Taroko Gorge
Taiwan
Taroko Gorge is a spectacular natural landmark carved by the Liwu River through pure marble, making it one of only three such river-carved marble gorges worldwide. Situated within Taroko National Park, which spans Hualien County, Taichung City, and Nantou County in Taiwan, the gorge is famed for its steep cliffs, narrow canyons, and diverse ecosystems. The park covers 92,000 hectares and features 27 peaks over 3,000 meters, including the Qilai and Nanhu mountain ranges. Visitors can explore notable sights such as the Tunnel of Nine Turns, Eternal Spring Shrine, Swallow Grotto Trail, and the Qingshui Cliffs. The area is rich in indigenous Truku culture, from whom the gorge takes its name. The park's geology is shaped by tectonic plate collisions and erosion, resulting in dramatic landscapes with marble formations sculpted over millions of years. Despite recent natural disasters causing damage and temporary closures, Taroko Gorge remains a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering trails through lush forests, waterfalls, and impressive cliffs.
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Tip: The best time to visit Taroko Gorge is during the cooler, drier months to avoid typhoon season and heavy rains. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets or booking guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure access. Be aware that some trails and areas may be closed due to recent earthquake and landslide damages, so check current park status before planning your visit. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and group tours. Transportation from Hualien City via tour buses or taxis is recommended, as the nearest train station is several kilometers from the park entrance.
Interesting facts
- •Taroko Gorge is one of only three river-carved marble gorges in the world, alongside Bhedaghat Gorge in India and Trigrad Gorge in Bulgaria.
- •The park covers 92,000 hectares and includes 27 peaks over 3,000 meters high.
- •The name 'Taroko' comes from the Truku indigenous tribe, officially recognized by Taiwan in 2004.
- •The Central Cross-Island Highway (Provincial Highway 8) passes through the park, connecting tropical forests to high mountain pine and cedar forests.
- •Taroko National Park was commemorated by Google on its homepage in 2021 for its 35th anniversary.
- •The marble formations in the gorge originated from calcium carbonate deposits about 230 million years ago, transformed through pressure and tectonic uplift.
History
Taroko National Park was originally established in 1937 during Japanese rule as Tsugitaka-Taroko National Park but was abolished after World War II in 1945.
It was reestablished in 1986 by the Republic of China government.
The park was named after the Taroko Gorge, itself named for the indigenous Truku tribe inhabiting the region.
The area has been shaped over millions of years by tectonic activity and erosion, forming the unique marble gorge.
In 2002, the park was recognized as a potential World Heritage Site.
Recent seismic events in 2024 caused significant damage, leading to closures for restoration and safety assessments.
Place Guide
Tunnel of Nine Turns2017
A scenic tunnel carved into the marble cliffs featuring multiple bends and offering spectacular views of the gorge and river below.
Eternal Spring Shrine (Changchun Shrine)
A classical Chinese-style shrine built into the mountainside with a waterfall flowing beside it, commemorating workers who died building the Central Cross-Island Highway.
Swallow Grotto Trail (Yanzikou)
A trail along marble cliffs with many small caves where swallows nest, creating a natural spectacle of birds flying in and out of the gorge.
Qingshui Cliffs
Dramatic sea cliffs rising over 1,000 meters above the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views and considered one of Taiwan's eight scenic spots.
Zhuilu Cliff Trail
A challenging hiking trail along a narrow ledge on a marble cliff, offering panoramic views of the gorge and river below.
Contact
Phone: 03 862 1100