This summer, Hualien is going artistic with weekly concerts

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

With summer vacation here, the East Rift Valley National Scenic Area Administration has organized Midsummer Lakeside Concerts every Saturday from July 23 to August 13 at the Lianhua Pond Water Stage in Hualien. The concerts feature refreshing, natural music that complements the beautiful natural scenery—guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Each week brings a different lineup of talented performers, including Hsu Ching-chun, Wu Chin-ning, Huangs?㈥欢鳌, Lan Fen, and EATango, welcoming visitors with unique and delightful sounds.

In addition, this event also features special guided tours led by celebrities Liu Kechang and Dong Mingxiang. In collaboration with Taiwan Railways, the Republic of China Railway Culture Association, and travel agencies, they’ve created a rare railway/bike-themed travel package. This exclusive two-day, one-night itinerary lets you slowly explore the beauty of Hualien by train and cruise into the highlights of Taitung by bike. For those who prefer not to join group tours, there’s also a flexible Hualien-Taitung cultural tour available for two or more travelers.

Local businesses are offering a variety of discounts to welcome summer travelers. In addition to discounts on rafting, accommodation, and shopping, visitors can also win great prizes such as a NT$20,000 East Rift Valley Tourism Fund grant, a BIKEDAY centennial commemorative bicycle, hotel stay vouchers, paragliding tandem flight experiences, and unlimited rides on the Taitung Taiwan Railways’ Luyeh Line—all by simply spending in the East Rift Valley area, taking the Taiwan Railways’ Taiwan Good To Go service, attending any Lianhua Pond Midsummer Lakeside Concert, or joining a travel agency’s themed tour or flexible cultural trip.