The Coastal Road — Hualien to Taitung

One of Asia's Most Spectacular Roads

The east coast of Taiwan is the exact opposite of the densely populated, industrialized west coast: Dramatic cliffs plunging steeply into the sea, lonely beaches, indigenous villages, and a vastness reminiscent of the rugged beauty of Ireland or New Zealand. The Highway 11 from Hualien to Taitung (170 km) is one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world: Switchbacks on steep cliffs, with the Pacific hundreds of meters below you, and bays where the water glows in impossible shades of blue.

The east coast is also the heartland of Taiwan's indigenous population. The Amis, the largest indigenous group (about 210,000 people), live here in villages along the coast and preserve their culture: traditional dances, harvest festivals, and a cuisine that combines wild herbs, seafood, and game.

Highlights Along the East Coast

• Shitiping (石梯坪): Surreal limestone formations by the sea — carved into bizarre, moon-like shapes by waves and wind over thousands of years. A boardwalk leads through the formation. Camping by the sea possible (300 TWD/night).
• Sanxiantai (三仙台): The famous arch bridge with eight curved arches to a small volcanic island — one of Taiwan's most iconic photo motifs. Come at sunrise when the bridge glows in golden light and no buses are there yet.
• Dulan (都蘭): Relaxed surfer town with a backpacker atmosphere, craft beer (Dulan Sugar Factory Brewery), driftwood art, and one of Taiwan's best surf beaches. Here, Taiwanese hipsters, Western surfers, and indigenous Amis meet. Best surf season: October–March.
• Taitung (台東): The cozy capital of the east coast. Taitung Forest Park (15 km bike path through coastal forest), Zhiben Hot Springs (知本溫泉, less touristy than Beitou, hot spring water in the jungle), and the best rice in Taiwan (Chishang rice is sold in bento boxes at the station and is a national cultural asset).

Transport

The east coast is best explored by scooter (rent from Hualien or Taitung, 400–600 TWD/day) or train. The TRA railway line runs parallel to the coast and offers breathtaking views — the Hualien → Taitung section is one of Taiwan's most beautiful train rides (2–3h, from 300 TWD / 9€). Long-distance buses run less frequently but cover the main places.