Taroko Gorge National Park, Hualien County, Taiwan
Datong and Dali villages are nestled in the mountains of Taroko Gorge National Park. Tucked away from the tourist location below, the people are able to live their life unobstructed. With views overlooking the Shakadang Gorge, the Pacific Ocean, and the rest of Taroko, you will find peace and relaxation here. People get away from their devices and connect with one another in the mountains of Taroko. Coming here you will learn about the history of the tribe, the self sufficient nature of those still around, and soak in the pure beauty of this special location.
Take a train down the east coast of Taiwan until you reach Xincheng Station in Hualien County. Transfer to Taroko Gorge National Park, either via taxi outside the station, or by shuttle bus, where varied mountain peaks, numerous waterfalls, diverse plant forms and animal life, together with the indigenous Taroko people, create a rich texture of a unique and natural ecosystem.
There are a couple different ways to reach the villages. If you would like to explore Dali Village, you will begin from the Taroko Visitor Center and hike the Dekalun trail, to Dali Village. This is a steep hike, full of stairs through the jungle. Keep your eyes out for Formosan Rock Macaques, various bird species and reptiles! After roughly 2.5 hours you will come to Dali Village. Dali is a great stop for lunch and views. Still standing are old houses and a landscape full of vibrant flora and vegetable crops.
From Dali Village there are two ways to get to Datong Village, and the beautiful DaDaoDeJia (達道的家) overlooking Datong. The more intense hike involves the TongLi trail, linking Dali village and Datong Village. This trail winds along the mountainside, in more overgrown vegetation and unstable ground. The second option is to go back the way you came until you reach the old logging road. This will take you directly to the homestay.
All in all, its about a 4 hour hike to DaDaoDeJia (達道的家), the indigenous homestay, for the night. The best part is the welcome feast and views like no other within Taroko Gorge.
There isn’t much of a plan while up here. Just relax, break out that book you’ve been reading, drink some tea and decompress. Walking around the vegetable gardens and the cliff views is always nice. At night relax and keep warm by the fire while gazing at the stars above.
Early morning wake up for a short hike up the mountain cliff to view sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. The vista sits over 1,000 meters above the ocean below, with the lights of the coastal towns lighting up the night while awaiting the sun’s arrival.
After sunrise, take a slow walk down the slippery mountainside to the homestay for breakfast, coffee and tea before packing up and saying goodbye the hosts, Amay and Dingxi.
This is a truly incredible trip in Taiwan. If you are looking to get away from the crowds, connect with a culture of old, and relax in stunning nature, this is your best bet!
How Much
The home stays in Dali and Datong villages are at a fixed price. Per person the cost is 1200 NT. Inclusive of dinner and breakfast, bedding, tea, water and coffee. My favorite place is DaDaoDeJia (達道的家), as it overlooks all the other houses and gorge.