NOTE:
**The section between the Taroko Arch Gate (east entrance) and Tianxiang in Taroko National Park has been severely damaged by April 3rd Earthquakes and typhoons, and the trails and scenic spots are currently closed. The risk of rockfalls and mudslides along Provincial Highway 8 remains high. If entry is necessary, please carefully assess the risks and ensure your safety.
The Provincial Highway 8 is open now, but there is a high risk of rockfalls. The Highway 8 has been cleared for passage by the Highway Bureau after Typhoon Gaemi, Typhoon Krathon, and Typhoon Kong-rey and April 3rd earthquake earlier this year. There are still road repair work traffic controls, with the road being open 5 times passage daily (7:00-8:00, 10:00, 12:00-13:00, 15:00, and 17:00-17:30), 17:30-18:30 exit only, no entry, and this road section is closed at night between Taroko and Tianxiang (km184.5 – km 167.4). The road pavement and guardrails have not been repaired. The Taroko National Park east side is closed, except the west side of Mt. Hehuan area in the park. Please do not enter this road section (the east Taroko Gorge section) unless necessary.
Additionally, travelers from Dayuling to the Taroko entrance are reminded to reach Tianxiang by 17:00 PM to avoid missing the passage time from Tianxiang to the Taroko entrance. Those traveling from the Taroko entrance (highway marker at 184.5 km) to Dayuling (110.1 km) should pass through Tianxiang (167.4 km) 12:00 PM to avoid encountering the night-time closure after 6:30 PM. Road users are advised to plan their trips accordingly.
Due to the 7.2 magnitude earthquake on April 3rd, 2024 and Typhoon Kong-rey on October 31 in 2024, the park suffered severe damage, especially on the east side. The trails and scenic spots in the Taroko Gorge section, from Taroko to Tianxiang (185.4 km–167.7 km) along Provincial Highway 8, were severely affected. The trails and scenic spots are currently closed. It is still unsafe to travel in this area. Please do not enter unless necessary. The risk of rockfalls and mudslides along Provincial Highway 8 remains high.
We are actively working on the reconstruction and restoration efforts. The recreational areas and trails in the park will be reopened in phases and sections, depending on the extent of the damage and progress of the restoration work. Currently, open areas of the park include the Shimen Mountain Trail, Hehuan North Peak Trail, Xiaoqilai (Trail entrance - 1.4 km, please return from 1.4km point) and Hehuan East Peak Trail in the Hehuan Mountain area (elevation around 3200-3400 meters high, please bring warm clothes) located on the western side of the park. Please enter the Mt. Hehuan area from west Taiwan Puli, Nantou County instead.
Additionally, some high-altitude trails located in the park’s ecological protection areas are accessible, such as Mt. Nanhu and Qilai Main Peak trail, etc. Please note that a park entry permit, mountain climbing equipment, and trekking experience are required, and these trails typically involve 3-5 day itineraries. Exhibition halls at the Taroko National Park Headquarters Visitor Center on the eastern side of the park also remain open. The Taroko Visitor Center has already reopened on August 21st 2024, resuming exhibition halls, film screenings, and interpretive services.
However, the rest of areas reopening schedule may be delayed due to typhoons, earthquakes, rockfalls or other issues. The park's reconstruction efforts have been further impacted by aftershocks and three subsequent typhoon disasters, which have limited the progress of repair works. The reopening dates for these areas are uncertain.
For the most up-to-date information on the status of park opening info, please refer to our official website the News [Link] section and the Roads and Trails opening conditions [Link] on our English website before your trip.
Additionally, we recommend incorporating nearby distinctive mountain and coastal village attractions into your travel plans, including: Chongde Village (offering views of Qingshui Cliff from Chongde Beach, indigenous arts and crafts, and specialty cuisine), Fushi Village (home to the Taroko Cultural and Creative Park and Asia Cement Co. Ecological Park), Xincheng Old Town (featuring unique architecture like the Xincheng Catholic Church, various shops, and the Xincheng Seawall), and Sanzhan-Pratan village, where you can experience the natural and cultural charm of the community.
Alternative tour suggestions:
Suggestion: (Suggestion to visit Taroko visitor center, Xincheng Old Street, or local Chongde indigenous cuisine -Dageeli (lunch only), Reservation phone +886-3-8621033 or consult on the Dageeli's FB.
Bus available: TaiwanTrip Tourist Shuttle Bus #310 (Ubus) from either Hualien or Xincheng station by using Taipei Metro EasyCard or iPass card or iCash card.
A small trip to the mountains and the sea will take you to explore the magnificent natural landscapes and rich human resources.
A Day Trip
Sunrise SUP
The journey begins to experience Stand-Up Paddle boarding (SUP) at the stunning Qingshui Cliffs, making for a memorable start to your day.
Lunch Options
For lunch, you can choose to savor indigenous cuisine at either the Xincheng or Chongde shopping districts. This not only satisfies your taste buds but also immerses you in the local culture.
Cultural and Nature Exploration
In the afternoon, the itinerary includes visiting the spectacular Taroko Terrace as well as Taroko Visitor Center (National Park Headquarters), the Fushi Relics, and the Taroko Cultural and Creative Park. These sites will provide you with a deeper understanding of the local history and culture, making this part of the trip very worthwhile.
Ecological Exploration and Religious Atmosphere
Next, you will explore the ecological wonders of the Asia Cement Factory Ecological Park, followed by a visit to the Xincheng Catholic Church to experience its serene religious ambian
As the day winds down, you will head to the Xincheng Manbo seawall along the beach to admire the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean. This is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. This arrangement beautifully balances nature and culture.
Dinner and Accommodation
Finally, you will indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in Xincheng or Hualien and stay overnight at a charming guesthouse or B&B. This arrangement allows you to experience local life more intimately.
The Suggestions above only provide as a reference for the itinerary. Taroko National Park does not provide any travel package itineraries. It is recommended that you can take TaiwanTrip Tourist Shuttle- Ubus 310 or rent a car or take a taxi by yourself, or take 302A bus at Xincheng railway station to tour Xincheng old town and refer to the information above to arrange a one-day itinerary.
The following trails are closed due to severe damage from the earthquake on April 3rd, 2024:
A: Trails are closed on the Provincial Highway 8 (Central Cross-Island Highway) from Taroko to Tianxiang- the Taroko Gorge section.
(1)Taroko Terrace trail, (2) Xiaozhuilu trail, (3)Shakadang trail, (4) Eternal Spring Shrine trail, (5)Buluowan Lower Terrace Trails (Meander Core trail and Idas trail), (6) Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) trail, (7) Tunnel of Nine Turns trail, (8) Lushui trail, (9) Baiyang trail, (10) Luishui-Wenshan trail, (11) Zhuilu Old Road, (12) Qingshui Mountain trail, (13)Dekalun trail and (14)Dali-Datong trails.
B: Trails closed on the Provincial Highway 9 (Su-hua Highway)
(1) Chongde trail (2) Huide trail.