An Afternoon Journey Through Japanese History: A Half-Day Stroll in Hualien City

Hualien in the afternoon, with its gentle sunlight, is the perfect time for a nostalgic walk. I planned a half-day trip that feels like traveling back in time, starting at Songyuan Villa and slowly immersing myself in the Japanese historical charm of Hualien. The first stop is Songyuan Villa, perched on a small hill. Once a resting place for Japanese military officers, it is surrounded by old pine trees and features elegant architecture. From the second-floor platform, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and Hualien Port, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. Next, I visited the Hualien Port Broadcasting Station, a building constructed in 1944 during the Japanese occupation. Now transformed into an art exhibition space, its simple exterior and retro recording studio seem to echo the broadcasts of the past. The final stop is the Hualien General's Residence, often referred to as "Little Kyoto of Hualien." The wooden old house and tatami rooms exude a Showa-era ambiance. Today, it combines cultural creativity with dining, making it the perfect place to sit down and enjoy a bowl of Japanese-style dessert as a delightful conclusion. This small trip is not just about visiting attractions; it feels more like a quiet dialogue with the past. --- Location Check-ins: Songyuan Villa｜No. 65, Songyuan Street, Hualien City Hualien Port Broadcasting Station｜No. 69, Songyuan Street, Hualien City Hualien General's Residence｜No. 12, Minquan 9th Street, Hualien City