2026 Yilan Road Trip Guide: Car Rental Recommendations, Hidden Routes, and a Leisurely Drive Through the Lanyang Plain!

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of catching trains? In 2026, consider a different way to deeply explore Yilan! Take the wheel and navigate the Lanyang Plain at your own pace, from the azure coastline to serene mountain forests. This comprehensive driving guide will help you uncover those hidden gems that are difficult to reach by public transport!

If you want to truly experience the vastness and leisure of Yilan, driving yourself is undoubtedly the best option! From winding mountain paths to coastal highways, a good vehicle can take you to explore surprises that aren’t found in travel guides. Whether you prefer a highly mobile scooter or a comfortable car, you can easily arrange rentals at major transportation hubs in Yilan.

Whether you arrive by train at Yilan, Luodong, or Jiaoxi stations, you can easily find a reliable travel companion right outside the station! If you're looking to experience the thrill of speeding through the fields, Chang Cheng Car Rental, which boasts near-perfect Google reviews, is a top recommendation for those seeking motorcycle rentals in Yilan. For a more comfortable drive with family and friends, international brands like AVIS and Hertz, as well as well-rated local options such as Good Car Rental and Spring Holiday, offer a wide range of choices from economical cars to spacious SUVs, enriching your list of recommended car rentals in Yilan. Some shops even support renting a car in one location and returning it in another, providing maximum flexibility for your itinerary!

In the bustling town of Luodong, Li Xiang Car Rental and Da Bo United Car Rental are trusted favorites among locals. Their friendly service and reasonable prices ensure that your journey starts on a positive note! If you're curious about motorcycle rental prices in Yilan, feel free to ask the shop directly, as they usually have a publicly available price list for reference.

Renting a car involves more than just picking up the keys; paying attention to a few details can make your journey much safer and smoother!

• Prepare Your Documents: Domestic travelers should bring their driver's license and identification; international guests, don't forget your passport and a valid international driving permit!
• Channel Your Inner Detective to Check the Car's Condition: Take five minutes to walk around the vehicle when picking it up, and use your phone to record the car's condition, especially any existing scratches. This can help avoid disputes when returning the car, allowing you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind!
• Understand the Insurance and Contract: Make sure the rental agreement includes basic mandatory insurance, third-party liability insurance, and other protections. Read the contract carefully to understand details like late fees and ensure there are no hidden charges.
• Ask About the Car's Fuel Requirements: Before refueling, confirm with the rental agency whether the vehicle requires 92, 95, or 98 unleaded gasoline, or diesel. Using the wrong fuel can lead to serious issues!

With transportation sorted out, it's time to dive into the most exciting part: planning your itinerary! I've curated three distinct self-driving routes that cater to various tastes. Whether you're a food lover, an artsy soul, or an outdoor enthusiast, there's a perfect adventure waiting for you.

This route is filled with sunshine, waves, and incredibly fresh seafood, capturing the essence of summer!

• Tou Cheng Old Street Delicacies: Let’s kick off the journey at Tou Cheng Old Street, where you can indulge in traditional flavors! This area is not a bustling tourist spot but a lively local scene. Venture into the alleys and enjoy a bowl of thick and hearty rice noodle soup, paired with chewy noodles that warm both the heart and stomach! Of course, you cannot miss the allure of Yilan's scallion pancakes! Whether it’s the hand-rolled scallion pancakes from the breakfast shops in Tou Cheng or the legendary fried egg scallion pancakes from Tou Cheng Station, the golden crispy exterior with a gooey, runny yolk inside is the perfect way to start your holiday!
• Wai'ao Beach Waves: Continuing along the coastline, the distant Turtle Island becomes increasingly clearer. At Wai'ao Beach, you can do nothing but enjoy the warmth of the sand beneath your feet and the refreshing coolness of the sea. Want to challenge yourself? The Extreme Surfing Club has professional instructors ready to help you ride the waves, and even beginners can experience the thrill of standing on a surfboard! Remember to make a reservation during peak season to ensure you have a board to ride!
• Wushi Harbor Seafood Feast: After a day of fun, treat yourself to the freshest seafood at Wushi Harbor! I personally recommend Happiness No. 36 Seafood Restaurant, where the catch of the day is delivered directly from their own fishing boats. The freshness is undeniable, and the prices are very reasonable. Order a table full of dishes and enjoy a satisfying seafood feast!

As you drive into Yilan City, time seems to slow down. Here, the hustle and bustle of big cities is absent, replaced by a rich tapestry of history and cultural depth waiting to be savored.

• Yilan Government Memorial Hall and Literature Museum: At the Yilan Government Memorial Hall, a century-old residence that beautifully blends Japanese and Western architectural styles, every wooden floorboard and windowpane tells a story from Lanyang's past. Next door, the Yilan Literature Museum serves as a tranquil retreat. Sipping tea on tatami mats while being enveloped in the fragrance of cedar and the allure of words is a truly luxurious experience!
• Lanyang Museum: This architectural marvel that seems to "grow" from the landscape is a work of art in itself! The design of Lanyang Museum is inspired by the single-sided mountain, featuring slanted walls and reflective water surfaces, making it a photographer's paradise from every angle! Inside, the layout that mimics mountains, plains, and seas vividly showcases Yilan's natural and cultural heritage, making it a perfect destination for a fun and educational exploration with children.

If you're looking to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle, head into the mountains! As you drive along Provincial Highway 7, the scenery outside transforms from flat plains to lush forests, and the air becomes refreshingly crisp.

• Qilan Forest Recreation Area: Here, you can take deep breaths of phytoncides along the forest trails, with the sounds of birds providing the perfect background music. Walking on the Little Taishan Forest Bathing Trail, you can feel the sunlight filtering through the leaves, healing both body and mind!
• Mingchi National Forest Recreation Area: Known as the "Pearl of the Northern Cross," this title is truly deserved! The high mountain lake shrouded in mist is as beautiful as a flowing landscape painting. Strolling along the lakeside, watching the green-headed ducks and mandarin ducks swim leisurely, all your worries seem to dissipate. Visiting in spring or autumn allows you to witness the most stunning blooms and vibrant fall colors, making it hard to leave!

After a day filled with exciting activities, it's time to unwind in a comfortable place! Yilan offers a variety of options, from the steaming hot spring resorts in Jiaoxi to the hidden gem of the cold and hot spring resort at Longshanlin in Su'ao. You can also choose from uniquely designed guesthouses, such as a charming French-style castle or the exclusive Antilia Villa. There’s always a perfect spot for you to enjoy a restful night’s sleep, recharging you for the adventures that await the next day!

Before leaving Yilan, don’t forget to take home some delicious memories! In addition to the classic milk cream rolls and beef tongue cakes, I highly recommend the local favorite, Sanyuan Delicacies. Their duck breast is savory and flavorful, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal! Also, try the mouthwatering explosion buns from Yizhenxiang; whether enjoyed hot or chilled, they offer a delightful taste experience. The adorable Turtle Island turtle-shaped cakes are made with quality ingredients, making them a charming gift or treat for yourself!

If you want to discover more wonderful places in Yilan, check out this article on Six Must-Visit Attractions in Yilan During Winter, as there are plenty of exciting options to explore in the winter! If you’re traveling with kids, consider visiting Grandma Zhang’s Capybara Farm, which is also a fantastic choice. Yilan in 2026 is waiting for you to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re captivated by the azure sea, lush mountains, or the cultural essence of the old streets, hop in your car, start the engine, and let the most thrilling stories of Lanyang begin the moment you turn the steering wheel!

Yilan Car Rental: Yilan Day Tour by Private Car: Grandma Zhang / Qingshui Geothermal / Jiaoxi Hot Springs / Kavalan Distillery (Departing from Taipei)
Taipingshan Tickets: Tickets for Yilan Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area
Lanyang Museum: Tickets for Yilan Lanyang Museum