Travel Guide to Chun Ju Min Su (鰆居民宿), Hualien County

Introduction

Tucked away in the quiet, green countryside of Hualien County’s Jiayi Village, Chun Ju Min Su is a hidden gem for travelers looking to escape the crowds of Hualien City and embrace Hualien’s natural, slow-paced charm. This independent, family-run homestay leans into the county’s reputation for unspoiled mountains and warm hospitality, offering a comfortable, home-like base for exploring eastern Taiwan’s most iconic landscapes.

Hotel Overview

Chun Ju Min Su sits at No. 7, Alley 2, Lane 113, Jiali 3rd Street, Jiayi Village, a 15-minute drive from central Hualien and 20 minutes from Hualien Airport. The property is completely detached, with sprawling gardens and mountain-facing balconies for every guest to enjoy. Accommodation options range from private en-suite rooms to family-friendly units, all fitted with hardwood floors, air conditioning, heating, and cozy seating areas. All rooms come with free toiletries, a hairdryer, fluffy towels, and slippers, and some feature deep soaking bathtubs perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking.

Guests have access to a shared fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, oven, toaster, and washing machine, ideal for longer stays or preparing picnics for day trips. Free Wi-Fi is available in all common areas, and free on-site street parking is offered for guests driving in. The entire property is smoke-free, and the Chinese-speaking hosts are happy to share local tips for off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Nearby Local Attractions

• Qixingtan Beach: Just 20 minutes from the homestay, this striking stretch of dark pebbled shoreline offers unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and the snow-capped peak of Qilai Mountain. It’s far less crowded than Hualien’s popular tourist beaches, perfect for sunrise walks or casual beach picnics.
• Taroko Gorge National Park: One of Taiwan’s most iconic natural wonders, Taroko’s dramatic marble gorges, misty mountain trails, and thundering waterfalls are just a 40-minute drive from Chun Ju Min Su. Don’t miss the popular Swallow Grotto trail and the iconic Eternal Spring Shrine.
• Jiayi Rice Paddy Fields: A five-minute walk from the homestay, these rolling green rice paddies offer postcard-perfect views of the Central Mountain Range. Visit in early summer for golden blooming rice, or join a local cycling tour to explore rural farm lanes and visit nearby family-owned fruit stands.

Travel Tips

Since the hosts only speak Chinese, have your translation app ready if you don’t speak Mandarin for any special requests. Book your room in advance during peak hiking season (October to April), as the homestay’s limited number of rooms fills up quickly. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the nearby paddies and day trips to Taroko, and bring layers—mountain breezes can get cool even in summer. If you don’t have a car, arrange a scooter rental in Hualien City ahead of your stay, as public transport to Jiayu Village is limited.