Cycling Taiwan’s Scenic East Coast: Taipei to Taitung

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9am to start the day.

Drive to Fulong

The drive from Taipei to Fulong will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Cycling (57km | +210m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Fulong Old Caoling Tunnel

The Old Caoling Tunnel, inaugurated in 1924, was once Southeast Asia’s longest railway tunnel at 2,167 meters, connecting Fulong in New Taipei City to Shihcheng in Yilan City. After its closure, the tunnel was transformed into a bikeway in 2008. Now, cyclists can enjoy a unique experience riding through the tunnel, which features a pathway designed to resemble railway tracks and retro oil lamp lighting. As part of a circular bikeway starting at Fulong Station, the route offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and passes attractions like the Lailai Geological Zone and Sandiaojiao Lighthouse.

Wai’ao Beach

Wai’ao Beach is a popular surfing destination located in Yilan County. Renowned for its long, flat sandy beach with striking black sand and consistent waves, it attracts both surfers and beachgoers alike. A distinctive feature of Wai’ao Beach is the stunning view of Turtle Island in the distance, adding to its charm. The beach is especially beautiful when the sun is strong or during sunset, creating a captivating atmosphere. With nearby surf shops and amenities, Wai’ao Beach is a great stop for those seeking relaxation.

Kilibay Pearl Tea Museum

The Kilibay Pearl Tea Museum is a delightful destination that celebrates the rich heritage of Taiwan’s iconic pearl milk tea. Located in Taitung, the museum offers interactive exhibits that showcase the history and craftsmanship behind this beloved beverage. Explore the tea-making process, from selecting high-quality tea leaves to crafting chewy tapioca pearls, or join a tasting session savoring a variety of flavors.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 7:00 pm).

Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9am to start the day.

Drive to Hualien

The drive from Su’ao to Hualien will take around 1.5 hours.

Qingshui Cliff

This scenic pull off is one of the best places to capture the full splendor of the Suhua Highway. Eastward, the turquoise sea deepens into a sapphire blue as the water ripples out into infinity. Westward, the towering jungle-laden peaks jut toward the horizon, the tallest of which is Qingshui Mountain, rising straight from sea level to an astounding 2,408 meters. South, along the coast, the highway carries on, disappearing into the side of a mountain where a tunnel carries the road onward. A squint to the east of the tunnel reveals the old road, crumbling and fractured from the beatings of many a coastal storm.

The Suhua Highway

Rising from the Yilan Plain at Su’ao is one of the most remarkable stretches of road on earth: a 118-kilometer highway clinging to the side of steep cliffs as it sweeps and swings its way to Hualien above the vivid hues of the Pacific Ocean below. Each twist and turn reveals breathtaking new vistas, making the Suhua Highway — named as a portmanteau of its respective termini — an unforgettable journey.

Cycling (31km | +370m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Hualien Indigenous Wild Vegetables Center

The Indigenous Wild Vegetable Center, located in Meilunshan Park in Hualien City, celebrates the Amis people’s commitment to preserving their traditional wild vegetable species. This engaging center features rotating themed exhibitions every six months, offering in-depth exploration of Amis culture and the importance of wild vegetables in their daily lives, such as Chinese onion, rice bean, and white jute. The center focuses on educating the public about seed preservation and cultural heritage through interactive courses, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the value of these indigenous plants.

Liyu Lake

Liyu Lake, also known as Carp Lake, is eastern Taiwan’s largest freshwater body and an alternative to the tourist-laden Sun Moon Lake. Unlike its counterpart, Liyu Lake attracts primarily domestic visitors and local Hualien residents seeking a peaceful escape. Behind the sparkling blue waters, the landslide-scarred slopes of Liyu Mountain rise dramatically, reaching toward the sky. A variety of water- and land-based activities are available, including paddleboarding, kayaking, paddle boats, and cycling trails. Visitors can choose their preferred way to enjoy the serene beauty of Liyu Lake.

East Rift Valley

The East Rift Valley, nestled between the Central and Coastal Mountain Ranges in Eastern Taiwan, is a stunning emerald landscape known for its lush agricultural vistas. Stretching 160 km from Hualien to Taitung, this picturesque valley features vibrant vegetable fields, rice paddies, and winding rivers that enhance its natural beauty. Explore attractions like the serene Liyu Lake, the majestic Fenghuang Waterfall, and the soothing hot springs in Ruisui. With its rich soil from ancient volcanic activity, the East Rift Valley is a treasure trove of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm).

Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 am to start the day.

Cycling (80km | +840m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Hualien Sugar Factory

Once a major sugar manufacturing center, The Hualien Sugar Factory now invites visitors to explore its charming grounds, including well-preserved Japanese-style bungalows that evoke nostalgia. Enjoy guided tours, creative workshops, and sample delicious ice cream and popsicles made on-site. The factory’s picturesque setting, with its vibrant surroundings and rich cultural heritage, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of Japanese culture while enjoying the scenic beauty of the East Rift Valley

Tropic of Cancer Marker Park

Tropic of Cancer Marker Park, located on Wuhe Plateau in Ruisui, is named for its proximity to the Tropic of Cancer, the latitude where the sun is directly overhead during the summer solstice. The park features a striking white sundial, accessible walkways, and a teapot-shaped installation, along with signboards about celestial phenomena. Enjoy local treats like honey-scented black tea and Wuhe coffee while exploring souvenir shops. The stunning views of the tea plantations and the Central Mountain Range create a picturesque backdrop year-round.

Satokoay Historical Site

The Satokoay Historical Site features two impressive stone pillars located on a mountain slope north of the Wuhe Terrace in Ruisui Township. According to Amis legends, the pillars were formed from mistakes made during ancestral prayer songs or as a result of a chieftain’s twins deemed an unlucky omen. Dating back approximately 3,000 years to the “Beinan Culture,” these unique relics are prehistoric cultural artifacts of Taiwan, and are recognized as a national historic monument, adding to their mystery.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm).

Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9am to start the day.

Cycling (61 km / +480m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Shanyuan Beach Park

Shanyuan Beach Park, located at the southern end of Dulan, stretches about one kilometer along the stunning coastline known as “Taitung’s Golden Coast.” The beach dazzles with golden hues during sunrise and sunset, creating a picturesque setting. It features fine sand and clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and surfing. Recently renovated, the park offers modern amenities, including bathrooms, shower stalls, and lifeguard services to ensure a safe environment.

Sintung Sugar Refinery Cultural Park

The Sintung Sugar Refinery was once Taiwan’s leading producer of brown sugar in the 1970s but ceased operations in 1991 due to rising costs and industrialization. The well-preserved factory grounds feature relics from the sugar-manufacturing era, including offices and chimneys from the Japanese colonial period. Registered as a historic building, the site transformed into Sintung Cultural Park, which now hosts artist workshops, cafes, and stores, showcasing local artistry and cultural heritage while serving as a vibrant community space for events and creativity.

Sanxiantai Arch Bridge

Sanxiantai Arch Bridge, located on Taiwan’s eastern coast, connects the mainland to Sanxiantai Island. Spanning approximately 200 meters, the bridge features vibrant, multi-colored arches that create a striking contrast against the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy scenic views while walking across the bridge, with the surrounding area characterized by beautiful beaches, unique rock formations, and lush coastal vegetation that provide opportunities for exploration and enhance the overall experience of this picturesque location.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm).

Meals included: Breakfast

Cycling (55 km | +660 m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Wuling Green Tunnel

The Wuling Green Tunnel along Provincial Highway 11 is a lush, verdant passageway lined with towering 60-year-old camphor and beefwood trees. As you cycle through the tunnel, you’ll be enveloped by the soothing aromas of nature and the gentle hum of wildlife. The dense tree canopy overhead creates a serene, secluded atmosphere, shielding from the bustle of the city. Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding Luye Highland plateau as you immerse yourself in this peaceful, eco-friendly oasis.

Brown Boulevard

Cycle along Brown Boulevard, leading to the iconic Takeshi Kaneshiro Tree. The long, straight road offers stunning views of lush rice paddies and picturesque mountains. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with fellow cyclists and visitors, adds to the charm of the journey. Enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of Chishang as you pedal along this scenic route, celebrating the enchanting landscape at every turn.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm).

Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 am to start the day.

Cycling (56 km | +310 m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Nanan Falls

Nanan Falls in Taitung County showcases a stunning cascade just steps from the road. The clear, flowing water creates a mesmerizing display, cascading over the rugged terrain. Sit on the rocks to admire the beauty, especially on quieter days when the area feels serene. The shallow pool at the base of the waterfall offers a refreshing spot to take a dip and cool off.

Batongguan Historic Trail

The Batongguan Historic Trail leads trekkers to the iconic Shanfeng No. 1 Suspension Bridge, a marvel of engineering just a short trek off the trailhead. As hikers traverse the scenic path, they immerse themselves in Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage, winding through lush forests and past towering cliffs. The suspension bridge spans a deep valley, offering a thrilling yet safe crossing surrounded by mountains and a plunging gorge. An observation deck on an extended bridge pier provides breathtaking views of the waterfall-fed Laklak Stream and the area’s natural splendor.

Yuli Shinto Shrine ruins

The Yuli Shinto Shrine relic stands as a remnant of Taiwan’s Japanese colonial past. Despite the dilapidated main structure, the site retains key elements that make it the most well-preserved Shinto shrine relic in Hualien. Once an overgrown, forgotten place, the shrine was designated a municipal relic, safeguarding its historical and cultural significance. Follow the easy path from the Torii gates at the entrance, ascending to the top where the long staircase and tranquil atmosphere evoke a sense of being in a secluded Japanese mountain shrine, instilling a feeling of serenity and mystique.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm).

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Cycling (62 km | +970 m)

There will be several stops and activities along the way.

Xiuguluan River

Xiuguluan River is a natural wonder in eastern Taiwan, known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Originating from the Central Mountain Range, this 104-kilometer river cuts through the Coastal Range, carving stunning canyons and terraces. The Amis and Bunun indigenous tribes have long called this region home, leaving their mark on the local culture. With its pristine ecosystems, unique geology, and captivating history, Xiuguluan River offers a truly immersive experience in Taiwan’s natural and cultural tapestry.

Baqi Rest Stop

The Baqi Observatory, located along Provincial Highway 11, offers stunning coastal vistas, perfect for a rest stop. From the observatory deck, view the eastward Pacific Ocean and southward over Jiqi Bay and the Xinshe Sea Cliffs. Below the deck, a 100-meter boardwalk leads to a shaded, grassy platform where travelers can relax and listen to the sounds of nature – chirping cicadas and birds. This scenic overlook is considered one of the most picturesque spots along the lengthy Provincial Highway 11, with the landscape shifting dramatically from lush mountains to the vast, open ocean.

Drive to Taipei

The drive from Baqi Rest Stop to Taipei will take 3.5 hours.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 5:00 pm).

Meals included: Breakfast

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel to start the day.

Depart: Taipei

Your WildTaiwan guide and private chauffeur will escort you to the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (~1-hour traffic dependent) and help you check in for your flight home.