The April 2024 earthquake dealt a severe blow to Hualien County's tourism industry, causing significant damage to key attractions and eroding visitor confidence. Most notably, Taroko Gorge, a major draw for tourists, is estimated to be closed for 6 months to a year1. The seismic event and its over 1,500 aftershocks have led to mass cancellations, with hotel occupancy rates plummeting to a dismal 5% in the immediate aftermath1. Local officials project that a full recovery to pre-quake tourism levels could take between five to ten years, highlighting the long-term impact of this natural disaster on the region's ability to attract and accommodate visitors1.

The earthquake severely damaged critical infrastructure, particularly the road connecting Hualien to Taipei, significantly complicating access to the county.1 While the road remains partially functional at specific times, the damage has taken a toll on visitor numbers. Approximately 70% of tourists typically reach Hualien from northern Taiwan, making this route crucial for the region's tourism.1 Although alternative transportation options like trains and planes are still available, the compromised road infrastructure presents a substantial hurdle for Hualien's efforts to attract visitors and improve its tourist destinations.

The earthquake's impact on Hualien's tourism industry has had far-reaching economic consequences for local businesses. Hotel occupancy rates have plummeted, with the Hualien Hotel Association reporting a drop to just 5-8% during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, compared to over 50% in previous years. This decline has forced 10 hotels to permanently close, while 22 others have temporarily shut down for repairs, resulting in 300 job losses in the hospitality sector alone.

The ripple effects extend beyond tourism-dependent businesses, affecting markets and vendors who rely on local spending. A fish vendor at the town's wet market reported a significant drop in sales, illustrating how the tourism downturn impacts the broader local economy. These economic challenges underscore the urgent need for effective recovery strategies to revitalize Hualien's business landscape and support its tourism-dependent communities.

Long-standing developmental disparities between Taiwan's west and east coasts have contributed to Hualien County's challenges in improving its tourism sector1. This pre-existing gap has likely hindered the region's ability to develop new attractions or enhance existing ones, even before the recent earthquake. The county's heavy reliance on natural attractions, particularly Taroko Gorge, has left it vulnerable to setbacks when these sites are inaccessible. With limited resources and a reduced workforce due to business closures and job losses in the hospitality sector, Hualien faces significant obstacles in diversifying its tourism offerings and creating new destinations that can match the appeal of its renowned natural beauty2.