Things To Do
in Xiulin
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.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by hiking the Shakadang Trail where stunning views of the river and rock formations await. Remember to bring your camera for breathtaking landscape shots.
Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine and learn about its history while enjoying the serene environment. Take time to rest and absorb the beauty surrounding you.
Wind down by visiting a nearby local eatery for dinner, savoring traditional Taiwanese dishes. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll in the stunning gorge under the stars.
Embark on a guided tour of the park to appreciate its rich flora and fauna. Look out for the various wildlife that inhabit this natural sanctuary.
After lunch, explore the Lushui Trail, which offers slightly more challenging hikes. The views from the trail rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramas.
Head back to Xiulin town and indulge in some snacks at a local night market. Experience the vibrant atmosphere while tasting a variety of local delicacies.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty with mountains and coastline.
- Rich cultural history and local traditions.
- Outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking and cycling.
- Peaceful and less crowded compared to larger cities.
- Access to hot springs and unique geological features.
- Limited access to major urban amenities and services.
- Potential impact from natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Economic opportunities may be fewer compared to bigger cities.
- Transport connections may be less efficient.
- Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
Best Activities in Xiulin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of Taroko National Park with a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks along the gorge.
Enjoy cycling along the scenic routes in and around Xiulin, offering beautiful natural views and fresh air.
Experience the thrill of river rafting on the Liwu River, surrounded by the dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation of Taroko National Park.
Set up camp in designated camping spots within Taroko National Park, ideal for stargazing and immersing in nature.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing experiences available in the various cliffs and formations in the Taroko area.
Observe the diverse wildlife in Taroko National Park, including various bird species, butterflies, and unique flora.
Tours
Uncover the best of Xiulin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Xiulin
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning scenery with marble cliffs, deep gorges, and rushing rivers.
Features majestic cliffs plunging into the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Provides an opportunity to capture the beauty of the Taroko Gorge from a unique vantage point.
Food in Xiulin
Xiulin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Xiulin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Xiulin, as in much of Taiwan, showing respect for elders is a significant cultural norm. It is customary to greet older individuals first and use polite language when addressing them. This respect often extends to the way younger generations behave in public and private settings.
When invited to someone's home in Xiulin, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as fruit or snacks. It is considered courteous to offer your gift with both hands, demonstrating respect and appreciation for the host's generosity.
During meals, it is important to wait for the host to begin before starting to eat. Additionally, it is common to serve others before serving oneself, as a gesture of hospitality and respect. Being mindful of table manners, such as not talking with a full mouth, is also expected.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Xiulin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Xiulin
Ensure a smooth experience
In Xiulin, Taiwan, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected in most service industries. Customers typically do not leave tips for service staff in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change can be seen as a gesture of appreciation in certain upscale establishments.
In Xiulin, various payment methods are accepted, including cash and electronic payments. Credit and debit cards are widely used, especially in larger stores and restaurants. Mobile payment systems, such as Line Pay and Apple Pay, have also gained popularity, facilitating convenient transactions for locals and tourists alike. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Xiulin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather and blooming cherry blossoms. Expect mild temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Best time for outdoor activities and exploring the Taroko Gorge. Expect hot and humid weather with occasional typhoons.
Best time for hiking and enjoying the colorful foliage. Expect cooler temperatures and lower rainfall.
Best time for hot springs and enjoying the festive atmosphere. Expect cool temperatures and occasional fog.
Xiulin at Night
Hiking in Xiulin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its deep gorges, scenic beauty, and diverse hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
A popular trail within Taroko National Park that features breathtaking views of the Taroko Gorge and steep cliffside paths.
An easy and picturesque trail that follows the Shakadang River, known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful rock formations.
A scenic trail that leads to the Baiyang Waterfall, featuring tunnels, suspension bridges, and lush greenery.
A relaxing hiking spot that combines hiking with a natural hot spring experience, offering beautiful views and tranquility.
A historical trail with relatively flat terrain, ideal for a leisurely hike while enjoying views of the surrounding natural landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Xiulin through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Xiulin by plane.
Located approximately 70 km from Xiulin, Taichung International Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Situated around 180 km from Xiulin, Kaohsiung International Airport is one of the major airports in southern Taiwan, offering a range of international flights.
About 240 km from Xiulin, this is the largest airport in Taiwan, serving as a major international gateway.
Approximately 30 km from Xiulin, Hualien Airport offers some domestic flights and limited international services.
Located around 100 km from Xiulin, Taitung Airport mainly services domestic flights but has occasional international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Xiulin, Taiwan, comprising a significant portion of the population, primarily referring to those of Holo and Hakka descent.
Includes the various indigenous groups in the region, such as the Amis and Atayal tribes, who have a rich cultural heritage and history in Taiwan.
This group includes migrants from Southeast Asian countries who come to work in various industries, contributing to the local economy.
A small percentage of expatriates and other minority groups living in Xiulin, including residents from other parts of Taiwan and the international community.
The Soul of Xiulin
Discover the essence of Xiulin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is widely played in Xiulin, with many local schools and communities actively participating in the sport.
Soccer is also popular in Xiulin, with local teams competing in various leagues and tournaments throughout the region.
Badminton enjoys popularity in Xiulin, with many people playing recreationally and competitively in clubs.
Baseball has a significant following in Taiwan, including Xiulin, where local teams and youth leagues contribute to its popularity.
Various traditional Taiwanese sports, such as tug-of-war and dragon boat racing, are celebrated in local festivals and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xiulin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
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.
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.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Xiulin with these cultural adventures.