Yilan City: Convenience meets urban vibes
Yilan City, the administrative and commercial hub of Yilan County, offers the most comprehensive living amenities. The city is home to the Yilan Train Station, which connects you to Taipei in about an hour by Taiwan Railways, making daily commuting or weekend getaways super convenient. Plus, with National Highway buses and High-Speed Rail shuttles, Yilan City’s ties to the Taipei metropolitan area are stronger than those of other towns in the county.
When it comes to amenities, Yilan City has it all—supermarkets, shopping malls, hospitals, and schools—everything you need for daily life. If you're into urban living but don't want the hustle and bustle of a big city like Taipei, Yilan City offers a more laid-back yet well-connected alternative.
Yilan County: Nature and tranquillity at its best
On the flip side, Yilan County covers a much wider area, including unique towns like Luodong, Jiaoxi, and Toucheng. These places offer a closer connection to nature, but in return, transportation and commercial development are more limited. If you don’t need to commute to Taipei frequently, Yilan County could be your perfect fit.
For instance, Luodong boasts the biggest night market in Yilan and has great commercial amenities, though it's a bit farther from the city center. Jiaoxi, known for its hot springs, is a great spot for those seeking a resort-like vibe. Toucheng offers stunning coastal views, perfect for surfers and ocean lovers.
Yilan City vs Yilan County. Which one fits you better?
Yilan City:
- You need easy access to Taipei for work or frequent trips.
- You like urban living but want to avoid the overcrowding and high prices of Taipei.
- You need all the modern conveniences, from shopping to healthcare to education.
Yilan County:
- You want more space, maybe a detached house or a big yard.
- You prioritize nature and a slower pace of life—think mountain views, beaches, and tranquil surroundings.
- You're working locally in Yilan or can work remotely and don’t need to commute to Taipei often.
If you're all about convenience and easy connections, Yilan City is the place for you. With its urban-style amenities and excellent transport links, it’s a breeze to handle work and life. But if you're after a quieter life with more space and nature at your doorstep, Yilan County’s towns give you the best of both worlds—peaceful living with stunning natural surroundings.