Yilan
Jiaosi Town, Yilan County
Located in northeast Taiwan, Yilan is a popular day trip and weekend destination from Taipei. Set on a lush plain, with the ocean on one side and mountains on the others, the district offers plenty of natural beauty, a variety of outdoor activities, as well as historic towns, and a wealth of cultural and other attractions.
Nature lovers will find plenty to keep them occupied. Enjoy hiking the many trails in Yilan—whether along the rugged coast, or in scenic areas—such as Wulaokeng or Taipingshan National Forest. Go swimming in Meihua Lake or surfing in Honeymoon Bay. Enjoy a soak in the Jiaoxi hot springs or the Su’ao cold springs. Admire thousand-year-old trees at the Qilan Sacred Trees Garden. For culture lovers, there are plentiful options, such as the Yilan Museum of Art, the Yilan Literary Museum, and the National Center for Traditional Arts. Or sample local favorites at a night market, or at one of several breweries in the area.
It’s easy to visit Yilan independently. For a hassle-free experience, opt for a guided tour that includes transportation from Taipei. Day and overnight trips are available, and can also include attractions in nearby Hualien county, such as Taroko National Park.
- Don’t forget your camera; Yilan is full of photogenic scenery.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, and bring sun protection and water if you plan to engage in outdoor activities.
- Bring cash to use at night and in other markets, as some vendors will not accept anything else.
- Day trips from Taipei can last upwards of 10 to 12 hours.
Yilan is home to the second-longest tunnel in Asia—the Hsuehshan Tunnel—which cuts the driving time from Taipei to around 60 minutes. You can also take an express train (roughly 60 minutes) or local train (2.5 hours) from Taipei to Yilan. Several bus lines also operate between Taipei and Yilan. Once in Yilan, rent a scooter to get around.
Although Yilan is a year-round destination, visit in the fall for the most pleasant weather. Weekends are a popular time to visit, as many Taipei residents travel to Yilan to escape the city. Visit during the week for a quieter experience.
Located off the coast of Yilan, Guishan Island is also known as Turtle Island because of its shape. The largest island in the county, it’s known for its stunning sunrises. There’s also great hiking, and it’s a popular spot to go whale watching.
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