Sustainable Travel Guide

Sensitive Travel Activity Guidelines

To minimize the impact of tourism on nature and local communities, our hotel has developed “Sensitive Travel Activity Guidelines” for different types of travel themes. These serve as a reference for guests, tour leaders, and our partners to follow during their visits in Hualien.

1. Culture-Based Activities

Including visits to Indigenous communities (such as the Taroko Tribe in Xiulin Township and the Bunun Tribe in Wanrong Township) and ecological preservation areas (such as Liyu Lake and Yunshanshui Nature Park).

Guidelines:

  • Hualien is home to diverse Indigenous cultures, including the Amis, Taroko, and Bunun peoples. Appreciate the uniqueness and beauty of each culture with respect and curiosity.
  • Many cultural areas are located in natural environments—please protect the surroundings and minimize waste.
  • Support sustainability by purchasing local agricultural products and Indigenous handicrafts.
  • Do not buy or consume products made from protected or wild animals.
  • Keep your voice down when entering villages, and respect residents’ daily routines and cultural traditions.

2. Nature-Based Activities

Including hiking in Taroko National Park, walking along the Qixingtan Coastal Trail, and exploring the Chike Mountain Forest Path.

Guidelines:

  • Be well-prepared: learn about the routes, weather, and equipment requirements in advance. Pay attention to rockfall warnings in Taroko Gorge.
  • Stay on designated trails—do not create new paths or damage vegetation.
  • Carry out all your trash and keep the environment clean.
  • Preserve natural beauty: do not pick flowers, collect plants, or disturb wildlife.
  • Follow safety signs and avoid entering dangerous areas for photos or sightseeing.

3. Marine-Based Activities

Including whale watching at Hualien Port, snorkeling at Qixingtan, and exploring the tidal zones of Shitiping.

Guidelines:

  • Follow the crew’s instructions on whale-watching boats and familiarize yourself with life-saving equipment.
  • Do not feed marine life or touch coral reefs.
  • Use eco-friendly sunscreen to prevent harm to marine ecosystems.
  • Do not collect seashells, coral, or other marine specimens.
  • When exploring tidal zones, pay attention to tide schedules to avoid being trapped by rising water.

4. Community-Based Activities

Including visits to small towns such as Fenglin, Ji’an, and Shoufeng.

Guidelines:

  • Respect local lifestyles and keep noise levels down.
  • Support local farmers’ markets and cultural products.
  • Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of children.
  • Follow the guidance of local interpreters during cultural activities.
  • Keep community spaces clean and dispose of waste properly.

5. Ecological Observation Activities

Including birdwatching along the Mugua River, observing wetlands at Matai’an, and butterfly watching on the Hongye Trail.

Guidelines:

  • Stay quiet and avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Follow the instructions of ecological guides during observations.
  • Do not use flash when photographing animals.
  • Do not collect specimens—let your eyes and camera record nature’s beauty.
  • Report injured or stranded wildlife to the appropriate authorities.

Travel Reminder
Every traveler plays a role in protecting Hualien’s natural and cultural treasures. By practicing respect, mindfulness, and responsibility, we can ensure that these landscapes and traditions endure for generations to come.