Wulai Travel Guide

Explore Wulai, Taiwan with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, we've got you covered!


If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Wulai is the perfect destination. Located in Northern Taiwan, this tranquil mountain town is known for its natural hot springs and stunning scenery. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Wulai has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the top things to do in Wulai, as well as offer some insider tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Introduction to Wulai

Wulai is located in New Taipei, just a short drive from Taipei City. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and is known for its beautiful waterfalls, hot springs, and scenic hiking trails. Wulai is also home to the Atayal tribe, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups, and as such, has a rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Wulai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning more about the local culture, there are a number of museums and historical sites worth visiting in Wulai. The Wulai Atayal Museum is a great place to start. Here, you can learn about the Atayal people’s traditional way of life, as well as see examples of their art and handicrafts.

Another must-see attraction is the Wulai Old Street, which is lined with shops and restaurants selling local delicacies such as wild boar sausages and grilled river fish. Along the street, you’ll also find a number of traditional Taiwanese buildings, some of which date back to the Japanese colonial era.

Natural Attractions of Wulai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

One of the main draws of Wulai is its natural beauty. The town is tucked away in the mountains surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and natural hot springs. One of the most popular attractions is the Wulai Waterfall, which drops over 80 meters into the river below. There is a viewing platform that provides a stunning view of the falls, as well as a hiking trail that will take you to the top.

Another popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts is the Wulai Scenic Area, which offers a range of hiking and biking trails through the forest. The area is also home to the Wulai Hot Springs, which are said to have healing properties due to their high mineral content.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wulai

Wulai is a hiker’s paradise, with a number of trails to suit all levels of experience. Some of the most popular routes include the Wulai Waterfall Trail, which takes you past the stunning Wulai Waterfall and up to the top, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

For a more challenging hike, try the Bat Cave Trail, which takes you through a tunnel of bamboo and a series of steep switchbacks to a cave filled with bats. The views from the top are well worth the effort.

There are also a number of biking trails in the area, including the Wulai Yun Hsien Bike Path, which follows the river and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Wulai: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are a number of other activities and tours that you can enjoy in Wulai. If you’re looking to relax, consider soaking in the hot springs or booking a massage at one of the local spas.

For a more adventurous experience, try river tracing, which involves following the river upstream, jumping from one rock to another, and sliding down natural water slides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wulai

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Wulai, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Wulai, check into your hotel, and explore the Wulai Old Street.

Day 2: Hike the Wulai Waterfall Trail and soak in the hot springs.

Day 3: Take a guided river tracing tour.

Day 4: Rent a bike and explore the Yun Hsien Bike Path.

Day 5: Visit the Wulai Atayal Museum and learn about the local culture.

Day 6: Spend the day exploring the Wulai Scenic Area.

Day 7: Departure from Wulai.

Food and Drink Scene of Wulai

When it comes to food and drink, Wulai has plenty to offer. Some must-try dishes include wild boar sausages, grilled river fish, and bamboo rice, which is rice cooked with vegetables and meat inside a bamboo stalk.

As for beverages, be sure to try the local specialty, Luye Tea, which is grown in the nearby Luye Highlands and has a delicate, floral flavor.

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

There are a number of accommodation options in Wulai, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the most popular options include the Wulai Spring Resort, which offers hot spring baths and scenic views of the river, and the Eslite Hotel, which is located in the heart of the Wulai Old Street.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, be sure to check out the shops along the Wulai Old Street. Here, you’ll find a range of handicrafts, including hand-woven baskets, carved wooden statues, and pottery. You can also purchase locally produced tea or bamboo rice to bring home as a tasty memento of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Wulai

As mentioned earlier, Wulai has a rich cultural heritage. Be sure to show respect for the local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting the Atayal Museum and other culturally significant sites. It’s also worth noting that Wulai is a popular destination for couples and honeymooners due to its romantic atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit Wulai

The best time to visit Wulai is from October to December, when the temperature is cool but not too cold, and the leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Spring is also a popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and flowers are in bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wulai

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Wulai:

Do:

  • Show respect for the local culture and customs.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities, particularly hiking and biking.
  • Bring a bathing suit to enjoy the hot springs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the natural environment.
  • Take rocks or other natural souvenirs from the area.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting culturally significant sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wulai

Wulai is generally a safe destination, but it’s still a good idea to take precautions when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water and snacks with you.

Health in Wulai

There are no major health risks associated with visiting Wulai. However, if you plan to soak in the hot springs, it’s worth noting that the water can be quite hot and may not be suitable for everyone.

Getting to Wulai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wulai

The nearest airport to Wulai is Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport, which is approximately 50 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Wulai.

Bus Stations Near Wulai

There are several bus stations in Taipei that offer service to Wulai, including the Xindian Bus Station, the Songshan Bus Station, and the Taipei Bus Station.

Other Options

You can also hire a private car or join a guided tour to travel to Wulai.

How to Get Around in Wulai

If you’re staying in Wulai, the best way to get around is on foot or by taxi. Bikes can also be rented from several locations in town.

Where to Go Next from Wulai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your adventure in Taiwan, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring. Tamsui, located north of Taipei along the coast, is known for its historic sites and beautiful sunsets. Alternatively, you could head south to Taichung, Taiwan’s cultural capital, and enjoy the city’s museums, galleries, and night markets.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Wulai is the perfect destination. With its stunning scenery, unique culture, and range of activities and attractions, this mountaintop town is sure to leave a lasting impression. We hope our comprehensive travel guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Wulai.

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