As the gateway to the Taroko National Park, Hualien City offers an irresistible mix of natural beauty, local cuisine, and vibrant Aboriginal culture. Rent a car and explore this charming city at your own pace.
1. Mobility and Parking
Hiring a car is the best way to discover the city and its surroundings. Hualien is easily navigable with well-signed roads and plenty of street-side parking and car parks. However, city center parking can be competitive, especially during peak seasons.
2. Driving Routes and Regulations
Taiwan driving rules follow international conventions, and road signs are in Chinese and English. You should keep to the right and don’t forget the speed limit: 50km/h in urban areas, 80km/h on highways, and 100-120km/h on expressways. Remember, Taiwan has strict drink-driving laws: the legal alcohol limit is 0.03%
3. Suggested Car Class
If you plan to stick to city and coastal drives, any class of car would do. However, if you aim to venture into mountainous areas like Taroko National Park, consider an SUV for a smoother ride.
Highlights of Hualien City
The serene beauty of Hualien City and its surroundings is best enjoyed from the comfort of your rental car.
1. Taroko National Park
No visit to Hualien would be complete without a trip to Taroko National Park, an awe-inspiring assembly of marble cliffs, waterfalls, and deep valleys. Be sure to visit the Swallow Grotto and the Eternal Spring Shrine.
2. Hualien Downtown and Cultural Hotspots
Explore downtown Hualien for stylish boutiques, local craft shops, and delicious Taiwanese fare. Don't miss the Tzu Chi University campus with its stunning architecture and tranquil lake setting.
3. Coastal Scenery
Take the Coastal Highway 11 north to Shihtiping, famous for its terraced rocks and blowholes.
Practical Information
A few final, but essential, points to guide your trip preparation.
1. Climate and Best Travel Time
Hualien has a warm, tropical climate with the best time to visit between October and April when temperatures are most pleasant and rainfall is least.
2. Currency
The currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$) and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and major stores, but always have some cash for smaller businesses and roadside stalls.
3. Seasonal Events
For an immersive cultural experience, visit in February when the Amis tribe hosts the Harvest Festival.
4. Arrival - Airport, Train Station, and Port
The Hualien Airport is the most convenient entry point for international tourists, with daily domestic flights from Taipei. An alternative is the TRA train from Taipei, which takes about two hours. Hualien Port is also an entry point, especially for cruise passengers.
Experience the best of Taiwan's undiscovered east coast with a rental car adventure in Hualien City. Let the journey begin!
