This wild and wonderful gorge is Taiwan!|s best known
National Park and premier tourist attraction.
East Taiwan Taroko Gorge |
A
broad marble gorge with precipitous cliffs framing a wild white water river,
Taroko is a great spot for hiking and trekking, in addition to visiting natural
hot springs, remote shrines and temples and Ami Aboriginal
villages.
There are numerous hiking trails through the gorge, with
options ranging from short walks to longer multi-day hikes, with campsites and
bungalows along the way.
At the East coast towns of Juisui, Hungyeh and Antung are
a series of hot springs, available for medicinal bathing and treatments. The
waters from the springs are pumped into specialized spa resorts.
At
Chihpen, near Taitung, lies one of Taiwan!|s most highly regarded hot spring
spas. Here the springs allow for open air bathing along the riverside, and in
the springs, in tranquil, all natural surrounds. The forests around Chihpen have
winding walking trails, and are home to many bird and monkey
species.
While in the area, it is well worth visiting the nearby
Chingchueh Buddhist temple, home to a large white jade Buddha imported from
Burma and a golden Buddha from Thailand.
East Taiwan Rafting in the Hsiukuluan River |
The many narrow gorges and winding rivers of
this region make this perfect rafting country- and the Hsiukuluan is the best
white water in the area. Well organized and fully equipped rafting trips are run
from the nearby town of Hualien.
With 22kms of fine grade rapids to run,
a white water expedition is a full day event, carrying rafts along a twisting
course of challenging water- with unforgettable scenery along the way. This is a
must for any adventurous traveler in Taiwan.
