Taroko Gorge Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty, culture, and adventures of Taroko Gorge with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover must-visit places, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is a natural wonder located in the Hualien County of Eastern Taiwan. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Taiwan due to its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, impressive cliffs, waterfalls, emerald green rivers, and unique cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Taroko Gorge

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Taroko National Park Visitor Center
  • Swallow Grotto Trail
  • Tunnel of Nine Turns
  • Jinheng Park
  • Baiyang Waterfall Trail
  • Cultural Village

Natural Attractions of Taroko Gorge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Qingshui Cliff
  • Eternal Spring Shrine
  • Lushui Trail
  • Shakadang Trail
  • Zhuiliu Old Trail
  • Changuang Temple
  • Buluowan

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is home to some of the most amazing hiking and biking trails in Asia. Some of the popular routes for hikers and cyclists include:

  • Hehuanshan Main Peak Trail - this route is perfect for experienced hikers and promises a spectacular scenic view.
  • Shakadang Trail – a winding 4.4 km trail through the gorge, with stunning turquoise waters and a hanging suspension bridge.
  • Zhuilu Trail - enjoy panoramic views of the canyon from a 700-meter cliff trail with an ultimate height experience.

Best Things to Do in Taroko Gorge: Activities and Tours

  • River tracing and canyoning
  • White-water rafting
  • Guided hiking tours
  • Mountain biking
  • Scenic helicopter tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Taroko Gorge

Day Activities
Day 1-2 Explore the cultural and natural heritage of Taroko Gorge
Day 3-4 Try outdoor adventures like river tracing, canyoning or white-water rafting.
Day 5-6 Visit nearby destinations like Taipei or Yilan
Day 7 Relax and take a rest day, discovering local food and shops.

Food and Drink Scene of Taroko Gorge

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stinky Tofu
  • Braised pork rice
  • Wild boar meat
  • Mochi dessert

Local Beverages

  • Gaoshan tea
  • Taiwanese craft beer
  • Frothy sweet bubble tea

Where to Stay in Taroko Gorge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for more luxurious accommodation, Taroko Gorge has a range of options for travelers, including:

  • Leader Village Taroko
  • Tienhsiang Youth Activity Center
  • Silks Place Taroko
  • Norlulu Hotel

What to Buy in Taroko Gorge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade jam, tea, and honey
  • Cultural gifts from the Indigenous People
  • Artisanal ceramics
  • Local gourmet specialties

Local Culture and Customs of Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is home to various indigenous culture and customs of the indigenous community. Their artistic and cultural heritage can be legible in handcrafted accessories and clothes, local music, and traditional dances.

Best Time to Visit Taroko Gorge

The best time to visit Taroko Gorge in Taiwan is during Autumn (September-November) and spring (April-May). The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taroko Gorge

Do:

  • Dress comfortably and bring appropriate gear for outdoor adventures
  • Respect local cultures and customs
  • Carry a copy of your passport and visa

    Don’t:

  • Do not litter
  • Do not damage natural attractions
  • Do not use plastic or single-use items

Safety and Health

Safety in Taroko Gorge

  • While hiking or river tracing, always follow the marked trails
  • Be prepared for sudden weather changes
  • Carry a basic first aid kit

Health in Taroko Gorge

  • Make sure to stay hydrated
  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing
  • Watch out for common outdoor hazards like mosquitoes

Getting to Taroko Gorge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Taroko Gorge

  • Taipei - Taoyuan International Airport
  • Hualien Airport

Bus Stations Near Taroko Gorge

  • Taipei Bus Station
  • Hualien Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private Car Hire
  • Scooter rental

How to Get Around in Taroko Gorge

While some of Taroko’s sights are accessible by bike or car, public transport is limited, and a guided tour can be the best option to maximize your time and explore the best of the region.

Where to Go Next from Taroko Gorge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Taipei City
  • Yilan
  • Yilan Hot Springs
  • Kenting National Park

Conclusion

Taroko Gorge is an incredible destination, with natural beauty, amazing cultural traditions, and a dynamic food scene. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or a nature lover, there’s something for everyone in this stunning location. Follow this guide, and you can make sure you make the most of your trip to Taroko Gorge.