Top 10 alternative places to visit in Taitung and Hualien
Taiwan News
Date: 2017/11/10
By: David Spencer, Taiwan News, Contributing Writer
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The East Coast of Taiwan really is the jewel of the island.
Walami Trail. (Image by Hualien Tourist Service Network)
While visitors to West Coast would be justified to question whether the name of “Formosa” (Beautiful Island) is really justified, once they make it to the east, the answer quickly becomes apparent.
The region is largely (but not entirely) unspoiled by the industrialization and pollution of the west and boasts a mix of spectacular scenery, fascinating cultural history, and a warm and friendly local population. But is relative geographic isolation is both a blessing and a curse. Sadly, for many visitors from overseas, it often means the area is either overlooked completely or only enjoyed from an organized tour to those places which make it into the tour guides.
Often that tends to mean Taroko Gorge, with perhaps one night spent in Hualien. Those that do make it to Taitung will often drive direct and not stop to enjoy the scenery on the way. I have written before about some of the spots that Taroko has to offer beyond the usual tourist fare. In this article I am going to consider the East Coast between Hualien and Taitung and pick out my Top 10 Alternative places to visit. [FULL STORY]
