Hualien's cycling routes shouldn't just be synonymous with "chasing the wind." On this land, the remains of Japanese colonial-era immigrant villages, the century-old stories of Indigenous tribes, and the unique geological landscapes of eastern Taiwan intertwine—every pedal stroke is a dialogue with history. If you've already cycled through Qixingtan and Mugumugui, these three hidden routes, prized for their historical and cultural depth, might show you a different side of Hualien.
Hualien's cycling tourism has notably shifted toward deep experiences in recent years. In the past, visitors tended to concentrate around Taroko National Park, but with the increase in bike rental stations, more travelers have begun exploring the cultural and historical routes between the longitudinal valley and the Coastal Mountain Range. According to local operators, international visitors have increased by approximately 30% in recent years, with Japanese and Western tourists particularly preferring routes with historical narratives. This has also driven Hualien's cycling tourism from pure sightseeing toward cultural interpretation.
Route 1: Yuli — A Valley Ride Through 80 Years of Time
Starting from Yuli Train Station, follow the bike path along the Xiugulan River eastward. This route holds Hualien's most complete memories of Japanese colonial-era immigrant villages. During the Japanese colonial period, Yuli was an important sugar industry hub, with sugarcane fields stretching across the landscape—a scene that gradually declined only in the 1970s. Along the way, you'll pass through a cultural and creative cluster converted from former Japanese military barracks, the preserved approach to Yuli Shrine (located beside Yuli High School, where the stone lantern and cement pillars at the entrance remain clearly visible), and the Kecheng Bridge spanning the Xiugulan River—this reinforced concrete bridge was built in 1929 to transport sugar, and its bridge pier craftsmanship using the "chopping block" technique is now rare in Taiwan.
The route difficulty is moderate, spanning approximately 12 kilometers, with asphalt surfaces but minimal traffic. Mid-route, you can rest at the pavilion near Kecheng Bridge and observe the sight of tourists rafting on the riverbed. Yuli's signature noodles (NT$40-60) and Bridge Head Stinky Tofu make excellent post-ride fuel. There are also several bike rental shops in town, with daily rates around NT$200-300.
Route 2: Fenglin — Dual Memories of Hakka and Japanese Immigrant Villages
Fenglin has the highest concentration of Hakka population in Hualien and was the core area of the "Lintian Japanese Immigrant Village" during the Japanese colonial period. This route starts from Fenglin Train Station, following the signs into the Lintianshan Cultural园区. Along the way, you'll pass through the remains of the Lintian Shrine from the Japanese colonial period (now only stone pillars and a small plaza remain, but local residents still visit to pay respects during annual Japanese festivals), the restored buildings of the tobacco barn cluster, and the well-preserved "Lintianshan Scene"—the Japanese-style dormitories where lumber workers once lived.
The highlight of this route lies in its rich historical and cultural layers. Tobacco barns are a unique architectural product of Fenglin, built in the 1920s for drying tobacco. Local guides can still detail the ventilation structures and fire-drying techniques used in these barns. The Japanese-style buildings within the Lintianshan Cultural园区 have been revitalized into exhibition spaces and cafés—admission is free, but bicycles are not allowed inside and must be parked at the entrance. The entire route spans approximately 8 kilometers with smooth surfaces, making it ideal for family cycling trips.
Route 3: Bashan — A Mountain-Sea Dialogue Between the Pacific and the Tribe
The Bashan Bike Path is located in Fengbin Township, one of the few routes that combine Indigenous culture with coastal landscapes. Starting from Bashan Train Station, head north along Provincial Highway 11 for approximately 3 kilometers before turning onto a side road. You'll first arrive at Bashan Tribe, the traditional territory of the Amis people, where you can see coastal plants and millet fields cultivated by tribal members along the route. Continuing onward, the road gradually moves away from the highway, entering a shaded seaside section that ends at the famous Bashan Viewing Platform—overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the sea-sky panorama has been rated by many cycling enthusiasts as "the most beautiful view on the East Coast."
This route is not long—approximately 6 kilometers round trip—but has steep inclines, making it suitable for riders with basic cycling experience. There are few shops along the way for supplies, so bringing your own water and simple snacks is recommended. Occasionally, elderly tribal members sell homemade millet wine and handicrafts by the roadside at reasonable prices—a rare opportunity to support the local tribe. Below the Bashan Viewing Platform, there's a small parking lot where vendors set up on weekends, selling roasted wild boar and roselle tea for NT$30-50.
Practical Information
For cycling trips to Hualien, it is recommended to take a regional train or Puyuma Express. There are several bike rental shops near Hualien Train Station, with daily rates around NT$200-400 for standard bikes and NT$400-600 for e-bikes. Bringing your own helmet and gloves is advised. Hualien's weather changes quickly—even in summer, it's recommended to bring a light jacket. The northeast monsoon on the East Coast is usually stronger in the afternoon, so be prepared for headwinds when cycling.
Most cycling routes have limited supply points, so it's advisable to stock up on water and food in the city or town before departing. The Yuli and Fenglin routes can be completed in a single day, while Bashan is best planned for half a day and can be combined with nearby Shitiping Port or Tribe for a fuller itinerary. For accommodation, there are simple guesthouses near Yuli Train Station at NT$800-1,200 per night, while Fenglin town offers more Hakka-style guesthouses at NT$1,200-1,800 per night.
Travel Tips
There is an unwritten rule among Hualien's cycling paths and tourist areas: crowds tend to concentrate at major attractions on weekends (such as Qixingtan or兆豐Farm), but the deeper historical and cultural routes反而因為人少而更具韻味—instead, their lesser crowds make them more evocative. To avoid the masses, it's recommended to set out on weekday mornings or stay overnight on weekdays. For history enthusiasts, the Yuli and Fenglin routes can be paired with local guide interpretations (typically NT$500-800 for 2 hours), offering richer insights than exploring alone. Sun exposure is strong in eastern Taiwan, so sunscreen and mosquito repellent are essential gear.
