Things To Do
in Shuili
Shuili is a rural township in Nantou County, Taiwan, tucked between rolling hills and tranquil waterways. The area thrives on agricultural heritage, local markets, and scenic reservoirs that invite relaxed days away from city bustle. It offers easy access to surrounding natural attractions like forests, rivers, and nearby Sun Moon Lake, making it an ideal base for slow-paced exploration.
With friendly local communities and guesthouses, Shuili presents a genuine taste of central Taiwan life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Shuili, where you will be greeted by the stunning views of lush mountains and the serene Sun Moon Lake nearby. Take a moment to settle in and explore the nearby surroundings to get a sense of local life. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Taiwanese tea at a local café, savoring the warmth as the day begins.
Visit the famous Shuili Snake Kiln, where traditional pottery is crafted, and participate in a workshop to create your own piece. Engage with local artisans to learn about the history and significance of this incredible craft. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Shuili, tasting delicious street food such as braised pork rice and bubble tea.
Relax at a local restaurant and enjoy a traditional Taiwanese meal, appreciating the fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the riverside, listening to the sounds of nature as the sun sets in the horizon. Capture the glowing lights of the town as they come to life in the stillness of the night.
Head to Sun Moon Lake and rent a bike to explore the scenic lakeside path. Along the ride, stop at the picturesque Xiangshan Visitor Center for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the lakeside cafes, absorbing the morning beauty around you.
Take a boat cruise across the tranquil waters of Sun Moon Lake, marveling at the expansive landscapes. Visit the iconic Wenwu Temple, dedicated to Confucius, Kuan Yin, and the God of War, and climb to the top for stunning panoramas. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Sun Moon Lake shopping street, sampling local delicacies and unique handicrafts.
As night falls, enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, indulging in fresh local fish dishes and Taiwanese specialties. Participate in the evening activities such as live music or a night market stroll, soaking in the local culture. Conclude your day by watching the shimmering reflection of stars on the lake's surface.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit (1-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $350-600 |
| 🥤Bubble tea or local beverage | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rural charm and slower pace offer a refreshing break from city life
- Close proximity to nature and forestry areas for easy day trips
- Authentic local cuisine and markets with friendly residents
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Public transport can be infrequent; having a car or scooter is convenient
- Some services and facilities may be basic in rural areas
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問這個多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "請給我菜單" - Please give me the menu
- "洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "我不會說中文" - I don't speak Chinese
- "可以拍照嗎？" - May I take photos?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Shuili
Visit one of these nice places.
A peaceful lakeside vantage with reflections during sunrise and sunset, ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Low-traffic streets with traditional storefronts and local life; great for candid shots of daily routines and street food moments.
Lush forest scenes, mossy paths, and seasonal foliage; perfect for nature photography and forest atmosphere.
Food in Shuili
Shuili Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant chicken dish braised in a mixture of sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine, often with garlic and basil.
Must-Try!
Braised pork belly served over steamed rice, a quintessential Taiwanese staple found in many local diners.
A comforting hot pot featuring fresh local bamboo shoots and seasonal mushrooms.
Nearby influences show up as river fish prepared with light seasoning and served with rice or noodles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small-town market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and easy-to-find Taiwan street foods in a relaxed setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or slight bow is common; address people with respectful terms and use basic Mandarin phrases when possible.
Be patient in markets and buses; join lines and wait your turn when purchasing food or entering temples.
In homes or certain traditional places, shoes may be removed; follow local cues and ask if unsure.
Safety
Tipping in Shuili
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taiwan; most service charges are included in prices. Leaving a small tip is optional and appreciated in higher-end or tourist-facing places.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops and restaurants also accept credit cards, and increasingly mobile payments (e.g., LINE Pay, Apple Pay) in towns and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; comfortable for hikes around reservoirs and forestry areas.
Warm and humid; afternoon showers are common. Pack light rain gear and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage, especially in forested areas and lakeshores.
Cool to mild climate; evenings can be chilly; good season for clear skies and milder crowds.
Shuili at Night
Hiking in Shuili
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle lakeside loop with views of the water and surrounding hills; suitable for casual hikers.
A network of forest trails through tall trees, mossy paths, and seasonal foliage near Lugu.
Alpine meadow scenery and panoramic views at high elevation; recommend planning for weather and altitude.
Airports
How to reach Shuili by plane.
Main international gateway; about 2.5–3 hours by road/train to Shuili, with multiple flight options and rail connections.
Close-in airport offering domestic and some regional flights; convenient for quick trips but limited for international service.
Smaller regional airport; reachable by bus or car, useful for shorter trips to the south or west coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with strong agricultural heritage and local family-run businesses.
Small pockets within the broader region; cultural exchanges with local residents can be observed in some rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hilly routes and scenic byways around Nantou County attract cyclists seeking varied terrain.
A common community sport with local picks and school facilities; many towns have outdoor courts.
Indoor and outdoor courts are popular in community centers and gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shuili.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seaonably easy to accommodate in Shuili; ask for vegetable dishes, tofu options, and mushroom-based meals; communicate clearly with the staff about no meat or fish and any egg/dairy exclusions.