Xiulin, Taiwan

Xiulin, Taiwan is a picturesque rural township located in the eastern part of the country. It is surrounded by lush forests, towering mountains, and scenic valleys, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The township is home to the stunning Taroko Gorge National Park, known for its marble cliffs, crystal-clear rivers, and diverse wildlife.

Visitors to Xiulin can enjoy hiking, biking, river tracing, and other outdoor activities in this beautiful natural setting.

Places to visit

Taroko National Park (Taroko Gorge)

Hualien County

Taroko National Park (Taroko Gorge)

Hualien County

East Rift Valley National Scenic Area (Huadong Valley)

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Hiking and Hot Springs

morning:Start your day with a refreshing hike at Taroko National Park, breathing in the breathtaking views of the towering canyon walls and turquoise river below. Consider stopping at a local vegetarian restaurant for a healthy breakfast.

afternoon:Visit the Baiyang Waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Afternoon is perfect for a relaxed soak in the Qingshui Cliffs Hot Springs, surrounded by lush scenery and tranquility.

evening:For a relaxing night-out, head to the nearby hot spring resorts where you can unwind in the therapeutic waters under the starry skies.

day 2

Cultural Exploration

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Eternal Spring Shrine, a beautiful and historic temple nestled in the heart of Taroko Gorge. Treat yourself to a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at a local eatery.

afternoon:Explore the Xiangde Temple and learn about its fascinating history and architecture. Wander through the charming streets of Shakadang Trail and take in the picturesque scenery.

evening:For a night-out, visit the local night market to experience the vibrant atmosphere, indulge in delicious street food, and shop for unique souvenirs.

day 3

Adventurous Excursions

morning:Embark on an adventurous biking excursion along the Dongdamen Bike Trail, navigating through the stunning landscapes and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Stop by a local cafe for a quick energy-boosting snack.

afternoon:Continue your adventure with a thrilling river tracing experience at Shakadang River, exploring the crystal-clear waters and natural rock formations. Take in the breathtaking views of the Swallow Grotto.

evening:For an exhilarating night-out, join a guided stargazing tour to witness the splendor of the night sky and learn about the fascinating constellations.

day 4

Nature and Relaxation

morning:Spend your morning exploring the Lushui Trail, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning vistas. Stop by a local teahouse for a refreshing cup of Taiwanese tea.

afternoon:Take a relaxing stroll through the Pine Garden and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty. Visit the Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park to explore local arts and crafts.

evening:For a peaceful night-out, unwind with a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline and experience the serene ambiance as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.

Xiulin Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Muaji

A traditional dish of the indigenous Taroko people, Muaji is a savory sticky rice cake wrapped in leaves. It is typically enjoyed during festivals and can be found at local indigenous food stalls.

Must-Try!

Taiwanese Sausage

With its sweet and savory flavors, Taiwanese sausage is a popular snack enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Look for street vendors and night markets for the best renditions.

Stir-Fried Luffa

This simple yet flavorful dish features stir-fried luffa gourd with garlic and often includes a protein such as shrimp or pork. Look for it at local eateries and night market stalls.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Dongdamen Night Market

This bustling night market is a food lover's paradise, offering an abundance of street food options including stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and grilled seafood. It's a must-visit for an authentic street food experience.

View on map

Fuyuan Indigenous Food Market

Located in the Fuyuan Village, this market offers a variety of indigenous dishes and snacks, providing a unique opportunity to sample traditional Taroko cuisine and other indigenous specialties.

View on map

Dietary Restrictions

Navigating dietary restrictions locally

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Taiwanese cuisine is not heavily focused on vegetarian or vegan options, certain Buddhist vegetarian restaurants and international eateries in the area offer plant-based dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining at local establishments.

Vegetarian, Vegan

Gluten-Free Choices

Locally, gluten-free options may be limited, but some restaurants and cafes offer rice-based dishes and are accommodating to dietary requests. It's recommended to inquire about ingredients and food preparation methods to ensure suitability for those with gluten sensitivities.

Gluten-Free

Restaurants & Cafés

Best places to eat and drink in Xiulin

Taroko Silks Place Restaurant

Situated within the Taroko Silks Place Hotel, this restaurant offers a fusion of indigenous and modern cuisine, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. It's perfect for experiencing upscale indigenous dining.

Fuli Rest Area

This charming rest area is known for its local dishes such as wild boar sausage and bamboo rice. It's a great spot to savor authentic flavors while taking in the picturesque scenery.