Stop playing mahjong already！Lazy guide to 2016’s hottest East Rift Valley attractions — you’re behind the times if you haven’t seen the bald cypress forests

▲ The newly famous bald cypress forest in Hualien has become a must-visit pilgrimage spot on many travelers’ Lunar New Year lists. (Photo from Yu Zhan Nursery’s Facebook page)

Tourism Center / Compiled report

The East Rift Valley has always been a popular destination during the Lunar New Year holidays. After going through so much trouble to snag train tickets, why stick to the over-trodden paths everyone’s already sick of? ETtoday EBC News Cloud has specially compiled2016’s hottest hidden gems in eastern Taiwanso you can do more than the average tourist and snap photos that’ll make your friends envious, turning your holiday memories into lifelong treasures.

Taitung King Kong Boulevard

▲ The sea-meets-sky views along King Kong Boulevard have earned it the nickname “the Taroko Boulevard of the East Coast.” (Photo provided by IG @arisha_huang)

Stretching all the way to the Pacific Ocean and offering distant views of King Kong Mountain, this boulevard is known as the “Taroko Boulevard of the East Coast.” If you visit during the golden rice harvest season, it becomes nothing short of a masterpiece. Aside from its picturesque mountain-and-water scenery, the warm and welcoming local Amis residents are another highlight, offering a rich sense of community — making it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

How to get there: Cross the Changhong Bridge and continue along Provincial Highway 11; King Kong Boulevard is located around the 85K mark on County Road 13 East. Alternatively, just navigate to “Changguang Industry Road.”

Yu Zhan Nursery

▲ The scene at Yu Zhan Nursery in Hualien recently shows the varying density of its bald cypress woods, giving off a slightly weathered charm. (Photo by reporter Cao Yuehua)

The hottest recent spot in Hualien is none other than Yu Zhan Nursery, dubbed the “mini version of Yunshan Water and Clouds.” Located near National Dong Hwa University, it’s famous for its golden bald cypress forest, creating a dreamy European vibe. Though compact in size, the site is well laid out and changes with the seasons — the color and density of the cypress trees vary, especially recently when photos have captured a nostalgic, weathered look that adds a special charm.

Location: Beside Provincial Highway 9, Km 219 in Shoufeng, Hualien, near National Dong Hwa University (next to Taiwan Sugar Pinghe Gas Station)

Jade Valley

▲ A photo with the waterfall inside Jade Valley makes for the perfect proof of your visit. (Photo provided by netizen shawn790811)

Located in Xiulin Township, Hualien, Jade Valley is famed as a hotspot for canyoning and has recently become a popular destination for influencers. Especially the curtain waterfall inside, where stream water cascades down massive rock faces — standing directly beneath it for a photo with the rushing waters is both spectacular and awe-inspiring, making it hard to leave.

Location: Rongshu Road, Tongmen Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County

Lasuo’ai Spring Ecological Park

▲ A view inside the Lasuo’ai Spring Ecological Park. (Photo from the Lasuo’ai Spring Eco-Farm Facebook page)

Does Hualien have its own “Blue Tears”? Hidden away in Guangfu Township, Hualien, this is practically an ultra-secret gem of the region. You’ll need to drive along winding roads and walk a bit to reach the park. The crystal-clear water shifts colors with the sunlight, and the rare sapphire-blue hue of the river makes it a perfect spot to explore during the Lunar New Year break and uncover the secrets of these springs.

Address: Lane 15, Dajin Street, Guangfu Township, Hualien County

Yuli Wetlands (Qimo Wetland Park)

▲ This picturesque ecological treasure has made Yuli Wetlands one of Hualien’s new hidden gems. (Photo provided by the East Rift Valley National Scenic Area Administration)

Even locals in Yuli may not be familiar with this spot, tucked between stretches of green mountains. Nearby lies an artificial ecological wetland that attracts birds. Spanning nearly 5.9 hectares, the area creates a poetic landscape and has become a new paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

How to get there:
1. Enter the alley behind Yuli Tsann Kuen and follow the signs
2. Go under the Yuli Bridge and follow the small road, then turn left to arrive