Things To Do
in Yilan
Yilan sits along Taiwan's northeast coast, known for its misty mountains, hot springs, and lush farmland. The county blends waterfalls, rivers, and coastal scenery with a relaxed, scenic pace. Visitors savor Jiaoxi hot springs, Luodong Night Market, and seafood from Suao and Nanfang'ao while exploring cultural sites like Lanyang Museum.
Easily reachable from Taipei, Yilan offers nature, cuisine, and warm local hospitality in a more low-key setting than the capital.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Yilan Railway Station and drop your luggage at a boutique inn. Savor traditional rice noodle soup and soy milk at a bustling breakfast stall. Then wander along the winding pathways of Taiping River Walk, dotted with public art and bamboo groves.
Head to the Yilan Distillery Chia Chi Lan Wine Museum to sample locally brewed spirits. Cycle along the scenic lanes leading to the Dongshan River Eco-Park and take in panoramic views of lush rice paddies. Stop at a riverside café for hand-crafted tea and watch fishing boats drift by.
As dusk falls, wander through Dongmen Night Market, sampling Yilan waffles, deep-fried surprises, and freshly squeezed sugar cane juice. Let the sizzling sounds and aromatic steam guide you from stall to stall. Conclude with an herbal tea at a roadside stand, absorbing the lively local ambiance.
Visit Luodong Forestry Culture Park, wandering among preserved camphor workshops and century-old timber displays. Participate in a hands-on woodworking workshop to carve your own tea whisk. Stroll along shaded trails as sunlight filters through towering trees.
Head to Dongshan River Water Park for kayaking past lush wetlands and mangroves. Bike along the riverside pathway, enjoying panoramic views of emerald fields framed by distant mountains. Pause at a floating café for a refreshing fruit smoothie and idle conversation with friendly locals.
As twilight descends, explore the food stalls of Luodong Night Market, one of Taiwan’s most famous street food meccas. Indulge in buttery scallion pancakes, savory mutton soup, and fragrant oyster omelets. End the night with a cold craft beer at a bustling bar tucked into a narrow alley.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $1-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and mountain landscapes
- Excellent hot springs and fresh seafood
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with Taipei
- Limited English in some rural spots
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問...在哪裡？" - Excuse me, where is...?
- "多少錢？" - How much is it?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "我想要這個" - I’d like this
- "廁所在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Yilan
Visit one of these nice places.
Architecturally striking with water features and indoor galleries; reflections in the surrounding ponds make for great photos.
Seaside street with traditional storefronts and a backdrop of the coast—perfect for golden-hour shots.
Colorful boats, fishing nets, and the early-morning hustle provide dynamic harbor photography.
Long sandy beach with soft morning light ideal for landscape and seascape shots.
Scenic river views and cycling paths; great for sunset reflections on the water.
Food in Yilan
Yilan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Taiwanese street snack using fresh oysters, eggs, and a light starch to create a savory, slightly chewy pancake—best enjoyed at night markets.
Must-Try!
A comforting bowl featuring thin rice noodles in a flavorful broth with greens and local toppings, commonly found in Luodong eateries.
A hearty, seafood-forward hot pot featuring local fish, shrimp, clams, and seasonal greens, perfect for sharing with friends.
A fragrant stir-fry of squid in a mix of soy, sesame, and rice wine, widely served in coastal Taiwan and easy to find in Yilan eateries.
A comforting bowl of braised pork over rice, a staple that pairs well with pickled vegetables and hot pepper sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hotspot for seafood skewers, fried snacks, and regional specialties, best explored after sunset.
An authentic market where you can sample local bites, fresh produce, and traditional snacks in a lively neighborhood setting.
A seaside market famous for fresh catches; ideal for tasting grilled fish and seafood right by the harbor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting goes a long way; Taiwanese people value politeness and indirect communication.
In homes and certain traditional venues, shoes are removed; respect posted rules.
Taiwanese culture leans toward courteous, low-noise behavior in public places and on transit.
If you’re unsure, kindly ask for permission before photographing individuals or private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Yilan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, including Yilan; some high-end establishments may add a service charge, otherwise you can leave a small tip if service was exceptional.
Cash (New Taiwan Dollar) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in towns and restaurants; mobile payments (Apple Pay, LINE Pay) are increasingly common; consider an EasyCard for transit and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming greenery; great for outdoor markets, cycling, and access to mountain trails.
Hot and humid with frequent rain; bring light clothing, stay hydrated, and be mindful of typhoon season.
Pleasant temperatures and drier skies; ideal for coastal walks and wildlife spotting.
Cool to mild; occasional showers, especially in the mountains; hot springs are particularly comforting.
Yilan at Night
Hiking in Yilan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A high-altitude forested route in Taiping Mountain with misty viewpoints and well-marked trails.
Coastal and hillside trails featuring lush forests and sea views, suitable for varied fitness levels.
Easy-to-moderate coastal paths with ocean vistas, informative signage, and opportunities for wildlife watching.
Airports
How to reach Yilan by plane.
Closest major urban airport; about 1.5–2 hours by high-speed rail and road to Yilan, with frequent domestic and some international connections.
Major international hub located near Taipei; about 2–3 hours to Yilan by train or bus with transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Farmers, fishers, and families shaping traditional Yilan life, with strong ties to rural and coastal communities.
Frequent weekend travelers from Taipei and nearby counties seeking nature, hot springs, and markets.
A comfortable, slower pace of life and easy access to healthcare and markets attract long-term visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Taiwan; you’ll often see local ball games and fan culture near urban centers.
Flat river routes and coastal roads make cycling a favored activity for both locals and visitors.
Sea kayaking and sailing are enjoyed along the coast, especially near Suao and Waiao.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yilan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find tofu, mushroom dishes, and vegetable-forward options widely available; ask for no meat stock and request separate utensils to avoid cross-contamination.