Taroko Gorge is the centerpiece of Taroko National Park in Hualien County, eastern Taiwan — a roughly 19 km canyon carved by the Liwu River through pure marble over millions of years. One of the world's few gorges cut entirely through marble, it is famed for sheer cliffs, turquoise waters, and its ties to the indigenous Truku (Taroko) people. Note that after the M7.2 Hualien earthquake of April 3, 2024, the gorge road and most trails were badly damaged, so only parts of the park are open as of 2026.
Dramatic marble walls rising nearly vertically up to about 1,000 m — a globally rare pure-marble canyon
Scenic drive along the Central Cross-Island Highway (Provincial Highway 8) with cliff and tunnel views
Tianxiang Recreation Area — currently open sections including the Tabido Trail (~50 min) and Xiangde Temple walk
Lushui Recreation Area — partially reopened February 2026, with a short suspension-bridge walk
Rich history and culture of the indigenous Truku people, the entrance archway, and the Visitor Center
Good to know
SafetyThe M7.2 quake of April 3, 2024 and later typhoons left a high risk of rockfall and landslides. Freely touring the gorge by scooter or rental car is unsafe — stick strictly to open sections and follow all traffic controls.
RulesHighway 8 through the gorge uses timed 'release windows,' opening to vehicles only during a few set periods per day. The 5-minute windows are strictly enforced, so arrive 15–20 minutes early to queue. The schedule changes monthly — verify on the official Taroko National Park website before you go.
SafetyMany signature sites are closed from quake damage: Shakadang Trail, Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou), Tunnel of Nine Turns, Zhuilu Old Road, Baiyang Trail, the Eternal Spring Shrine, and Buluowan. Some may not reopen until around 2031, so confirm what's accessible before visiting.
SeasonDuring typhoon season (July–September), heavy rain sharply increases rockfall and landslides, and trails or the road may close for 1–2 weeks. The best windows are spring (Mar–Apr), autumn (Oct–Nov), and winter, with stable weather and fewer closures.
CautionMany taxis in Hualien refuse the meter or push to negotiate a fare. Agree on the meter or a fixed price before boarding, and for the gorge use a reputable chartered car or guided tour.
MannersThis is the homeland and sacred ground of the Truku people. Stay quiet near temples, villages, and burial sites, never cross closure lines or barriers, and always wear a safety helmet if one is provided against rockfall.
Practical info
Park entry is free (only Zhuilu Old Road needs a permit and fee, but it is currently closed). From Taipei, take a train to Hualien (~2.5–3 hrs), then Bus 302 or a chartered car; regular buses between the Visitor Center and Tianxiang are largely suspended. Always check the latest road/trail openings, release times, fees, and rules just before you travel.
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