Things To Do
in Nanzhou
Nanzhou Township in southern Taiwan is a rural enclave famed for its patchwork of rice paddies, winding canals, and temple-lined streets. The pace here is slow and the locals are welcoming, inviting visitors to linger over meals and conversations. Countryside scenery blends agricultural charm with small-town markets and nearby coastal vistas, all within easy reach by bicycle or scooter.
This authentic corner of Pingtung offers a relaxed base for exploring nature, culture, and Taiwanese hospitality at a gentle, unhurried pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Nanzhou Historic Center, where you can stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional Taiwanese architecture. Stop by the local market to savor fresh pastries and traditional snacks, providing a perfect start to your morning. As the sun rises higher, the lively atmosphere fills the air with the sounds of vendors calling out and children playing.
After lunch at a quaint café, head to the nearby Nanzhou Temple, an exquisite example of traditional craftsmanship and vibrant religious life. Spend time admiring the intricate carvings and the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds, where locals often gather for prayer. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the scenic views and the gentle sounds of flowing water.
As dusk falls, explore Nanzhou's vibrant night market, where you can sample a variety of street foods like stinky tofu and bubble tea. The market buzzes with energy, as locals and tourists alike mingle, shop for unique crafts, and enjoy live performances. End your day with a relaxing stroll through the market before returning to your accommodations, filled with the flavors and sights of the day.
Start your day by visiting a local pottery workshop where you can learn about the ancient craft that is a staple of Taiwanese culture. Participate in hands-on activities, molding clay into beautiful shapes under the guidance of skilled artisans. The tactile experience of working with your hands provides a deep connection to the rich traditions of Nanzhou.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in regional dishes, where you can taste the unique flavors of Nanzhou's culinary heritage. Post-lunch, make your way to a traditional textile workshop to witness the intricate art of weaving, where vibrant colors and patterns come to life. Engage with the artisans and gain insight into the techniques that have been passed down through generations.
As the evening approaches, head to a local teahouse to experience a traditional Taiwanese tea ceremony. Savor the delicate flavors of locally sourced tea while learning about the cultural significance behind the ceremony. The tranquil atmosphere of the teahouse offers a perfect end to a day of cultural exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $0.5-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🫕Street snack | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi or ride-share within town | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil countryside scenery and authentic daily life
- Affordability and slow-paced travel
- Friendly locals and good regional cuisine
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Less English signage outside main streets
- Fewer direct international flight connections
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "這個多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "你會說英文嗎？" - Do you speak English?
- "我要素食。" - I want vegetarian food.
- "好吃" - Delicious
- "麻煩幫忙一下" - Please help
Places to Visit in Nanzhou
Visit one of these nice places.
Long riverfront with golden hour light over the water and bird activity, perfect for wide-angle landscape shots.
Colorful storefronts, lanterns, and traditional temple architecture offer rich street photography opportunities.
Intricate carvings, incense smoke, and evening lighting create atmospheric shots of local religious architecture.
Open fields and subtle farm machinery provide classic rural Taiwan imagery, especially at sunrise.
Food in Nanzhou
Nanzhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant braised chicken dish cooked with sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine; best enjoyed with steamed rice at a family-run restaurant.
Must-Try!
Rich, savory broth with tender beef and chewy noodles; widely available in casual eateries around town.
Golden-fried omelette loaded with fresh oysters and a starchy binder; a coastal staple often found at markets.
Comforting bowl of minced pork simmered in soy braise served over steamed white rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering breakfast stalls, savory snacks, fresh produce, and everyday items; look for local soy-based dishes and fried bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a nod or smile; address elders with polite language and surnames when possible. In temples, dress modestly and speak softly.
Use two hands when giving or receiving items as a sign of respect; avoid pointing with feet and keep noise to a minimum in sacred spaces.
Ask permission when photographing people, especially children or inside homes and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Nanzhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan and service charges are often included; you may round up or leave a small tip at exceptional service in tourist areas.
Cash is widely accepted, as are debit/credit cards. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common, and EasyCard or other stored-value cards work well for transit and some shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers and the possibility of typhoons. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and carry a compact rain shell.
Milder temperatures and clearer skies; great for outdoor touring and photography with comfortable humidity.
Cool to mild daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; rare chilly snaps—layered clothing is helpful.
Warm days and blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor activities and market visits.
Nanzhou at Night
Hiking in Nanzhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike with views over farmland and distant coastline; suitable for casual hikers.
Flat, easy boardwalk through wetland habitats with opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
Short coastal trail along sandstone cliffs offering sea views and fresh sea air.
Airports
How to reach Nanzhou by plane.
Major southern gateway with international and domestic flights; typically the easiest access point to Nanzhou.
Regional airport serving domestic flights and some regional services; convenient if staying closer to Tainan and southern coast.
Main international hub of Taiwan; typically used for long-haul travel, with connections onward to Kaohsiung or domestic trains/roads to reach Nanzhou.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population is engaged in agriculture, contributing to a strong rural economy and community identity.
An aging demographic is present, with strong community networks and traditional customs.
A number of migrant workers contribute to local services and agriculture, enriching cultural exchange.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely loved sport across Taiwan, with local youth programs and community games in many towns including the Nanzhou area.
Common in school yards and community centers; casual courts are often available in township facilities.
Popular due to scenic rural routes and calm traffic, making bike outings a favorite activity for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanzhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers should note meat is common in many dishes. Look for options labeled 素食 or request '不要肉' (no meat) and '不放牛肉/豬肉' (no beef/pork). Many places can accommodate with tofu, vegetables, and mushrooms; seek vegetarian-friendly eateries or request vegetable-based dishes.