Hualien Sugar Factory Tourist Site

Hualien Sugar Factory Tourist Site

The Hualien Sugar Factory was established in the 2nd year of the Republic of China (1913) and was once one of the most important sugar production centers in eastern Taiwan. Located in Guangfu Township, it was also commonly referred to as the Guangfu Sugar Factory. In the 91st year of the Republic of China (2002), due to the continuous decline in international sugar prices and Taiwan’s accession to the WTO, Taiwan Sugar decided to cease sugar production at the Hualien factory and transition toward tourism and leisure development. Nowadays, it has become a unique scenic attraction within the Huatung Valley.

Building on its existing reputation for sugar factory ice cream, the Hualien Sugar Factory has developed a sugar industry cultural park as its core, incorporating a Japanese-style dormitory complex, creative workshops, cycling routes, and nearby tourist attractions. This transforms the site into a linear scenic route and series of attractions to draw visitors. Additionally, next to the Hualien Sugar Factory lies a row of neatly arranged Japanese-style bungalows — a rare example of Japanese architecture elsewhere. These cypress wood buildings were originally staff dormitories built during the Japanese colonial period and remain well-preserved. After decades of time, they exude a strong sense of nostalgia. Even more pleasing is that these buildings have been renovated and reconstructed into Japanese-style inns open to the public, offering visitors a variety of accommodation options.

Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory

Why you must go: One of the most unique scenic spots in the Huatung Valley