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While this is a simplistic breakdown of Taiwan’s diverse and abundant attractions, but there’s no denying that Taiwan’s east coast boasts a vast, sparsely populated coastline of unparalleled beauty, making it the ideal place for a Taiwan road trip.

This article includes several experiences that make my list of 50 best things to do in Taiwan!



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Why is Taiwan’s East Coast so beautiful?

What this means is that you can do a loop between Hualien and Taitung, taking Highway 9 in one direction and 11 in the other, making this a popular route for cyclists and motorists alike.

When to Do this Trip

You can do this road trip at any time of the year. In winter in Taiwan, the northern east coast, including Yilan and Hualien, can still be a little chilly, but in the Taitung and the far south, it can still be warm enough to swim or surf.

Spring and autumn are probably ideal, but heads up that the Plum Monsoon can bring more rains in June, while in July through October typhoons can strike, especially in August and September. If a typhoon hits, avoid traveling or being anywhere near the coast. Summer in Taiwan can also be extremely hot, so make sure to protect your skin and avoid the midday.

See more information in my guide to the best months to visit Taiwan.

Getting from Taipei to Hualien and the East Coast

If you’re coming from Taipei, be sure to check out my recommended Taipei hotels, Taipei 4-day itinerary and list of the top 50 things to do in Taipei.

Many people begin their Taiwan East Coast journey in Hualien, and this makes perfect sense for a short visit. Hualien County is home to Taroko Gorge, and visitors who only have a few days will probably only visit Taroko Gorge and surrounds and then go back from Hualien to Taipei.

Flying from Taipei to Hualien

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the east coast is to book this flight from Taipei to Hualien, departing from Taipei’s Songshan airport in the city center.

Taking the train from Taipei to Hualien

Taking the bus from Taipei to Hualien Note that riding scooters or even bicycles in Taroko Gorge is a risk. Several people have been injured or died in landslides, and some local tour companies no longer recommend it. If you do decide to do it, definitely avoid going after or during any kind of heavy rain or typhoons. Suao (Su-Ao) Cold Springs Starting in Yilan County, at the point where the norteastern plains meet the coastal mountain range, Suao Cold Springs (蘇澳冷泉) is Taiwan’s most famous cold spring town. The town looks very similar to hot spring towns found all over the island, with multiple hotels and spas offering a full range of experiences, from cheap and gritty to posh and upscale, but the water itself is freezing cold. Obviously, the town is only popular in summer, and attracts many families with kids. I’ve never stopped Suao Cold Springs because I like the natural setting of Dongao Cold Spring south of Suao (see below), but if you want a convenenient place to cool down in summer on the way to Hualien, Suao may be for you! You can get from Taipei to Suao by bus (transferring in Luodong) or as a stop of you charter a private car from Taipei. If you have more time in Yilan before traveling down the coast, don’t miss Jiaoxi Hot Spring. Nanfang Ao Harbor You can get from Taipei to Nanfangao by bus (transferring in Luodong) or as a stop of you charter a private car from Taipei. Dongyue Cold Spring It is only possible to visit Dongyue Cold Spring with your own transportation. Rent a car any major city or from the Taoyuan Airport.

Qingshui Cliffs