Yilan's cycling routes are not just about enjoying the scenery—they represent a journey through time and cultural exploration. From the remains of the Taishan forest railway dating back to the Japanese colonial period, to the irrigation channel patterns left by post-war farmland redistribution, each path carries the unique historical memory of the Lanyang Plain. Unlike Alishan's steep challenges, here you can experience cycling most intimately connected to the land.
A Cycling Experience Where Culture and Nature Intertwine
The charm of Yilan's cycling routes lies in their richly layered cultural landscapes. During the Japanese colonial period, light railways built for developing the Taishan forest industry have become gentle, rider-friendly green corridors; the farmland redistribution projects during the Kuomintang government era created orderly agricultural grid patterns; and the 1980s Dongshan River improvement plan created the most classic waterside route for cyclists. Riding these paths, you are simultaneously reading a living history of development.
Recommended Cycling Routes
Dongshan River Bike Path
A classic route of approximately 24 kilometers, winding along the improved Dongshan River. Starting from Luodong Sports Park, passing through the National Center for Traditional Arts, and arriving at Dongshan River Water Park. This route showcases typical 1980s Taiwan river improvement projects, transforming originally flood-prone wild streams into tourism resources. Along the way, traditional three-compartment houses and modern villas alternate, reflecting Yilan's transformation from an agricultural county to a tourism destination.
Luodong Forestry Cultural Park Loop
An 8-kilometer circular route starting from the Luodong Forestry Cultural Park, connecting the historical heritage of the Taishan forest industry. The park preserves complete timber storage ponds, cypress wood houses, and steam locomotives—cycling here feels like stepping into a time tunnel to the heyday of the forestry industry in the 1960s. This was once the largest cypress wood distribution center in Asia. Today, the pond waters reflect century-old trees, so tranquil that one forgets the era of deafening logging machines.
Yuanshan Air-Raid Shelter Exploration Route
A historical exploration route of approximately 15 kilometers, connecting four World War II Japanese air-raid shelter remnants in Yuanshan Township. These concrete bunkers hidden in the fields witnessed the intense U.S. air raids on Taiwan in 1944. Cycling along country pathways, each encounter with a shelter is a collision with history. Local elders often say these "ghost holes" once housed Zero fighter planes, now only ruins overgrown with weeds remain to tell the cruel story of war.
Sanxing Scallion Field Cultural Route
An agricultural landscape route of approximately 12 kilometers,深入 the heart of the scallion and garlic special zone in Sanxing Township. Here's scallion production accounts for one-third of all Taiwan—cycling through the neatly arranged scallion fields, the air is filled with a distinctive pungent aroma. Spring is the best time to visit, with emerald green scallion leaves swaying like ocean waves, occasionally catching glimpses of farmers bending to harvest. The Luohan Farmers Market (Saturdays only) is a must-stop, fresh scallion oil cakes and scallion ice cream are both worth trying.
Lanyang River Estuary Coastal Line
A coastal route of approximately 18 kilometers, starting from Zhuangwei Sand Hills, riding along the Lanyang River estuary to Waiao in Toucheng. This route witnesses the rise and fall of Yilan's fishing industry—from set net fishing during the Japanese colonial period, to post-war offshore trawling, to today's tourism transformation. The estuary wetlands are important habitats for migratory birds, with over a hundred species observable from October to March each year. When cycling to the estuary, one often sees elderly fishermen fishing between the wave-dissipation blocks—the last fading shadows of traditional fishing culture.
Practical Information
Getting There
Take the Taiwan Railway to Yilan Station or Luodong Station—both stations have multiple bike rental shops nearby. From Taipei, take Kamalan Bus or Capital Bus to Yilan Transfer Station, a 5-minute walk to rental shops. Those driving can park for free at starting points of various routes.
Bike Rental Rates
Regular bicycles: NT$200-300/day
Electric bicycles: NT$400-600/day
High-end road bikes: NT$800-1,200/day
Most shops provide basic equipment like helmets and lights. Advance phone booking is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
Best Cycling Times
Avoid the hot 11:00-15:00 period; early morning 6:00-9:00 and afternoon 16:00-18:00 are the most comfortable cycling times. Yilan receives ample rain—be sure to check weather forecasts and carry lightweight rain gear.
Travel Tips
Most Yilan cycling routes are flat, suitable for all ages—but coastal sections have stronger winds, so wearing fitted clothing is advised. Agricultural areas have good road conditions but unclear signage; using GPS navigation is recommended. Some historical sites are on private land—maintain distance for viewing, do not enter without permission.
If you encounter local farmers or elders during your ride, take the initiative to strike up a conversation—they are often the most vivid storytellers of history. Many stories about air-raid shelters, sugar factories, and ancient irrigation channels can only be found complete in their memories. This is the most precious treasure of the Yilan cycling journey—not merely recording scenery, but passing down culture.
