Taroko Gorge National Park, Hualien: The Emerald of Taiwan

Get to know Taroko Gorge National Park

Taroko Gorge National Park was officially established in November 1986, and it was considered to be a significant mark of the environmental movement in Taiwan. At the time, the nation experienced huge economic success but the island’s natural beauty had to pay the price. The park was then established to protect the nature, wildlife and historical heritage; research facilities and environmental education are available at the national park. ‘Taroko’, a word from the Truku language of the Truku indigenous tribe, means magnificent and beautiful.

Nature at Taroko Gorge National Park

The gorge at Taroko is basically of metamorphic rock, mostly marble, with the highest point at about 3,400 meters above sea level. This national park is well known for its diverse fauna and flora, including approximately 144 species of birds and 251 species of butterflies. The climate is mild and it rains almost all year around, so be sure to come prepared. The famous areas at Taroko Gorge National Park include the Shakadang Trail, Baiyang Waterfall Trail, and the Tunnel of Nine Turns.

Culture and history at Taroko Gorge National Park

Although Taroko Gorge National Park is well known for its diverse nature, the national park is actually also known for its culture and history. Inhabitants of gorge include the Truku tribe, one of the many aboriginal tribes in Taiwan. Many descendants of the tribe still live in the area and share their culture through handmade items that can be found at the multiple sites around Taroko Gorge National Park. There are also historical sites inside the park, such as the Eternal Spring Shrine that was built to commemorate the 212 veterans that died while constructing the Central Cross-Island Highway.

Getting to Taroko Gorge National Park

The Tourism Office of Taiwan has established buses for travelers who would like to spend time at Taroko Gorge National Park. The bus route starts at the Hualien Train Station and tickets can be purchased at the office on the left of the station. One-way tickets from the city to the Visitor Center of the park costs about 92 NTD (approximately 3 USD), but there are one day and two day passes as well. However, remember to check the time since they have certain schedules.

Private tours are also available for Taroko Gorge National Park although the price might be slightly higher. Some tours offer multiple-days trip, river tracing, hiking, etc. Taking tours is more recommended for travelers who are in a time crunch since taking the public bus might be a bit time consuming. Just remember to do research and don’t hesitate to ask around with the staff at your accommodation.