Things To Do
in Nantou
Nantou is a picturesque county located in central Taiwan, not in China. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear lakes, lush mountains, and serene tea plantations. The area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating.
Nantou is also home to the famous Sun Moon Lake, a tranquil body of water surrounded by verdant hills.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic boat tour on Sun Moon Lake for breathtaking views. After the boat ride, visit the iconic Wenwu Temple to appreciate its intricate architecture.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a lakeside restaurant, savoring local cuisine. In the afternoon, rent a bike and explore the picturesque lakeside cycling path.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the lakeshore and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Conclude your day with dinner at a nearby night market for local delicacies.
Begin your morning with a hike in Aowanda National Forest. The lush surroundings and fresh air will energize your spirit.
After your hike, have a picnic lunch amidst the stunning nature. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or exploring the colorful maple trees.
As dusk falls, relax in one of the forest's observation areas. Enjoy dinner at a nearby resort that offers traditional Taiwanese dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful mountainous landscapes and natural scenery
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional customs
- Pleasant climate, especially in the autumn and spring
- Home to various tea plantations, known for high-quality Oolong tea
- Famous for its tourist attractions such as Sun Moon Lake and the Musuem of Misty Mountain
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Can be quite crowded with tourists during peak seasons
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure
- Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers
- Economic opportunities may be less varied than in larger urban centers
Best Activities in Nantou
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the beautiful Sun Moon Lake for boating, cycling around the lake, and enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Explore the Aowanda Forest Recreation Area for hiking trails, birdwatching, and enjoying the lush natural surroundings.
Experience tea tasting and enjoy the picturesque landscape at Cingjing Farm, known for its sprawling green hills and tea plantations.
Places to Visit in Nantou
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its scenic beauty and photo opportunities
Offers panoramic views of lush greenery and mountains
Provides stunning natural landscapes and photo opportunities
Food in Nantou
Nantou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful assortment of braised meats, tofu, and vegetables, simmered in a fragrant soy-based broth. Best enjoyed at local street-side stalls or night markets such as Zhongxiao Night Market.
Must-Try!
A delicious glutinous rice dumpling filled with pork, bamboo shoots, and shiitake mushrooms, served with a sweet and savory sauce. Look for this iconic snack at Xiangshan Visitor Center or street vendors in Puli town.
Soft, chewy rice cakes filled with various flavors such as red bean paste, peanuts, or sesame. Sample delectable mochi at local traditional teahouses like Chun Hui Tang Tea House.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An eclectic array of street food, from grilled skewers and ba-wan to bubble tea and fresh fruit desserts, awaits at this bustling night market, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.
Frequented by both locals and tourists, this area offers a wide selection of freshly grilled seafood and regional delicacies amidst the picturesque views of Sun Moon Lake.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nantou, China, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper titles and demonstrating deference in interactions and social settings.
When dining in Nantou, it is customary to observe proper table manners, such as waiting for the host to start eating before beginning, and using chopsticks appropriately.
It's important to understand and respect personal space in social interactions in Nantou, China, and avoid behaviors that may invade someone else's personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Nantou
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nantou, China, tipping is not a common practice in most establishments. It is not expected or customary to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or for various services.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Nantou, China, especially in smaller establishments. However, in larger hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, credit and debit cards are also accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly popular for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nantou, China. Temperatures are mild and cherry blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful landscape.
Summer brings warm temperatures and occasional rain. It is a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the area's natural beauty.
Autumn is another great time to visit Nantou. The weather is pleasant, and the changing foliage provides a stunning backdrop for sightseeing.
Winter can be cold, especially at higher elevations. However, it is a great time to experience the winter festivals and enjoy hot springs in the area.
Nantou at Night
Hiking in Nantou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hehuan Mountain, located in the Taroko National Park, is one of the highest peaks in Taiwan. It offers several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Xitou Monster Village is known for its picturesque trails, which weave through forests filled with giant trees. This area also features a beautiful lake and various themed paths perfect for hiking.
The Sun Moon Lake area offers a variety of hiking trails around the scenic lake, with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural sites along the way.
Aowanda features a rich diversity of flora and fauna, with trails that take you through lush forests and alongside beautiful streams and waterfalls.
This area offers hiking trails through scenic mountain landscapes and hot springs, making it a great place for relaxation and exploration.
Aiports
How to reach Nantou by plane.
The nearest major airport to Nantou, located approximately 50 km away, serving both domestic and international flights.
The largest international airport in Taiwan, located about 150 km from Nantou, offering a wide range of international flights.
Another major international airport, situated around 220 km from Nantou, serving numerous domestic and international destinations.
A smaller airport located approximately 190 km from Nantou, primarily serving domestic flights with some international connections.
Located about 150 km from Nantou, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but has limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Nantou, comprising over 90% of the population, typically engaged in various economic activities.
Indigenous groups such as the Seediq and Atayal, representing a small but significant portion of the population, often involved in traditional practices and cultural preservation.
A subgroup of Han Chinese who have a distinct culture and language, they make up a smaller percentage of the population and are known for their unique traditions.
Includes small numbers of ethnic groups such as the Pingpu, and others, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular among the youth in Nantou, with many local courts and school teams.
Badminton is widely played in Nantou, both recreationally and competitively, with many clubs and tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Nantou, with many community leagues and schools participating in the sport.
Table tennis is a favored sport in Nantou, with various facilities and a strong culture of play.
Running events and marathons are commonly organized in Nantou, promoting fitness and community participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nantou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries and restaurants in Nantou provide vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with the Lakeside Teahouse offering an exquisite selection of plant-based dishes and teas.
While gluten-free options may be limited in some traditional dishes, modern cafes and international restaurants in Nantou often cater to gluten-free diets, especially around the Sun Moon Lake area.