Huatung Valley

Huatung Valley

Huatung Valley is a valley landscape in eastern Taiwan, stretching approximately 180 kilometers from north to south and 2–7 kilometers from east to west, covering an area of about 1,000 square kilometers, with elevations ranging from 50 to 250 meters. It lies between the Central Mountain Range and the Coastal Mountain Range, formed by the compression of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. It is named after spanning Hualien and Taitung counties, but is also referred to as Eastern Taiwan Valley due to its location on the eastern part of the island. During the Japanese colonial period, it was also known as Chūsen-dō Heiya or Chūsen-dō.

The terrain of Huatung Valley is mainly composed of alluvial plains, interspersed with numerous plateaus. Major rivers include the Hualien River, Mugua River, Shoufeng River, Wanli River, Guangfu River, Mataian River, Xiuguluan River, Xinwulyu River, and Beinan River, all of which shape the primary landscapes within the valley. Following Provincial Highway 9, it runs through the most scenic parts of Hualien and Taitung counties. Along the 158-kilometer green corridor, there is lush greenery and continuous ranges of beautiful mountains, accompanied by the Eastern Line railway. During the rapeseed flower blooming season, the scenery is truly breathtaking. Beyond its varied pastoral views, Huatung Valley is dotted with orchards, tea plantations, rice fields, and pastures, offering a constantly refreshing visual feast. Carved by the interplay of mountain ranges and rivers, Huatung Valley features a variety of unique natural landscapes — naturally stunning, with each spot leaving visitors in awe.

East Rift Valley

Why go: One of the most beautiful scenic areas in Taiwan