Hualien, Taiwan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Hualien, Taiwan? If you're planning to go to Hualien, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Hualien, Taiwan

Based on the climate and weather in Hualien, Taiwan, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Hualien, Taiwan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Hualien, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Hualien, Taiwan by month

January

January for Hualien is balmy and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

In February, Hualien is mild and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Hualien, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you go to Hualien in March, you will notice that it is balmy and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Hualien is a perfect temperature and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

In May, Hualien is extremely warm and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Hualien, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in this region is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Hualien during July, you are likely to notice that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Hualien during August, you may notice that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September for Hualien is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Hualien is hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in this region is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in this region is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Hualien. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Yenpin Prefectural Temple, wear:

If you go to Pine Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Hualien, Taiwan

Hualien, located in eastern Taiwan, is a must-visit destination for travelers who seek natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. With its stunning landscapes, indigenous culture, and delicious seafood cuisine, Hualien is the perfect spot for an unforgettable Taiwanese getaway. Here are some of the top tourist attractions you should not miss in Hualien:

Taroko National Park

Taroko National Park is undoubtedly the top tourist attraction in Hualien, attracting more than 6 million visitors each year. The park is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, including the famous Taroko Gorge, which is a 19-kilometer-long canyon of marble cliffs, waterfalls, and winding rivers. Other popular spots in the park include the Eternal Spring Shrine, a sacred temple nestled in the mountains, and the Swallow Grotto, a narrow tunnel carved into the cliffs.

Qixingtan Beach

Located on the outskirts of Hualien City, Qixingtan Beach is a scenic spot that offers a refreshing break from the city's hustle and bustle. With its long stretch of pebble beach, crystal-clear waters, and stunning mountain backdrop, Qixingtan is the perfect place for a relaxing picnic or swim. The nearby lighthouse also offers a great vantage point for panoramic views of the coast and Pacific Ocean.

Fenghuang Waterfall

Fenghuang Waterfall, also known as the "Phoenix Waterfall," is one of the tallest waterfalls in Taiwan, with a height of 116 meters. It is located in the lush forest of Taroko National Park, and visitors need to embark on a short hike to reach it. The waterfall is a truly majestic sight, with its powerful cascading water that forms a natural pool at the bottom. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also take a dip in the icy waters and feel the refreshing spray.

Qingshui Cliff

Located on the eastern coast of Taiwan, the Qingshui Cliff is a stunning geological formation that stretches for over 20 kilometers along the Pacific Ocean. The sheer cliffs, which rise up to 800 meters, offer some of the best views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. Visitors can either drive along the cliff or take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the towering rocks.

East Rift Valley

The East Rift Valley is a scenic region that runs from Hualien to Taitung, offering a diverse range of natural attractions, including hot springs, rice paddies, and charming villages. The valley is inhabited by the Taiwanese indigenous people, who retain their traditional culture and way of life. Some of the popular spots to visit in the valley include the Liyu Lake, the Fuyuan Butterfly Valley, and the Luye Tea Plantation.

In conclusion, Hualien offers a fantastic blend of natural, cultural, and outdoor experiences that make it one of the top tourist destinations in Taiwan. From the majestic Taroko Gorge to the scenic Qingshui Cliff, there's something for everyone in this beautiful corner of the world. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Hualien is sure to exceed your expectations. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Hualien today!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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