Surrounded by water, rolling hills and mountains, Yilan is a rocky seaside village perched on the Yilan Plain. Art, nature and aboriginal culture make this a fascinating destination in Northeastern Taiwan.

Things to do

Outside Yilan station, you’ll be welcomed by life-sized statues at Jimi Square bearing a traveller theme, the most famous being two children happily carrying colourful suitcases. Snap a photograph of giant luggage and sculptures scattered about the park. Don’t miss the Fushan Botanical Garden, which features walking trails and wildlife, including deer roaming freely.

Night markets liven up the evening hours, so head over to Dongmen Night Market, just a few minutes’ walk from Yilan Station. Test and taste dozens of local food specialties, including the signature green onion cakes and scallion pancakes sold at small stands throughout the area. For a sit-down meal, sit at small cafes near the train station or take a short drive to the seaside for fresh, shrimp, squid and fish.

Explore the deep history of the region at the National Center for Traditional Arts, where you can pick up handcrafted gifts and indigenous art. Near Wushigang Harbor, you can visit Lanyang Museum and themed exhibits focusing on mountains, oceans, plains and time.

Looking for a day trip? A 30-minute drive from Yilan City lands you at the glorious hot springs of Jiaoxi township. Many hotels feature hot spring tubs, while everyone can relax and soak in the public springs at Tang-wei-gou Park.

Getting around

You can reach Yilan City by bus from Taipei in about one hour or from Taipei Songshan Airport, about 55 kilometres away. Scooters, bicycles and taxis are available for hire. Local trains offer transportation to smaller villages in the county.