Travel Guide: Tuzai Dulan International Youth Hostel, Taitung

Introduction

Nestled in the bohemian surf town of Dulan, Taitung County, 途中·都蘭國際青年旅舍 (Tuzai Dulan International Youth Hostel) is the perfect base for travelers craving laid-back coastal vibes, cultural exploration, and budget-friendly comfort. Far from the crowds of Taitung City, this hostel blends local hospitality with modern conveniences, catering to solo backpackers, group travelers, and even pet owners looking to experience one of Taiwan’s most beloved creative coastal communities.

Hotel Overview

Tuzai Dulan is located at No. 124, Dulan, Dulan Village, Donghe Township, putting you within walking distance of Dulan’s iconic surf spots, art galleries, and street food stalls. The hostel welcomes pets with no extra fees, making it ideal for travelers bringing their four-legged companions along. All rooms include tea and coffee-making facilities, bed linens, and handy touches like bedside outlets and clothing racks, with most opening out to stunning mountain or garden views.

Shared facilities are designed for comfort and connection: a fully equipped shared kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, oven, and washing machine lets you cook your own meals, while sprawling outdoor spaces—including a sun terrace, garden, outdoor dining area, and outdoor seating—are perfect for relaxing with a coffee or swapping travel stories with other guests. On-site amenities include free property-wide Wi-Fi, complimentary public parking nearby, 24-hour front desk service, lockers, and multilingual staff that speak both English and Chinese. For entertainment, you’ll find a games room with board games, badminton equipment, regular movie nights, Netflix-enabled flat-screen TVs, and bicycle rental to explore the surrounding area. Airport transfers are available for an extra fee for added convenience.

Local Attractions

Three can’t-miss spots near the hostel are:

• Dulan Sugar Factory Art Village: A 10-minute walk from the hostel, this abandoned sugar mill has been transformed into a hub for local Indigenous artists, independent galleries, live music venues, and quirky craft shops. Don’t miss the famous Friday night drum circles that draw crowds of locals and travelers alike.
• Dulan Bay Surf Beach: Just 15 minutes by rented bicycle from the hostel, this gentle, golden-sand beach is one of Taiwan’s best spots for beginner surfers, with multiple surf shacks offering affordable board rental and lessons. It’s also perfect for slow sunset walks after a day of exploring.
• **Donghe River Mouth: The beautiful estuary where the Donghe River meets the Pacific, a 10-minute drive from the hostel, is a serene spot for birdwatching, picnics, and wild swimming. The surrounding mangrove wetlands are home to dozens of native bird species, and the views of the Central Mountain Range meeting the ocean are unforgettable.

Travel Tips

Book your stay in advance, especially during peak surfing season (June to September) and major local events like the Dulan Art Festival, as rooms fill up quickly. If you’re arriving without a car, arrange the hostel’s airport transfer in advance from Taitung Airport for a stress-free arrival. Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the art village and coastal trails, and don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen for days at the beach. Finally, take advantage of the hostel’s fully equipped kitchen to stock up on fresh local mangoes and seafood from the nearby Donghe Market—cooking a meal in the garden terrace is one of Dulan’s simple, unmissable pleasures.