Toucheng (頭城; Tóu'chéng), also Tou-Cheng, is a township in northern Yilan County.
Understand
[edit]
The township includes Guishan Island and Guiluan Island in the Philippine Sea. The Senkaku Islands, known in Mandarin as the Diaoyu Islands, are claimed as part of the township.
History
[edit]Toucheng is one of the oldest settlements in Yilan County. Originally inhabited by the Kavalan people, the area later developed during the Qing dynasty as a gateway between northeastern Taiwan and the Lanyang Plain. Improvements to transport and infrastructure during the Japanese colonial period strengthened Toucheng’s regional importance. Today, the town is known for its coastal landscapes, fishing heritage, and growing tourism.
Climate
[edit]Toucheng has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often reach 30 °C, and heavy rainfall is common from June to September due to the East Asian monsoon and occasional typhoons. Winters are generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10 °C, though the area can feel damp and windy. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to visit, offering pleasant temperatures and lower humidity.
Get in
[edit]By car
[edit]From Taipei, take Freeway No. 5 (Taipei–Yilan Freeway) toward Yilan. After passing through the Hsueshan Tunnel, exit at the Toucheng Interchange. The drive typically takes about 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic. On weekends and holidays, congestion is common near the tunnel and interchange, so allowing extra travel time is recommended.
By train
[edit]Toucheng has more rail stations (three) than any other townships in Taiwan. Take the "North Railway Line" (北迴鐵路) toward Hualien (往花蓮) and get off at Toucheng station of from Northern Taiwan. Take the "North Railway Line" (北迴鐵路) toward Shulin (往樹林) and get off at Toucheng station if from Eastern Taiwan.
| Name | Chinese | Line | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Shicheng. | 石城 | Yilan line | |
| 2 Dali. | 大里 | ||
| 3 Daxi. | 大溪 | ||
| 4 Guishan. | 龜山 | ||
| 5 Wai'ao. | 外澳 | ||
| 6 Toucheng. | 頭城 | ||
| 7 Dingpu. | 頂埔 |
By bus
[edit]Several intercity bus companies operate services between Taipei and northeastern Taiwan, providing access to Toucheng. Capital Bus (首都客運), Kamalan Bus (葛瑪蘭客運), and King Bus (國光客運) run routes toward Yilan County, with some services stopping directly in Toucheng and others serving nearby townships.
Travel time from Taipei generally ranges from about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the selected route. Buses may stop at Jiaoxi, Luodong, or Yilan City, where passengers can transfer to regional or local buses continuing north to Toucheng.
Within the area, regional buses connect Toucheng with neighboring towns such as Jiaoxi, Yilan City, and Luodong. These services provide access to major destinations including Toucheng Station, Wushi Harbor, Waiao Beach, and the town center.
Fares vary by operator and distance, and most buses accept contactless transit cards commonly used in Taiwan. Service frequency is generally higher during daytime hours, with reduced services in the late evening.
Bus stop signage and route information are primarily in Chinese. Travelers unfamiliar with the system may find local navigation apps helpful for route planning and real-time updates.
Get around
[edit]
If you want to travel around Toucheng township, you can rent a bicycle or motorcycle from Jiaoxi station. It cost NT$ 300 for 24 hours a day. You can ride through Highway No. 2 to reach Toucheng township. King Bus (國光客運) also has many stops on the way from Jiaoxi to Toucheng and it cost NT$ 23.
See
[edit]
History and culture
[edit]- 1 Toucheng Old Street (頭城老街), Heping Street. A street featuring a number of houses of different architectural styles, from different periods stretching back to the Qing dynasty, which show a snapshot of Toucheng's history.
- 2 Old Caoling Tunnel South Information Spot (舊草嶺隧道南下資訊站), No. 19-2, Shicheng Rd. 8:30-17:00. A converted railway tunnel that has been converted into a cycleway connecting Toucheng Township to Gongliao District, New Taipei City. The tunnel is 2.167 km in length.
Parks and nature
[edit]- 3 Da-xi Honeymoon Bay (蜜月灣), No. 66, Hexing Rd. 24 hours. Famous site that you will approach when you first enter Toucheng township. It offers surfing and it has national surfing competitions annually. Honeymoon Bay has a great view of Turtle island. The reason why it is named Honeymoon Bay is because you can often see many couples walk along the coast.
- 4 Gengfang Southwest Coastal Scenic Area (梗枋西南海濱景觀區), Kailan Old Road 4, 261, Taiwan. 24 hours. A scenic coastal area offering open sea views, rocky shorelines, and coastal walking paths. It is especially popular at sunset and provides a peaceful place to enjoy the ocean landscape near Toucheng. Free.
- 5 Wai'ao Rocky Shore (外澳岩堵), No. 552, Section 2, Binhai Rd, ☏ +886 3 978 0727. 24 hours. Wai'ao Rock Reef is a dramatic stretch of rocky coastline in Toucheng, known for its volcanic rock formations and ocean views. The area is ideal for seaside walks, photography, and wave watching, with easy access from the main coastal road.
Temples
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- 6 Xietian Temple (頭城大坑里協天宮關聖帝君), 599 Xietian Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 2050. 17:30-21:00. A historic Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu, known for its traditional architecture and role as a local center of worship. Visitors can observe daily rituals and enjoy a quiet, atmospheric stop while exploring Toucheng. Free.
- 7 Caoling Qingyun Temple (草嶺慶雲宮), No. 33號, Section 7, Binhai Rd, ☏ +886 3 978 1075. 17:00-21:00. A mountainside temple with spectacular views of the sea.
- 8 Toucheng Kaicheng Temple and Chenghuang Temple (頭城開成寺城隍廟), No. 1, Jixiang Road, ☏ +886 3 978 0459. A large, multi-storey and very decorative temple complex.
Museums
[edit]- 9 Lee Rong-chun Literary Museum (李榮春文學館), ☏ +886 3 977 3126. Daily 09:00-12:00, 13:30-16:30. A museum dedicated to the literary history of the area housed in a heritage-listed Japanese-style building.
- 10 Lanyang Museum (蘭陽博物館), No. 750, Section 3, Qingyun Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 9700. Daily 09:00–17:00. The Lanyang Museum showcases the natural landscape and cultural history of Yilan County. Its architecture reflects the coastal landforms of the region, and the exhibitions provide useful background on local geography, industry, and daily life. NT$110.
- 11 Qing Dynasty Wushi Harbor Relics (烏石港歷史展示區), Wushi Harbor Rd., 261 Taiwan, ☏ +886 3 977 9700. Daytime. A small exhibition space introducing the history of Wushi Harbor and its role in regional trade and maritime development. Free.
- 12 Toucheng Cultural and Creative Center (頭城文創展示館), ☏ +886 3 938 6610. Daily 11:00-17:00. A local exhibition venue hosting rotating displays related to regional culture, crafts, and community history. Free.
Do
[edit]Marine activities
[edit]There are a number of places to go surfing such as Honeymoon Bay and the northern side of Wushi Harbor (烏石漁港). For whale and dolphin watching tours, boats leave from 1 Wushi Harbor. It's necessary to book in advance.
Outdoors
[edit]- 2 Toucheng Leisure Farm (頭城農場), No. 125-1, Gengxin Road, ☏ +886 3 977 2222. A farmhouse with accommodation for 500 guests where visitors can learn about farming and ecology.
Festivals
[edit]- 3 Toucheng Ghost Grappling Competition (near the intersection of Kailan E. Rd. and Toubin Rd). Seventh lunar month (main competition held on the final day; dates vary annually). A traditional folk event held in Toucheng during the Ghost Festival in the seventh lunar month. The main competition is typically held around central Toucheng, with ritual activities, bamboo tower climbing, and community ceremonies. Free.
Buy
[edit]Convenience stores are widely available and useful for snacks, drinks, and basic travel necessities.
- 1 Toucheng Old Street. Small local shops selling traditional snacks, dried seafood, and simple souvenirs. A convenient place to pick up local products while exploring the historic old street.
- 2 Wushi Harbor Seafood Market (Wushi Harbor area). Seafood stalls and small vendors offering dried fish, squid, and other seafood products sourced from the nearby harbor. Prices and selection vary by season.
- 3 Toucheng Farmers’ Association Agricultural Products Center (頭圍農驛品牌館-頭城鎮農會農特產展售中心), No. 15, Xiwu Lane, 261 Taiwan, ☏ +886 3 977 3100. Daily 08:00-17:00. A local market where vendors sell seasonal fruits, vegetables, and regional agricultural products. Availability depends on market days and seasons.
Eat
[edit]- 1 Shengshi Teppanyaki (盛世鐵板燒), Wenhua Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 6828. Typically opens from 12:00. An upscale teppanyaki restaurant offering set meals prepared at the counter, suitable for special occasions or a formal dining experience. NT$2,000+.
- 2 Toucheng Station Abo Scallion Pancakes (頭城車站阿伯炸蛋蔥油餅), Near Toucheng Train Station, Zuanxiang Rd, ☏ +886 918 130 999. Typically opens around 10:00. A popular street food stall near Toucheng Train Station specializing in Taiwanese scallion pancakes with egg. A convenient stop for a quick snack while arriving or departing by train. NT$1–200.
- 3 Jiang Ke Fu Brunch & Pasta (匠客福／早午餐義大利麵), Kailan E. Rd, ☏ +886 900 644 818. Daily from around 10:00. A casual restaurant serving brunch dishes and Italian-style pasta, with a small dining area suitable for a relaxed meal near the old town. NT$200–400.
- 4 Qiduguowu Hot Pot (七度鍋物), 261 Taiwan, ☏ +886 3 977 7111. Daily from around 11:00. A hot pot restaurant offering individual hot pot sets with a variety of meats and vegetables, suitable for a casual meal near the old town area. NT$400–600.
- 5 Tea Tree Bistro (無菜單料理), Section 2, Huanzhen E Rd. Typically opens from 12:00. A Japanese-style restaurant offering set menus that vary by day, focusing on seasonal ingredients in a quiet dining setting.
- 6 Crown House (光驛站 CROWN house), Section 3, Qingyun Rd, ☏ +886 903 003 948. Typically opens from 12:00. A casual café and bistro offering coffee, light meals, and barbecue dishes, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. NT$200–400.
- 7 Sukiyaki (金大鋤壽喜燒 (頭城店)), Section 3, Qingyun Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 8189. Daily from around 11:30. A sukiyaki restaurant serving set meals featuring sliced beef and vegetables, suitable for sit-down dining in a modern setting. NT$600–800.
- 8 Lanhai Italian Kitchen (蘭海歐義廚房), Lane 230, Section 2, Lanbo Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 5336. Daily from around 10:30. An Italian-style restaurant serving pasta and Western dishes, suitable for a relaxed meal near the harbor area. NT$400–600.
- 9 Xiaohau Seafood (小豪海鮮), Section 3, Qingyun Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 5336. Daily from around 11:00. A seafood restaurant near Wushi Harbor serving a variety of fresh local seafood dishes, popular with visitors exploring the harbor area. NT$400–600.
- 10 Beiguan Seafood City (北關海鮮城), Section 3, Binhai Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 6196. Daily from around 10:30. A seafood restaurant near Beiguan Coastal Area serving a range of local seafood dishes, convenient for travelers visiting the nearby tidal park and coastal attractions. NT$400–600.
- 11 No. 9 Coffee Stone Castle (九號咖啡石城館), Shicheng Rd, ☏ +886 3 969 9569. Typically opens from 09:30. A café along the coast near Shicheng offering coffee and light meals, with sea views popular among travelers driving along the northeastern coastline. NT$200–400.
- 12 MR.BROWN Cafe (Mr. Brown 伯朗咖啡館 - 城堡二門市), No. 102號, Shikong Rd, ☏ +886 3 969 9228. Sa Su 09:00–17:00; closed M–F. A branch of Taiwan’s well-known Mr. Brown Coffee chain located near the coast. The café offers a comfortable indoor seating area, a full range of coffee drinks, light meals, and desserts. A convenient stop for a break after visiting Wai’ao Beach or the Lanyang Museum, with reliable Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere. NT$200-400.
Drink
[edit]- 1 Drifters Pizza Pub (漂流者披薩吧), Wai'ao area (Near Wai'ao Station), ☏ +886 982 808 538. 18:00-12:00. A relaxed pizza pub near Wai'ao Beach, popular with surfers and travelers. Serves pizza along with beer and other alcoholic drinks. NT$200-400.
- 2 Kanea Garden Pizza Bar (露天花園披薩吧), No.218, Jisiang Rd (Short walk from Wai'ao Beach), ☏ +886 901 305 805. 16:00-22:00. A casual outdoor pizza bar with a garden setting. A good place to enjoy beer and light drinks in the evening. NT$200-400.
- 3 Opposite the Island Yakitori & Izakaya (島的對面 串燒&居酒屋) (Near Toucheng town center), ☏ +886 3 977 0062. 17:00-12:00. A Japanese-style izakaya serving grilled skewers, beer, and sake. A good option for drinks with food. NT$200–400.
- 4 Lucas Bistro (酒龜88餐酒館), No.373, Sec. 2, Huanjhen E. Rd, ☏ +886 980 777 178. 15:00-14:00. A bistro-style bar offering alcoholic drinks along with Western and local dishes. Suitable for dinner and drinks. NT$200–400.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Yuguang Sea Cafe & Hostel (漁光海Cafe&Hostel), No. 35號, Section 6, Binhai Rd, ☏ +886 3 978 0868. Check-in: 15:00. A café and hostel near the harbor providing light refreshments and simple accommodation, suitable for travelers looking for a quiet stay along the coast. NT$2,200.
- 2 Fan-shu-liao (眺浪島海景民宿), No. 1號, Lane 51, Section 6, Binhai Rd, ☏ +886 970 766 679. Check-in: 15:00. A small homestay overlooking the ocean, offering simple rooms and a terrace with coastal views. Its quiet location makes it suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed stay near the northeastern coast. NT$3,500.
- 3 Dali Yi Hostel (大里驛青年旅館 Dali Yi Hostel 背包客棧), No. 317-2號, Section 6, Binhai Rd, ☏ +886 986 328 397. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A simple and well-maintained backpacker hostel located near Dali Station. It provides dormitory-style accommodation and basic private rooms, along with common areas for guests. Suitable for independent travelers looking to explore the surrounding coastal scenery and rural areas of northeastern Taiwan. NT$2,800.
- 4 Pin Yun Xiu Sea View Resort (品雲岫海景度假會館), No. 112-50號, Gengxin Rd, ☏ +886 970 500 300. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A contemporary bed and breakfast located near the coast, with sea views and comfortable private rooms. The property provides a peaceful setting and convenient access to nearby coastal scenery and outdoor activities around Toucheng.
- 5 Toucheng Leisure Farm Hotel, No.125, Gengxin Rd, ☏ +886 3 977 2222. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 10:00. A contemporary bed and breakfast located near the coast, with sea views and comfortable private rooms. The property provides a peaceful setting and convenient access to nearby coastal scenery and outdoor activities around Toucheng. NT$7,900.
- 6 ＷoodWhite House (白木宿客), No. 2號, Lane 601, Section 2, Huanzhen E Rd, ☏ +886 918 939 302. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A well-maintained homestay near Toucheng Old Street, convenient for exploring the old town and nearby coastal attractions. NT$3,800.
- 7 Wind Breathing B&B (閑閑的海), 261No. 13號, Lane 200, Lanboer Rd, ☏ +886 921 130 575. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A quiet bed and breakfast near Wushi Harbor with scenic wetland views, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere away from the crowds. NT$2,300.
Go next
[edit]- Jiaoxi – Hot springs and relaxing spa stays.
- Yilan – Museums and cultural sites.
- Luodong – Famous night market and food scene.