Things To Do
in Yuli

Yuli (玉里) is a quiet market town in the middle of Taiwan’s East Rift Valley, surrounded by rice paddies and dramatic mountain ranges. It serves as a useful base for exploring rural Hualien County, with easy train access and a relaxed, small‑town pace. The town is known locally for its agricultural produce, simple local eateries, and proximity to cycling routes and river valleys.

Travelers come for scenic drives, outdoor activities like cycling and rafting nearby, and an unhurried taste of Taiwan outside the major tourist hubs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Yuli
morning
:

Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at a local eatery. Immerse yourself in the surrounding landscapes as you take a stroll through the quaint streets of Yuli. Visit the nearby Yuli Railway Station and take in its unique architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the picturesque rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, capturing the essence of Taiwan's agricultural heartland. Stop by local artisan shops and producers to learn about traditional crafts and farming methods. Enjoy a casual lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, savoring regional specialties like Yuli's famous Hakka cuisine. Allow yourself to unwind as you sip on a refreshing bubble tea while reflecting on your day's experiences. Take a leisurely evening walk to absorb the peaceful ambiance of this charming town.

day 2
Taroko Gorge Adventure
morning
:

Set out early to Taroko National Park, known for its stunning marble canyons and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a hearty breakfast on the go and marvel at the picturesque landscape during the drive. Once you arrive, embark on a hiking trail suited for your fitness level, such as the Shakadang Trail, to soak in the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Continue exploring the park by visiting the iconic Eternal Spring Shrine and set up a picnic lunch amidst the awe-inspiring backdrop. You can take photos or simply relax by the serene riverbanks. Conquer more trails and expose yourself to the diverse flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

evening
:

Return to Yuli and indulge in a hearty dinner at a local eatery, reminiscing about your wonderful day surrounded by nature. Take some time to visit the night market, where you can try out various street foods and locally-made delicacies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as local artisans showcase their talents.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
Coffee at a café$2-4
🚆Local train/bus ride$0.5-2
🛏️Budget guesthouse / hostel$25-50
🚲Bike rental (daily)$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful, authentic rural Taiwanese experience with scenic valley and mountain views
  • Good base for outdoor activities (cycling, rafting, hiking) and easy train access
  • Fresh local produce and affordable local food
  • Less touristy than coastal and city destinations—relaxed pace
  • Limited nightlife and fewer English‑language services than larger cities
  • Public transport can be infrequent for some rural routes; a bike or scooter is helpful
  • Weather risks during typhoon season can disrupt plans
  • Fewer high‑end accommodation and dining options
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "謝謝 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "請問…在哪裡? (Qǐngwèn… zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is…?
  • "多少錢? (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is it?
  • "我吃素。 (Wǒ chī sù.)" - I am vegetarian.
  • "我有過敏。 (Wǒ yǒu guòmǐn.)" - I have allergies.
  • "對不起/不好意思 (Duìbuqǐ / Bù hǎoyìsi)" - Sorry / Excuse me (polite)

Places to Visit in Yuli

Visit one of these nice places.

Rice Paddies at Sunrise/Sunset

Expansive rice fields framed by the Central Mountain Range provide classic East Rift Valley reflections and dramatic lighting at dawn and dusk.

Yuli Old Street and Market Scenes

Street photography opportunities around the railway station, market stalls and temple entrances capture daily life and local color.

Valley Vantage Points

Look for roadside lookout points along the valley for panoramic shots of the river, terraces and ridgelines—especially appealing under cloud formations after a rain.

Rivers and Bridges

Small bridges and riverbanks near town are photogenic, particularly when local fishermen or farmers are working the fields.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yuli

Yuli’s cuisine reflects its East Rift Valley setting: fresh rice, vegetables, and river fish play leading roles, and local diners serve hearty, homey Taiwanese comfort food. Expect simple, flavorful dishes made with produce from nearby farms and occasional indigenous‑influenced specialties in the region.

Yuli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Local Sticky Rice and Rice Cakes

Rice grown in the East Rift Valley is prized; try sticky rice preparations and seasonal rice cakes at markets and small eateries around town.

Must-Try!

Home‑style Braised Dishes

Look for braised pork, tofu and vegetable plates—savory, slightly sweet Taiwanese comfort foods served in family restaurants.

River Fish and Fresh Vegetables

Simple fresh fish preparations and steamed or stir‑fried greens are common, often featured at market stalls or small local restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yuli Morning Market (local market)

A typical farmers’ market where vendors sell fresh produce, rice products, tofu goods and ready‑to‑eat snacks—great for sampling local flavors and buying food souvenirs.

Night Market Stalls (scattered)

Yuli doesn’t have a large night market like the big cities, but you’ll find clusters of street vendors and small stalls selling grilled skewers, dumplings and dessert treats in the evening.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yuli has a subtropical climate moderated by its valley position and surrounding mountains: hot, humid summers with an active typhoon season (July–September), warm and pleasant autumns, mild winters with cooler nights, and spring with variable rain. Mountain-induced afternoon showers are common; elevation changes nearby create microclimates.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Behavior

Be polite, soft‑spoken and patient—Taiwanese value courtesy. Avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public places.

Shoes and Temples

Remove shoes when entering someone’s home and follow temple customs—bow respectfully, avoid stepping over thresholds and don’t touch sacred objects.

Queuing and Public Order

Form orderly queues for buses and trains and follow posted signs; jaywalking can be frowned upon in busier areas.

Photography Sensitivity

Ask permission before photographing people up close, especially during religious ceremonies or private gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yuli is generally safe with low violent crime; standard precautions for petty theft and personal belongings apply. The main safety concerns are weather‑related: heavy rains, floods and typhoons can cause road closures and river hazards—follow local warnings and avoid river activities during and after heavy rainfall. Also be mindful of scooter safety and mountain road conditions if driving.

Tipping in Yuli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; service charges may appear at upscale hotels or restaurants. Small gestures of appreciation are fine but not expected.

Payment Methods

Cash (New Taiwan Dollar, TWD) is widely used for markets, small shops and rural vendors; major restaurants and hotels accept credit cards. Use an EasyCard for buses and some local stores, and bring cash for scooter or bike rentals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with occasional showers; rice fields start to fill, making reflections and vibrant green landscapes—great for photography and cycling but bring a light rain jacket.

Summer

Hot and humid, with the highest chance of typhoons from July to September—expect afternoon thunderstorms; early mornings are best for outdoor activities and rafting runs are seasonal.

Autumn

Comfortable temperatures and typically clearer skies after summer; harvest activity in the fields provides cultural interest and pleasant conditions for hiking and cycling.

Winter

Cooler and drier (by Taiwanese standards), nights can be chilly—good season for hot springs nearby and lower humidity for longer outdoor excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Yuli at Night

Yuli’s nightlife is low‑key and community‑oriented: expect small eateries open late, a handful of casual bars or tea shops and occasional live music at local events. For a more vibrant nightlife scene—clubs, cocktail bars and bigger night markets—travel to Hualien City an hour away by train.

Hiking in Yuli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Taroko National Park Trails (day trip)

A range of trails from easy gorges to more challenging mountain routes; popular options include well‑maintained trails with spectacular canyon scenery—reachable from Yuli by train or car for a day trip.

Local Valley Walks and Ridge Viewpoints

Short hikes and roadside lookout paths around the East Rift Valley offer accessible options for sunrise/sunset views and photography without long approaches.

Mountain Trailheads (regional)

For more experienced hikers, trailheads into the Central Mountain Range are reachable from the valley—plan logistics carefully, check permits and local conditions, and consider a guide for remote trails.

Airports

How to reach Yuli by plane.

Hualien Airport (HUN)

The closest regional airport serving domestic flights; approximately a 1–1.5 hour drive north of Yuli. From the airport you can take a bus or taxi into Hualien City and then train or bus to Yuli.

Taitung Airport (TTT)

A regional airport to the south (~1.5–2 hours by road), convenient if combining a visit to Taitung and the southern East Rift Valley. Ground transfers or trains connect to Yuli.

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Taiwan’s main international gateway near Taipei; expect a 4–5 hour train or multi‑transfer journey to reach Yuli, or a short domestic flight to Hualien followed by ground transfer.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yuli’s town center is compact and very walkable—most restaurants, shops and the station can be reached on foot. For exploring the wider valley, bike, scooter or car is recommended because attractions and scenic points are spread out.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Taiwanese (Hoklo, Hakka and other groups)

The majority of residents are Han Taiwanese, involved in agriculture, small business and local services.

Indigenous Communities

Hualien County is home to several indigenous peoples; in the broader region you can find Amis, Bunun, and other groups with distinct cultures and festivals—some communities are active near Yuli and in surrounding townships.

Small Expat and Traveler Community

Occasional foreign travelers, backpackers and volunteers pass through Yuli, but the expatriate community is small compared with larger cities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling the East Rift Valley is extremely popular—from casual rides to long-distance tours—thanks to scenic flat stretches and bike rental support.

Baseball

Baseball is widely followed across Taiwan, and local communities often support youth and amateur baseball activities.

River Sports

White‑water rafting, river tracing and related adventure sports are popular in the river valleys around Hualien (seasonal and operator‑dependent).

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic volumes are low compared with Taiwan’s cities, but rural roads can be narrow and winding; many locals use scooters, so watch for two‑wheelers. Trains are the convenient intercity option along the east coast, while local buses may run less frequently—check schedules in advance and allow extra travel time during peak holiday periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yuli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available (look for dishes labeled '素'), especially in simple vegetable plates, tofu dishes and noodle soups. Carry a phrase card explaining specific restrictions to show cooks if you have strict needs.

Gluten‑free & Allergies

Many Taiwanese dishes use soy sauce and wheat‑based products—ask about ingredients and point to common allergen words in Mandarin. Small eateries may not always accommodate complex requests, so bring snacks or seek larger restaurants if you have severe allergies.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics and outpatient medical services are available in town for minor issues. For serious medical care or specialized treatment, larger hospitals in Hualien City (about an hour by train or car) provide comprehensive services. Travelers should carry travel insurance and any regular medications, and know emergency contact numbers.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide