Taiwan Round-Island Route Planning: Clockwise vs Counter-Clockwise

Taiwan Round-Island Route Planning: Clockwise vs Counter-Clockwise

Cycling around Taiwan is a rite of passage for Taiwanese riders, covering roughly 920-1,000 km (depending on the route) and typically taking 7-12 days to complete. But the first big question before you set off is: clockwise (down the west coast, up the east coast) or counter-clockwise (down the east coast, up the west coast)?

Wind Direction: The Most Critical Factor

Taiwan’s wind direction shifts noticeably with the seasons, and this should be your primary consideration when choosing a direction:

Key takeaway: Go clockwise in autumn/winter, counter-clockwise in spring, and decide based on the forecast in summer.

Road Conditions and Traffic Analysis

West Coast (Provincial Highway 1 / Highway 17)

• Road surface quality: Generally good, with bike/scooter lanes on most sections
• Traffic volume: Heavy, especially through the industrial zones between Hsinchu and Changhua
• Supply convenience: Excellent, with a high density of convenience stores
• Character: Mostly flat, with more commercial and industrial areas

East Coast (Provincial Highway 9 / Highway 11)

• Road surface quality: Good, though some sections carry rockfall risk
• Traffic volume: Light, making for a better riding experience
• Supply convenience: Fewer supply points along the Nanhui section and parts of the Hualien-Taitung area
• Character: Spectacular scenery, where mountains meet the sea

Clockwise Route (West Down, East Up): Detailed Plan

Suited to autumn and winter, here’s a classic 9-day itinerary:

Counter-Clockwise Route (East Down, West Up): Detailed Plan

Suited to spring, here’s a 9-day itinerary:

Nanhui Highway: The Critical Segment of the Loop

Whichever direction you choose, the Nanhui Highway (Fengang → Taitung, or the reverse) is one of the most challenging sections of the entire loop:

• Total distance: Approximately 95-100 km
• Highest point: Shouka (elevation approximately 460m)
• Supply warning: There are almost no supply points along the roughly 50 km between Fengang and Dawu
• Recommendation: Stock up thoroughly in Fengang, and carry enough water and food

Safety Tips for the Suhua Highway

The Suhua Highway is the most dangerous section of the round-island route:

• After the Suhua Improvement opened: Most vehicles now use the Suhua Improvement tunnels, greatly reducing traffic on the old Suhua road
• Recommended route: Take the old Suhua road (Highway 9D) for better scenery and less traffic
• Precautions:
  • Watch for rockfall warnings
  • Turn on lights and wear a reflective vest inside tunnels
  • Avoid riding through in rainy weather
  • Depart early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms

Accommodation and Supply Planning

Accommodation Options

• Round-island cyclist guesthouses: Many towns have guesthouses dedicated to hosting round-island cyclists
• Giant Travel: Offers complete round-island package tours
• Hostels: Budget-friendly, usually with space to store bikes
• Budget reference: NT$500-1,500 per night (double rooms roughly NT$1,200-2,500)

Daily Supply Recommendations

• Breakfast: Eat well before departure, focusing on carbohydrates
• On the road: Refuel every 30-40 km
• Carry: At least 2 water bottles, energy gels, salt tablets
• Lunch: Local street food, to replenish protein

Equipment Checklist

Essential gear for the round-island trip:

• Bike: Check gears, brakes, and tire condition
• Repair tools: 2x spare inner tubes, patch kit, pump, multi-tool
• Safety gear: Front and rear lights, reflective vest, helmet
• Clothing: 3x moisture-wicking jerseys, 2x cycling shorts, windbreaker, rain jacket, arm sleeves
• Electronics: Bike computer/phone, 2x power banks
• Personal items: Sunscreen, medication, ID card, health insurance card

Conclusion

There is no single “correct direction” for riding around Taiwan — what matters is choosing what suits your season, fitness, and personal preference. Whether clockwise or counter-clockwise, this beautiful island will reveal its charm from a different angle each way. Get out there — your round-island story is waiting to be written.

Related Reading

• Taiwan Round-Island Cycling Route Planning: A Strategic Analysis of Clockwise vs Counter-Clockwise
• Counter-Clockwise vs Clockwise Round-Island: A Complete Comparison of Wind, Gradient, and Traffic
• 9-Day Taiwan Round-Island Cycling Plan: Pros and Cons of Clockwise vs Counter-Clockwise, with Daily Mileage
• Complete Preparation for a Round-Island Ride: 14-Day Itinerary, Accommodation, and Supply Planning