Shihtiping: Taiwan’s Coastal Spectacular

January 1, 2023 January 9, 2023
danielpmode
Hualien
Amis, Hualien, hualien attractions, Shihtiping, Taiwan

Shihtiping

Taiwan’s Coastal Spectacular

At first glance, the word Shihtiping (Shi-tee-ping) may invoke chuckles from those English speakers among us, and yet in the language of the locals, the name perfectly describes the spectacular landscape of this stretch of mesmerizing Eastern Taiwan coastline. Meaning “stone steps” in Mandarin, millions of years of natural erosion and massive tectonic upheaval along the seacoast have created exactly that. A stunning natural stone staircase, rising to the sky and descending down into the azure sea below.

In this magical place where nature has created such amazing scenery, life thrives. Both in the abundant sea creatures in Shihtiping’s tidal pools and coral reefs, but also in the Amis tribespeople who live a traditional Taiwanese lifestyle in rustic villages along this enchanting shoreline. This is Shihtiping.

What is Shihtiping?

One of Many things to do in hualien, a Taroko Gorge Tour in Hualien, Hualien Tour of Taroko Gorge National Park Shihtiping

Shihtiping is a geologically unique coastal region in the Eastern part of Taiwan that has remained well preserved and culturally traditional, despite recent tourist interest. This Hualien County must-see consists of a sprawling geologic nature park, a vast marine preserve, a quaint village, a fishing harbor, and clusters of fisherman’s homes along the coastline. The people who live in this area are primarily of the indigenous Amis tribe, and most of them make a living as fishermen or craftsmen. Smoked flying fish is one of many delicious local specialties of the area and can be had at several haunts along the shore.

What to do in Hualien? Check out these Hualien attractions: Hualien East Coast Tour with Shihtiping

While there, curious visitors can witness the grandiose sweeping scenery, while taking in the everyday life of Shihtiping area residents as they go about their daily lives; a weather-worn fisherman praying silently for a good catch as he walks along the beach, a woman sweeping out her house, children laughing and splashing in the shallows. Although the modern world has rolled in on tour buses over the years, traditional life still goes on in this misty coastal enclave.

Geology of Shihtiping

Shihtiping is both a place of geologic curiosities and picturesque natural beauty. The settled area outside of the park lies on a green plateau between rolling verdant mountains and the sea, where the rich volcanic soil has created the perfect environment for a lush, green landscape.

The natural stone steps meanwhile are a result of ages of erosion in the limestone and the continued collision of the Eurasian Tectonic Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate. The same erosive processes have created innumerable tidal pools and bizarre crater-like holes along the coast. This is the perfect environment for coral reef and marine life, drawing anglers, divers and scientists alike to the area.

There are few places in the world that boast such magnificent views and striking scenery. Gaze along the horizon to the point where the mountains meet the sea for a view unlike anything you’ve ever imagined.

Visiting Shihtiping

Island Life Taiwan leads awesome tours to Shihtiping as part the very popular East Coast Explorer tour. Tasting local delicacies, visiting beaches and hidden spots, and of course spending a good amount of free time exploring beautiful Shihtiping!

CHECK OUT OUR EPIC EAST COAST EXPLORER TOUR!

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About Island Life Taiwan

Based in Hualien, Taiwan (adjacent to Taroko Gorge National Park), Island Life Taiwan designs all of our unique daily itineraries to help you discover the rich natural beauty and culture of Taiwan, in the most enjoyable, and most immersive way possible. We’re dedicated to showing you the most amazing locations in eastern Taiwan, while having the most fun and avoiding the crowds. More than just a tour operator and adventure outfitter, our team truly loves showing this awe-inspiring part of the world to our guests, and when you love what you do, it shows.

So what are you waiting for? Contact us and let us help you pick the tour or adventure that’s right for you!

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Taiwan Coronavirus Update

Taroko Gorge Tour in Hualien, Hualien Tour of Taroko Park

Taiwan Coronavirus Update

Traveling During Covid-19: A Taiwan Guide

In a typical year, Taiwan is an exciting destination in Asia to visit. Its city’s beautiful skylines, night markets, natural beauty, temples, quirky cafés, and museums draw in visitors worldwide. Taiwan is a destination that everyone should experience at least once.

However, the past few years have not been typical travel years. COVID-19 has impacted travel across the globe. Quarantines, closures, and restrictions have become the new norm in almost every country. Health advice about COVID-19 in continually changing, but we’ve got the latest information for you.

So, what about Taiwan?

If you’re interested in visiting there, stay tuned. This article will provide an overview of everything you need to know about traveling to Taiwan and COVID-19.

Is It Safe To Visit Taiwan During Covid-19?

Taiwan is one of the most secure places in the world when it comes to COVID-19. The island has done better at curbing COVID-19 than almost any other nation in the world. There have been a total of 9 million COVID-19 cases in Taiwan as of January 6, 2023, with 15,455 deaths from the pandemic.

COVID-19 CASES IN TAIWAN

As of January 5, 2023, there have only been 9,007,371 confirmed COVID-19 cases throughout the pandemic. 8,547,547 of these people have recovered from the coronavirus.

VACCINE

Taiwan began vaccinating its residents in March of 2021. Taiwan has administered 64,721,772 vaccines as of January 6, 2023. Roughly 91% of the country’s population is now vaccinated.

General COVID-19 Regulations In Taiwan

As of December 5, 2022, the Central Epidemic Command Center announced that, due to the increase in the number of inbound travelers, it plans to adjust the eligibility criteria for the government’s program to cover the medical expenses of people diagnosed with COVID-19 during their isolation period (based on the nationality/National Health Insurance status at the time of diagnosis). The adjustments about eligibility will take effect on January 1, 2023.

The government will cover medical expenses related to isolation and treatment of R.O.C. nationals, non-R.O.C. nationals that are enrolled in the NHI program, and employed foreign nationals in Taiwan during their isolation period.

Non-R.O.C. nationals not enrolled in the NHI program will not need to pay their medical expenses during their isolation period if they are diagnosed with COVID-19 in Taiwan.

Taiwan has lifted the face mask mandate for outdoor settings. However, you should still wear a mask if you experience COVID-like symptoms or when social distancing isn’t possible.

WHO CAN ENTER

As of January 6, 2023, if you’re entering Taiwan on a direct flight from China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau), you must take a saliva-based PCR test on arrival at the airport.

From January 6 on, if you’re flying from China to Taiwan (including from China to Taiwan transiting through Hong Kong and Macau), you must also present a PCR test taken within 48 hours before boarding your flight or a rapid antigen test (RAT) taken within 24 hours before boarding.

If you test negative, you can go to your accommodation for 7 days of Self-initiated Epidemic Prevention. If you test positive, you’ll need to isolate and practice self-health management until you test negative, or 7 days have passed since the last day of your isolation period.

If you’re traveling from locations other than China, you don’t have to do any testing or quarantine, but you will need to undertake 7 days of Self-initiated Epidemic Prevention. The Self-initiated Epidemic Prevention period can take place in a private residence, provided it meets the criteria.

ISOLATION PERIOD

As of January 6, 2023, Taiwan still requires any visitors to the country to do a 7-day self-initiated epidemic prevention. This self-initiated prevention can take place in a home or a residence of a friend or family member that meets the requirement of the one person per room. This rule means you should have a separate bathroom for the self-initiated prevention.

If a residence for quarantine fails to meet the requirement of one person per room, the arrival can stay at a quarantine hotel but cannot stay at a general hotel.

Tourism In Taiwan During COVID-19

Within the country, people are free to move about with little to no restrictions and no curfews. Masks are no longer required in public spaces and the tourist experience is intact for those living in Taiwan.

TRANSPORTATION

Flights are still running between Taiwan and many international destinations. There are no restrictions on public transportation within the country, and everything is operating on its regular schedule.

TOURS/TOUR SITES

Many tours and tourist destinations are still operating in Taiwan with increased safety measures. These protocols include masks and social distancing.

RESTAURANTS

Dining, restaurants, night markets, and street food are open for business. Many places look like they did pre-COVID. There are robust options for those looking to dine out in Taiwan.

NIGHTLIFE

Taiwan still has nightlife and celebrations. Most recently, the island held numerous Lunar New Year celebrations. Taiwan even successfully held a famous EDM music festival, ULTRA Taiwan, last November.

Interested In Visiting Us In Taiwan?

Awesome! We can’t wait for you to join us!

Why not go ahead and start planning your trip? Take a look at all of our wonderful tours in the greater Hualien area, and feel free to contact us with any questions whatsoever.

Want to go ahead and reserve your spot? No problem! If you’re dates change, we’re happy to change your reservation at no cost. We’re here to help any way we can. That’s the Island Life Way!

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