Hualien Transfer Station's Tourist Information Center Opens, Offering Free Electric-Assist Cargo Bikes for Rent

(CNA, Reporter Chang Chi, Hualien County, July 2nd) Hualien Transfer Station's "Tourist Information Center" was unveiled today. In addition to providing luggage consignment and storage, it now offers one-stop services including ticketing, tour reservations, and shuttle reservations for hiking trails. For the first time, electric-assist cargo bikes are available for free rental, allowing tourists to travel with their luggage or pets.

Hualien Transfer Station is located in front of Hualien Station of the Taiwan Railways Administration and serves as a hub for county buses, intercity buses to Taipei City and Taitung County, and "Taiwan Tourist Shuttle" routes.

Deng Tzu-yu, Director of the Hualien County Government's Construction Department, stated that "traveling light" initially focused on a "separation of people and luggage" model. The new version 2.0 adds "integration of people and luggage," providing electric-assist cargo bikes to easily transport luggage. A unified "Tourist Information Center" service desk has also been established.

Lai Liang-bin, CEO of Raymon Data Service, which operates Hualien Transfer Station, observed that in the past, many tourists were hesitant to directly consign luggage to accommodations due to concerns about valuable items and the additional shipping fees, leading to low usage. Most tourists opted to store their luggage at the transfer station and retrieve it after their trip.

Lai Liang-bin explained that this "traveling light 2.0" initiative, in conjunction with an Economic部 (Ministry of Economic Affairs) project, has introduced 60 electric-assist cargo bikes and 20 women's bikes at the transfer station. The front cargo baskets can bear up to 100 kilograms, suitable for luggage or pet carriers, allowing tourists to easily embark on their journeys with their belongings.

He added that the electric-assist cargo bikes are free to rent; only accident insurance is required, with coverage duration matching the rental period. Rentals can be made on-site or booked online. A fully charged battery can travel 70 kilometers, and the battery can be removed and charged in the hotel room. The number of bikes will be increased based on rental demand.

Furthermore, Hualien Transfer Station, inspired by Japan, has established a "Tourist Information Center" offering multilingual services. It integrates luggage consignment, ticketing, tour reservations, and shuttle reservations for hiking trails. On-site stalls also feature quality local souvenirs and accommodation information.

Lai Liang-bin announced that to celebrate the service upgrade, a promotion is being offered from now until July 31st: the first 30 minutes of mobile power bank rental are free, followed by NT$19 per hour with a daily maximum of 4 hours. Smart lockers are discounted from the original price of NT$70 to NT$50. This promotion will be extended until September 30th, rewarding travelers who prefer to pack light and explore at a leisurely pace. (Editor: Yang Sheng-ru) 1150702

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