Have you ever dreamed of standing on a line that literally circles the globe? In Taiwan, you can do just that! The island is one of the few landmasses crossed by the famous Tropic of Cancer, and the beautiful county of Hualien is home to not one, but two distinct markers celebrating this special geographical line.
For the seasoned traveler looking for unique experiences, a visit to these monuments is a must.
This article is your personal guide to discovering Hualien’s Tropic of Cancer markers. We’ll explore what makes them special, what you can see and do at each location, and how to best plan your trip. Get ready to chase the sun in one of Taiwan’s most scenic regions!
What Exactly is the Tropic of Cancer?
Before we start our journey, let’s quickly touch on what the Tropic of Cancer is. It’s one of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the Earth.
Specifically, it’s the northernmost circle of latitude at which the Sun can be directly overhead. This event occurs once per year at the time of the June solstice, when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted most toward the Sun.
For centuries, this line has been significant for astronomers, geographers, and travelers alike.
Standing on it is a tangible connection to the grand mechanics of our solar system. Taiwan is the largest landmass on the Tropic of Cancer, making it a premier destination to experience this phenomenon.
Hualien’s Unique Position: Two Markers, Two Experiences
Hualien County, known for its dramatic mountains and stunning coastline, offers two different monuments to mark the Tropic of Cancer.
One is nestled in the mountains, and the other stands proudly on the Pacific coast.
This gives you the unique opportunity to experience the geographical line in two very different, yet equally beautiful, settings.
1. The Ruisui Township Marker: A Park of Sun and Tea
Located in the lush East Rift Valley, the Ruisui Tropic of Cancer Marker is perhaps the more famous of the two. Set in a small, well-maintained park, the monument is a striking white, split-column structure that acts as a giant sundial.
The slit in the center allows a sliver of light to fall perfectly along a designated line at noon on the summer solstice.
The surrounding area is just as charming. Ruisui is famous for its hot springs and delicious milk, but it’s the Wuhe Tea Plantations that are a must-see. Just a short drive from the marker, you can sample exquisite honey-scented black tea and enjoy the serene views of rolling green tea fields. It’s a perfect pairing of science and nature.
2. The Fengbin Township Marker: Where Mountain Meets Sea
Further east, right along the stunning coastal Highway 11, you’ll find the Fengbin Tropic of Cancer Marker. This monument is more modern and artistic in its design, a sleek, cylindrical tower that stands in stark contrast to the wild Pacific Ocean behind it.
The view here is absolutely breathtaking, with the deep blue of the sea on one side and the green of the coastal mountain range on the other.
This marker’s location makes it an ideal stop on a coastal road trip. You can feel the sea breeze, listen to the crashing waves, and contemplate your position on the globe. It’s a more elemental and dramatic experience than its inland counterpart.
Beyond the Markers: Exploring Nearby Attractions
A trip to the Tropic of Cancer markers is a fantastic anchor for a wider exploration of Hualien. Here are a few suggestions:
- Ruisui Hot Springs: After visiting the Ruisui marker, treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the famous “gold-and-iron” hot springs, known for their therapeutic qualities.
- Shitiping: South of the Fengbin marker, this area features unique coastal terraces and rock formations carved by the sea. It’s a geological wonderland perfect for a coastal walk.
- East Rift Valley National Scenic Area: The entire valley is a patchwork of rice paddies, flower fields, and cycling paths. It’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful parts of Taiwan.
Planning Your Trip to Hualien
Best Times to Visit
Hualien is a wonderful destination year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from October to April.
The weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. Summer, from May to September, is hot and humid with a higher chance of rain and typhoons.
For a truly unique experience, plan your visit around the summer solstice (around June 21st) to see the sun directly overhead at the Tropic of Cancer markers.
Hualien City: Your Gateway to Adventure
Hualien City is the perfect base for your travels in the region. Nestled between the Central Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, it’s a relaxed city with a vibrant arts scene and delicious food.
It serves as the primary entry point to world-renowned sites like Taroko National Park, the stunning Qixingtan Beach, and the dramatic Qingshui Cliffs.
Don’t forget to spend an evening at the Dongdamen Night Market to sample local delicacies.
How to Get to Hualien from Taipei
Getting from Taiwan’s capital to the east coast is part of the adventure. Here are the most common ways:
- By Train: This is the most popular and scenic option. The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) runs services from Taipei Main Station. The fastest express trains (Puyuma or Taroko Express) take just over two hours. It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
- By Car: Renting a car offers flexibility. The journey takes you along the famous Suhua Highway, which offers breathtaking coastal views but can be a challenging drive.
- By Bus: You can take a bus from Taipei to Luodong, and then connect to a local train to Hualien. This is a more budget-friendly but slower alternative.
Where to Stay: Recommended Hotels
Hualien offers a wide range of accommodations. Here are five highly-regarded options, from city hotels to luxurious resorts:
Kindness Hotel Hualien
- URL: https://www.kindness-hotel.com.tw/en
- TEL: +886 3-835-9333
- Cost: Mid-range. Known for excellent service and a convenient location near the train station.
Parkview Hotels & Resorts
- URL: parkview-hotel.com
- TEL: +886 3-822-2111
- Cost: Luxury. A large, upscale hotel with extensive facilities and a resort-like atmosphere.
Hualien Farglory Hotel
- URL: farglory-hotel.com.tw
- TEL: +886 3-812-3999
- Cost: Luxury. Located within an amusement park, offering stunning ocean views and family-friendly activities.
Gaeavilla Resort
- URL: gaeavilla.com
- TEL: +886 3-812-9168
- Cost: Luxury. A modern, stylish resort known for its beautiful design and relaxing ambiance.
Promisedland Resort & Lagoon
- URL: promisedland.com.tw
- TEL: +886 3-865-6789
- Cost: Luxury. A unique, Spanish-style resort featuring a lagoon you can navigate by boat.
Official Information and Resources
For the latest travel information, be sure to check these official sources:
A Journey to Remember
Visiting the Tropic of Cancer markers in Hualien is more than just a photo opportunity. It’s a chance to connect with the planet in a unique way, to appreciate the beauty of Taiwan’s diverse landscapes, and to create lasting travel memories.
Whether you choose the tranquil park in Ruisui or the dramatic coastline of Fengbin, you’re sure to leave with a new perspective.
Bring Hualien’s Beauty Home With You!
Inspired by the stunning landscapes where the mountains meet the sea? We’ve captured the spirit of Hualien’s coastline in our exclusive “Digital Art Collection.”
These high-resolution digital prints are perfect for bringing a touch of Taiwan’s natural wonder into your home.
Download the collection today and keep the memory of your journey alive!
