Huatung Valley Cycling Route: A Journey Along Provincial Highway 9 Amidst Rice Waves and Mountains

Introduction

The Huatung Valley is a narrow, elongated plain nestled between the Central Mountain Range and the Coastal Mountain Range, traversed by Provincial Highway 9 for approximately 180 kilometers. This route, hailed as “Taiwan’s most beautiful countryside road,” is a dream destination for countless cyclists. This article compiles a complete three-day itinerary to help you plan a cycling journey through rice paddies and mountains.

Route Basic Information

Three-Day Classic Itinerary

Day 1: Hualien → Yuli (86 km, 480m elevation gain)

Head south from Hualien City along Provincial Highway 9, passing through Ji’an, Shoufeng, Fenglin, Guangfu, Ruisui, and arriving at Yuli. Attractions along the way are plentiful:

• Shoufeng Chinan Forest
• Fenglin Hakka Town
• Guangfu Sugar Factory (a must-stop for ice cream)
• Ruisui Hot Spring Village
• Yuli Qiaotou Stinky Tofu

Day 2: Yuli → Chishang → Guanshan (55 km, 280m elevation gain)

After leaving Yuli, you enter the most beautiful section of the valley.

• The 30 kilometers from Yuli to Chishang cover the highlights of the Sky Walk and Brown Boulevard.
• Chishang bento boxes and Chishang rice lunchboxes are the two giants—try both.
• Guanshan Jingguang Hostel is a recommended overnight stay.

Day 3: Guanshan → Luye → Taitung (39 km, 190m elevation gain)

On the final day, cruise easily from Guanshan.

• Luye Highlands is the venue for the hot air balloon festival (summer).
• The 15 kilometers from Beinan to Taitung City are entirely flat, making for a perfect finishing stretch.
• After arriving in Taitung, you can visit Tiehua Village and Taitung Forest Park.

Attraction Density Map

Wind Direction and Best Seasons

• Spring/Autumn (March–May, October–November): The most comfortable weather with rippling rice waves—the top choice season.
• Summer (June–August): Frequent afternoon thunderstorms, but the golden rice ears are spectacular.
• Winter (December–February): Cold mornings and evenings; warm clothing needed; however, fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation.

Regarding wind direction, autumn/winter northerly winds favor southbound rides (Hualien→Taitung tailwind), while spring/summer southerly winds favor northbound rides (Taitung→Hualien tailwind).

Practical Tips

• Bike Rental: Both Hualien and Taitung have Giant flagship stores offering pick-up-in-one-city, drop-off-in-another service.
• Luggage Shipping: Giant logistics can transport luggage for NT$200–300 per day.
• Must-Try Foods: Guangfu ice, Ruisui fresh milk, Yuli stinky tofu, Chishang bento, and Luye red oolong tea.
• Accommodation Options: The Jingguang Hostels and guesthouses in Yuli and Guanshan offer great value.
• Return Trip: Take the Puyuma or Taroko Express from Taitung Railway Station back to western Taiwan (bicycle carriages must be reserved in advance).

Conclusion

The Huatung Valley is not a sprint course; it’s a place to slow down and feel Taiwan. When you ride through golden rice waves, smell the distant aroma of rice, and hear train whistles passing by, you’ll understand why this road is the “spiritual home” in cyclists’ hearts. Give yourself 3 days next time and find that rare tranquility in the valley.

Related Reading

• Huatung Valley Route: An In-Depth Cycling Journey Through Valley Scenery from Hualien to Taitung
• Huatung Valley Cycling Tour: Taiwan’s Most Spectacular Long-Distance Riding Route
• Huatung Valley Cycling Trip: Route Planning and Supply Guide for the 163 km Ride from Hualien to Taitung
• Huatung Valley: The Most Beautiful Cycling Section from Hualien to Taitung