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Taroko National Park in Taiwan is one of the most captivating tourist spots. If you love immersing yourself in majestic nature, this place is not to be missed. The park features towering cliffs, deep ravines, lush greenery, and waterfalls that flow day and night. With so much natural beauty, you could easily spend an entire day—or even more—exploring Taroko. Let’s dive into the unique and intriguing aspects of this national park with Mytour!
Introducing Taroko National Park
Taroko National Park is located 15 kilometers from Hualien. It is Taiwan's second-largest park, covering an area of 1 million square kilometers. The park is also home to some of the highest peaks in Taiwan, with 27 mountains soaring over 3,000 meters. The highest peak is Nanhu, standing at 3,700 meters.
The park stands 3,700 meters above sea level and stretches for 18 kilometers. Taroko attracts visitors with its diverse natural beauty, from towering cliffs and deep gorges to crystal-clear rivers. All of these elements come together to give Taroko National Park a breathtakingly picturesque landscape.
The indescribable beauty of Taroko’s landscape (Image source: Collected)
The geology of this area is unique, primarily made up of marble, a rare type of rock not commonly found elsewhere. Every year, instead of eroding, the marble layers rise by 0.5 cm. Even the river here takes on a stunning emerald green hue. This adds to the park’s mysterious, lush beauty.
The unique geology and rich natural surroundings have made Taroko a precious gem of Taiwan. Many visitors come to admire the scenery, hike, and explore. However, it's a good idea to check the weather in advance, as some attractions may be closed depending on the conditions.
Ý nghĩa của tên gọi công viên quốc gia Taroko
Trong ngôn ngữ Atayal, “Taroko” được hiểu với nghĩa là đẹp. Tên gọi này bắt nguồn từ vẻ đẹp như tranh của nơi đây. Trong lúc khám phá công viên quốc gia Taroko, bạn sẽ thấy hai bên đường những hẻm đá cao dựng sừng sững. Cùng với đó là những thảm cỏ xanh ngát trải dài từ phần chân núi đến đỉnh núi.
Nếu đến đây lần đầu, cảnh sắc này nhất định sẽ khiến bạn ngỡ ngàng (Nguồn ảnh: Sưu tầm)
Thời điểm lý tưởng nhất để bạn đến công viên tham quan là vào độ sáng sớm. Lúc này, thời tiết cũng trong lành, dễ chịu hơn và bạn cũng có thể tham quan nhiều điểm hơn. Nếu muốn có trải nghiệm trọn vẹn hơn, bạn có thể đặt những tour trọn gói. Đó cũng là những lựa chọn được nhiều du khách tìm đến.
Discover the Fascinating Stops in Taroko National Park
Within Taroko National Park, there are numerous must-visit spots that are perfect for your check-in photos. It’s only when you step foot in these locations that you truly understand why Taroko's beauty has earned such a remarkable reputation.
1. Hike the Shakadang Trail
The Shakadang Trail in Taroko National Park stretches for 4.4 km, following the scenic Liwu River. As you stroll along, you'll be surrounded by the lush, turquoise waters and fresh mountain air, making this a truly memorable experience.
To begin the trail, you must first ascend a relatively high staircase to cross the Shakadang Bridge. Once you’ve crossed this bridge, you’ll be stepping onto the trail. The entire hiking journey will take approximately 1.5 hours, so be sure to wear comfortable activewear. There’s no need to carry water or snacks, as there are food and drink stalls along the way.
The familiar trail leads you into the trekking route within the park (Image source: Collected)
Previously known as the 'Mysterious Valley Trail,' this path was constructed along the cliffside to allow visitors to explore the rock formations. Along the way, you’ll also be able to admire the lush plant life in the valley below. Please note, there are no restrooms along the route, so be sure to use the facilities at the parking area before embarking on your adventure!
Along the trail, there are many benches where hikers can take a rest. These benches are mostly located in stunning spots, offering the perfect opportunity to take in the beautiful mountain views. The sound of birds chirping, coupled with the gentle flow of the stream, creates an extraordinarily relaxing atmosphere.
2. Worship at the Chung Hsuan Temple
One of the most famous sites in Taroko National Park is the Chung Hsuan Temple. This temple was built to honor the 226 individuals who lost their lives during the construction of the mountain-crossing highway. The temple impresses visitors with its ancient design, deeply reflecting Taiwanese culture.
The temple is strategically built spanning across a stream and perched on the cliffside. Above the cliff, a waterfall cascades directly into the stream below. From a distance, it appears as though the waterfall is flowing right out of the temple, which adds to the temple’s striking appearance and enhances its mystical and sacred aura.
The waterfall cascading from the rocky crevice has made Chung Hsuan Temple even more prominent amid the mountainous landscape (Image source: Collected)
To reach the temple, you must ascend approximately 300 meters of stone steps. Due to the rising humidity, some of the steps can be quite slippery, so it's important to be cautious while making your way up. Along the way, you can stop at a rest station opposite the Trường Xuân Temple to take a break. From that spot, you'll also have a panoramic view of the temple's surroundings.
3. Marvel at the majestic beauty of Baiyang Waterfall
One of the favorite spots for visitors at Taroko National Park is Baiyang Waterfall, also known as Baiyang Waterfall Trail in English. The waterfall cascades with strong flow from a height of 200 meters into a pond below. The water rushes down violently, creating a resounding, thunderous sound that echoes throughout the mountains and forest.
To get to this waterfall, you must cross through a tunnel, and it typically takes about two hours to complete this stretch of the trail. For those who enjoy adventure and want to feel the spray of water on their skin, a long walk along the path will definitely be an exciting experience.
The fresh air here brings an incredibly relaxing and comfortable feeling. Baiyang Waterfall is truly a must-see destination in Taroko National Park, one you shouldn't miss. The weariness and worries you may have seem to wash away as you enjoy the surroundings.
When you arrive, you can immerse yourself in the refreshing, crystal-clear water while taking in the stunning views. This area also has picnic and resting spots for visitors who wish to enjoy a meal outdoors. It's truly a perfect and relaxing space for families and friends.
4. Natural hot springs below the valley
One of the highly popular spots in Taroko National Park is the Wenshan Hot Springs. This spring is located at the bottom of the valley and is completely natural. During your journey through Taroko, you can stop here to relax and enjoy the experience of hot spring bathing.
Tắm suối nước nóng được xem là hoạt động tự nhiên rất tốt cho sức khỏe. Không gì tuyệt vời hơn khi được ngâm mình trong dòng nước ấm nóng và ngắm nhìn thiên nhiên kỳ vĩ. Nước khoáng nóng có công dụng rất tốt trong việc lưu thông tuần hoàn máu, trẻ hóa làn da.
Đắm mình trong suối nước nóng tại Taroko cũng là trải nghiệm rất thú vị (Nguồn ảnh: Sưu tầm)
Tuy nhiên, đường vào đây khá khó đi với những con dốc nối tiếp nhau. Thế nên nếu muốn đến đây thì bạn nên cân nhắc vì việc di chuyển sẽ không dễ. Nhưng khi đã đến nơi và thư giãn cùng dòng nước nóng, bạn sẽ cảm thấy công sức của mình rất xứng đáng.
5. Hang động Swallow Grotto
One of the most captivating attractions at Taroko National Park is the Swallow Grotto cave. This cave is nestled deep within the cliffs, offering an exciting exploration journey. As you walk along the rocky path beside the river, the towering cliffs will leave you in awe.
Swallow Grotto was formed through the erosion of the Liwu River. In the past, this cave was submerged beneath the sea. However, due to geological shifts and collisions, the cave was raised to its present position. This transformation has occurred over millions of years.
From this location, you will have the chance to gaze upon the canyon and the stunning turquoise waters of the Liwu River (Photo credit: Collection)
The cave is home to thousands of swallows, which is why it got its name from the swallow nests perched on the cliff walls. Erosion has carved out hundreds of small hollows in the marble cliffs, providing the perfect environment for the swallows to build their nests.
The trail stretches for 1,372 meters, and it will take approximately 30 minutes to complete one way. During your journey, the management will provide you with a hard hat for safety. Before setting off, be sure to check the trail conditions on the company's website, as landslides can occur during rainy weather.
6. Datong and Dali Villages
The Datong and Dali villages in Taroko National Park feel completely detached from the outside world. These villages are home to the indigenous Taroko people. While these villages may not be as picturesque or bustling as the old towns of Jiufen and Shifen, they have their own unique charm.
The distance from the plains to the villages is quite far, which is why the pace of life here remains largely unaffected by modern development. The villagers continue to live in ways that reflect their ancient cultural traditions. In the village, everyone lives close together, relying on one another and treating each other like family members.
7. Bãi biển Qixingtan giữa Hoa Liên và công viên quốc gia Taroko
Trong hành trình khám phá công viên quốc gia Taroko, bạn có thể ghé đến bãi biển Qixingtan. Bãi biển này có vị trí tọa lạc giữa Hoa Liên và công viên quốc gia Taroko. Nếu bạn cần chút “vitamin sea” thì hãy đến với nơi đây để tận hưởng làn gió biển mát lành nhé!
Tại đây, bạn có thể trải nghiệm hoạt động chèo thuyền kayak, lướt ván,... Gần đó còn có những quán cà phê, nhà hàng phục vụ đồ ăn, món uống rất đa dạng. Đây được xem là một điểm rất lý tưởng để bạn nhìn ngắm cảnh đêm và bầu trời sao. Gần đó còn có cung đường đạp xe và rất nhiều điểm dừng chân thú vị.
Đây cũng là điểm check-in rất được du khách yêu thích (Nguồn ảnh: Sưu tầm)
Điểm kỳ lạ và cũng được xem là độc đáo của bãi biển này là bờ biển được che phủ bởi lớp đá với kích thước lớn nhỏ khác nhau. Sau nhiều năm bị sóng biển bào mòn, những hòn đá này tròn nhẵn và có hoa văn khác nhau. Do không có bãi cát mịn nên hầu như du khách chủ yếu đến đây để ngắm cảnh và rất ít khi tắm biển.
Những hoạt động hấp dẫn không thể bỏ qua tại công viên quốc gia Taroko
Nếu là người thích vận động, bạn nên trải nghiệm những hoạt động thú vị khi đến với Taroko. Chắc chắn rằng điều này sẽ khiến hành trình khám phá công viên quốc gia Taroko của bạn trở nên thú vị hơn rất nhiều.
Có rất nhiều hoạt động thú vị tại đây mà bạn có thể trải nghiệm cùng bạn đồng hành (Nguồn ảnh: Sưu tầm)
- Walk along the riverbank. If you'd like to try this activity, you'll need a helmet and life jacket. You'll stroll beside the river, passing by areas near the gorges. This activity carries some risks, so you need to have a steady mindset when participating.
- Hiking. There are many trails near Taroko National Park. You can follow these trails to explore nature, with options ranging from short to long paths. However, to join this activity, you will need specific permission.
- Cycling. When visiting Taroko, you can bike and enjoy the peaceful landscape slowly passing by. The quiet and fresh air will help you focus. If you're interested, you can choose between two routes: one from Taroko Pass to Tienhsiang, or the other from the city center to Dayuling, Lishan, Hehuanshan (75km long).
The information above will surely be helpful for your adventure at Taroko National Park. This exciting destination will offer you amazing experiences. To ensure a smooth and successful trip, don't forget to prepare well before you go! If you want to book a tour to Taiwan, call the 028 3827 0404 hotline of Mytour for assistance.
