Things To Do
in Nantou
Nantou is a beautiful county located in the central part of Taiwan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and serene surroundings. The region is home to several picturesque lakes, including Sun Moon Lake, which is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. Nantou is also famous for its tea plantations, producing some of the finest teas in Taiwan.
Visitors can also explore the lush green mountains and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching in Nantou.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic boat tour of Sun Moon Lake to enjoy the breathtaking views. After the boat ride, visit the iconic Wenwu Temple for some cultural insights.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a lakeside café, savoring local delicacies. Spend the afternoon cycling around the lake on the dedicated bike paths.
In the evening, indulge in the local night market food offerings. Relax by the lake and watch the sunset for a perfect end to your day.
Begin your day early with a drive to Hehuanshan for breathtaking mountain views. Take a leisurely hike on one of the several trails available.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon capturing photos of the stunning scenery.
Head back to your accommodation and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Wind down with a quiet evening reflecting on the day's adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural scenery, including mountains, lakes, and lush forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with various historic temples and indigenous tribes.
- Popular tourist attractions like Sun Moon Lake and Hehuanshan.
- Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports.
- Famous for its tea production, particularly oolong tea.
- Mild climate, making it a pleasant place to visit year-round.
- Limited public transportation options compared to major cities like Taipei.
- Tourist areas can become crowded, especially during holidays and peak seasons.
- English may not be widely spoken, posing challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Fewer urban amenities and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- In some areas, infrastructure can be less developed and maintained.
Best Activities in Nantou
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy boating, cycling, and hiking around the beautiful Sun Moon Lake, a popular tourist destination in Nantou.
Explore the stunning mountain trails in Nantou, including Hehuanshan and Xitou Nature Education Area, offering amazing views and nature experiences.
Experience the scenic beauty of Nantou by cycling through the countryside, along Sun Moon Lake, or on dedicated cycling paths.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nantou with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nantou
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, with picturesque landscapes and serene surroundings for photography.
Boasts sweeping grasslands, beautiful flowers, and a chance to interact with sheep, providing unique photo opportunities.
Known for its lush greenery, suspension bridge, and tranquil streams, creating a picturesque environment for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Nantou
Nantou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender strips of wild boar stir-fried with flavorful local spices and served with steamed rice. A must-try at Shuili Market.
Must-Try!
A popular pastry with a flaky crust and rich, sweet filling made from malt sugar. Don't miss the renowned Sun Cake at Sun Moon Lake.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nantou better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the monastery for an extensive vegetarian buffet featuring a variety of fresh and flavorful plant-based dishes.
Explore the bustling night market for an array of delectable street food, including stinky tofu, barbecued skewers, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nantou, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language, deference, and attentiveness to their needs.
When dining in Nantou, it is customary to wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating, and to use chopsticks and a spoon for meals.
When visiting temples in Nantou, it is important to show respect by speaking softly, removing shoes before entering, and refraining from taking photos of worshippers without permission.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nantou with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nantou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not generally expected in Nantou, Taiwan. It is not a common practice in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, in some tourist areas or upscale establishments, a 10% service charge may be added to the bill, in which case tipping is not necessary.
In Nantou, Taiwan, cash is widely used for most transactions, especially in traditional markets and smaller shops. However, major credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, hotels, and restaurants catering to tourists. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and to inquire about payment options in advance when making reservations or purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nantou.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nantou for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. Expect blooming flowers and popular outdoor activities.
Warm and humid weather with occasional rain. Best time for water activities and exploring the natural scenery.
Cool, refreshing weather with beautiful foliage. Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the autumn colors.
Cool and sometimes chilly weather. Nantou is less crowded, making it perfect for serene nature walks and hot spring relaxation.
Nantou at Night
Hiking in Nantou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to Taiwan's highest peak, Yushan (Mount Jade), this national park offers a variety of scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Central Mountain Range.
A popular hiking destination with trails that circle the lake, providing picturesque views and the opportunity to explore nearby temples and cultural sites.
This mountain range offers multiple hiking routes, including the popular Hehuanshan Main Peak trail, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Famous for its lush forests and diverse wildlife, this area has numerous trails that range from easy to challenging, suitable for both casual hikers and experienced trekkers.
Known for its stunning biodiversity and rich ecosystem, this area features well-maintained trails that allow hikers to immerse themselves in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nantou through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nantou by plane.
The largest airport in Taiwan, located in Taoyuan City, approximately 150 km from Nantou.
An international airport in Kaohsiung, about 180 km south of Nantou.
An airport situated in Taipei, around 170 km from Nantou, mainly serving domestic and regional flights.
An airport located in Hualien City, approximately 120 km from Nantou, mainly serving domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Nantou, constituting a significant portion of the population.
Includes various indigenous tribes such as the Seediq, Tujia, and Atayal, who have a rich cultural heritage in the region.
A subgroup of Han Chinese known for their distinct culture and language, prevalent in certain areas of Nantou.
Another term often used interchangeably with indigenous peoples, emphasizing the diverse tribal identities present in Nantou.
The Soul of Nantou
Discover the essence of Nantou through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Nantou, enjoyed by both youth and adults, with many local schools and clubs participating in competitions.
Baseball has a strong following in Nantou, with various teams competing at different levels, reflecting Taiwan's overall passion for the sport.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with local leagues and school teams providing opportunities for young players to develop their skills.
A popular indoor sport in Nantou, played recreationally and competitively, with many facilities available for players.
With scenic routes and beautiful landscapes, cycling is a favored outdoor activity among residents and tourists in Nantou.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nantou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nantou embraces vegetarianism, with many restaurants offering dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus. Look for Buddhist or Monastery restaurants for an abundance of plant-based choices.
While gluten-free options are not as prevalent, some establishments, especially those catering to international visitors, offer gluten-free alternatives. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nantou with these cultural adventures.