Taiwan Yilan

Yilan, located in northeastern Taiwan, boasts stunning natural scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, making it an ideal travel destination. Here's a detailed Yilan travel guide: I. Transportation Guide 1. Railway: • Take the Taiwan Railway from Taipei to Yilan. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hrs, and ticket prices vary depending on seat type and train. • Yilan Railway Station offers convenient transportation links. You can walk or take a bus to major attractions. 2. Highway: • From Taipei, take the Beiyi Freeway (National Highway No. 5) to Yilan. The journey takes approximately 1 hr. • The freeway has multiple interchanges, providing easy access to various parts of Yilan. 3. Public Transportation: • Yilan City has numerous bus routes covering major attractions and commercial areas. • Purchase an EasyCard for convenient travel on buses and subways. 4. Car Rental: • Yilan's roads are well-maintained, making it suitable for self-drive tours. • You'll need a valid driver's license and familiarity with local traffic regulations when renting a car. II. Must-See Attractions 1. Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area • Introduction: Taipingshan, with its lush forests and magnificent natural scenery, is one of Yilan's most famous attractions. • Activities: Enjoy hiking, waterfall viewing, and exploring forest trails. • Transportation: Take a dedicated bus from Yilan City; the journey takes approximately 1 hr. 2. Lanyang Museum • Introduction: Showcases Yilan's history from prehistoric times to the present day, encompassing a rich collection of historical artifacts and artworks. • Features: Unique architecture, including popular photo spots like the "Slit of Sky." • Transportation: Take a bus from Yilan Railway Station; the journey takes approximately 15 mins. 3. Jimmy Park • Introduction: Themed around the works of renowned picture book author Jimmy Liao, featuring creative and imaginative art installations. • Suitable for: Taking photos and experiencing a fairytale-like atmosphere. • Transportation: Within walking distance of Yilan Railway Station. 4. National Center for Traditional Arts, Yilan • Introduction: Showcases various art forms, including architecture and opera, aiming to inherit and promote Taiwan's traditional arts and culture. • Features: Antique architecture, imbued with traditional charm. • Transportation: Take a shuttle bus from Yilan Railway Station; the journey takes approximately 15 mins. 5. Luodong Forestry Culture Garden • Introduction: Formerly the Taipingshan Logging and Lumbering site, it was an important forestry production base in Taiwan. • Activities: Features a cultural ecological pond and train experience, with beautiful and tranquil scenery. • Transportation: Take a bus from Luodong Township; the journey takes approximately 15 mins. 6. Jiaoxi Hot Springs • Introduction: One of Yilan's most famous hot springs, known as the "Hot Spring Village." • Features: The hot spring water is rich in minerals, perfect for relaxation and muscle relief. • Transportation: Take a bus from Yilan City; the journey takes approximately 30 mins. 7. Wai'ao Beach • Introduction: Boasts a vast sandy beach and magnificent ocean views, making it a great place for leisure and relaxation. • Activities: Enjoy beach volleyball, seaside strolls, and other activities. • Transportation: Take a bus from Yilan City; the journey takes approximately 40 mins. III. Food Recommendations 1. Yilan Scallion Pancake • Introduction: Made with fresh scallions and a secret blend of seasonings, resulting in a crispy and delicious taste. • Recommendation: Sanxing Scallion Pancake, with a rich scallion aroma and crispy crust. 2. Chinese Angelica Duck/Lamb Soup • Introduction: The rich aroma of Chinese angelica combined with tender lamb is both warming and comforting. • Recommendation: Chinese Angelica Duck/Lamb Soup at Luodong Night Market, adding vermicelli noodles enhances the texture. 3. Dry Mixed Vermicelli Noodles • Introduction: The vermicelli noodles are chewier than usual, mixed with special sauces for a rich flavor. • Recommendation: Luodong Night Market or local snack shops. 4. Crystal Boba with Taro Balls • Introduction: Awarded first place in the dessert category of Yilan County's Top 100 Famous Shops, with a chewy texture and a sweet but not overpowering taste. • Recommendation: Local dessert shops or night market stalls. 5. Taro Ice Cream • Introduction: Soft and smooth texture, sweet but not greasy, a perfect choice for cooling down. • Recommendation: Local ice cream shops. IV. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Mu Jiao Xi Hotel • Introduction: Located in Jiaoxi Township, featuring private hot spring tubs and beautiful surroundings. • Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, free parking, restaurant, family rooms, etc. • Reviews: Spacious and comfortable rooms, excellent hot spring experience. 2. The Prince Hotel - Hot Spring Room • Introduction: Also located in Jiaoxi Township, offering hot spring accommodation services. • Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, hot springs, etc. • Reviews: Reasonably priced and good value for money. 3. An He Jao Lu • Introduction: Located in Luodong Township, close to Luodong Railway Station, offering convenient transportation. • Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, parking lot, restaurant, family rooms, etc. • Reviews: Enthusiastic service, rich breakfast selection. V. Practical Information 1. Currency: The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). 2. Language: Mandarin and Taiwanese Hokkien are widely spoken in Yilan, with some businesses and attractions also offering English services. 3. Climate: Yilan has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild and rainy. 5. Important Notes: • Please maintain quiet in public places and respect local customs. • Pay attention to environmental protection and do not litter. • Observe traffic regulations and pay attention to road safety. VI. Itinerary Suggestions Day 1: • Morning: Arrive in Yilan and check in to your hotel. • Noon: Enjoy local cuisine near your hotel, such as Yilan Scallion Pancake. • Afternoon: Visit the Lanyang Museum and experience Yilan's history and culture. • Evening: Head to Jiaoxi Hot Springs and enjoy the relaxation and comfort of the hot springs. Day 2: • Morning: Visit Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area for hiking and waterfall viewing. • Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Taipingshan. • Afternoon: Visit the National Center for Traditional Arts, Yilan, to learn about Taiwan's traditional arts and culture. • Evening: Go to Luodong Night Market and savor local delicacies like Chinese Angelica Duck/Lamb Soup and Dry Mixed Vermicelli Noodles. Day 3: • Morning: Explore the Luodong Forestry Culture Garden and experience the combination of forest and culture. • Noon: Enjoy local snacks in Luodong Township. • Afternoon: Head to Wai'ao Beach and enjoy the leisurely seaside atmosphere. • Evening: Depending on your departure time, you can shop in Yilan City or enjoy local cuisine again before preparing for your return journey. Yilan is a charming travel destination, offering something for everyone, whether you prefer natural scenery or cultural heritage. We hope this guide will be helpful for your trip to Yilan!