Travel Guide: Juyuan Homestay (橘園民宿), Hualien County

Tucked in Ji’an Township, a quiet 15-minute drive from Hualien City, Juyuan Homestay offers a cozy, unpretentious base for travelers looking to escape crowds and soak in eastern Taiwan’s lush mountain and countryside scenery. This family-run Chinese-speaking homestay prioritizes comfort and authentic local atmosphere, making it ideal for slow travelers, road-tripping families, and anyone craving a laid-back rural retreat.

Hotel Overview

Juyuan Homestay is located at No. 19, Alley 419, Section 6, Jian Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien County, with easy access to both coastal and inland Hualien attractions. The property features spacious non-smoking family rooms perfect for groups of up to five, all fitted with private tiled bathrooms, fluffy slippers, a bathtub or spacious shower, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer for guest convenience. Each room opens up to views of the property’s manicured garden, central courtyard, or the rolling Central Mountain Range that frames the Ji’an countryside.

Outdoor spaces are the highlight of Juyuan: guests can lounge on the sun-dappled terrace, set up a picnic in the garden, or enjoy morning coffee in the shaded outdoor seating area. Shared kitchen facilities include a refrigerator, electric kettle, toaster, and dining space for casual meals, while every room comes with its own tea and coffee making setup, flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, and ample closet space. Free private on-site parking is available without reservation, a huge perk for drivers exploring eastern Taiwan, and the host offers complimentary luggage storage for early check-ins or late departures. Note that the homestay does not provide internet access, making it perfect for a digital detox getaway.

Nearby Attractions

Three top local spots are just a short drive from Juyuan Homestay:

• Ji’an Keishuin Ancient Temple: A 10-minute drive from the homestay, this 19th-century Buddhist temple is famous for its intricate traditional woodcarvings, sweeping stone courtyards, and quiet, spiritual atmosphere. It’s one of Hualien’s oldest cultural sites and a great spot for photography.
• Liyu Lake: A 20-minute drive inland, this serene alpine lake is popular for cycling the 5km loop trail, renting paddle boats, or hiking the nearby hills for panoramic views of the water and surrounding mountains. Stop at one of the lakeside street vendors for fresh pineapple cake and local tea.
• Qixingtan Beach: A 25-minute drive to the coast, this sweeping pebbly beach is known for its dramatic turquoise waters, rugged rocky outcrops, and stunning sunrises over the Pacific Ocean. It’s far less crowded than Hualien’s more touristy beaches, perfect for long sunset walks.

Travel Tips

Since the homestay only speaks Chinese, have a translation app ready to communicate with your host if you don’t speak Mandarin. Bring a portable internet hotspot or download offline maps and guides before your stay, as there is no on-site WiFi. If traveling during the summer (June to August), book at least one month in advance, as family rooms fill up quickly with domestic travelers. For an extra memorable stay, pick up fresh local pineapple and mountain tea from a nearby farm to enjoy for breakfast in the homestay’s garden.