Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Double and twin rooms are pretty basic and can be a bit noisy so non-cyclists may
prefer the more modern and stylish hotels nearby that go for NT$2000 to NT$3000 a
night. The Rueisui Hot Springs Hotel is up a small road off the main road through the
hot-spring area (there are signs in English).
Getting There & Away
There are hourly trains from Hualien to Ruisui (fast/slow train NT$110/143, one/1½
hours). You can rent scooters (per day NT$400) and good quality bikes outside the train
station on weekends.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Yuli
03 / POP 3000
In the mid-19th century, Hakka immigrants from Guangzhou established Yuli (Yùlǐ) as
one of the earliest non-aboriginal settlements on the east coast. Today, with the Central
Mountains looking over its shoulder, and the Rift Valley under its nose, Yuli is well
placed for day trips to hot springs, mountains covered with day lilies, the organic rice-
growing valley at Loshan, and the eastern section of Yushan National Park.
Activities
Two popular day rides start from a marked path to the right of the train station (as you
exit). The first leads to the Walami Trail (12km away); the second, to Antong Hot
Springs via a section of abandoned rail line running through fields of rice and swaying
betel-nut palms. The backcountry heading west toward the mountains is also filled with
scenic farm roads. Head out toward the Walami Trail and follow your nose.
You can rent good bikes at the
Giant
(Jié Ān Tè; 888 5669; 47; 8am-9.30pm)
bi-
cycle shop on Heping Rd (per day NT$200) for short or extended trips. To find the shop
head straight from the train station and turn left at the second intersection. The shop is on
the left a block up the street.
Sleeping & Eating
Yuli's eponymous noodles (Yùlǐ miàn) won't strike you as much different from Ruisui or
Taipei noodles, but they are cheap (per bowl NT$45), filling and ubiquitous.
