Taroko National Park Rises Again: Reopening After Devastating Earthquake

Iconic Taiwanese Landmark Welcomes Visitors Back, Sparking Hope and Recovery

Taipei, April 3rd – A year after a powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck eastern Taiwan, shaking the nation and impacting the beloved Taroko National Park in Hualien County, signs of recovery are visible. Select portions of the park are now accessible to visitors, marking a significant step towards revitalization.

The Ministry of the Interior announced on Thursday that areas deemed structurally sound are now welcoming hikers and those seeking leisure activities. This reopening is coupled with planned events, including concerts and environmental education programs, designed to breathe life back into the region that suffered so greatly from the devastating quake.

The earthquake, which struck off the coast of Hualien on April 3, 2024, was the most intense seismic event to impact Taiwan since the devastating 921 Jiji earthquake of 1999, which measured 7.3 in magnitude. The recent earthquake resulted in 18 fatalities, over 1,100 injuries, and dealt a heavy blow to Hualien's tourism industry, a critical component of the local economy.

The accessible areas currently include the Taroko Visitor Center and areas located west of Xibao Community, such as Luoshao Community, the Guanyuan Recreation Area, and the Xiaofengkou Recreation Area. Furthermore, restoration efforts have been completed in the Taroko Terrace and Tianxiang Recreation Area.

Progress continues on other vital restoration projects. Repairs to the Dekalun Trail, the Dali-Datong Trail, the Chongde Recreation Area, and the Daqingshui Recreation Area are approaching completion, with anticipated reopening dates slated for the first half of 2025.

The Ministry noted that a substantial NT$3 billion (equivalent to US$90.6 million) has been designated for reconstruction efforts in 2024, acknowledging that significant work remains to be accomplished.