Guangfu Cycling Reading Day" Warmly Takes Place on December 7, 13-14

The 2025 Hualien Mountain-Sea Riding Journey – Guangfu Cycling & Reading Day launched with enthusiastic participation on December 7 in Guangfu Township, Hualien, drawing visitors from across Taiwan. Participants rode e-bikes through the soothing greenery of Matai’an Wetlands and the historic wooden structures of the century-old sugar factory. The itinerary was carefully designed to present local ecology and culture, weaving together the environmental wisdom of Matai’an, the resilient legends of Tabalong Tribe, and the historical heritage of the Hualien Sugar Factory into an itinerary rich with both education and emotion.

Led by professional guides, visitors entered the wetlands for a “forest breathing experience” along the wooden trail known as the Green Tunnel, witnessing nature’s quiet restoration power. One of the highlights was hands-on participation in the unique Amis fishing technique, “Palakaw,” using a three-layer trap structure of bamboo and branches. As participants lifted the trap from the water, surprises awaited like opening an “ecological mystery box,” enabling deeper understanding of the Amis philosophy of sustainable fishing: letting small fish go and keeping only what is needed.

Another key stop was the historic Hualien Tourism Sugar Factory, once known as “Shang Dahe.” Instead of simply enjoying ice creams, visitors rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on sugar-making experience, jokingly calling the process a sweet arm workout. Stirring sugar syrup to crystallization was described as “a magic moment,” with the freshly made brown sugar filling the room with aroma and crunch. Through taste, touch, visual experiences and stories, the experience transformed post-disaster revitalization into joyful travel memories.

Tourism Director Yu Ming-Xun emphasized that after the 0923 Matai’an Creek landslide lake event, Guangfu has demonstrated remarkable resilience and steady recovery of its town functions. The cycling program aims to shift tourism from simply “seeing scenery” to truly “reading the land.” Through on-site storytelling, visitors gain insight into how the Amis live with nature and coexist with water, reflecting cultural resilience crucial for facing extreme climate challenges. Yu noted that when travelers are willing to pause and listen, Guangfu’s stories continue, embodying the core spirit of sustainable tourism.

With government-supported incentives, the tour price has been reduced to NT$750. As a token of appreciation for supporting the local economy, registrants receive an exclusive limited gift package including two hot spring vouchers, “Little Rock Flower” themed pouch, fisherman hat, storage bag, travel set, and keychain. Participants praised the package as both adorable and practical. Only the final two sessions remain on December 13 and 14. Visitors across Taiwan are encouraged to seize the chance, slow their pace, and accompany Guangfu in rediscovering its everyday rhythm.

Registration & Information

Search “Guangfu Cycling & Reading Day”, visit the event page (https://reurl.cc/5bvzOq), check the Hualien Tourism website’s latest news (https://reurl.cc/NNQ4N5), or consult the Hualien AI Travel Assistant (https://hualien.travel/ai-service).