Xincheng

Xincheng (新城) is a coastal township in northern Hualien County, Taiwan, located just north of Hualien City at the entrance to Taroko National Park. It is known for the Xincheng Catholic Church (新城天主堂), a striking church built in a Japanese Shinto style, and for its position as the western gateway to Taroko.

The climate is tropical. October to April are the best months. The township is small and serves primarily as a gateway for Taroko visitors.

By Plane

Hualien Airport (HUN) is about 15 km south. A taxi takes about 20 minutes and costs around NT$400–500.

By Train

Xincheng Station (新城車站) is on the TRA east coast line and is the main rail gateway to Taroko National Park. From Hualien Station, the journey takes about 10 minutes (NT$30–40). Taroko Express trains from Taipei stop here.

By Car / Road

Xincheng is accessible via Provincial Highway 9 (Su-Hua Highway) and is the turn-off for Provincial Highway 8 (the Taroko Road). From Hualien City, drive north for about 20 minutes.

The township centre is walkable. Taxi and bus services connect to Taroko National Park.

• Xincheng Catholic Church — A beautiful church built in a Japanese Shinto architectural style.

• Xincheng Old Street — A small historic street with some traditional buildings.

• Taroko National Park entrance — The park gate is a short drive from town.

• Visit the Xincheng Catholic Church for its unique architecture.

• Use Xincheng as a base for exploring Taroko National Park.

• Walk the Qixingtan beach area.

• Small eateries near the station serve noodles and rice dishes. NT$50–100.
• Seafood restaurants along the coast.

Convenience stores and local tea shops. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Simple guesthouses, NT$800–1,200.
• Mid-range: Hotels catering to Taroko visitors, NT$1,500–3,000.

Snacks and supplies for Taroko trips are available in town.

• Taroko National Park — 5 km west. The main entrance.
• Hualien City — 15 km south (10 min by train).
• Qixingtan — 5 km south. Beautiful pebble beach.
• Xiulin — Further west into the Taroko gorge.
• Yilan — 80 km north via the Su-Hua Highway.