Pine Garden

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

📍 Hualien City・Pine Garden 💰 Admission: NT$60 (Half price for students) This time in Hualien, I made a special trip to **Pine Garden**. Located on a small hill, it’s not very high, but the view is amazing. As soon as you walk up, you can see the city of Hualien and the coastline. The blue of the sea is so stunning that it leaves you momentarily speechless. 💙 🏛️ The Tranquility of an Old Building Pine Garden is a military building left from the Japanese colonial period, and the entire area exudes a nostalgic charm: wooden doors, old window frames, gray corridors, and vintage photos on display. Walking through it feels like stepping into a time warp. The building isn’t large, but it’s incredibly charming. My favorite spot is the open-air corridor on the second floor, where the sea breeze feels absolutely refreshing. 🌲 Pine Forest Trail｜A Walk with a View of the Sea The grounds are filled with tall pine trees, and sunlight filters through the branches, creating a scene reminiscent of a Japanese drama. There are plenty of seating areas among the pines where you can rest and catch glimpses of the coastline stretching into the distance. That day, the wind was gentle, the weather was perfect, and the sea breeze was truly relaxing. 🌊 Hualien’s Ocean View: An Unexpected Highlight Because Pine Garden is on a small hill, the view is more expansive than expected. You can see: ✔️ The vast, bright blue Pacific Ocean ✔️ The rooftops of Hualien City forming a continuous expanse ✔️ The outlines of distant mountain ranges ✔️ The soft hues where the sea meets the sky I originally thought it was just an old building, but the ocean view turned out to be the biggest surprise! A Small Reflection Pine Garden doesn’t take much time to explore, but it’s definitely worth adding to your Hualien itinerary. There’s no noise from crowds of tourists, just the sound of the wind and pine needles falling, accompanied by the uniquely blue ocean view that only Hualien offers. Perfect for: ✔️ An afternoon stroll ✔️ Escaping the crowds ✔️ Taking vintage-style photos ✔️ Finding peace in an old house

Amid the early winter sun and the whispering pines, the faculty, students, and alumni of Dong Hwa University's Art and Creativity Department present their works at the Pine Garden. The exhibition features ceramics, sculptures, oil paintings, and fine crafts, all infused with light and shadow, exploring the journey of light. Each piece shines like the faint glow before dawn, illuminating the heart. ❤️ 📍Exhibition Venue: Pine Garden, 2nd Floor Address: No. 65, Songyuan Street, Hualien City Time: 09:00-18:00

Pine Garden, formerly known as the Hualien Port Army Affairs Office, boasts a rich history. Its name originates from the vast century-old pine forest within the area. Even during summer, the park remains cool and refreshing, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind. Visitors can explore historical architecture, enjoy the sea-view platform, and stroll through the century-old pine forest while leisurely spending their afternoon. It's highly recommended for travelers visiting Hualien to stop by and experience this serene location. 📍Address: No. 65, Songyuan Street, Hualien City, Hualien County 🎫 Admission: NT$60 for adults 🕰️ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)

Located in Hualien, Matsuyama Villa is a historic Japanese-style building nestled on a small hill surrounded by pine trees. As I stepped into this tranquil space, I immediately felt its serene and secluded atmosphere. Once a military command post during the Japanese occupation, it has now transformed into a cultural hub that captivates visitors. 🚩Elegant Japanese Architecture and Lush Pine Forest Walking along the paths of Matsuyama Villa, you are greeted by distinctive Japanese architecture. The wooden structures and large floor-to-ceiling windows allow sunlight to pour in, casting soft and changing shadows inside. The surrounding pine forest is refreshing and pleasant, with a gentle breeze rustling the treetops, making you feel as if you are in a serene landscape painting. The architectural details here not only witness the passage of time but also provide a delightful visual experience for visitors. 👍Cultural Activities and Artistic Atmosphere In addition to the natural scenery, Matsuyama Villa regularly hosts various exhibitions and cultural activities, ranging from contemporary art to traditional crafts. Each exhibition here incorporates local culture, allowing visitors to appreciate artworks while gaining a deeper understanding of Hualien's history and customs. As a gathering place for art enthusiasts, Matsuyama Villa is undoubtedly a must-visit spot on your journey. 📍The Tranquil Charm of Matsuyama Villa After a day of exploration, I took a short break in a pavilion among the pine trees, feeling the healing power of nature. Whether you are a history buff or an art lover, the tranquility and beauty of Matsuyama Villa make it a worthwhile stop during your stay in Hualien, offering a recharge for your soul. 🔔Currently Under Renovation, Stay Tuned 🔴Travel Tips: It is recommended to take a taxi 🔵Must-Visit Attractions: Matsuyama Villa, Beibin Coast 🟡Recommended Hotels: Hualien Meilun Hotel 🟢Must-Try Foods: Huazhong Stinky Tofu, Oxiang Steak 🟠Shopping Guide: Mochi, Hualien Sweet Potatoes

Trees 🌳 are an integral part of the natural ecosystem and witnesses to history and culture. At Pine Garden, tree conservation and historical architecture coexist harmoniously, both being valuable cultural assets. The venue hosts occasional exhibitions and concerts. On May 5th, during the Dragon Boat Festival, you can enjoy a serene environment surrounded by Ryukyu pine trees, spending quality time with family and friends. 📍Address: No. 65, Songyuan Street, Hualien City Hours: 09:00-18:00