Welcome to Hualien, the breathtaking gateway to Taiwan's magnificent eastern coast. This port is a favorite stop for lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, offering a dramatic departure from bustling cityscapes.
Cruise passengers are drawn here by the promise of unparalleled natural beauty, most notably the world-renowned Taroko Gorge. Prepare to be captivated by marble canyons, pristine beaches, and the serene charm of Taiwan's rugged coastline.
The undisputed crown jewel of Hualien is Taroko National Park, a natural wonder of marble-walled canyons and rushing rivers. A full-day tour of Taroko Gorge is the most popular excursion, with highlights like the scenic Swallow Grotto Trail and the serene Shakadang Trail. This excursion typically requires a drive of about 45-60 minutes from the port.
Closer to the port, Qixingtan Beach offers a stunning view of the Pacific with its unique pebble-strewn shoreline. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing walk and is only about a 15-minute drive away.
For a dose of culture, the Ching-hsiu Temple provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful Japanese-style architecture, a remnant of the island's history. It is located within Hualien City, about 20 minutes from the port.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
While Taroko National Park is the main draw, the wider East Rift Valley to the south of Hualien offers a different kind of scenic beauty. This fertile plain, nestled between two mountain ranges, is dotted with farms, rice paddies, and charming small towns. A scenic drive through the East Rift Valley can be a wonderful day trip, though it covers significant distances.
Another lovely nearby spot is Liyu Lake (Carp Lake), located about 30-40 minutes southwest of the port. It is the largest inland lake in Hualien County, offering opportunities for boating, cycling around its perimeter, and enjoying a peaceful natural setting away from the main tourist trail.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The cruise terminal at the Port of Hualien is situated in an industrial harbor area, approximately 6 kilometers (about 4 miles) north of the Hualien city center. Due to the distance and the nature of the port, it is not feasible to walk into town. Cruise ships typically dock here, so tendering is not required.
There are very few amenities for passengers directly at the pier. Cruise lines almost always provide shuttle buses to a drop-off point in the city, or passengers embark directly on pre-booked shore excursions. Taxis are also available, but arrangements are best made in advance.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). While some tourist-oriented shops might accept US dollars, it is not common practice, and the exchange rate will not be favorable. It is highly recommended to use the local currency for all purchases.
ATMs are widely available throughout Hualien City and dispense NTD. You can also exchange currency at banks in the city center, but this can be time-consuming. Credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants, but cash is essential for small eateries, local markets, and taxis.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Hualien is considered a very safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. It is generally safe to explore independently, and locals are known for being friendly and helpful to visitors. The main safety concerns are related to nature and traffic.
When visiting Taroko National Park, always stay on marked trails, be aware of signs warning of potential rockfalls, and listen to the advice of your guides. The weather can change quickly in the mountains. In the city, exercise normal caution and be mindful of the scooter and car traffic when crossing streets.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Hualien has a subtropical climate, meaning it is generally warm and humid throughout the year. The primary cruise season in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offers the most pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
Summers are hot and wet, and this period coincides with typhoon season, which officially runs from June to October. While a direct hit from a typhoon can alter cruise itineraries, the region is well-prepared. Rain is possible at any time of year, so packing a light rain jacket or an umbrella is always a wise decision, along with comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Transportation from the industrial port is necessary to reach any attractions. The most common and efficient option for cruise passengers is to take a pre-booked shore excursion directly from the pier. For independent travelers, the best option is often to hire a taxi or a private car with a driver for the day, which offers flexibility, especially for a trip to Taroko National Park.
Taxis are readily available in the city center but can be harder to hail directly at the port without a prior booking. While Hualien has a local bus system, it can be difficult for non-Mandarin speakers to navigate and is not ideal for time-constrained cruise visitors. Ride-sharing apps like Uber have limited service in the area.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The main shopping district in Hualien is along Zhongshan Road in the city center, where you can find a mix of clothing stores, department stores, and local shops. For a more unique experience, the Dongdamen Night Market is a must-visit for its lively atmosphere, street food, and stalls selling souvenirs and trinkets.
Local specialties to look for include delicious mochi (a soft, chewy rice cake with various fillings), handcrafted stone art, and jade products, as the area is famous for its marble. Prices in stores are typically fixed, but you may be able to engage in some light, friendly bargaining at market stalls. Duty-free shopping is not a major feature of Hualien.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Your day tour will likely focus on Taroko National Park, a world-class gorge carved from marble. Visitors walk through the stunning Swallow Grotto and see the iconic Eternal Spring Shrine, learning about the area's rich indigenous Taroko culture along the way.
A full day experience often combines the magnificent gorge with a visit to the beautiful Qixingtan Beach. This scenic stone shoreline offers a peaceful contrast with its sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountain range.
The combination of dramatic natural landscapes and local heritage creates excellent stories to share back on the ship. This unforgettable excursion showcases the very best of Taiwan's rugged east coast.
Explore the mountains of Taroko National Park on a flexible, private day tour from Hualien that is suitable for all ages. Go at your own pace in a private vehicle as you visit Taroko gorge, trek the Sakul trail, and hear historical stories from your personal guide. This hassle-free experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private vehicle, and all entrance fees.
Discover the wonders of Hualien on a unique tour customized by a local guide with over 25 years of experience. Your guide is passionate about sharing the area's fascinating surprises with every guest. Choose from a wide variety of activities, including tribal culture experiences, river tracing, whale watching, or even an Indigenous home cooking class.
This journey provides the best chance to enjoy coastal highlights and treasure hunt for jade in the Baibow river. Your guide will lead you down to the stream to pick up jade stones, which you can then take to a factory. There, you can polish your find yourself, creating a unique and personal souvenir of your trip to Taiwan.
Enjoy a full-day, private, and customizable tour of Hualien's best sights with your own professional guide and driver. You can tailor your itinerary to your interests, visiting key landmarks like the stunning Taroko National Park, Qingshui Cliffs, or Liyu Carp Lake. Please note this tour includes a lot of walking, and the itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or park closures.
Challenge yourself on a legendary one-day cycling adventure along the 105km route popularly known as KoM. This demanding ride features steep ascents and winding roads, starting in Hualien City and passing through the breathtaking Taroko National Park to the summit of Hehuan mountain. A support van, bicycle mechanic, and pit stops are provided for your safety and comfort.
Prepare for this water-based excursion by wearing lightweight clothing or a swimsuit and bringing a change of clothes. If you have a history of motion sickness, it is recommended to take medication 30 minutes before departure. Please be advised that in case of poor weather, this tour will be changed to Hualien River Kayaking or you may opt for a full refund.
Experience a local hidden gem by kayaking on the scenic Hualien River, an ideal alternative for those seeking a leisurely paddle without motion sickness. Control your kayak at a casual pace as you are carried along by a mix of gentle and sometimes rapid currents. Enjoy the breathtaking and constantly evolving scenery along the river bank for a relaxed yet unforgettable adventure.
Journey with a local guide on a road trip along a less-traveled coastal highway to discover magnificent seaside mountains and prestige forests. Experience the popular water sport of Standup Paddleboarding (SUP) at a beautiful and exclusive secret location. This tour combines the best of a scenic drive with a unique water activity, allowing you to walk sandy beaches and chase waves.
Discover the phenomenal views of Taroko, the world’s deepest marble canyon, on a tour of its major highlights. Marvel at the unique landscape of towering marble walls, subtropical forested canyons, and crystal-clear rivers. This excursion allows you to explore this wonder of nature through a series of leisurely hikes on its easier trails.
Experience the thrill of riding an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) on the vast, sandy coast of Chongde. These lightweight, open-body off-road vehicles are perfectly suited for traveling on the beach. You can ride with confidence, as these ATVs receive regular and thorough maintenance, including brake and tire inspections.
Please note that due to the April 2024 earthquake, this tour to Taroko National Park is suspended through the end of 2025. When active, this one-day trip features a professional English-speaking guide and driver to visit popular spots in the park. You will discover the spectacular Taroko Gorge, Taiwan's "Grand Canyon," which was formed over millions of years by stream erosion and crustal arching.
Embark on a whale and dolphin watching tour in the waters of Hualien, where there is a remarkable 90% chance of an encounter. The warm Kuroshio Current attracts an incredible diversity of marine life, with 27 different species of cetaceans found in the area. Keep an eye out for common species like spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and even sperm whales.
This curated one-day tour immerses you in the natural beauty and cultural charm of Hualien's most iconic destinations. Marvel at the towering marble cliffs of Taroko Gorge and the dramatic rock formations of Qingshui Cliff. Afterward, explore the local culture of Xincheng Old Street before relaxing on the serene pebble shores of Qixingtan Beach.
Discover the majesty of Taiwan by hiking the historic Zhuilu Old Trail, a 3.1-kilometer trek reaching elevations of 500-600 meters. This path, once a narrow track connecting ancient Truku villages, is surrounded by emerald mountains. As you hike, you will see the mighty Liwu River below, carving its way through the steep and imposing Fuji cliffs.
As Taroko National Park recovers from the 2024 earthquake, this tour allows you to explore the other hidden gems Hualien has to offer. Get a comprehensive overview of Hualien City in one day, visiting must-see attractions from the coast to the mountains. Your itinerary includes Qixingtan Beach, Liyu Lake, and the Lintianshan Forestry Culture Park, where you will learn about the area's history.
Journey through the story of Hualien and experience the rich cultural history of its different ethnic groups. Learn about the indigenous people who arrived thousands of years ago, and how life changed with the arrival of the Han and Japanese 150 years ago. This tour highlights the traditional wisdom of the aboriginal people, Japanese-era construction, and the religious food culture of the Han.
Book a private, door-to-door transfer from Hualien Port directly to Taipei Taoyuan Airport (TPE). Avoid the hassle of long taxi or shared shuttle queues with a professional driver waiting for you at a scheduled time with a nameplate. This comfortable service includes flight tracking, clean cars, and no hidden charges for a smooth and effortless journey.
For those who prefer a relaxing water activity, Hualien Creek Drifting offers a gentle and enjoyable experience. Simply sit or lie on a floating doughnut and let the gentle current carry you, passing through some small, fun rapids along the way. Take in the natural landscape on both sides of the river and look for migratory birds flying overhead on this must-do summer outing.
Enter a magical fairytale world on an adventure to clear the trails set by a witch in the Black Forest. After navigating your way through the forest, you will swing lightly along with bird songs to find your way out. Your journey ends at the Joyful Grassland, offering a bird's eye view of the emerald valley and the cerulean ocean.
Embark on a 10-hour private car journey to experience Hualien’s most iconic natural wonders and vibrant culture at your own pace. Your itinerary includes the dramatic Qingshui Cliff, majestic Taroko Gorge, serene Qixingtan Beach, and the lively Dongdamen Night Market. This tour provides a private driver for effortless transitions, but please note the driver may not speak English and the tour does not include a guide or entrance fees.
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Overall Hualien is rather affordable as a port of call. Sailings visiting Hualien during the the peak season of winter are significantly more expensive than the the low season of summer. The graph below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Hualien.
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