Kai Reisen: Hualien

Hualien Taiwan

Hualien (花蓮; Huālián) is the second-largest city on Taiwan’s east coast and one of the most pleasant small cities in the country. Many travelers use it as a base, even when Taroko Gorge is their main destination, because it offers a wider range of food and accommodation. Budget travelers will find everything they need around the train station. Head east to Meilunshan Park (Měilúnshān Gōngyuán) and the harbor area for wide streets, landscaped parks, bike lanes, and ocean views, along with boutique hotels and higher-end restaurants. The name Hualien means “eddies” in Hokkien (Taiwanese). According to local lore, Qing-dynasty immigrants gave the area this name after noticing the swirling waters just off the coast. While tourism is a major source of income, nearby limestone deposits have also made Hualien the cement capital of Taiwan.

Recommended airport

Hualien (HUN)

Nearby destinations