Must-Try Foods In Zhuilu Old Trail (Hualien) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Zhuilu Old Trail, Hualien, Taiwan

The Zhuilu Old Trail is a historical path in Taiwan's Taroko National Park, once part of a network of trails used by the indigenous Truku people of the region. The trail sits within an area rich in cultural history, where food traditions are typically a blend of indigenous practices and Han Chinese influences. Local cuisine has historically utilized the abundant natural resources, including a variety of mountain vegetables, freshwater fish, and game.

Due to its remote location and rugged terrain, the trail itself does not have a distinct food history but is more reflective of Hualien's broader culinary culture. Hikers today can enjoy the local flavors in nearby villages by trying traditional dishes, which often feature unique local ingredients and cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Zhuilu Old Trail, Hualien, Taiwan

1. Bamboo Rice (Vegetarian): Sticky rice prepared with a blend of seasonings and steamed in bamboo sections.
2. Millet Mochi (Vegetarian): Traditional confection made with millet – a staple among Taiwan's indigenous peoples.
3. Mountain Vegetable Dishes (Vegetarian): Leafy greens and other vegetables foraged from the mountains, cooked in a variety of styles.
4. Wild Boar (Non-Vegetarian): A common game meat that is often roasted or cooked in stews. Popular in the cuisines of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples.
5. Grilled Mullet Roe (Non-Vegetarian): A delicacy known as "karasumi" in Japanese, often served with sake.
6. Sanbei Chicken (Non-Vegetarian): Chicken cooked with soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil, also known as "three-cup chicken".
7. Stream Fish Cuisine (Non-Vegetarian): Native freshwater fish prepared in various local styles, including steaming or grilling with aromatic herbs.
8. Taro Balls (Vegetarian): A dessert made from taro, often served in a sweet soup or as a topping for shaved ice.
9. Papaya Milk (Vegetarian): A refreshing beverage made with fresh papaya blended with milk or milk substitute.
10. Oyster Omelette (Non-Vegetarian): A beloved Taiwanese street food dish combining oysters with egg and starch, typically served with a savory sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Zhuilu Old Trail, Hualien, Taiwan

Dongdamen Night Market

Various Stalls, Hualien City, Hualien County 970, Taiwan

Famous for: Street Food (both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian options available)

Ching-Shui Cliff Restaurant

974, Taiwan, Hualien County, Xiulin Township

Famous for: Seafood and Local Taiwanese Cuisine (Non-Vegetarian)

Golden Triangle Cuisine

No. 169-2 Fushi, Fushi Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan 972

Famous for: Indigenous-style Dishes (both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian)

Lao Pai Scallion Pancake With Deep Fried Egg

Guangfu Township, Hualien County, Taiwan 976

Famous for: Scallion Pancakes (Vegetarian)

Due to the trail's location in Taroko National Park, there are no restaurants directly on the Zhuilu Old Trail. The establishments listed are located in surrounding towns or nearby Hualien City and would be a stop on the way to or from hiking the trail.