in depth. Strolling along the Emerald Valley Trail, one can enjoy stunning natural scenery along the Mugua River and its tributaries. After finding suitable guided services, guests can also indulge in local culinary experiences such as bamboo rice and banana rice. Moreover, the cultural activities of the Taroko people are a must-see, including dance classes and DIY handicrafts, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the local culture.

The accessibility of Mu Gu Mu Yu is also one of its attractions, making it easy to reach whether driving or using public transportation. The area is well-equipped with facilities, and guesthouses offer parking, restaurants, and other necessary amenities, making it an excellent choice for family trips or corporate team outings. Most of the guesthouse operators here are cultural and historical workers of the Taroko tribe, who can share in-depth knowledge, ensuring that each trip is meaningful.

The Walamie Trail is located in the Yushan National Park in Hualien County, and it offers a high-quality hiking experience that combines natural beauty with rich history. The trail is designed along the Laku-Laku Stream Valley, surrounded by a diverse ecological environment, particularly characterized by ferns, creating a unique ecosystem. Walking along the Walamie Trail, hikers can enjoy vibrant vegetation and a variety of landscapes that change with the seasons.

The Walamie Trail has a long history, as it is part of the Batongguan Crossing Trail, an ancient route built during the Japanese colonial period. Remnants of the old garrisons can still be seen today, allowing visitors to sense the trace of history. According to local records, "Walamie" (Malavi) in the Bunun language means "to do something together," which carries a profound cultural significance. This encourages hikers on the trail to appreciate the joy of companionship and the continuity of history.

Along the Walamie Trail, several points of interest are worth exploring. The section near the Mountain Wind Waterfall features spectacular natural scenery, with Bridges One and Two offering the best views of the waterfall. The five suspension bridges along the trail allow visitors to overlook the magnificent valley from above, providing a refreshing experience. Additionally, the remnants from the Japanese era along the route narrate stories of the past to travelers, making it feel like a journey through time.

In terms of logistics, the 4.5-kilometer section from the trailhead to Jiasin does not require an entry permit, making it suitable for a one-day hike. However, for those choosing to continue from Jiasin to the Walamie Mountain Cabin, permits for both entry to the mountains and the park are necessary, catering to travelers planning to stay overnight. On the Walamie Trail, one can gain rich experiences, whether through the enjoyment of nature or immersion in history.