Hualien – Where Nature Meets Everyday Comfort
Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and towering mountains, Hualien offers a refreshing blend of scenic beauty and modern convenience. With a laid-back atmosphere, affordable housing, and easy access to essentials, it’s an inviting place for those looking to slow down and embrace a more relaxed way of life.
Getting Around – Easy, Scenic, and Stress-Free
Despite its east coast location, Hualien is well connected. Taiwan Railways makes travel convenient, and scenic highways offer breathtaking road trips. For daily commuting, buses, taxis, and scooters are popular choices, while cycling along coastal roads and quiet countryside paths is a favorite pastime.
Daily Life – Essentials Without the Hustle
Hualien has just the right mix of convenience and charm. Traditional markets and modern supermarkets like Carrefour keep your kitchen stocked, while Far Eastern Department Store and local boutiques provide shopping options. At Dongdamen Night Market, you can savor everything from grilled seafood to famous mochi—all without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities. Healthcare is reliable too, with Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital leading the way in medical services.
Housing – Space to Breathe
Housing Options – Embrace Spacious Living
Compared to Taipei, Hualien offers more affordable housing prices and a wider variety of options. In Hualien City, you’ll find numerous apartment choices suitable for those who enjoy convenient living. Meilun District is a popular spot for office workers and families, offering a tranquil environment while being close to schools and parks. Ji'an Township and Xincheng Township provide more detached houses and villas, offering expansive living spaces with both mountain and ocean views, while still being conveniently located.
Rental prices for studio apartments in the city range from NT$8,000 to NT$15,000/month, while a shared room typically costs between NT$5,000 to NT$10,000/month. If you're looking for a more affordable option, shared living spaces can be found for as low as NT$3,000 to NT$6,000/month. For more space, consider moving to the outskirts where detached houses and larger homes offer even more attractive rental prices.
Nature and Attractions – Your Backyard is an Adventure
Living in Hualien means being surrounded by some of Taiwan’s most breathtaking landscapes. Taroko Gorge, with its marble canyons and winding trails, is just a short drive away. Qixingtan Beach offers a serene escape, perfect for morning walks or stargazing at night. The East Rift Valley, dotted with rice paddies and hot springs, is an ideal weekend getaway. For a touch of culture, Pine Garden and Hualien Cultural Creative Industries Park add a creative flair to the city’s relaxed vibe.
Is Hualien Right for You?
If you dream of a home where nature is always within reach and life moves at a gentler pace, Hualien might be the perfect place. Whether you’re seeking a long-term move or a second home, this coastal gem offers a balance of modern convenience and untouched beauty.