Hualien National Parks: An Ecological and Cultural Treasure in Eastern Taiwan
Hualien County encompasses the finest areas of Taiwan's two major national parks—Taroko National Park and the eastern section of Yushan National Park. This is not merely a showcase of geological wonders but also a preservation ground for indigenous cultures such as the Truku and Bunun peoples. As someone who has long followed Taiwan's cultural development, I find that the charm of Hualien's national parks lies in the "profound dialogue between nature and humanity," with each trail carrying the life wisdom of different ethnic groups.
Unlike the overdeveloped scenic areas in western Taiwan, Hualien's national parks have maintained a relatively pristine character, which consequently places higher demands on visitors' physical fitness and preparation. The beauty here must be measured by footsteps and felt with the heart.
Natural Landscapes and Cultural Depth: A Dual Revelation
A Geology Textbook Come to Life: Taroko Gorge
Taroko Gorge is a world-class marble canyon, where the Liwu River has carved vertical cliffs reaching over a thousand meters high. Standing at Yanzikou (Swallow Grotto) or Qukug洞 (Nine-Turn Tunnel), you begin to understand why the Truku people call this place "Truku" – meaning flat land on the mountain slopes. This is more than a geographical description; it reflects the indigenous peoples' profound understanding of the landscape.
Vertical Distribution of Alpine Ecosystems
From Taroko Gorge at 200 meters above sea level to the main peak of Yuushan (Jade Mountain) at 3,952 meters, the Hualien National Park area spans a complete ecosystem from subtropical to frigid zones. This richness of vertical ecological belts isextremely rare globally.
Living Fossil of Indigenous Culture
The traditional territory of the Truku people overlaps significantly with the national park. Their hunting traditions, weaving craftsmanship, and traditional architecture are inseparable from this land. In recent years, the rise of tribal eco-tourism has allowed visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the humanistic depth of this land.
Core Recommended Places
Taroko Gorge Core Area (Around Taroko National Park Headquarters)
Located in Fushin Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County, this is a must-visit destination for all visitors. The Shakadan Trail runs alongside the Shakadan Stream for a total length of 1.5 kilometers, serving as the best classroom for understanding Taroko's geology and hydrology. The trail is relatively flat and easy to walk, but visitors should be aware of falling rocks and weather changes. The marble here, worn by the stream, appears blue-green in color. The Truku people call this "sgadan," meaning "molar," because the boulders in the stream resemble teeth.
Yanzikou and Jiuqudong (The Finest Section of the Central Cross-Island Highway)
Located at the 170-180 kilometer mark of the Central Cross-Island Highway, this is the most spectacular section of the canyon. The caves at Yanzikou were formed by the dissolution of limestone by stream water. Swallows indeed nested here in the past, though they are less commonly seen now. Jiuqudong represents an engineering marvel of the Central Cross-Island Highway—blood and sweat of retired soldiers in the 1950s carved tunnels into the cliff faces. Walking this section, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience of Taiwan's early builders.
Baiyang Trail and Shuilian Cave
The 2.1-kilometer Baiyang Trail ends at Shuilian Waterfall, a trail that showcases Taroko's characteristic "one cave, one scene." The trail passes through multiple tunnels, leading to Shuilian Cave—a curtain-like waterfall formed by groundwater seeping through rock crevices. Remember to bring a flashlight and rain gear, as the cave is quite slippery. This is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, but it also tests visitors' physical stamina and courage.
Tianxiang and Xiangde Temple
Located on the river terrace terrain in the middle section of Taroko Gorge, Tianxiang is an important rest stop on the Central Cross-Island Highway. Originally named "Tabido," which means "cabbage palm" in Truku language, it was renamed in the 1960s to honor Wen Tianxiang. Xiangde Temple, built in 1963, is a Buddhist sacred site in the gorge. From the temple, you can overlook the Ligu River Valley, making it an important landmark for understanding the history of the Central Cross-Island Highway's construction.
Nan'an Waterfall and Yushan East Peak Trailhead
Located in Zhuoxi Township, Hualien County, this is an important gateway to Yushan National Park in the Hualien area. Nan'an Waterfall has a drop of approximately 50 meters and is formed by a tributary of the Lakulaku Stream. The Bunun people call it "Savungaz." This is the starting point for climbing Yushan East Peak and a great place to observe remnants of the Batan Tunnel Trail. Compared to Taroko's canyon wonders, this area showcases the alpine grassland beauty of the Yushan mountain range.
Practical Information
Transportation
- Taroko National Park: Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Taroko Line from Hualien Station, or drive yourself via Provincial Highway 8 (Central Cross-Island Highway)
- Yushan East Peak Trailhead: Mountain entry permit required; joining a professional hiking group is recommended
- Car rental: Multiple rental services available in Hualien city; drivers with mountain driving experience are recommended
Fees
- National Park admission: Free
- Parking: Visitor Center NT$50/per entry, Tianxiang NT$30/hour
- Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Taroko Line: NT$15-45 based on zones
- Mountain climbing permit: Free (Yushan East Peak requires online application 30 days in advance)
Opening Hours
- Taroko Visitor Center: 08:30-16:45 (Closed on the second Monday of each month)
- All trails: Open 24 hours, but visiting between 06:00-18:00 is recommended
- Weather closures: Some trails may be closed during typhoons or heavy rain; please check before departure
深度旅遊小提示
In-Depth Travel Tips
季節選擇：春秋兩季是最佳時期，夏季多午後雷雨，冬季東北季風強烈。近年來受到極端氣候影響，7-9月颱風季需特別留意路況。
Seasonal Selection: Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Summer often brings afternoon thunderstorms, while winter features strong northeast monsoons. In recent years, due to extreme weather conditions, special attention to road conditions is advised during the typhoon season from July to September.
安全準備：峽谷地形複雜，落石與坍方時有發生。建議穿著防滑鞋，攜帶安全帽（遊客中心有免費借用）。手機訊號在深谷區較弱，建議結伴同行。
Safety Preparation: The canyon terrain is complex, with occasional rockfalls and landslides. It is recommended to wear slip-resistant shoes and bring a safety helmet (available for free at the Visitor Center). Mobile phone signal is weaker in the deep valleys, so traveling with companions is advised.
文化尊重：太魯閣族對傳統領域有深厚情感，遇到部落獵人或採集者請保持尊重。部分割槽域有原住民保留地限制，請遵守相關規定。
Cultural Respect: The Taroko people have deep ties to their traditional lands. Please show respect when encountering tribal hunters or gatherers. Some areas have indigenous reserve restrictions—please adhere to the relevant regulations.
生態保護：這裡是臺灣黑熊、山羌、臺灣獼猴的棲息地，請勿餵食野生動物。高山植物脆弱，請走在指定步道上，不要採集任何植物。
Ecological Protection: This area is the natural habitat of the Formosan black bear, sambar deer, and Formosan macaques. Please do not feed wild animals. Alpine plants are fragile—please stay on designated trails and do not collect any plants.
攝影建議：峽谷內光線變化劇烈，早晨與傍晚是最佳攝影時機。水濂洞內建議使用三腳架，注意防潮。拍攝原住民朋友或部落建築前，請先徵得同意。
Photography Tips: Light conditions in the canyon change dramatically—morning and evening are the best times for photography. Using a tripod is recommended inside the Water Curtain Cave, and moisture protection is important. Please obtain permission before photographing indigenous friends or tribal structures.
