Central Cross-Island Highway
Taiwan
Taiwan’s Central Cross-Island Highway links the west and east sides of the island through the steep spine of the Central Mountain Range. The drive climbs past Taroko Gorge viewpoints, high bridges, and forested passes before descending to lush valleys and small mountain settlements.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Taichung
Start in Taiwan's lively west-side hub. Urban streets give way quickly to foothill roads.
- Dongshi Forest Garden
A cool forest stop with trails, pavilions, and tall trees. It is a gentle first climb into the hills.
- Lishan Visitor Center
High-mountain orchards and crisp air mark this alpine village stop. The views open wide over terraced slopes and ridges.
- Wuling Farm
A famous high-elevation farm surrounded by peaks and seasonal blooms. It is one of the route's best places to pause and breathe.
- Ciqilai Temple
A hillside temple with sweeping valley views and colorful details. It adds a calm cultural stop on the descent eastward.
- Taroko National Park Visitor Center
Enter the marble-walled world of Taroko here. Exhibits and trail info help plan the gorge section safely.
- Taroko Gorge
Sheer cliffs, rushing water, and narrow road cuts define this dramatic stretch. It is the highway's most unforgettable scenery.
- Hualien City
Finish on the Pacific side in relaxed Hualien. Mountain drama gives way to sea air and easy city streets.
Where to Eat
- Mitsui Outlet Park Taichung Food Courtfood court
A practical place to grab a quick meal before leaving Taichung. Many stalls make it easy to find noodles, rice bowls, or snacks.
- Lishan Guesthouse RestaurantTaiwanese mountain food
A likely stop for simple hot dishes in the highlands. Mountain vegetables and local produce are common here.
- Wuling Farm RestaurantTaiwanese
A convenient meal stop inside the farm area. It is a good place for a warm lunch before the descent east.
- Tianxiang RestaurantTaiwanese
A classic gorge-area stop for a meal or tea. It suits travelers breaking up the Taroko section.
- Dongdamen Night Marketstreet food
A strong finish for Hualien snacks and seafood. Come for fried bites, grilled skewers, and dessert stalls.
Things to Do
- Viewpoints in Taroko Gorgescenic drive
Pull over for cliff views, tunnels, and marble walls. Short stops reveal how narrow and steep the highway can be.
- Tianxiang Arealandmark
A scenic river valley stop with temples and rest areas. It is a classic pause point in Taroko.
- Bilu Sacred Treenature
See one of the famous giants of the Central Mountain Range. The short stop adds a forest atmosphere to the drive.
- Wuling Farm Cherry Blossom Areanature
Visit for alpine scenery and seasonal blossoms. In spring, the farm is especially photogenic.
- Shakadang Trailhike
Walk a short section for clear water and marble scenery. It is one of the easiest ways to experience Taroko on foot.
Travel advisory
Typhoons, landslides, and rockfall can close sections with little notice, especially in summer and after heavy rain. Check current road conditions before departure and avoid night driving on the mountain sections.