Hualien City, Hualien, Taiwan
My original plan was to visit Taroko Gorge, but recent earthquakes and a typhoon had heavily damaged the trails and roads. I still went to Hualien, hoping the area would recover, but it hadn’t. Instead, I used the day to slow down and relax.
With rain and strong winds in the forecast, I left my hostel and decided to walk towards the coast as Hualien is known for its beautiful shoreline. Along the way, I passed cute art installations and a rainbow-themed street.
When I reached the coast, I saw lingering damage from the disasters—debris and driftwood scattered everywhere. As the rain started and the wind picked up, I turned back toward my hostel, stopping briefly by the night market, though nothing was open yet. By the time I got back, the rain was pouring, so I spent the rest of the day reading and resting.
Despite the change of plans, it turned out to be a peaceful and much-needed slow day.
Route Detail
Distance: 11.63km out & back from Accommodation in Hualien
Total elevation gain: 44m
Time: 2h 21m (total time with breaks 2h 36m)
Difficulty: Easy
Miscellaneous
Food NT$356
