Yuli Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Yuli, Eastern Taiwan. Plan your trip with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Yuli

Located in Hualien County, Yuli is a small town in Eastern Taiwan that offers a blend of cultural, scenic, and outdoor experiences. The town’s unique geography - nestled between the Central Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean - has helped it become a playground for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and road trippers. Yuli is said to be one of Taiwan’s hidden gems, and it’s easy to see why. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide that will help you plan a memorable trip to Yuli.

List of Places to Visit in Yuli

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Yuli Railway Station: An iconic Japanese-era railway station that has been restored and converted into a museum.
  • Yuli Story House: A renovated Japanese building that was formerly used as the Yuli Police Station. It now serves as an exhibition hall showcasing the region’s history and culture.
  • Yuli Shrine: A small but beautiful Shinto shrine dedicated to Japan’s Emperor Meiji that dates back to the early 1900s.

Natural Attractions of Yuli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Caoling Historic Trail: A scenic trail that follows an old military road dating back to the Qing dynasty. It offers stunning views of the coastal cliffs, Pacific Ocean, and Yuli River.
  • Dongpu Hot Springs: A popular spot for relaxation, soaking, and rejuvenation. The springs are set amid a natural forest and can be reached via an easy hike.
  • Liyu Lake: A picturesque lake located in a mountain valley. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, cycling, hiking, and admiring the view.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yuli

  • Shoufeng Mountain Trail: An intermediate-level hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the Central Mountain Range, Pacific Ocean, and Yuli Township.
  • Walami Trail: An advanced level hiking trail that spans over 30 miles and takes several days to complete. The trail runs through dense forests and remote indigenous communities.
  • Yenhai Forest Trail: This cycling-friendly trail runs along a picturesque stretch of the Yuli River and takes visitors through scenic natural landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Yuli: Activities and Tours

  • White Water Rafting: The rapids of the Yilan River are perfect for an adrenaline-pumping white water rafting experience.
  • Skydiving: Yuli’s unique geography makes it an ideal destination for skydiving. With expert instructors and breathtaking views, skydiving in Yuli is a must-do.
  • Indigenous Cultural Experience: Visitors can immerse themselves in indigenous culture by taking part in traditional activities such as archery, weaving, and dancing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yuli

Here is a suggested itinerary for a one-week trip to Yuli:

Day Activity
1 Arrival, check-in, and walking tour of Yuli Township.
2 Hike the Caoling Historic Trail, visit Yuli Story House, and relax at Dongpu Hot Springs.
3 White water rafting on the Yilan River followed by a visit to Yenhai Forest Park.
4 Skydiving followed by a trip to the Walami Trail.
5 Cycling tour of indigenous villages and traditional cultural activities.
6 Visit Liyu Lake and go boating or cycling.
7 Departure from Yuli.

Food and Drink Scene of Yuli

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lu Rou Fan: A Taiwanese specialty that comprises braised pork belly over rice. It’s said to be the ultimate comfort food.
  • Yuli Noodles: A local delicacy made with hand-pulled noodles, fresh seafood, and locally sourced vegetables.
  • Fried Squid: Freshly caught squid that’s fried to perfection and served with salt and pepper seasoning.

Local Beverages

  • Fresh Fruit Juices: Yuli is known for its abundance of fresh and juicy fruits such as mangoes, papayas, and watermelons.
  • Tea: Taiwan is famous for its tea, and Yuli is no exception. Visitors can try different types of tea, including oolong, black, and green tea.

Where to Stay in Yuli: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Yuli Hoin Backpackers Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that offers private and dormitory-style rooms.
  • Green Island Resort: A luxury resort that offers a relaxing and tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Yuli Riverside Bed and Breakfast: A charming guesthouse located by the Yuli River, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Yuli: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Indigenous Crafts: Yuli is home to several indigenous tribes, and visitors can buy traditional crafts such as woven baskets, clothing, and accessories.
  • Tea: Yuli is known for its tea production, and visitors can bring home high-quality tea products from the region.
  • Fruit: As mentioned earlier, Yuli is known for its fresh and juicy fruit. Visitors can buy fruit products such as jams, dried fruit, and fruit wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Yuli

Yuli has a diverse population comprising Han Chinese and several indigenous tribes, including the Amis, Truku, and Bunun. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and beliefs, such as not touching the head of an indigenous person, not stepping on the doorstep, and avoiding wasting food or resources.

Best Time to Visit Yuli

The best time to visit Yuli is from October to December, when the weather is cool and comfortable, and the region experiences less rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yuli

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local foods and beverages.
  • Engage with the locals to learn more about the region’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Interrupt religious ceremonies or rituals.
  • Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yuli

Yuli is generally a safe place to visit, though visitors are advised to follow basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and taking care when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Yuli

Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider vaccinations for Japanese Encephalitis, which is a risk in some parts of Taiwan. It’s also important to take all necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites as Dengue fever is common in Taiwan.

Getting to Yuli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yuli

The closest airport to Yuli is Hualien Airport, which is approximately a 45-minute drive away. Alternatively, visitors can also arrive in Taipei and take a train or bus to Hualien.

Bus Stations Near Yuli

Yuli Bus Station is located in the center of town and provides connections to other parts of Taiwan.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive in Yuli by taking a train from other parts of Taiwan to the Yuli Railway Station.

How to Get Around in Yuli

The best way to explore Yuli is by renting a car or scooter. Alternatively, visitors can also use public transportation such as buses or taxis.

Where to Go Next from Yuli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Taroko National Park: One of Taiwan’s most stunning natural wonders located just a short drive away from Yuli.
  • Hualien City: A bustling city renowned for its night markets, street food, and scenic coastline.
  • Liyutan Dam: Taiwan’s highest dam, offering breathtaking views and stunning scenery.

Conclusion

Yuli offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in Taiwan. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’re sure to have a memorable trip filled with rich cultural experiences, stunning natural landscapes, and thrilling outdoor adventures.

Yuli Station Yuli Station Gate of the Sietian Temple Gate of the Sietian Temple Lundun Gufeng Temple Lundun Gufeng Temple Mount Yu Shan Mount Yu Shan