Travel Guide: Benlai Food & Art Space Homestay, Hualien County

Nestled in the rolling green countryside of Hualien’s Fengli Village, 本來食藝空間民宿 (Benlai Food & Art Space Homestay) is a quiet adults-only retreat that blends farm-to-table dining, minimalist design, and unobstructed mountain views. Perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds of Hualien City and Taroko Gorge, this boutique homestay leans into Hualien’s reputation for slow, nature-focused travel, with handcrafted hospitality and thoughtful details that make it feel like a private countryside escape.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 36, Fengli 1st Street, Fengli Village, this homestay checks every box for a comfortable stay. All accommodations are non-smoking, allergy-friendly, and soundproofed, with hardwood floors, air conditioning, heating, and private en-suite bathrooms that feature deep soaking bathtubs, separate rainfall showers, bidets, free toiletries, and hairdryers. Every room includes tea and coffee making facilities, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private balcony or terrace, and free property-wide WiFi. On-site amenities include a full restaurant and in-house coffee shop, a sunlit terrace, sprawling garden, and an open-air hot spring for relaxing after a day of hiking. Convenience perks include free private and accessible parking, daily housekeeping, private check-in/out, luggage storage, and a dedicated tour desk to help plan your Hualien adventures. Note that towels and bed linens are available for an extra fee, and the property is adults-only for a peaceful, quiet atmosphere.

Nearby Local Attractions

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

• Liyu Lake: Just 15 minutes away, this picturesque alpine lake is perfect for leisurely cycling along its 5km shoreline, birdwatching, or kayaking across its calm waters. The surrounding hills are dotted with local tea houses and wildflower meadows that bloom in spring.
• Fenglin Township Hakka Cultural Park: 10 minutes from the homestay, this open-air park preserves the rich Hakka heritage of eastern Taiwan, with traditional wooden architecture, hands-on workshops for Hakka sticky rice cakes and leaf tea, and seasonal festivals celebrating local harvest traditions.
• Xiuguluan River Rafting: A 25-minute drive takes you to the starting point of Taiwan’s most popular white-water rafting route, with gentle rapids that are perfect for first-timers, and stunning views of the Central Mountain Range along the 22km journey to the Pacific coast.

Travel Tips

Since the homestay only accommodates adults, it is not suitable for travelers bringing children. Be sure to bring cash if you opt for extra towels or linens, as credit cards are not always accepted for small add-on charges. The on-site restaurant sources most of its produce from local farms, so book a table for breakfast or dinner in advance to secure a spot—its signature Hakka-style stir-fries and homemade desserts are not to be missed. If you plan to visit Taroko National Park, the homestay is a 40-minute drive from the park entrance, making it a much quieter alternative to staying inside the park or busy Hualien City. Finally, contact the property in advance if you have specific allergy requests, as their hypoallergenic rooms can be prepared with extra notice for sensitive guests.