Xitou Youth Activity Center Hostel

The trails and mountains are the real draw here. I spent three nights and walked most of the campus paths, and I'd suggest setting aside at least three full days if you want to explore Xitou properly. The resort center itself isn't the beautiful part. Getting to reception takes around 30 minutes on foot after you enter through ticket booth no. 2. That makes it a poor fit for older guests or anyone who doesn't enjoy walking, unless they're arriving in their own vehicle. The location may be the main reason to choose this functional 2 Star "resort". The rooms are basic but have a roomy bathroom and down comforter. Cleanliness wasn't great, with dried insects here and there. There's a dehumidifier, though the mountain air is still humid. Breakfast is served daily at the restaurant around the corner from the check-in office, with Taiwanese and Western options. The Cafe across from the office sells coffee, tea, snacks, and souvenirs. You can get a NT$200 lunch box each day, and reserve a seven-course dinner with soup. The recently renovated Howard hotel could also be worth considering for dining and lodging. It costs about 20% more, but may be worth the extra.

I've seen plenty of complaints about the food, and I can see why. The cook doesn't seem interested in making it even OK or giving it any flavor. It's a state-run lodging compound with no competition, if you know what I mean.

A few of the rooms didn't have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, or cell reception.

The place is clean and fine for a stay.