Yilan County Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Yilan County with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat and stay in Yilan County.


Introduction to Yilan County

If you’re searching for a getaway destination in Taiwan that offers a mix of natural landscapes, heritage sites, and delicious cuisine, Yilan County should be on your radar. Located on the northeastern coast of Taiwan, Yilan is known as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The county offers a plethora of natural attractions, from majestic mountains and verdant forests to hot springs and lakes. In addition to the nature, the county also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with museums and historical sites that showcase Yilan’s fascinating history.

To help you plan the perfect trip to Yilan County, we’ve put together this comprehensive travel guide.

List of Places to Visit in Yilan County

Whether you’re looking to learn more about the history and culture of this region, indulge in delicious food, or explore the great outdoors, Yilan County won’t disappoint. Here are some of the top places to visit in Yilan County to add to your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Center for Traditional Arts: To see the authentic side of Taiwanese folk art, check out the National Center for Traditional Arts. Guests will get a behind-the-scenes look at artwork production while also learning about traditional Taiwanese craftsmanship practices.
  • Luodong Forestry Culture Park: Luodong, once a logging area, is now a family-friendly park that seeks to educate visitors about the history of the industry. Hike, bike and stroll through greeneries and learn about forestry in Yilan County.
  • Caoling Historical Trail: Caoling Historical Trail was once a transport route from Yilan County to Keelung. Today, it is one of the most famous cultural relics in Yilan that offers stunning views, complete with historic signages.
  • Yilan Distillery Chia Chi Lan Wine Museum: The Chia Chi Lan Mansion was once a villa of the founder of Yilan Distillery. Now, it is a museum that displays exhibitions about the Yilan distilled spirits culture and industry.

Natural Attractions of Yilan County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wufengchi Waterfall: Wufengchi Waterfall is just a 10-minute walk from the parking lot. It is a perfect spot to take a refreshing dip in the summer months while admiring the cascading waterfalls.
  • Su’ao Cold Springs: Su’ao Cold Springs is a natural hot spring that emerges out of freshwater. The 20 springs are monitored regularly for temperature and water levels.
  • Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area: Home to the highest peak in northern Taiwan, this area is a must-visit for nature lovers. It offers a range of walking trails through Taiwan’s unique temperate forest and mountain landscape, including places like Zhiti Waterfall and Taipingshan Tea Garden, both offering stunning mountain views.
  • Jiaoxi Hot Springs: Jiaoxi Hot Springs has long been known for their healing powers, providing individuals the opportunity to relax and unwind in a natural mineral spring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yilan County

  • Old Caoling Tunnel Bike Path: Take your bike for a spin on the scenic Old Caoling Tunnel Bike Path. The path was once a railroad and is now the perfect place to bike, walk or run with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Teapot Mountain Hiking Trail: Experience a Taiwanese tea plantation and hike to breathtaking views at the top of Teapot Mountain Hiking Trail. Suited for moderate hikers, the trail is popular for its unique tea plantations and stunning sea views.
  • Beipu Cold Spring Trail: One of the most unique trails in Yilan County, this hike offers a chance to cool off at the end of the trial with a visit to Beipu Cold Spring. At just under two miles long, it is the perfect hike for a leisurely day trip.

Best Things to Do in Yilan County: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Ballooning: What better way to see the gorgeous natural terrain of Yilan County than from above? Hot air balloon rides are a popular way to take in Yilan’s stunning landscapes from a bird’s eye view.
  • Cycling with Yilan’s Famous Flavors: Go on a guided cycling tour of Yilan’s historic towns and distinctive culture, immersing you in Yilan’s rich history, heritage, and culture. Learn about Yilan’s agricultural history and traditions.
  • River Rafting: The naturally created river currents of Yilan are perfect for river rafting. Experience the thrill of the rapids against the stunning backdrop of Yilan’s lush landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yilan County

Use this seven-day itinerary to make the most of your time in Yilan County.

Day Activities
1 National Center for Traditional Arts
2 Luodong Forestry Culture Park
3 Caoling Historical Trail
4 Teapot Mountain Hiking Trail + Jiaoxi Hot Springs
5 Wufengchi Waterfall
6 Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area
7 Chia Chi Lan Wine Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Yilan County

Feast on delicious specialties and enjoy locally brewed beers, wines and teas while in Yilan County.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Being close to the coast, Yilan County has abundant seafood on its menus. From steamed crabs to fish hotpot, fish fans will love Yilan County.
  • Dongshan River Water Chestnuts: Taking inspiration from the river-bed of Dongshan River, try these water chestnuts that are sweet and refreshing.
  • Hui Guo Rou: Hui Guo Rou is Taiwan’s Kung Pao Chicken, a tantalizing stir-fry with a spicy kick.
  • Lu Rou Fan (Fatty Pork Rice): Don’t miss the chance to try the county’s microwaved Fatty Pork Rice, a signature dish in Yilan County.

Local Beverages

  • Yilan Tea: Yilan is famous for its tea plantations, and you can find a variety of fragrant teas made from Osmanthus, Iron Buddha and more at tea houses around Yilan.
  • Yilan Beer: Yilan Beer is one of the many locally brewed beers in the area. Cold refreshing Yilan beers are waiting for you after every adventure, visit the breweries to learn more.

Where to Stay in Yilan County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

We recommend the following accommodations to have a wonderful stay while visiting Yilan County:

  • Silks Place Yilan: With beautiful scenery, sweeping views of Turtle Island and personalized services, Silks Place Yilan is designed to provide guests an unforgettable experience.
  • The Place Yilan: Located in the heart of Yilan City and within walking distance to several popular attractions, The Place Yilan is an excellent choice when looking for convenience and beautiful amenities.
  • Just Sleep Jiao Xi: A chic hotel that feels more luxurious than its price point, Just Sleep Jiao Xi is an ideal spot for couples and families alike.

What to Buy in Yilan County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

To take a piece of Yilan County home with you, be sure to check out the following souvenirs and products.

  • Dongshan River Water Chestnuts: Dongshan River Water Chestnuts, a famous aquatic fruit famously grown organically without any additives or chemicals.
  • Kieh’s Brown Sugar: This bouncy brown sugar cake with squishy tapioca balls is originally from Yilan, try it on a day trip or take a box home for sweet enthusiasts.
  • Art and Crafts: Yilan is known for its artisanal handcrafts born out of their rich history and tradition. Pottery, bark earrings, and hand-carved wooden furnishings are amongst the best souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Yilan County

Here are some important cultural and customs of Yilan to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Black Rice Harvest Festival: The Black Rice Harvest Festival is a seminal event in Yilan County that happens every year in November. The festival showcases Yilan’s unique agricultural techniques while offering visitors the chance to taste food made from black rice.
  • Ghost Month: Ghost Month, typically in July or August, is a time when the locals believe that the spirits of their ancestors are closer to them. During this time, you may notice more spiritual and traditional ceremonies being performed.

Best Time to Visit Yilan County

The best time to visit Yilan County is during the cooler seasons of autumn or winter from late October to early January, before the Lunar New Year holiday.

Having mild temperatures and less rainfall makes this time a great time for outdoor activities. While having less tourists and lower prices also makes it more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yilan County

When visiting Yilan County, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and beliefs
  • Be mindful of your behavior in temples and other sacred sites
  • Try the local tea
  • Take off your shoes before entering a home

Don’t:

  • Don’t interrupt when others are speaking
  • Don’t take photographs without permission at sacred places
  • Don’t disrespect local traditions

Safety and Health

Here’s what to know about safety and health when visiting Yilan County.

Safety in Yilan County

Yilan County is known to be one of the safest areas in Taiwan. However, visitors should still be cautious with their belongings while exploring, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Yilan County

While Yilan County is generally a safe place, like many other areas in Taiwan, it is recommended that you drink bottled water to reduce the risk of getting sick from local tap water.

Getting to Yilan County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here is what you need to know about getting to Yilan County:

Airports Near Yilan County

The nearest international airports to Yilan County are Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei Songshan Airport, and Taichung International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or train directly to Yilan County.

Bus Stations Near Yilan County

Yilan County has multiple bus terminals, such as Luodong Bus Terminal and Yilan Bus Terminal, making it easy to navigate the region by public transportation.

Other Options

Visitors to Yilan County may choose to rent a car from one of the car rental companies located at the nearby airports, or opt for riding taxis or transfers available in these airports.

How to Get Around in Yilan County

Here are the primary modes of transportation that are available in Yilan:

  • Bus: Several bus routes connect Yilan County to other towns and cities in Taiwan.
  • Train: The Taiwan Railways Administration operates many train routes around Yilan County.
  • Taxi: Taxis can be easily flagged down on the street, with fixed prices or metered rates.

Where to Go Next from Yilan County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and day trips to consider after your visit to Yilan County:

  • Hualien: Just around 45 minutes from Yilan, Hualien is home to the rugged, photogenic natural wonders such as Taroko Gorge National Park and Qixingtan Beach, an amazing activity to add to your outdoors list.
  • Keelung: Keelung, known for its harbor views, seafood markets, and night markets, is just an hour or so from Yilan County with a range of exciting attractions to sample.
  • Taipei: The capital city of Taiwan is conveniently located a few hours away from Yilan. Visit Taipei, and check-out its religious cathedrals, historic temples, and Taipei 101, the tallest skyscraper in Taiwan, to your delight.

Conclusion

Yilan County is a beautiful region with a rich culture, fascinating history, magnificent natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, there’s no shortage of things to see, do and experience in Yilan County. Plan your next trip to this exciting region of Eastern Taiwan and embrace the unique culture, taste, nature and everything rare that comes your way.



    Jiaoxi
    Nanao
    Suao
    Tian Song Pi Agricultural Leisure Area
    Toucheng
    Wujie