My favorite in Taiwan: Hualien County

The first thing I did after booking for tickets to Taiwan was to research on recommended places to visit. Out of the hundred spots, Hualien caught my attention the most. These images (1) (2) convinced me that I need to see the place no matter what.

There are two options going to Hualien. First is to take a plane from Taipei. The travel time is only about an hour but it will cost thousands of NT dollars. The second one is to take a train. The travel time is 2 1/2 hours but it costs a lot cheaper (440NT or about 660 pesos) and you’ll get to see beautiful scenery along the way.

Waiting for the 8AM train. Remmeber to book tickets at the Taipei Main Station at least one day before your trip for sure seats. — Waiting for the 8AM train. Remember to book tickets at the Taipei Main Station at least one day before your trip for sure seats.

The Tze Chiang Limited Express train to Hualien. This train — The Tze Chiang Limited Express train. It’s my first time to ride a tilting train! (Picture taken at Hualien station)

The seats are well-cushioned and there’s enough leg space.

Let the trip to Hualien begin!

Hours on the train doesn't seem that long when you see this beautiful scenery — Hours on the train doesn’t seem that long when you see this beautiful scenery

Finally arrived at Hualien Railway Station!

Upon arrival, we went to the Visitor Information Center, our meeting place with our tour driver from Merry Travel and Tours (I’ll post another blog entry on how to book for the private van tour). The private half-day tour from 11AM to 5PM cost only 1980 NT dollars (about 3,000 pesos) for the three of us. Best deal!

Half-day Taroko Gorge tour itinerary: