Small-Group Tour: Taroko Gorge with Qingshui Cliff and Qixingtan

Itinerary
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Stop At: Qingshui Cliff, Xiulin, Hualien

The magnificent area around Qingshui Cliff has been designated as one of the Eight Wonders of Taiwan. Qingshui Cliff is the only place in Taroko National Park where you can witness the three distinct color tones that make up the Pacific Ocean. Indeed, the color of the cliffs, together with those of the Pacific coastline and blue sky impress all who visit here. Chongde Beach (崇德礫灘) and its pebble coast complements the natural mosaic of colors that paint Qingshui Cliff above.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Taroko Gorge, Xiulin, Hualien

Swallow Grotto (燕子口) is an obvious stopover for visitors to appreciate the marvel of Taroko Gorge. This older portion of the highway diverges from the new thruway that services vehicular traffic and is meant to be walked to fully appreciate this marvel of nature. The Grotto trail is interspersed with tunnels and overlooks the narrowest portion of Taroko Gorge where the river is most rapid. You'll come to appreciate the awesome power of nature that carved its path eons ago.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stop At: Eternal Spring Shrine, Xiulin, Hualien

The Eternal Spring Shrine (長春祠) was built in 1958 to commemorate the 212 workers who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. Its unique location recessed into the side of the mountain and Tang Dynasty architectural style makes this shrine one of the most famous scenic spots in Taroko National Park. Natural spring water empties into the Liwu River below through the front of the shrine, giving it a surreal look, as if it were actually pouring forth from the heavens above. This is the Eternal Spring Waterfall and makes for an ideal photo opportunity

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Shakadang Trail, Xiulin, Hualien

The Shakadang Trail (砂卡噹步道), also known as “Mysterious Valley Trail” is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water strewn with imposing marble boulders. Like Lushui Trail, Shakadang Trail is suitable for all ages and definitely worth a visit if you adore natural landscapes. The entrance to the trail is located at the exit of Shakadang Tunnel and includes a parking lot and bathroom facilities.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Qixingtan Beach, Xincheng, Hualien

Located at the north end of Hualien City, Qixingtan Beach (七星潭) is one of the most beautiful beaches in Taiwan. Picture your ideal beach setting and Qixingtan would probably be it. The beautiful blue sky meets an endless Pacific expanse. The shore is bespeckled with white and black gravel that is smooth to the touch. A canopy of clouds seems to crown the mountains that embrace the coastline. This is the kind of beach that might be listed as one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Though largely a secret to the outside world, Qixingtan's scenery is famous among the Taiwanese.

Duration: 1 hour