Ruisui Township in Hualien, Taiwan, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a serene and rejuvenating escape. Nestled in the picturesque East Rift Valley, Ruisui offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement.
This guide will take you through the must-visit attractions of this beautiful township, perfect for the seasoned traveler looking for an authentic Taiwanese experience.
The Golden Elixir: Ruisui Hot Springs
The crown jewel of Ruisui is undoubtedly its world-renowned hot springs.
What makes the Ruisui hot springs truly special is their unique composition. They are the only carbonate hot springs in Taiwan and are rich in iron.
When the water, which emerges at a soothing 48°C, comes into contact with the air, the iron oxidizes, giving the water a distinct yellowish, murky tint. This has earned it the nickname “Golden Hot Spring” or “Hero’s Soup”.
Don’t be deterred by the color; this is a sign of the water’s rich mineral content. A soak in these springs is not only relaxing but is also believed to have therapeutic properties.
The area boasts a wide array of resorts and public baths, some of which have been in operation since the Japanese era in 1919, offering both modern and traditional bathing experiences.
Many hotels in the area have in-room hot spring baths, allowing for a private and luxurious soak.
A Thrilling Ride: Whitewater Rafting on the Xiuguluan River
For those with an adventurous spirit, a trip down the Xiuguluan River is an absolute must. As the longest river in Eastern Taiwan, it carves its way through the Central Mountain Range, creating a stunning landscape of gorges and rapids. Whitewater rafting is a popular summer activity here, offering an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers.
The journey typically starts at the Ruisui Bridge and takes you through a series of exciting rapids before concluding at the Changhong Bridge near the coast. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
For a more culturally immersive experience, consider joining a tour led by the local Kiwit tribe. They offer a “cultural rafting” experience called Tatadok, which means “following the river downstream” in the Amis language.
This provides a unique insight into the traditional, water-dependent lifestyle of the indigenous people.
A Taste of the Countryside: Ruisui Ranch
A visit to Ruisui Ranch offers a delightful change of pace. This open-pasture dairy farm is a popular destination for families and food lovers alike. Originally a papaya plantation, the land was transformed into a successful ranch. Here, you can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views while indulging in a variety of fresh dairy products.
Be sure to try their signature fresh milk steamed buns, which are known for their rich, milky aroma. The ranch also produces delicious cheesecake, fresh cheese, and nougat, making it a perfect spot to pick up some local delicacies.
The visitor center and open-air cafe provide a relaxing space to enjoy the treats and the tranquil atmosphere of the ranch.
More to Explore in and Around Ruisui
- Tropic of Cancer Marker Park: This park marks the geographical line of the Tropic of Cancer, one of only two such markers in Taiwan. It’s a great spot for a quick photo opportunity and to learn a little about geography.
- Wuhe Tourist Tea Plantations: Ruisui is also known for its fragrant black tea. A visit to a tea plantation offers a chance to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the local brews.
- Local Flavors: In addition to dairy and tea, Ruisui is famous for its wendan pomelos. If you’re visiting during the right season, be sure to try this sweet and juicy citrus fruit.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Ruisui depends on your interests. For pleasant weather perfect for hiking and cycling, visit in the autumn (October and November).
If you’re looking for whitewater rafting, the summer months (May to August) are ideal.
For a relaxing hot spring experience with fewer crowds, winter (December to January) is a great choice.
Hualien: Your Gateway to Ruisui
Hualien City is the perfect starting point for your trip to Ruisui. Before heading to the countryside, take some time to explore Hualien’s attractions, such as Taroko Gorge National Park, Qixingtan Beach, and the Dongdamen Night Market.
How to Get There from Taipei
The most convenient way to get to Ruisui from Taipei is by train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. You can book your tickets in advance through the Taiwan Railway website.
Accommodation in Ruisui
Ruisui offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few recommendations:
- Grand Cosmos Resort Ruisui Hualien: A luxury resort with a European castle design, a water park, and 108 hot spring pools.
- TEL: +886-3-887-5111
- Cost: High-end
- The Silence Manor: A tranquil retreat with private hot spring baths in every room, focusing on a serene and minimalist design.
- TEL: +886-3-887-6678
- Cost: Mid-range to High-end
- The Butterfly Valley Resort: Located in the Fuyuan National Forest Recreation Area, this resort offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
- TEL: +886-3-881-2377
- Cost: Mid-range
- W 星空 Villa 民宿 (W Starry Villa): A new villa-style guesthouse with outdoor hot spring tubs in each villa.
- TEL: +886-938-527-668
- Cost: Mid-range
- The Dreams bali manor (夢峇里荘園民宿): A Balinese-style guesthouse with a unique and exotic atmosphere.
- URL: Webpage
- TEL: +886-932-650-258
- Cost: Mid-range
Butterfly Valley
Fuyuan National Forest Recreation Area, also known as Butterfly Valley, is a must-visit for nature lovers. From March to August, the valley is filled with over 30 species of butterflies.
The park also features beautiful waterfalls, suspension bridges, and hiking trails. Please note that the park is temporarily closed for repairs, so check the official website for the latest updates.
Talampo Mountain Orange Daylily
From August to September, the mountainsides of Hualien are covered in a sea of golden orange daylilies. Chike Mountain and Liushidan Mountain are the most famous spots to witness this spectacular floral display.
Wuhe Tourist Tea Plantations
Wuhe Tourist Tea Plantations are famous for their honey-scented black tea. The tea gets its unique flavor from the bites of a small insect, the little green leafhopper.
You can visit the tea farms to sample the tea, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Official Information
- Ruisui Township Office: https://www.juisui.gov.tw/
- Hualien Tourism Service Network: https://www.hualien-tourism.gov.tw/
Ruisui Township is a destination that truly has something for everyone
Whether you’re seeking the therapeutic warmth of its golden hot springs, the adrenaline rush of rafting down a scenic river, or the simple pleasures of the countryside, Ruisui promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Its friendly atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it a perfect addition to any Taiwan itinerary.
Bring a Piece of Hualien Home
To commemorate your travels, consider a beautiful piece of digital art.
Our online store offers a variety of travel-inspired prints, including a stunning depiction of Hualien Station.
These artworks are a wonderful way to remember your journey and bring a touch of Taiwan’s beauty into your home.
We can even create custom prints of your favorite destinations. Visit our shop to explore the collection.