Welcome to Taiwan's Scenic Backyard
Often referred to as the backyard of Taipei, Yilan is a lush, sprawling county on Taiwan's northeastern coast that offers a much-needed respite from city life. Surrounded by the majestic Snow Mountain range and facing the vast Pacific Ocean, the Lanyang Plain provides a breathtaking backdrop for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you are looking for serene nature walks, soothing thermal baths, or culinary delights, discovering the best things to do in Yilan is an absolute joy for any type of traveler.
What makes Yilan truly special is its diverse landscape and slower pace of life. Unlike the highly urbanized west coast of Taiwan, Yilan has preserved its agricultural roots, boasting endless green rice paddies, pristine waterfalls, and coastal wonders. The region's unique geography not only blesses it with fertile lands but also creates an abundance of natural hot springs and cold springs, making it a year-round wellness destination that appeals to both domestic and international tourists.
The best time to visit Yilan largely depends on what you want to experience. Spring (March to May) offers pleasant weather perfect for hiking and exploring the national forests. Summer is ideal for dolphin watching tours around Guishan Island and cooling off in the Su'ao Cold Springs. Autumn brings comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, while winter is the absolute peak season for soaking in the famous Jiaoxi hot springs. Regardless of when you visit, packing an umbrella is always a smart choice, as Yilan's lush greenery is sustained by frequent, refreshing showers.
Top Attractions & Unforgettable Experiences
Yilan is packed with diverse attractions that cater to nature lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts alike. One of the absolute highlights is Jiaoxi, a township famous for its rare, odorless sodium bicarbonate hot springs. Visitors can book private hot spring resorts, visit public bathhouses, or simply dip their feet in the free hot spring parks scattered around town. For a completely different aquatic experience, head south to Su'ao, home to one of the world's few naturally occurring carbonated cold springs, providing a refreshing shock to the system on a hot summer day.
Nature enthusiasts must venture into the Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area. This high-altitude misty forest offers spectacular hiking trails, the iconic Bong Bong Train, and the mesmerizing Jianqing Jiangu Trail, often shrouded in an ethereal fog. Off the coast, Guishan Island (Turtle Island) is a must-visit. You can take a boat tour to spot playful dolphins and whales, and marvel at the unique milky-blue ocean waters caused by underwater volcanic hot springs mixing with the sea.
No Yilan travel guide is complete without mentioning its culinary and cultural landmarks. Whisky aficionados will be thrilled to tour the Kavalan Distillery, where Taiwan's globally acclaimed single malt whisky is produced. In Yilan City, the Jimmy Park brings the whimsical illustrations of renowned Taiwanese artist Jimmy Liao to life through colorful, life-sized sculptures. When the sun sets, the Luodong Night Market comes alive. It is arguably one of Taiwan's best night markets, famous for local delicacies like scallion pancakes made with famous Sanxing green onions, mutton soup, and tapioca pearls with red bean.
Practical Tips for Your Yilan Journey
Getting to Yilan is remarkably easy, making it a highly accessible destination. Thanks to the Hsuehshan Tunnel, direct express buses from Taipei can reach Yilan in under an hour, depending on traffic. Alternatively, the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates regular train services along the scenic east coast line. The train ride offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and is a fantastic option if you want to avoid weekend highway congestion. Once you arrive, the primary transit hubs are Yilan City, Luodong, and Jiaoxi.
Getting around Yilan requires a bit of planning. While the main townships are well-connected by local trains, reaching mountain areas or coastal scenic spots is best done by renting a car or a scooter if you have the appropriate international license. For those who prefer public transport, the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle buses service major attractions, though they run on specific schedules. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available in urban centers, but less reliable in remote areas. Booking organized tours or private charters through platforms like TicketMelo can take the hassle out of navigating the sprawling county.
Like the rest of Taiwan, Yilan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). While larger hotels, modern restaurants, and the Kavalan Distillery accept credit cards, cash is absolutely essential for night markets, local eateries, and small vendors. Safety in Yilan is exceptionally high, with incredibly welcoming and helpful locals. However, if you are hiking in the mountains or visiting the coast, always check the weather forecast for sudden rainstorms or typhoon warnings during the late summer months. With a little preparation, your trip to Yilan will be smooth, safe, and deeply rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yilan better as a day trip or a multi-day stay?
While you can certainly visit Yilan as a day trip from Taipei to see one or two main sites like Jiaoxi or the Kavalan Distillery, staying for two to three nights is highly recommended. A longer stay allows you to experience the night markets, hike Taipingshan, and fully relax in the hot springs without rushing.
What is the best way to travel from Taipei to Yilan?
The fastest and most popular way is by express bus from Taipei Main Station or Taipei City Hall, which takes about 50-60 minutes via the Hsuehshan Tunnel. During weekends and holidays, taking the TRA train is a great alternative to avoid heavy highway traffic.
What are the must-eat local foods in Yilan?
Yilan is famous for its high-quality agricultural products, especially Sanxing scallions. You must try the crispy scallion pancakes, thick pork and garlic soup, cherry roast duck, and the uniquely delicious peanut ice cream roll wrapped with fresh cilantro.