Travel Guide: Mo Huai Su (Taoyuan City Homestay 085)

Nestled in the quiet mountain foothills of Taoyuan’s Huaringli neighborhood, Mo Huai Su is a serene homestay escape perfect for travelers tired of crowded city centers. Blending warm local hospitality with unobstructed mountain views, this under-the-radar retreat offers a cozy base for exploring northern Taoyuan’s rugged natural landscapes and hidden cultural gems. Whether you’re traveling with family, bringing a furry companion, or seeking a quiet solo retreat, this homestay delivers a laid-back, authentic Taiwanese mountain experience.

Hotel Overview

Mo Huai Su, located at No. 135-6 Baleng, Huaringli, is a semi or fully independent homestay designed for comfort and relaxation. All rooms are non-smoking, with options for spacious family rooms that fit groups of all sizes. Standard in-room amenities include free Wi-Fi across the property, electric kettles, electric blankets for cool mountain nights, flat-screen TVs, and private en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries, hairdryers, and slippers. Outdoor spaces include a sprawling garden, shaded patio, and dedicated outdoor seating and dining areas, all with sweeping unobstructed mountain views. On-site facilities include an in-house café and restaurant, plus board games, puzzles, and karaoke for group entertainment. Practical perks include free public parking nearby, an affordable paid airport shuttle, pet-friendly accommodation with no extra pet fees, and full safety features including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide alarms. Note that the homestay only accommodates Chinese-speaking guests at this time.

Nearby Local Attractions

Three standout attractions are all within a 30-minute drive of the homestay:

• Lalashan Forest Recreation Area: One of Taoyuan’s most beloved mountain parks, famous for its ancient 1,000-year-old red cypress trees and well-marked hiking trails that wind through cool, misty old-growth forest. The easy 3km main trail is accessible for casual hikers, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the Taoyuan valley.
• Dongyan Stream Waterfall: A hidden natural oasis perfect for summer visits, with tiered shallow pools ideal for swimming and picnicking. A short 15-minute walk from the parking lot leads you to the 20-meter main waterfall, where you can cool off in crisp mountain water away from the crowds.
• Baleng Tribal Cultural Area: Learn about the indigenous Atayal people who have called this region home for centuries. The area offers traditional weaving workshops, indigenous cuisine tastings, and guided cultural walks that share centuries of local history and connection to the land.

Travel Tips

Mountain temperatures are 5-10°C cooler than central Taoyuan, so pack layers even in summer, and bring a warm jacket for cool evenings. Book the paid airport shuttle in advance if you’re flying into Taoyuan International Airport, which is roughly an hour’s drive away. If you’re bringing a pet, notify the homestay of your furry companion when booking to confirm availability. The homestay is best accessed by private car, and free public parking is available nearby on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t miss waking up early to catch the sunrise over the mountains from the homestay’s patio—it’s one of the best views in the region.