East Rift Valley Day Trip in Taroko Gorge
Part of the Taroko Gorge travel guide — see every topic in All Taroko Gorge Guides.
The East Rift Valley is the long, flat valley that runs south from Hualien toward Taitung. On one side stands the Central Mountain Range, on the other the lower Coastal Mountain Range. Between them lie rice fields, small farm towns, rivers and hot springs. It is quiet, green and easy to reach by train. When parts of Taroko are closed, it makes an excellent nature day trip from Hualien.
The landscape
The valley floor is mostly rice fields, with paths and small roads between them. In spring and early summer the fields are bright green. Later in the year, before harvest, they turn gold. High mountains rise on the western side, and clouds often sit on their peaks. Small towns such as Fenglin, Ruisui, Yuli and Fuli sit along the railway. Each has a few local restaurants and shops. The pace is slow, and many visitors come here to see rural Taiwan away from the big cities.
Liyu Lake
Liyu Lake, close to Hualien city at the north end of the valley, is a calm lake surrounded by forested hills. A path runs around the shore and is good for walking or cycling. You can rent bikes near the lake, and small boats are sometimes available. It is a pleasant place for an easy morning, and it is a short drive or taxi ride from the city. Go early on hot days. Mosquitoes can be common near the water in summer, so bring repellent.
Rafting on the Xiuguluan River
The Xiuguluan River cuts east through the Coastal Mountain Range to the sea. Rafting trips start near Ruisui and run through a gorge to the coast. The trip takes several hours and is suitable for beginners in normal conditions, with guides and safety equipment. The main season runs from spring to autumn. Trips are cancelled when the river is too high after heavy rain or typhoons. Book with a licensed operator, follow the guide's instructions, and wear the helmet and life jacket provided.
Rice fields at Chishang
Chishang, at the south end of the valley in Taitung County, is known for its rice and its wide open fields. One straight farm road with mountain views and no power lines has become a popular place to cycle and take photos. Bike rental shops near Chishang station rent bikes and e-bikes for short loops. Chishang rice lunch boxes are also famous, and many shops near the station sell them. The town is further from Hualien than the other stops, so it suits a longer day or an overnight stay.
Getting there
Trains run south from Hualien along the valley, stopping at most towns. Faster trains stop only at larger stations, so check which train stops where you want to go. On weekends and holidays, book seats in advance. You can also join a tour or hire a car. Renting a car or scooter requires a licence Taiwan accepts, such as an International Driving Permit with your home licence. A simple plan is to take a train to one town, rent a bike for a few hours, then take a train back. Do not try to see the whole valley in one day.
East Rift Valley Day Trip at a glance
| Getting there | Train south from Hualien to Ruisui, Yuli or Chishang |
|---|---|
| Hours | Plan a full day; check train times both ways |
| Cost | Low train fares; bike rental by the hour |
| Highlights | Liyu Lake, Xiuguluan rafting, Chishang rice fields |
| Best time | Spring to autumn; avoid typhoon days |