3 Days 2 Nights Trip to Yilan for a Family with a 7-Year-Old Kid
Yilan, a charming county in northeastern Taiwan, offers a perfect destination for a family trip. With its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting activities, Yilan promises an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary, local cuisine recommendations, accommodation options, transportation suggestions, packing list, budget considerations, language and cultural etiquette tips, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and frequently asked questions. So, get ready to embark on a memorable adventure in Yilan!
Destination Highlights π
- Family-friendly attractions
- Beautiful natural landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage
- Exciting outdoor activities
Suggested Itinerary πΊοΈ
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yilan Night Market | National Center for Traditional Arts | Luodong Forestry Culture Park |
| 2 | Jiaoxi Hot Springs | Yilan Sports Park | Dongshan River Water Park |
| 3 | Jimmy Park | Lanyang Museum | Yilan Dongmen Night Market |
Day 1
Morning
- Explore the vibrant Yilan Night Market and indulge in local street food delights.
- Visit the National Center for Traditional Arts and immerse yourself in traditional Taiwanese culture.
Afternoon
- Discover the Luodong Forestry Culture Park and learn about the region's forestry history.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park's beautiful gardens and admire the unique wooden sculptures.
Evening
- Experience the lively atmosphere of Luodong Night Market and savor delicious local snacks.
- Engage in fun games and activities at the night market's game stalls.
Day 2
Morning
- Relax and rejuvenate at the Jiaoxi Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic properties.
- Enjoy a soothing hot spring bath and let the natural minerals work their magic.
Afternoon
- Visit the Yilan Sports Park and engage in various outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, or playing ball games.
- Take a leisurely walk around the park's scenic trails and enjoy the fresh air.
Evening
- Cool off at the Dongshan River Water Park, where you can swim, slide, and have a splashing good time.
- Enjoy a picnic by the riverbank and soak in the beautiful surroundings.
Day 3
Morning
- Spend a relaxing morning at Jimmy Park, a charming park inspired by the famous Taiwanese illustrator Jimmy Liao.
- Admire the whimsical sculptures and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Afternoon
- Visit the Lanyang Museum and learn about the history, culture, and ecology of the Yilan region.
- Explore the museum's interactive exhibits and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area from the rooftop.
Evening
- Conclude your trip with a visit to the Yilan Dongmen Night Market, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street food.
- Try local specialties such as scallion pancakes, oyster omelets, and bubble tea.
Realistic Time Management β°
Here is a detailed hourly schedule per activity with estimated travel time based on location proximity:
Day 1:
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Yilan Night Market (estimated travel time: 0 minutes)
- 12:00 PM: Depart for the National Center for Traditional Arts (estimated travel time: 30 minutes)
- 2:00 PM: Depart for Luodong Forestry Culture Park (estimated travel time: 20 minutes)
Day 2:
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Jiaoxi Hot Springs (estimated travel time: 30 minutes)
- 12:00 PM: Depart for Yilan Sports Park (estimated travel time: 20 minutes)
- 2:00 PM: Depart for Dongshan River Water Park (estimated travel time: 30 minutes)
Day 3:
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Jimmy Park (estimated travel time: 0 minutes)
- 12:00 PM: Depart for Lanyang Museum (estimated travel time: 20 minutes)
- 2:00 PM: Depart for Yilan Dongmen Night Market (estimated travel time: 30 minutes)
Local Cuisine π½οΈ
- Famous local food: Scallion pancakes, oyster omelets, bubble tea
- Recommended restaurants:
- Yilan Station Homestay: Enjoy authentic Taiwanese dishes in a cozy homestay setting.
- Yilan Old House Homestay: Indulge in traditional Yilan cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients.
- Yilan Happy Farm Homestay: Experience farm-to-table dining with organic produce and homemade specialties.
Accommodation Recommendations π¨
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Budget:
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Mid-range:
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Luxury:
How to Get There and Away π
- By car: Yilan is easily accessible by car from Taipei, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- By train: Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Yilan Station, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- By bus: Several bus companies operate direct routes from Taipei to Yilan, with a travel time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Comprehensive Packing List π
- Clothing: Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Footwear: Walking shoes, sandals, flip-flops
- Electronics: Camera, portable charger, travel adapter
- Miscellaneous: Umbrella, insect repellent, first aid kit, reusable water bottle
Budget Consideration π°
a. The standard cost of living per person per day in Yilan is approximately $50 to $100, depending on your lifestyle and dining preferences. It is advisable to plan a budget of at least $100 per day for a comfortable experience.
b. Relevant costs from the suggested itinerary (excluding accommodation):
- Yilan Night Market street food: $10-20
- National Center for Traditional Arts entrance fee: $5-10
- Luodong Forestry Culture Park entrance fee: $5-10
- Jiaoxi Hot Springs admission fee: $10-20
- Dongshan River Water Park admission fee: $10-20
- Lanyang Museum entrance fee: $5-10
- Yilan Dongmen Night Market street food: $10-20
c. Tips for saving money:
- Opt for local street food and small eateries instead of high-end restaurants.
- Take advantage of free attractions and public parks.
- Use public transportation or rent bicycles for short-distance travel.
Language and Cultural Etiquette π£οΈπ
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to communicate with locals.
- It is customary to greet people with a slight bow or a handshake.
- Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain establishments.
- Respect local customs and traditions, such as not pointing with your finger and avoiding public displays of affection.
Some Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences πΏ
- Explore the stunning Taiping Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Yilan from the mountaintop.
- Visit the Yilan Distillery and learn about the production process of Taiwan's famous Kavalan whiskey.
- Take a leisurely bike ride along the Dongshan River Bikeway and admire the picturesque scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions β
Q: When is the best time to visit Yilan? A: The best time to visit Yilan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
Q: Are there any kid-friendly attractions in Yilan? A: Yes, Yilan offers several kid-friendly attractions such as the Yilan Sports Park, Dongshan River Water Park, and Jimmy Park.
Q: Can I visit Yilan on a day trip from Taipei? A: Yes, it is possible to visit Yilan on a day trip from Taipei. However, to fully experience the beauty and attractions of Yilan, it is recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days.
Conclusion π
Yilan, with its family-friendly attractions, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is the perfect destination for a memorable trip with your 7-year-old kid. Follow our suggested itinerary, indulge in local cuisine, choose the perfect accommodation, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Start planning your adventure in Yilan today and create lifelong memories!
π₯ For more inspiration, check out these videos of Yilan:
