Taiwan

Nantou

Nantou

Nantou is a picturesque county located in the central part of Taiwan. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains,…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Exploring with transit or a car
  • Nature exploration travelers
  • Cultural sightseeing travelers
  • Visiting in April to October
Recommended stay
5 days
Best time
April to October
Walkability
Spread
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Nantou is a strong pick for nature exploration & cultural sightseeing — plan about 5 days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: April to October.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 90/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈117.1 km span)

50 Places to explore
5 Recommended days
April to October Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: April to October

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · June · September · November

Weather

Autumn

September to November, 20°C to 30°C

Spring

March to May, 15°C to 25°C

Summer

June to August, 25°C to 35°C

Winter

December to February, 10°C to 20°C

How to get there

How to Reach Nantou in Taiwan

Nantou is a scenic county located in the central part of Taiwan. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, tranquil lakes, and picturesque mountains. If you are planning a trip to Nantou, here are some ways to reach this beautiful destination:

By Air

The nearest airport to Nantou is Taichung International Airport. Many domestic and international flights operate to and from this airport. Upon arriving at Taichung International Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nantou, which is approximately a one-hour drive away.

By Train

If you prefer traveling by train, you can take a train to Taichung Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Taiwan. From Taichung Railway Station, you can then take a bus or hire a taxi to Nantou. The journey by road from Taichung to Nantou takes around one hour, depending on traffic conditions.

By Bus

Another convenient option to reach Nantou is by bus. There are regular bus services operating from various cities in Taiwan to Nantou. You can check the bus schedules and book your tickets in advance. The bus journey offers scenic views of the countryside, making it a pleasant way to travel to Nantou.

By Car

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can rent a car and drive to Nantou. The county is well-connected by highways, and the roads are in good condition. However, do note that driving in Taiwan requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) for foreign visitors.

By Tour Package

If you prefer a hassle-free travel experience, you can also opt for a tour package that includes transportation to Nantou. Many travel agencies offer guided tours to Nantou, which include transportation, accommodation, and sightseeing activities.

Once you reach Nantou, you can explore its famous attractions such as Sun Moon Lake, Cingjing Farm, Xitou Nature Education Area, and Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area. Nantou's natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination in Taiwan.

Getting to know Nantou

Nantou is a picturesque county located in the central part of Taiwan. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and forests. The county is surrounded by the majestic Central Mountain Range, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the most popular attractions in Nantou is Sun Moon Lake, a stunning alpine lake situated in the heart of the county. The lake is named after its shape, with one side resembling the sun and the other side resembling the moon. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains.

Nantou is also home to the famous Cingjing Farm, a high-altitude farm that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can stroll through the vast grasslands, interact with farm animals, and even try their hand at milking cows. The farm is also a great spot for stargazing, as the high elevation provides a clear view of the night sky.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Nantou is home to several challenging hiking trails. One of the most popular is the Xitou Nature Education Area, which offers a unique blend of nature and culture. The trail takes visitors through lush forests, bamboo groves, and tea plantations, providing an immersive experience in Taiwan's natural beauty.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit Sun Moon Lake for breathtaking views
  • Explore the tea plantations in Lugu
  • Try local delicacies like Sun Cakes and Bamboo Rice

Places worth exploring

50 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 5-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Nantou?

Most travelers spend about 5 days in Nantou, Taiwan.

When is the best time to visit Nantou?

High season is typically April to October.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Nantou?

Travelers often find better value in January, February, June, September, November.

What kind of trip is Nantou good for?

Nantou suits Nature exploration, Cultural sightseeing, Outdoor activities.

Is Nantou walkable?

Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.

Any local tips for Nantou?

Visit Sun Moon Lake for breathtaking views

Build your trip

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Nantou → Nantuo, China → Puli · ≈15 km
  • Nantou → Nantuo, China → Lugu · ≈24 km
  • Nantou → Nantuo, China → Zhuoshui · ≈27 km

Same vibe

Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.

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