Marble canyon walls on Taiwan's east coast
Taroko National Park takes in a deep gorge cut through marble by the Liwu River, with sheer walls, shrines and trails clinging to the cliffs. Short walks such as the Swallow Grotto and Shakadang trails show off the marble and turquoise water, while the Eternal Spring Shrine sits beside a waterfall. Hualien, the nearest city, is the base. The area is prone to earthquakes and landslides, and trails are sometimes closed, so check the park's current status before you go.