when is good time to visit taiwan

The Best (and Worst!) Time to Visit Taiwan

When is the best time to go to Taiwan? Which months or seasons are best, and which should be avoided?

These questions are not easily answered, because it depends what you are looking for, and no month is perfect in Taiwan. According to tourist arrival numbers , there is no distinct “high” or “low” tourist season in Taiwan . In reality, the numbers go up and down every month, as do the price of flights (see my guide to finding budget flights to Taiwan on search for the best flight deals here ).

However, based on a decade-plus of traveling around and living in Taiwan, I would say that the best months to visit Taiwan are October , November , and April . The busiest month is December . Pretty good months are December , January , February , and March , but avoid Chinese New Year if you can.

The worst months to visit Taiwan are May , June , July , August , and September . Read on to find out why!

Table of Contents

The Best Season to Visit Taiwan

It’s tough to declare which season is the best for visiting Taiwan. It strongly depends on your personal climate preference and what you want to do in Taiwan. My personal favorite is autumn.

Here’s a summary of the ups and downs of each season in Taiwan.

Autumn (October to December)

In my personal opinion, autumn is the best time of the year to visit Taiwan . These three months have the lowest possibility of rain. The weather is pleasantly warm during the day and only a little cool at night.

October and November are crowd free, but December is the busiest month of the year in Taiwan for tourist arrivals. Christmas events start in late November, while NYE is one of the busiest times of the year. Book early!

November and December are the best time to see fall foliage, but you’ll need to travel a ways to one of the country’s National Forest Recreation Areas to see it.

See my guides to visiting Taiwan in October , November , and December .

Winter (January to March)

January and February are the coldest months of the year in Taiwan. Taipei , Yilan , and the north are especially chilly, but this is also the best time to see snow in the high mountains, like Hehuanshan .

Cherry blossoms start in late January, but come in February or March for the best displays. See my Taiwan cherry blossoms blooming forecas t for more info. Winter is also the best time to experience Taiwan’s hot springs.

Chinese New Year is a week to be avoided if possible, due to crowds, higher prices, and closure of many restaurants and attractions . It usually comes in late January to late February. But the Lantern Festival , on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar new year, is awesome.

See my guides to visiting Taiwan in January , February , and March .

Spring (April to June)

While April is a good month to visit Taiwan, May and June are not. The Plum Rain season brings near constant rain and gray skies for weeks on end.

April’s weather is pleasant, and the April long weekend features several music festivals. However, May and June are all about the rain. In June, when the plum rains finally taper off, they are replaced with intense heat and humidity, signaling the start of summer.

Spring is, however, a good time to visit beaches or Taiwan’s small islands before the masses of Taiwanese do so in summer.

See my guides to visiting Taiwan in April , May , and June .

Summer (July to September)

Summer is, according to most people, the worst time to visit Taiwan. Summer temperatures and humidity are oppressive, making it difficult to spend much time outside. 

Taiwan is known for its summer typhoons, which can disrupt your travel plans for a few days (always make sure to have travel insurance for Taiwan just in case!) Summers are also more crowded, with students off school and more tourists due to the summer holidays in other countries.

If you don’t mind the heat, summer is a good time for beaches, swimming, and other adventure activities.

See my guides to visiting Taiwan in July , August , and September .

The Best Months to Visit Taiwan

The best time to travel to Taiwan is October, November, and April. I choose these months for their excellent weather, lower tourist crowds, and interesting events.

The below table will give you an idea of the average temperatures and rainfall in Taipei. Keep in mind that in the south of Taiwan, like Tainan , Kaohsiung , and Taitung , the weather is usually a little warmer than in Taipei, while the high mountains, like Alishan and Cingjing Farm , are colder.

My personal favorite month of the year in Taiwan is October. In October, the weather can’t get any better. The oppressive heat of summer is finally gone, but it’s still pleasantly warm, even at night.

Most importantly, October has a lower chance of rain – it actually has the fewest rainy days of rain of any month of the year in Taiwan. The only reason it has a higher average rainfall than other months is due to the occasional typhoon.

In terms of tourist numbers, October is one of the least busy months of the year. Some fun events in October include Halloween and Pride Parade (usually the last Saturday of the month). 

However, even October is not perfect. On rare occasion, a typhoon can strike Taiwan as late as October, and late season typhoons tend to be strong.

November has many of the same perks as October – fewer tourists, low chance of rain, and generally pleasant weather.

I only put November in the second place because it starts to get a little cold in Taipei and the north of Taiwan, especially at night. On the plus side, it is extremely rare for a typhoon to strike in November.

November is the start of autumn foliage viewing and silvergrass season in Taiwan. It’s also the start of hot spring season, but minus the big crowds of December.

In April, spring and warm weather finally return to Taipei and the north of Taiwan, while the south can already be hot.

April is one of the less rainy months of the year, too, as the spring Plum Rainy Season doesn’t come until May.

With winter cherry blossom season and Chinese New Year holiday finished, April is once again less crowded. You can see a lovely display of calla lilies in Yangmingshan National Park in May.

The first weekend of April, usually a 4-day long weekend, is the unofficial music weekend in Taiwan. Some big ones that usually happen on this weekend include Spring Wave, Megaport, East Wave, and Organik.

Runner-Up Months

October, November, and April are not the only “good” months to visit Taiwan. Several other months also have many pros and few cons.

December has long been the most popular month of the year to visit Taiwan in terms of tourist arrival numbers.

Visitors especially from nearby Asian countries flock to Taiwan at this time to see the NYE fireworks at Taipei 101 , Christmas events, hot springs, autumn foliage, and strawberry picking.

December is the start of winter in Taiwan. It’s not as cold as January or February, but you’ll definitely need to dress warm for Taipei and the north. On the plus side, the chance of rain is just as low as in October and November.

Big crowds is the main downside of visiting Taiwan in December. The weekend of NYE, especially when it’s a 3-day long weekend, is one of the busiest weekends of the year in Taiwan, so book your accommodations and trains early!

January, February, and March

January and February are the coldest months of the year in Taiwan, while March is only slightly better. Taipei in particular tends to be bleak, with cold humidity that gets under your skin.

On the plus side, hot springs are great to visit when it’s cold. Cherry blossoms start blooming in late January, but the best displays of them are in February and March. Some people come to Taiwan in January or February specifically to see snow in the high mountains.

Lunar New Year, the biggest holiday of the year for locals, is not a good time to visit Taiwan. The 7 to 10-day holiday usually takes place from late-January to late-February. Many things in Taipei and other major cities close at this time, hotels fill up around the country, highways have traffic jams, train tickets are hard to get, and flights can be more expensive due to so many Taiwanese flying home from abroad.

On the other hand, the Lantern Festival , on the 15th day of the lunar new year, is one of the most impressive festivals of the year in Taiwan, so try to come for that instead!

The Worst Months to Visit Taiwan

While every month has its own pros and cons, the following months have bigger cons than others.

There’s only one reason you’ll probably want to avoid Taiwan in May, but it’s a big one. It’s called the “Plum Rain Season”. This mini-monsoon brings never ending grays skies and rains for weeks on end.

The timing of the Plum Rain season varies by year, but it usually starts sometime in May in the north of Taiwan and then works its way south into June.

Yes, the tourist crowds will be low in May, but personally I’d rather have clear skies with more people.

If you must visit Taiwan in May, not all hope is lost. There are several interesting events in May – find more info in my guide to visiting Taiwan in May.

June has two strikes against it. Visit Taiwan in early June and the Plum Rains will still be pouring. Come in mid- to late-June, and the oppressive summer heat will have already begun. The extreme heat and humidity often results in late afternoon showers.

On the plus side, June is less busy than July and August, and typhoons never strike as early as June.

Dragon Boat Festival is one interesting activity that takes place in June.

July & August

July and August are the hottest months of the year in Taiwan. Expect temperatures in the mid-30s Celsius every day. The intense humidity makes it feel even worse. Going outside in the mid-day can feel like torture.

July and August are also the start of typhoon season in Taiwan. Anything from zero to half a dozen typhoons strike Taiwan every year. If one strikes during your visit, it will bring extremely heavy rain and wind. There may be a stay-at-home order for 1-2 days, so you might lose a day or two of your trip. It’s also dangerous to visit high mountain areas during typhoons.

However, July and August are NOT a “rainy season”. They are actually the sunniest months of the year in Taiwan, in terms of the total hours of sunshine per day. Besides typhoons, which are relatively rare, most of the rain will come as very short but intense downpours in the late afternoon, often for less than an hour.

Summer also has moderate crowds due to students being off school and holidays in other countries. Taiwanese flock to beaches and the offshore islands in summer.

September is not much different than July and August in Taiwan. It’s still extremely hot, humid, with the possibility of typhoons and late afternoon showers.

On the plus side, September sees far fewer tourists than July or August. So if you have the choice, visiting Taiwan is September is definitely better than July or August. If you don’t mind the hot and humid weather (plus the risk of typhoon), then September is actually a great month to visit Taiwan for this reason alone.

The Mid Autumn (Moon) Festival usually falls in September. It doesn’t have anything special for visitors, beside eating moon cakes, but watch out for domestic crowds if it results in a 3-day long weekend.

When to Visit Taiwan: Conclusion

If you have total flexibility, choose when to go to Taiwan based on your personal interests.  Choose autumn for low crowds, balmy weather, hiking, fall foliage viewing, and low chance of rain.

If you mainly want to do flower viewing, hot springs, or try to see snow, go for winter, but just mind the holiday dates.

For the best music festivals and good weather, choose April, but try to avoid May and June due to the Plum Rains.

Last but not least, expect intense heat, humidity, sun & rain, and the possibility of typhoons messing up your travel plans if you come in summer.

Tipping in Taiwan: Should You? (a local perspective)

How to plan a taoyuan airport layover in taipei, taiwan, 2 thoughts on “the best (and worst) time to visit taiwan”.

Very detailed thank you. Which area will be best to stay if you need to get to the airport for work but you dont want to stay in the city. And you need to take local transport and i am a cyclist so i would like to get on the cycling tracks easily? Thank you

Can you please clarify, which airport in Taiwan? And you will be living there or just visiting for a short time? You’re working at this ariport, or you mean flying to other countries for working?

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The Best Time to Visit Taiwan

TripSavvy /  Michela Buttignol

The weather around Taiwan tends to be warm year-round, with long and hot summers and short, only slightly cooler winters. That said, there’s a considerable variance between north to south—unusual for an island that’s only 13,855 square miles (35,883 sq km) in size, or slightly larger than the U.S. state of Maryland .   The best time to visit is between October and April when the weather is the best.

In the sub-tropical north, the winter months of November to February see increased rainfall, while the warmer, tropical south feels perceptibly drier and hotter.

The summer months of June to September bring heat and humidity throughout Taiwan, ramping up to typhoon season from July to October bringing storms that batter the east coast.

Read on to find out about Taiwan’s weather, its top holidays and things to do in Taiwan from season to season.

Weather in Major Regions of Taiwan

Taiwan straddles the Tropic of Cancer, cutting the island into two distinct eco-regions. The capital Taipei and most of the island falls under a subtropical climate, creating the evergreen forests and the temperate highlands that make Taiwan such an exciting adventure destination in the autumn months.

The southern third of Taiwan is classified as a tropical eco-region, covered in tropical rainforest and marked by warm weather that goes down no further than 72 degrees F (22 degrees C) even in the winter months.  

Northern Taiwan: Taipei

Taiwan’s capital Taipei sits at the northwest end of the island, and experiences some of the north’s climate extremes.  

The temperature in Taipei ranges from high 50 degrees F (14 degrees C) in January to low 90 degrees F (33 degrees C) in the peak of summer. Humidity remains relatively constant at an average of 76 percent, barely dipping or rising throughout the year. Sea temperatures offer pleasant swimming between May and October.

Taipei and the north experiences some 95 inches of rainfall yearly, reaching a peak in the summer months between June to September, with as many as 14.2 inches falling in September alone

Southern Taiwan: Kaohsiung

The Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung enjoys a tropical climate more akin to Cambodia or Laos , thanks to its coastal location and exposure to warm sea temperatures.

Kaohsiung’s temperatures hit a peak between April and November, with temperatures reaching 97 degrees F (36 degrees C) in July. The months of December to March see Kaohsiung at its coolest, with lows of 59 degrees F(15 degrees C) recorded in January.  

The southern city enjoys a relative humidity falling between 71 and 81 percent, with around 13 inches of rain falling between June to August.

Central Highlands

Visitors to the higher reaches of the island’s mountainous interior—including Alishan National Scenic Area and Taroko National Park—enjoy temperature highs of 55 degrees F (13 degrees C) in July and August, and wintry lows of around 23 degrees F (-5 degrees C) in January.  

Snowfall in the winter months can be experienced by hikers ascending the slopes of Mount Guanshan and Mount Hehuanshan.

Peak Season in Taiwan

Most foreign tourists know to avoid the hottest, wettest months in and surrounding the summer season. From October to April—the best time to visit Taiwan—the island’s weather feels comfortably (not oppressively) warm, and rainfall drops to an acceptable minimum.

These months also include some of the most crowded times to visit—Chinese New Year and “Double Ten” ( Oct. 10, National Day ) bring out locals traveling long distances home to visit family; expect to have a more difficult time booking transportation and accommodations on these dates.

Summer is considered peak tourist season in Taiwan—another good reason to avoid visiting Taiwan in July and August! Better to come during low season from November to March, where travel costs are 50 percent lower than in the summer months.

What to Pack

Given the shirt-sleeve weather that lowland Taiwan experiences all year round, you don’t need to pack any heavy clothing (unless you’re planning to trek in the highlands in the winter months).

The most useful clothes for a trip to Taiwan include:

• Light cotton or perspiration-wicking clothing for a summer visit.
• Warmer clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and jeans for spring or autumn visits.
• Umbrellas or lightweight waterproof jackets, to protect against the rain.
• Swimwear, if you’re planning on visiting beaches or hot springs.
• Sturdy shoes to match your purpose: hiking shoes for trekking Taiwan’s mountains, or just casual but comfortable trainers for walking around in the cities.

Avoid wearing skimpy clothing if you’re planning to visit a local temple; at the minimum, cover up most of your legs and shoulders if a temple is part of your itinerary.

Winter in Taiwan

The shortest season on the island, winter occurs between December and February. Tropical southern Taiwan experiences pleasant temperatures in winter, reaching highs of 73 degrees F (23 degrees C) in January, while the subtropical sections of the island experience slightly cooler maximum temperatures of 64 degrees F (18 degrees C).

Occasional cold fronts can see temperatures drop between 40 degrees F (4 degrees C), causing havoc when they catch locals by surprise. A 2016 cold snap killed 85 and stranded some 60,000 tourists.

Events to check out:

• Taiwan celebrates Chinese New Year during the winter months—one of Taiwan’s two biggest annual festivals (the other, National Day, takes place in October).
• The Lantern Festival ends the official Chinese New Year season 15 days later, with individual cities putting their own unique stamp on the festivities. Taipei Lantern Festival fills the Taipei Expo Park with both traditional and modern lanterns. Kaohsiung Lantern Festival is a lantern-themed party held along Love River, spilling out into major roads along the celebration venue. Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival sees one of the biggest release of sky lanterns in the world, taking place at Pingxi near Keelung.

Spring in Taiwan

The spring months (March to May) see a slow movement from cool to warm in Taiwan. Expect average high temperatures of 73°F (23°C) in the daytime. Temperatures in the highlands will start to come down to reasonable levels; hikers hit the trekking trails around Taiwan’s mountains in these months.

At the latter half of spring, the beaches in southern Taiwan start to warm up enough for swimmers. This is perhaps the ideal time to see both extremes of the island: the cherry blossoms opening up in the highlands, and the warm (but not sweltering) welcome of the lowlands.

• Yangmingshan cherry blossom viewing: Visit Yangmingshan National Park near Taipei between mid-February and early April to watch the red cherry trees in full bloom.
• Mazu International Festival: A week-long festival in March that promotes the worship of the Goddess of the Sea Mazu, who has many devotees in Taichung. Southern Taiwan.
• Fulong Sand Sculpting Festival: Fulong Beach in northern Taiwan has golden sand whose consistency is perfect for sand sculptures; you’ll find these aggregates put to their best use come April, when beautiful sand sculptures sprout up all over the area.

Summer in Taiwan

The months of June to August finds Taiwan at its hottest and wettest, with average temperatures rising to 95 degrees F (35 degrees C) and humidity rising to a sweltering 92 percent in the south, and a more manageable 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) in the north.

• Computex Taipei : The largest IT fair in Asia takes place right in Taiwan’s capital in June.
• Taiwan International Balloon Festival : Held between June and August, this multi-week balloon festival takes off from Taitung county, filling the air with unusual hot air balloons.
• Keelung Mid-Summer Ghost Festival : This Taiwanese city takes the opportunity to celebrate Ghost Month not just for the departed ancestors, but also for the casualties of a long-ago war.

Autumn in Taiwan

The autumn months from September to November find the heat and humidity receding to a tolerable level, with average temperatures of 75 degrees F (24 degrees C). It’s a good time to go back into the cities: enjoy Taiwan’s awesome street food in Kaohsiung and Taipei!

• Visit Yangmingshan National Park to see the trees’ foliage in full autumnal bloom.
• Yunlin International Puppet Arts Festival : Yunlin County celebrates traditional Chinese puppetry with performances, classes and other celebrations held throughout the month of October.

The best time to visit Taiwan is from October to April. Not only are the days much cooler compared to the sweltering days of summer, but the humidity is lower and rain is minimal.

The cheapest time to visit Taiwan coincides with the best weather. The winter months are the low season for tourism around the country, with the major exception of Lunar New Year, which typically falls in late January or February.

Summer is when Taiwan experiences the most rainfall, especially from the months of June to September. This is also typhoon season, so keep an eye on weather alerts if you're visiting during these months.

Taiwan Tourism. "General Information." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Taipei, Taiwan, Year Round." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Year Round." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

Taroko National Park. "Weather." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

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Most of Taiwan has beautiful warm climate all year round. You can leave your winter coat behind but are advised to bring an umbrella.

The north part of Taiwan belongs to sub-tropical climate zone, while the south part belongs to the tropical climate zone. Winters are warm and summers are hot and wet, with typhoons and thunderstorms. Because Taiwan is a relatively small island, the ocean breezes have a cooling effect so it never feels too hot. Please note that the high alpine areas like Alishan do get cold.

The annual average temperature is a comfortable 22 °C, with lowest temperatures ranging from 12 to 17 °C (54-63 °F).

The average amount of rainfall is about 2,500 mm per year, most of which come in the form of typhoons. At least three to four typhoons hit Taiwan every year, providing much of the water supply, but also causing damage, flooding, and landslides. Generally, typhoons happen frequently from July to September.

Because Taiwan is in the tropical zone, it is subject to more rain than most other areas, but showers are short-lived and blue skies prevail on most days.

Spring: Best for Natural Scenery

Weather: Spring is from March to May. In Taipei, the average high temperatures average about 25 degrees Celsius or 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

Clothing: It generally feels warm during the day, and long-sleeve shirts are fine.

Special seasonal highlights: Hiking in Taiwan's high mountains (about 240 mountains over 3,000 meters) is an option before the summer typhoon season. You can also head down to the southern beaches to bask in the sun. You can climb Yangmingshan Hill to see the cherry blossoms.

Summer: Best for Families with School-Aged Children

Weather: Summer is from June to August. It is usually hot and humid, and there are occasional thunderstorms and typhoons. The average temperature in summer is about 30 °C (86 °F).

Things to do: Summer is a time to head for the beaches. When there are storms out at sea or after a typhoon, people can go and surf.

The Computex Taipei (Taipei International Information Technology Show) in June is a favorite tourist highlight. It is the world's second biggest IT show, and it is the largest in Asia.

Autumn: Best Season to Visit Taiwan

Weather: Autumn is from September to November. The weather is cooler but still warm and sunny, and October and November has relatively less rainfall, and it is still warm.

Special seasonal highlight: It is a fine time to head up to the mountains to see the fall foliage.

Winter: Enjoy a Mild Winter

Weather: Winter is from December to February. Winters mild and often foggy due to the northeasterly winds from Siberia.

Around Taipei , low temperatures can approach 8 °C (46 °F) at night, but there may be warm spells also.

Clothing: Prepare a coat and an umbrella. Wearing layers is a good idea.

Special seasonal highlight: The Chinese New Year usually falls in late January or early February. Streets will be colorfully decorated for the event.

Read where to travel in winter?

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The island state of Taiwan has a subtropical monsoon climate, with wet, humid summers and short, relatively mild winters. Choosing when to go to Taiwan doesn’t have to be difficult. We’ve done the weather research for you, so you can find the ideal conditions to explore this fascinating destination and enjoy your visit.

Weather in Taiwan

When is the best time to visit taiwan, when to visit taiwan in winter, when to visit taiwan in spring, when to visit taiwan in summer, when to visit taiwan in fall, festivals and holidays in taiwan, aboriginal festivals, festivals calendar for taiwan, tailor-made travel itineraries for taiwan, created by local experts.

11 days  / from 1950 USD

Nature's adventure in Taiwan

Taiwan was formerly known as Ilha Formosa - "beautiful island" and it's easy to see why: lush rivers, tropical forest, and imposing sea cliffs, this itinerary focuses on Taiwan's nature. Start in cosmopolitan Taipei before heading to Taroko National Park, coastal Hualien and finally Sun Moon Lake.

11 days  / from 2541 USD

Treasures of Taiwan

Explore Taiwan's diverse culture and fascinating landscapes in this itinerary covering the whole island. Starting in Taipei you will move on to Sun Moon Lake before heading to Alishan. Discover monasteries and national parks on the Southwest coast before heading back to Taipei.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

The Essentials of Taiwan

Looking for a compact Taiwan itinerary? Look no further. In just under a week, this itinerary allows you to explore Taipei and nearby national parks. Expect waterfalls, panoramic walking trails and thermal springs, all while enjoying the amazing food scene, a blend of Chinese & Japanese cuisines.

Tailor-made trips for   Taiwan

Because of its location on the Tropic of Cancer, Taiwan’s weather is mostly subtropical, with pockets of tropical climate in the south. This means that the weather is warm and humid – but rain is common throughout the year. After all, that’s one of the reasons why Taiwan’s natural landscapes are so lush!

Taiwan has two rainy seasons that arrive at different times of the year and affect different areas. The southern part of the island is the first to experience the monsoon, with heavy rains hitting between May and September. Monsoon rains then move onto the north and northeast.

In addition to the monsoon, the country has a “plum rain” season, which typically runs between May and June. Plum rains are short and intense and come in fronts, which means it can rain for a few days or even weeks at the time, or not rain at all. These fronts are reliably forecast by the country’s Weather Bureau, so keep an eye on English-language newspapers for the latest updates.

To decide when is the best time to travel to Taiwan, first you should consider your itinerary. Tourists travel to Taiwan all year round, so it all depends on what you plan to see and do.

For general travel, September, October, and November are the best months to visit. The summer is ideal for those interested in tropical beaches and island hopping. For culture and nature, visit during the spring. But winter is great for visiting Taipei also. In fact, there is no wrong time to visit Taiwan: you’ll find great food, spectacular nature, and vibrant city life throughout the year.

The main gate of National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall in Taipei © Shutterstock

Despite its subtropical climate, Taiwan’s winters can be colder than what most travellers expect. Average temperatures range between 15°C and 20°C - a big difference when compared to the 30°C+ temperatures at other times of the year. But winters here are not severe, and are definitely not as cold as they get in nearby Japan .

Winter weather in Taiwan can bring fog, cloudy skies, and cool temperatures, especially in the north. However, winter can also be the best time to visit Taiwan if you plan on exploring the country’s top urban destinations. There are plenty of things to see and do indoors in cities like Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung. To sum up, winter in Taiwan can be chilly, but there’s nothing that a few layers of clothing can’t fix.

Visiting Taiwan in December — February

Winter weather varies across Taiwan. The further south you go, the warmer it will get, and vice versa. Average temperatures in Taipei and other areas of northern Taiwan hover around 15°C, but are lower during cold spells, which usually hit in January. On the other hand, winter temperatures rarely go below 20°C in southern areas like those surrounding Kenting National Park.

The winter months are great to discover Taipei’s top landmarks. Tourist numbers are low, so it’s easier to experience the city’s most relaxed side. While in the area, make sure to set a day aside to visit the Beitou hot springs. The springs can be easily reached by public transport, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit among both children and adults. If you’re after something similar but with an upscale touch, the cosy mountain retreats and resorts of central Taiwan will fit the bill. In total, there are more than 150 hot springs all over Taiwan.

Cherry blossom trees are in full bloom in January and February. The season attracts thousands of visitors to Taiwan every year. The photo opportunities are fabulous, and this may well be one of the highlights of your trip. Blooming dates are slightly different every year, but you can find online forecasts - hardly surprising, considering that this is super-efficient Taiwan! The best places to admire the colourful display of cherry blossom trees in or near Taipei are, Tianyuan Temple, Wulai, and Yangmingshan National Park.

If warm weather is what you’re after, southern Taiwan will not disappoint. Even in January, which is the coldest month of the year, temperatures stay balmy. This may be a good time to explore Kaohsiung , the country’s southernmost city and the gateway to tropical Taiwan.

Crystal clear waters on a winter day at Sun Moon Lake © Shutterstock

Spring is the ideal time to discover Taiwan’s natural and cultural heritage. Although the temperatures get gradually warmer between March and May, it will still be too cold to go for a swim. But there are other things that will keep you entertained: festivals, hikes, tea picking tours, and cycling trips are only some of them. One thing to remember: temperatures rise steadily between March and May, but so do the chances of rain, so make sure you have waterproof clothing when you head out.

Visiting Taiwan in March-May

During March, you can still catch the end of the cherry blossom season in central and southern Taiwan. Other exotic flowers will start to cover the hills and valleys surrounding Hualien, in eastern Taiwan. The botanical parks and gardens in Taipei, Chiayi, and Taichung are great places to spend a spring day out. And so is the Ta Shee Blooming Oasis, near Taoyuan.

Spring is also a fantastic time to visit the East Coast National Scenic Area . Stretching over 170 kilometres (over 100 miles) south of Hualien, this area offers impressive coastal views and a chance to learn about the country’s aboriginal cultures. This is the perfect destination for an active holiday or cycling adventure.

Alishan Mountain is another top spring destination in Taiwan. Tea culture is strong all over the country, but especially so in the highlands of central Taiwan. The weather here is perfect for tea plantations to thrive – and for tourists to sample the delicate flavours of local Oolong teas. There are other tea farms in the Wuhe plateau, near Hualien, and in the outskirts of Taipei.

The festival calendar is packed with interesting events during March and April. Some of the most eye-catching events include the International Fireworks Festival in Penghu, Baosheng Cultural Festival, and Bunun’s Ear Shooting Festival, one of Taiwan’s biggest indigenous ceremonies.

Sunsat at Alishan © Shutterstock

Summer is considered the peak tourist season in Taiwan. The summer school break begins in July, so many local families will be on holiday at this time of the year. The same applies to travellers from nearby countries. Advance bookings are recommended if you visit Taiwan in the summer.

Taiwanese summers are hot and humid. Average temperatures are in the 30s, but it may feel hotter due to the humidity. If you find it hard to cope with subtropical summers, you may want to consider destinations in the mountain areas.

Prepare for wet monsoon weather if you visit during the summer. Rainfall is especially heavy in southern Taiwan. Moreover, summer storms in the form of tropical cyclones hit at least twice a year, and are more likely in late August and September. A packable rain jacket, umbrella, or waterproof poncho are a must-have for Taiwan travel!

Despite the rain, summer is beach time in Taiwan. The warm season is ideal for beach hopping trips and relaxing island holidays. And if you’re into watersports, this is the best time to travel to Taiwan.

Visiting Taiwan in June — August

Looking for a break from Taiwan’s humid summers? Then head to higher altitude areas. At 3,500 metres or nearly 13,000 feet, Jade Mountain is the island’s highest peak. The mountain is located in Yushan National Park , which is crisscrossed by hiking trails. If you come here, get ready for spectacular views of the park’s valleys, which quite literally become seas of clouds.

Another suggestion is visiting Puli, some 60 kilometres (37 miles) north of Yushan National Park. The town is a great base to explore the many attractions nearby, such as the impressive Chung Tai Chan monastery or Cinjing Farm. Puli is also the homeland of Taiwanese rice wine. The city’s wine museum and winery make for an interesting day trip.

If you’re more of a beach person, you’ll fall in love with the white sand beaches of Taiwan’s tropical south. Make sure to include Taimali and Fenghuisha in your itinerary! And if you have your own wheels, you’ll find breathtaking coves and bays all along the coast between Hualien and Taitung. With that said, the beaches in northern Taiwan are better for swimming, especially in late summer, when there’s a higher chance of typhoons hitting the south coast.

Still in beach mood? Then you may want to explore Taiwan’s tropical islands. Here are some destination suggestions:

• Orchid Island, also known as Lanyu. Connected to Taichung by plane and ferry, the island is home to some of Taiwan’s most stunning coastal scenery. And it’s also a scuba diving and snorkelling paradise!
• Turtle Island, which gets its name from its unusual shape. Turtle Island’s main draw is its active volcano – the only one in Taiwan. Low in population but rich in wildlife and natural beauty, Turtle Island is a great place to go on a dolphin or whale watching tour.
• Ludao, off the coast of Taitung. Sometimes called Green Island, Ludao is another volcanic island that offers an interesting mix of activities: hot spring baths, snorkelling, swimming, and hiking.
• The Kinmen archipelago , which is mostly known for its historical and architectural value. You could easily spend a few days exploring the island’s temples, museums, cultural villages, and of course sampling its distinctive cuisine.

Few people know that Taiwan has great beaches - Fulong Bathing Beach near Taipei © Shutterstock

Weather-wise, September to November is considered the best time of the year to visit Taiwan. This season offers the perfect combination of cool and dry weather. During most of September, the south stays warm, but temperatures begin to cool down in northern Taiwan, although they’re still pleasant. Milder temperatures and less rain mean that this is a great time of the year for travellers who enjoy outdoor activities.

Visiting Taiwan in September — November

September and October are among the most photogenic months in Taiwan – at least where nature is concerned. In northern Taiwan, tree leaves start to change colour in mid-September, and the process gradually extends to southern areas over the following months. Some of the best places to spot this beautiful natural display include:

• Taroko Gorge, which can be visited as a day trip from Hualien.
• Aowanda Forest Recreational Area and its incredibly picturesque Maple Trail.
• Dasyueshan National Forest, which is also a great spot for bird watching.

Sun Moon Lake is always a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy some peace and quiet. But the magical charm of this site is even more powerful at this time of the year. Things to do here include taking boat trips, visiting traditional villages, or simply renting a scooter to see where the scenic roads will take you.

Our last suggestion for a fun day out at this time of the year is taking the Jiji Line . This is scenic train trip runs between the rustic village of Checheng and Ershui, located in the mountains south of Taichung. Along the way, you can stop at old logging towns, plum wine breweries, and historical tea houses.

And if you’re in Taiwan during the Mid Autumn Moon Festival, don’t forget to try the famous Taiwanese mooncakes -you’ll probably want to take some home with you! If you love exotic food and don’t know when to go to Taiwan, book your trip around this festival and you won’t be disappointed.

One of Taiwan’s greatest attractions is the sheer range and depth of its festivals, all celebrated with a passion and fervour unique to the island. While the biggest ones are the traditional Chinese festivals – which double as public holidays – there is also an eclectic collection of religious festivals as well as an amazing array of time-honoured aboriginal celebrations.

The majority of cultural and religious festivals follow the Chinese lunar calendar . As such, the actual Gregorian calendar dates on which they are celebrated tend to fluctuate significantly each year – in our festivals calendar , we have listed them under the Gregorian calendar month in which they are usually celebrated, with a note of their actual Chinese lunar calendar dates. We also specify which are public holidays (P), during which banks and government and private offices are closed, though many shops and restaurants remain open.

Though Chinese traditional and religious festivals are routinely well publicized, many aboriginal celebrations remain closely guarded secrets , and even local tourism officials are often confused about or unaware of the actual dates on which they are observed. Villages typically stage their own celebrations, and tribal elders usually set the dates for these in accordance with a variety of factors. Further complicating this, established dates can be changed at the last minute in the face of inauspicious omens such as the sudden illness or death of a village elder. Finally, the truly authentic aboriginal celebrations are taken very seriously, with ancient rituals performed with pinpoint precision. As such, most tribes don’t want their traditions to become a spectacle for busloads of camera-toting tourists, so many – especially those along the east coast – make a concerted effort to hide their celebration dates from tourism officials. However, individual travellers or those in small groups are generally welcomed to events such as harvest festivals with open arms, often being invited to drink local spirits with the tribesmen. Those fortunate enough to experience these thriving cultures will learn about a side of Taiwan that most foreigners – and many Taiwanese – know precious little about, and it’s well worth the effort to seek them out.

Foundation Day/New Year’s Day Jan 1 (P). Marks the founding of the Republic of China in 1911, but also gives a nod to the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. Offices and schools are shut, with many remaining closed on Jan 2 & 3.

January/February

Chinese New Year ( chūn jié ) Lunar Jan 1–3 (P). Taiwan’s most important festival, marking the start of the Chinese year. Celebrations centre mostly on family gatherings with lavish meals; “lucky” money in small red envelopes is exchanged; fairs and public parades are held.

Qingshui Zushi’s Birthday Lunar Jan 6. Commemorates the quasi-historic figure from Fujian, revered for his wisdom and munificence. Main ceremonies at Zushi Temple in Sanxia, outside Taipei, including the ritual slaying of “God Pigs”.

Jade Emperor’s Birthday Lunar Jan 9. Pays tribute to the chief Taoist deity, the head of celestial government thought to mirror that of imperial China. Main ceremonies at temples in Daxi, Taichung and Tainan.

Lantern Festival Lunar Jan 15. Marks the end of Chinese New Year festivities, but itself often lasts several days in big cities such as Taipei and Kaohsiung. Main activity is the public display of paper lanterns; in some cities, paper lanterns are launched into the sky, most famously during the Heavenly Lantern Festival in Pingxi; another popular event is the Beehive Rockets Festival in Yanshui near Tainan, where an almost 200-year tradition of setting off fireworks has transformed into an annual free-for-all.

Peace Memorial Day Feb 28 (P). Instituted in 1997, and also known as “2-28 Memorial Day”, it commemorates the 2-28 Incident.

February/March

Wenchang Dijun’s Birthday Lunar Feb 3. Pays respect to the god of literature or culture, revered by students and their parents ahead of exams. Offerings of incense and wishes are written on colourful paper placed in glass jars.

Mayasvi Festival Tsou tribe celebration of warriors returning from battle, with rituals giving thanks to the god of war and the god of heaven. Hosted annually in rotation between Dabang and Tefuye villages.

Guanyin’s Birthday Lunar Feb 19. The goddess of mercy’s birthday is celebrated at Buddhist temples throughout the country, but the main place to mark the occasion is Taipei’s Longshan Temple. The event is also marked at the Zizhu Temple in Neimen (near Kaohsiung), which holds a festival celebrating its 300-plus-year history as one of the most sacred sites for Taiwanese Buddhists. The festival features the island’s most important annual performances of the Song Jiang Battle Array, ritualized martial performing arts depicting symbolic battles with a variety of traditional weapons, including farm tools.

Youth Day March 29. Pays tribute to the more than one hundred of Sun Yat-sen’s revolutionaries who were killed in the failed Canton Uprising against the imperial Qing government on March 29, 1911. Taiwan’s president officiates at a public service at the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine in Taipei, and local governments hold similar ceremonies.

March/April

Queen Mother of the West’s Birthday Lunar March 3. Honours the highest-ranking female deity, often portrayed as the Jade Emperor’s wife. Main festivities in Hualien (where it is celebrated on Lunar 18/7), the centre of her cult in Taiwan.

Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven’s Birthday Lunar March 3. Pays respect to the controller of the elements, particularly fire. Worshipped at some four hundred temples throughout Taiwan.

Tomb Sweeping Day ( qīngmíng ) April 5 (P). Families visit cemeteries to clean graves of relatives and pay respects to their ancestors. In Taiwan, it’s celebrated on the anniversary of Chiang Kai-shek’s death. “Grave cakes” are offered and paper money is burnt.

Baosheng Dadi’s Birthday Lunar March 15. Marks the birthday of Baosheng Dadi, the “Great Emperor who Preserves Life”. Biggest celebration is held in Xuejia, north of Tainan.

Bunun Ear-shooting Festival Most important celebration of the Bunun tribe, traditionally a test of archery skills to mark the coming of age of the tribe’s males.

Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage This eight-day, seven-night pilgrimage comprises one of the world’s biggest religious festivals, with worshippers parading a caravan containing one of the island’s most revered Mazu deities around a circuit before returning it to its mother temple in Dajia. Always preceding Mazu’s birthday celebration, the pilgrimage is part of the month-long Dajia Mazu Culture Festival.

Mazu’s Birthday Lunar March 23. One of Taiwan’s most important folk festivals, celebrating the birthday of Mazu, goddess of the sea, the island’s most popular folk deity. Mazu deities are returned to their “mother temples” on this day to be blessed and increase their spiritual powers. The liveliest celebrations are held at Dajia’s Zhenlan Temple, Beigang’s Chaotian Temple and Lugang’s Tianhou Temple.

Labour Day May 1 (P). Celebrates workers’ rights and the eight-hour workday in line with international convention.

Cleansing Buddha Festival Lunar April 8. Celebrates the birth of Buddha in accordance with the Mahayana school. Worshippers flock to Buddhist temples island-wide, with monasteries such as Chung Tai Chan, Foguangshan and Dharma Drum hosting legions of devotees.

Tainan City God Birthday Lunar April 20. Main festivities are held at the venerated Tainan City God Temple.

Dragon Boat Festival ( duānwŭ jié ) Lunar May 5 (P). One of the three major Chinese holidays, featuring dragon boat races held in honour of the poet Qu Yuan who, according to legend, drowned himself in protest after being slandered by envious officials on this date in 280 BC. Races are held in most major cities with waterways – including international races in Taipei, Lugang and Keelung – but the most distinctly Taiwanese are the aboriginal-style races held in Erlong, near the east coast hot-springs resort of Jiaoxi.

Taipei City God Birthday Lunar May 13. Includes fireworks, elaborate dances by temple guardians and a lavish parade in which the deity is carried around the streets surrounding Taipei’s City God Temple.

July/August

Guan Di’s Birthday Lunar June 24. Honours one of Taiwan’s most admired deities, the red-faced patron of chivalrous warriors, misleadingly known as the god of war. Ceremonies held island-wide, but Taipei’s Xingtian Temple hosts the biggest.

Yimin Festival Lunar July. The most important annual observance of the Hakka people honours groups of Hakka militia from the late eighteenth century. The main celebration is held at the Yimin Temple in Fangliao, near Hsinchu, and is marked by offerings to ancestors, music and the ritual slaying of several dozen force-fed “God Pigs” – an increasingly controversial ceremony that is seldom witnessed by foreigners.

Ami Harvest Festival One of the most colourful aboriginal celebrations, centred on dancing, singing and coming-of-age rituals for young men. Although dates vary from year to year, the most important festival of the Ami tribe is generally held in late summer, often in August. Ask at villages north of Taitung.

August/September

Ghost Month Begins ( guǐyuè ) Lunar July 1. The time when the gates of hell are opened and spirits of “hungry ghosts” haunt the living. Daily rituals include burning of incense and paper money, while major festivals are held in Keelung, Toucheng and Hengchun at the middle and end of the month.

Ghost Festival ( yúlán jié ) Lunar July 15. Appeasement ceremonies held at temples across the island. Families offer flowers, fruit and three sacrificial offerings: chicken (or duck), pig and fish. Taiwan’s most famous is the Keelung Ghost Festival, where an elaborate night parade is held before thousands of glowing “water lanterns” are released onto the Keelung River.

Ghost Month Ends Midnight Lunar July 30. On the last day of Ghost Month, the gates of hell close and hungry ghosts return to the underworld. In the month’s last hour, contests called …qiǎng gū – in which men race to climb tall bamboo towers to collect meat and rice dumplings – are held; the most famous is in Toucheng near Yilan, while a similar event is also staged in Hengchun in the southwest.

Thao Pestle Music Festival Held during the seventh lunar month in Itashao Village on Sun Moon Lake, members of the Thao tribe – Taiwan’s smallest aboriginal group – pound grain into a stone mortar with bamboo pestles, creating a traditional harmony.

Armed Forces Day Sept 3. Honours all branches of Taiwan’s military while also marking the end of China’s eight-year War of Resistance against Japan. Big ceremonies at martyrs’ shrines around Taiwan and military parades in the big cities.

Teachers’ Day/Confucius’s Birthday Sept 28. Pays tribute to teachers on the birthday of China’s best-known educator and scholar, Confucius. Unique dawn ceremonies are held at Confucius temples nationwide, with the biggest at Taipei’s Confucius Temple.

September/October

Mid-Autumn Festival ( zhōngqiūjié ) Lunar Aug 15 (P). Also known as the “Moon Festival” – families gather in parks and scenic spots to admire what is regarded as the year’s most luminous moon and to share moon cakes and pomeloes. Since the festival coincides with the autumn harvest, the Taiwanese also mark it by making offerings to the Earth God for a bountiful harvest.

Double Ninth Day Lunar Aug 9. Nine is a number associated with yang, or male energy, and on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month certain qualities such as male strength are celebrated through a variety of activities, including hill walking and drinking chrysanthemum wine; kite-flying is also popular. In 1966, the day also was designated as “Senior Citizens Day”, and since then it has been viewed as a time to pay respects to the elderly.

Hualien Stone Sculpture Festival Highlights the work of local and international stone sculptors (see Hualien ).

Sanyi Woodcarving Festival Held in Taiwan’s woodcarving capital to celebrate the craft. Includes ice sculpting and carving contests (see Sanyi ).

National Day Oct 10 (P). Also known as “Double Tenth Day”, it commemorates the Wuchang Uprising that led to the overthrow of the Qing dynasty in 1911 by revolutionaries led by Sun Yat-sen. Military and public parades and fireworks displays are held in front of the Presidential Building in Taipei.

Retrocession Day Oct 25. Marks the official end of fifty years of Japanese colonial rule over Taiwan on October 25, 1945. The national flag is flown everywhere.

Austronesian Culture Festival International festival of aboriginal cultures in Taitung, designed to instil pride and preserve traditions, using the example of indigenous peoples such as the Maori of New Zealand.

Rukai Black Rice Festival The Rukai tribe’s major festival, named in honour of what was once their staple diet but is rarely seen today. Offerings are made for abundant harvests, and it’s a traditional time for marriage proposals and weddings. The biggest ceremony is held at Duona, usually in late November, in Maolin National Scenic Area.

Ritual of the Short Black People The most poignant expression of Saisiyat (“true people”) identity, meant to appease spirits of a people the tribe are believed to have exterminated. Major festival held every ten years, with a smaller one every other year.

Birth of Bodhidharma Lunar Oct 5. Honours the legendary Buddhist monk, also known as the Tripitaka Dharma Master, traditionally credited as the founder of the meditative Chan – or Zen as it’s known in Japan and the West – school of Buddhism. Rites performed at the Chung Tai Chan Monastery near Puli.

Sun Yat-sen’s Birthday Nov 12 (P). Marks the birthday of Sun Yat-sen, founder of the Republic of China and the Chinese Nationalist Party who is commonly known as the father of modern China.

Qingshan’s Birthday Lunar Oct 22. Celebrates the birthday of the King of Qingshan (Green Mountain), who is believed to ward off pestilence and dispense justice in the underworld. Ceremonies held at Taipei’s ornate Qingshan Temple.

Puyuma Ear-shooting Festival Celebration of the Puyuma tribe, traditionally a test of archery skills. Rituals held near Zhiben, to the south of Taitung.

Constitution Day Dec 25. Commemorates the passage of the Constitution of the Republic of China on December 25, 1946. The national flag is flown throughout the country, but these days Christmas is celebrated.

Travel advice for Taiwan

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Taiwan

• Eating and drinking in Taiwan
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Taiwan
• Culture and Etiquette in Taiwan
• How to get to Taiwan
• Getting around Taiwan: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Taiwan for planning and on the go

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 29.12.2023

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

A Comprehensive Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary for First Timers

Taiwan is a compact but extremely rewarding travel destination. This East Asian island country will tempt you with its welcoming people, track record for safety, convenient transportation, unbeatable street food, stunning natural scenery, and outdoors activities. If you’re in the early stages of planning your Taiwan trip, you’ll uncover a wealth of information in this Taiwan Travel Guide, including when to go and for how long, how to plan your trip, the top attractions, the ideal itinerary, plus more tips and FAQs.

This article was written by Nick Kembel , who has been living in and traveling around Taiwan for over a decade. He’s written a book about Taiwan, manages two websites about the country, and moderates the Taiwan Travel Planning Group on Facebook.

Taiwan Trip Planner and Guide

When is the best time to visit taiwan, how many days do you need for taiwan, how to plan your trip to taiwan, around taipei, taroko gorge.

Sun Moon Lake

Taiwan Travel Itinerary

Will i need cash in taiwan how much, what’s easycard, which kind of transportation should i take and when should i book it , is taiwan suitable for vegetarians, share this:.

Pin this Taiwan Trip Planner and Travel Guide to plan for your Trip to Taiwan

If you want the perfect combination of good weather and small crowds in Taiwan, choose March, April, October, or November.

May and June are the rainy season in Taiwan. Summer (July to September) is uncomfortably hot and humid, not to mention that your travel plans may be ruined by a typhoon.

December is the most popular month of the year for tourism in Taiwan, mainly because visitors from nearby Asian countries flock there for Christmas events, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and because they want to experience cooler weather for their winter holidays.

Winter (January to March) is a little cold in Taipei and the north, but the south of Taiwan remains tropical year-round. It’s a good time for hot springs and cherry blossom viewing.

However, avoid visiting during Lunar New Year, when everything closes, flight prices skyrocket, and all trains and hotels will be fully booked. But consider visiting for the Lantern Festival (15 th day of the lunar year), one of the most impressive traditional celebrations in the country.

Red Paper Lanterns in Taiwan | Photo by Henry & Co. on Unsplash

Many visitors only book one week or less for Taiwan. This is not nearly enough. With this amount of time, you’ll probably only be able to visit Taipei plus one or two other places. I’s not enough to do a full loop around the country.

In order to travel in a circle around Taiwan and visit all the main attractions along the way, two weeks is the ideal amount of time. If you can extend it to three weeks, that will be even better. Then you’ll be less rushed and you can even include some more off-the-beaten-track stops.

But two weeks is a decent chunk of time to work with, and I’ll introduce the perfect Taiwan two-week itinerary in this Taiwan Travel Guide.

Taiwan is not an ideal country for just showing up and figuring it out as you go. It’s a crowded country with millions of locals who also like to travel around on weekends and holidays, not to mention the 10 million+ tourists who show up every year.

It is common for all the hotels to sell out at destinations in Taiwan. This is especially true for Alishan , the country’s most popular mountain resort, and one of the Best Places to visit in Taiwan . The hotels there are limited and sometimes all the rooms sell out weeks in advance. This is especially true for weekends, holidays, and cherry blossom season (mid-March to early-April in Alishan).

This can also happen at Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge , but only at the busiest times of the year (long weekends and Lunar New Year holiday). And for December, the busiest month for international tourism in Taiwan, I’ve even heard of travellers having difficulty finding rooms in major cities like Taipei.

RaoHe Night Market, Taipei | Photo by Clement Souchet on Unsplash

The main lesson here in this Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary is: book your Taiwan hotels in advance! Personally, I usually start making my itinerary and looking at hotels about six months before my trip. However, I sometimes don’t actually book them until about 2-3 months before. Unfortunately, some hotels in Taiwan, especially smaller ones, tend to not release their rooms until 2-3 months in advance. This can be a little pesky when you’re hoping to secure a room at a famous location like Alishan.

As for trains, that is a whole different story. Figuring out which trains to take around the country is going to be one of the more complicated parts of your trip. Because there’s so much to say about that, I’ll cover it in the FAQs section below.

But for now, suffice to say that you can buy regular (TRA) train or High Speed Rail (HSR) tickets 28 days in advance (or 29 days in advance for Saturday trips and 29 days for Sunday trips). The tickets for a new day are released at precisely midnight (Taiwan time – you’ll need to figure out what time that is in your country).

These are important details, because some popular train routes and dates in Taiwan can sell out within minutes of being released. For others, you don’t even need to book them – you can buy tickets or swipe an EasyCard (a reloadable smart card for transportation in Taiwan) just before boarding.

There are a few other things you may want to book before arriving in Taiwan. These include a Taiwan SIM card , entrance to popular attractions in Taiwan , and a Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass . All of these can be booked on Klook . You can also buy them when you get there, but then you’ll need to use more cash.

Last but not least, if you plan to visit any famous upscale restaurants like those with Michelin stars, you may need to reserve them several months in advance.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Taiwan to tick off these Best Things to do in Taiwan as shared in this Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary  – 

• Book your Rental Car in Taiwan on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best Taiwan Tours at Klook
• Book your Accommodation in Taiwan on Agoda or Booking.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Taiwan, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge Access.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free road trip vacation in Taiwan.

Top Attractions in Taiwan

Longshan Temple | Taipei

For most visitors, their journey starts and ends in the capital city, Taipei. Some of the top highlights include the Observatory at Taipei 101 (once the tallest building in the world), Maokong Gondola (a glass-bottomed gondola with views of the city and tea farms), Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (one of the city’s most impressive landmarks, dedicated to a former dictator), and Beitou Hot Springs .

Of course you also can’t miss the city’s famous night markets, where hundreds of food stalls dish out mouth-watering delicacies every night of the year. The city’s five biggest ones are Shilin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, Ningxia Night Market , Tonghua Night Market , and Nanjichang Night Market , but there are many small ones, too. The city also has a huge range of hotels, from excellent hostels to some of Taiwan’s top luxury hotels .

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Taipei by getting the Klook Pass Taipei (save upto 41%).

If you are a foodie, you have to try out the different yummy street foods in Taipei, and guess what, with this Klook Pass – Taipei Must Eat Food , you can save upto 49% , while trying out 5-6 different kinds of Taipei Street Food.

Jiufen Old Street | Photo by Danielle Hoang on Unsplash

Some of the country’s most famous attractions are within a few hours of Taipei. The most popular attractions among them are Shifen Old Street (where tourists write wishes on paper lanterns then send them up to the sky), Shifen Waterfall, Jiufen Old Street (an old mining town with traditional teahouses), and Yehliu Geopark (with interesting shaped rock formations on the coast. Another popular day trip is Yangmingshan National Park , an active volcano right next to the city.

Taroko Gorge – The Grand Canyon of Taiwan

The “Grand Canyon of Taiwan” is the most famous natural attraction in Taiwan. This deep, dramatic gorge features stunning hikes, impossibly perched shrines, thrilling suspension bridges, and roaring waterfalls. Taroko Gorge is the top sight in Hualien county on wild east coast of Taiwan.

Cycling in Chishang in Taitung County

Remote Taitung county sits in the quiet, primarily rural southeastern corner of Taiwan. This is the land of epic bicycle paths through rice paddies, taking it easy, and meeting local Taiwanese aboriginal peoples. The county also boasts two incredible islands, Green Island (great for scuba diving and with a unique saltwater hot spring) and Orchid Island (home to the country’s most isolated aboriginal tribe).

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Taitung by getting the Klook Pass Taitung (save upto 45%).

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Kaohsiung is the largest city in Southern Taiwan and country’s largest port. It features some of the country’s more grandiose attractions, including Fo Guang Shan (Taiwan’s largest Buddhist monastery and tallest Buddha statue), Lotus Pond (a manmade lake surrounded by temples, including the ever-popular Dragon and Tiger Pagodas), and the best street art in the country – graffiti is legal here! From Kaohsiung, you can also make side trips to Xiaoliuqiu island for snorkelling with giant sea turtles or Kenting National Park for some of the  best beaches in Taiwan.

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Kaohsiung and Xiaoliuqiu Island by getting the Klook Pass Kaohsiung (save upto 30%) and Klook Pass Xiaoliqiu (save upto 28%) respectively.

A traditional temple in Tainan

The ancient capital of Taiwan , Tainan is rich in historical architecture. Come here to see some of the oldest and most important temples, forts, and Japanese-era architecture in the country. Locals consider Tainan the culinary capital of Taiwan , too, so there are plenty of good eats to be had.

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Tainan by getting the Klook Pass Tainan (save upto 50%).

Towering trees in Alishan – Taiwan’s Most Famous Mountain Resort

Alishan is Taiwan’s most famous mountain resort . Sitting at 2200 meters above sea level, the area features towering ancient cypress trees, sunrises over a sea of clouds, and the chance to ride on the cute red train cars of a former logging line, the Alishan Forest Railway . The region is also known for Alishan High Mountain Oolong Tea , Taiwan’s most famous tea.

Here we have the largest and most enticing lake in Taiwan . This tourist hot spot boasts a wealth of activities, from boat rides across the lake and epic views from Sun Moon Lake Ropeway to fantastic cycling and temples overlooking the lake. In February, visitors flock to Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village , an aboriginal theme park, when thousands of cherry blossoms bloom. In September, thousands of locals do a mass swim across the lake, the only time of the year that swimming is allowed.

Lanterns in Taichung

The largest city in Central Taiwan is a haven for foodies with a sweet tooth, with the likes of Miyahara (over-the-top ice creams in a Harry Potter-like setting), Taiwan Sun Cake Museum (honouring a local cake that was invented in the city) and Chun Shui Tang Siwei Original Store (the supposed birthplace of pearl milk tea). Taichung is also a convenient base for venturing to attractions outside of the city like Rainbow Village (a traditional house painted in vibrant colours by a former Chinese soldier), Gaomei Wetlands (for amazing sunsets on the coast), and Zhongshe Flower Market (for seas of various flowers).

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Taichung by getting the Klook Pass Taichung (save upto 60%).

Days 1 and 2: Spend these days overcoming jetlag and exploring the many sights, activities, and night markets in Taipei.

Day 3: Use this day to make a day trip from Taipei . The most popular option is a day trip to the east, including an eclectic mix of stops like Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, Houtong Cat Village, Yehliu Geopark, and finishing at Keelung Night Market before returning to the city.

Day 4: Travel to Hualien , check in to a hotel, and explore Dongdamen Night Market .

Day 5: Full day tour of Taroko Gorge , including stops at Qingshui Cliffs (some dramatic coastal bluffs) and Qixingtan Beach (a pretty pebble beach). 

Day 6: Cycling among the rice paddies in Chishang , the most picturesque town in Taitung county.

Days 7-8: Explore the main sights of Kaohsiung on day 7 then do a day trip to snorkel with sea turtles on Xiaoliuqiu island on day 8.

Day 9: Catch the train + bus to Alishan and do some hiking before sunset.

Day 10: Wake up super early for the famous Alishan sunrise, then do a little more hiking before check-out time. Catch the afternoon bus to Sun Moon Lake.

Day 11: Explore Sun Moon lake by bike, gondola, bus, and/or boat.

Days 12 and 13: Tour the main sights in Taichung city on day 12, then make a day trip to Rainbow Village, Zhongshe Flower Market, Gaomei Wetlands, Lihpao Discovery Land, and/or Lukang (a very traditional old town) on Day 13. Make sure not miss Feng Chia Night Market, one of the largest in Taiwan.

Day 14: Return to Taipei or go directly from Taichung to Taoyuan International Airport for flying out.

Some common Taiwan FAQs

Typical travellers will spend TWD 1000 to 2000 per person per day in Taiwan. This is not counting hotels.

Taiwan is still very much a cash-loving society. Although you can use EasyCard and credit cards for some things (international credit cards only sometimes seem to work), you’ll still need cash for most things. Even if you book all your hotels on platforms like Booking, most budget and some mid-range hotels will still expect cash payment on arrival.

Luckily, there are ATMs everywhere in Taiwan, so you can withdraw money as you go. They allow you to take out quite a lot at once, so make sure to check your bank’s upper withdrawal limit before you go. If you’re bringing foreign cash, exchange it at the airport. There’s only a small fee per transaction, and it’s much more convenient than going to banks in the city. Banks don’t carry certain currencies, too.

Most people in Taiwan use a very handy reloadable smart card called EasyCard . You can buy one for TWD 100 at any convenience store or MRT station, including the Airport MRT for getting from Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei ).

EasyCard – Taiwan

On top of the non-refundable 100 deposit, you can load as much money as you want onto the card. You’ll use this a lot in Taipei for riding the MRT to explore the city. You can also use it to pay for local buses, trains (for example on day trips from Taipei), to pay for items at convenience stores, and some taxis take it.

If you follow the above itinerary, here are some tips:

• In Taipei, you’ll mainly ride the MRT. Just load some money onto an EasyCard for swiping into and out from the stations. You can also use EasyCard for the Airport MRT.
• When you do day trips from Taipei, you’ll mostly be riding local trains. Those don’t have seat numbers, can’t be booked, and you can just swipe EasyCard to board them.
• For Taipei to Hualien, the express train (2 hrs) is extremely popular and often sells out. Try to book this on the official TRA site 28-30 days in advance. If the express train sells out, you’ll have to ride a slower one (3 to 4 hours).
• From Hualien to Chishang and Chishang to Kaohsiung, it’s the same as above. Trains on the west coast are more limited, so book early.
• To travel from Kaohsiung to Alishan, ride train (no booking needed if you choose a local one, only 1 hour) from Kaohsiung Station to Chiayi Station. From Chiayi, take the bus (swipe EasyCard ) to Alishan (2 hours).
• There’s only one bus per day from Alishan to Sun Moon Lake, departing 1 PM and arriving 4 PM, swipe EasyCard .
• The bus from Sun Moon Lake to Taichung takes 90 minutes. Again you can swipe EasyCard .
• For Taichung to Taipei (or to Taoyuan for transferring to the Airport MRT), try taking a ride on the super-fast High Speed Rail. These tickets can be booked in advance on the official HSR site for an early bird discount or on the spot (non-reserved ticket) right before boarded. Non-reserved section is cars 10-12, but a seat is not guaranteed.

Yes, Taiwan is a vegetarian-friendly country. There are hundreds of vegetarian restaurants in Taipei and around the country. Most traditional Taiwanese vegetarian food is also vegan. Many vegetarian restaurants have the character for vegetarian (素) prominently displayed. You can easily find them by searching on GoogleMaps or using websites like HappyCow.

Some Final Taiwan Travel Tips

• English is limited in Taiwan, so I recommend preparing a translation app like GoogleTranslate or Papago. These can be used to scan signs/menus or even translate conversations as you try to communicate with locals.
• Taiwanese are very polite and generally love foreigners. Young people tend to be shy, but most people will help if you need it.
• When it comes to local etiquette, don’t make any noise (even talking should be a whisper) on buses & trains, the dark blue MRT seats are for the needy, stand only on the right side of escalators, and wave at buses if you want them to stop to pick you up.
• Pay restaurant bills at the front of the restaurant before leaving, and there’s generally no tipping in Taiwan.
• Taiwan is an extremely tolerant country and the only place in Asia where same-sex marriage is legal.
• Dress as you wish, but don’t go barefoot or wear beach attire unless you’re at the beach.
• Unlike Japan, tattoos are fine for hot springs but you may need to wear a swimming hat.

And if you are wondering, Where to stay in Taiwan? All you have to do is, fill in your dates, the destination and click on the search button in the box below, and save upto 50% on the Best Hotels and Resorts in Taiwan.

Don’t forget to Pin this Taiwan Travel Guide featuring the Best Things to do in Taiwan along with a 14 Day Taiwan Travel Itinerary , which will help you plan for your Trip to Taiwan.

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Destinations

• Plan Your Trip

Here’s When You Should Travel to Taiwan

I’ll start with a sobering truth: There is no single best time to visit Taiwan. When it’s sunny in one part of the country, it’s raining in another; the busiest times of the year are that way for good reason.

Now that we have that out of the way—now that you’ve abandoned your hope for a silver bullet—we can explore the topic of when to visit Taiwan with the nuance it deserves.

Which is to say that the post below will focus on more than just Taiwan weather, and will help you make your own decision rather than telling you what to choose. Are you ready to get started?

Why the Timing of Your Taiwan Trip Matters

Deciding the best time to visit Taiwan is ultimately about setting priorities, and indeed an intention for your trip to Taiwan . You need to be realistic—you’re not going to have sunshine every day, or have every place to yourself. If you play your cards right, however, you can time your trip so that you get good weather when it matters most, and that the most special Taiwan destinations are ones you enjoy without huge crowds.

For example, the Taiwan rainy season is generally occurring either in the north or south of the country, but not both. If you can deal with rain in Taipei and vicinity, you’ll enjoy nice weather along the east coast scenic right, and in the south near Kaohsiung, Tainan and Chiayi . If, on the other hand, you want to enjoy sunny weather in Taipei, you should prepare for rain elsewhere.

When to Visit Taiwan: Things to Consider

It’s always raining somewhere.

Pull up a Taiwan weather forecast and you’re bound to be disappointed—that’s the bad news; it’s always (apparently) raining. While this is partially due to bad data on Google’s part (TIP: Taiwan’s own weather bureau provides a more accurate forecast), the fact is that it’s always raining somewhere in Taipei—typically in the north while it’s dry in the south, and vice-versa.

Taiwan’s winter can get very cold

If you judged by recommendations for most of nearby Southeast Asia , you could be tempted to think that the best time to visit Taiwan was between about November and February. While this is the case for southern and largely tropical places like Kaohsiung and Kenting National Park, Taipei and environs can be downright cold (not to mention grey and drizzly) during the winter.

Prices are not highly variable

The good news? The cost of travel in Taiwan is generally low, with some exceptions like hotels (should you decide to stay in one, instead of an Airbnb). The better news? With some exceptions (such as the domestic holidays I’ll mention below) prices very rarely go up; when they do, it’s usually in particular areas.

Neither are crowds (for the most part)

The law of supply and demand works the same in Taiwan as it does in your country—we can infer from the generally stable prices in Taiwan that most places don’t see massive visitor spikes, again with the exception of major holidays. The best time to visit Taiwan, if you’re concerned about oppressive crowds, is essentially whenever you’re able to travel.

Expectation is the root of disappointment

The second time I visited Taiwan, which was the first time I explored anywhere outside of Taipe, I arranged my list of things to do in Taiwan meticulously. I knew exactly what my pictures would look like, and the story I would want to tell—or so I thought , before it rained for five days straight. Avoiding expectations ensures you won’t be disappointed, no matter when you visit Taiwan.

Annual Events in Taiwan

Below, you’ll find a list both of public holidays in Taiwan, as well as annual events that might be of interest to you:

• Chinese New Year (January or February)
• Tomb-Sweeping Day (early April)
• Dragon Boat Festival (June)
• Computex (June)
• Mid-Autumn Festival (September or October)
• Taipei Pride (late October)

Taiwan (or at least the venues where the events take place, and tourist attractions during holidays) will be crowded during these periods—I’m not sure they’re the best time to visit Taiwan.

Plan Your Trip to Taiwan

Planning a Taiwan itinerary is more important that just getting your timing right. You’ll need to pick the right places to go, the most amazing experiences to have and arrange them in the perfect order. There’s a lot to keep in mind—for some travelers, it’s too much. On the other hand, I’ve spent so much time exploring the nooks and crannies of Taiwan I can practically put a trip together in my sleep.

Other FAQ About the Best Time to Visit Taiwan

Which month is the best month to visit taiwan.

In my opinion, the best month to visit Taiwan is November. Early November sees northern destinations like Taipei and Yilan dry out after their long, wet months, but is before the rainy season further south in Taitung and Kaohsiung begins in earnest.

When is the rainy season in Taiwan?

Taiwan has two rainy seasons: One for northern Taiwan and another for southern Taiwan. While Taiwan and Taipei’s north are wet from about June until October, southern parts of the island experience the most rain between about December and April.

Is April a good time to go to Taiwan?

April is generally a good month to visit Taiwan. Spring is getting underway in Taipei and destinations in northern Taiwan, while the rainy season in the south is coming to an end. Many destinations in Taiwan are quite warm in April, but you’ll generally avoid the year’s most suffocating heat.

The Bottom Line

The best time to visit Taiwan depends as much upon external factors as it does the reasons for you trip. The key is flexibility: When it’s raining somewhere in Taiwan it’s clear somewhere else; crowds concentrated in one place means another will be empty by comparison. Rather than getting your heart set on perfect weather or having a certain place to yourself, create a balanced trip plan that doesn’t tie your enjoyment to factors you can’t control. I hope your next trip to Taiwan is one for the record books, regardless of when you choose to come!

Plan Your Taiwan Trip

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17 things you need to know before visiting Taiwan

Oct 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Taiwan is a breeze to visit, but it doesn’t hurt to know a few things before you go © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Taiwan is a breeze to visit, with easy-to-navigate transport systems, handy convenience stores at every turn, and endless restaurants that just hit the spot. 

That said, it doesn’t hurt to prepare a little before you go. Here are some tips from a Taipei resident of seven years.  

1. Book accommodation early

Taiwan’s sweeping range of lodgings means you can live like a multimillionaire or a monk, although it's at the midrange hostels and B&Bs that you’ll get the best deals.

Rooms sell like hot dumplings during summer, Lunar New Year and national holidays. Book at least two months ahead. In Kenting , Jiufen  and Alishan , spots favored by local vacationers and glampers, early reservation is key. Aside from pitching a tent, the cheapest sleeps are at temples with guest rooms.

To hike Taiwan’s highest mountains , you’ll need a permit or two, and the process can take weeks. If you want to stay in the cabins , you’ll need to apply for those as well. The process may not be a walk in the park, but Taiwan’s breathtaking high mountains will reward you generously.  

2. Make restaurant reservations

Eating will be an important part of your trip, and reservations are strongly advised for weekend dining. A few days will do for most restaurants, though Michelin-starred tables, such as RAW and Le Palais , need to be reserved a month or two in advance. Book by phone or on Facebook. A growing number of places will also let you reserve with Google. For walk-in-only hotspots, get there early or get ready to see Taiwan’s famous queue culture in action. 

Dinner service usually begins at 5:30pm and starts winding down in less than three hours. This means your restaurant options grow thin after 8pm — but then street food-filled night markets are always an option.

3. Tap and go with EasyCard or iPass

EasyCard is Taiwan’s contactless smartcard that you can use on the metro, local buses and trains (except high-speed rail), as well as convenience stores and supermarkets. You’ll also need it (and a local phone number) for Youbike, Taiwan’s electronic bike-sharing service. The card itself costs NT$100, and you can top up at any metro station or convenience store. Any unused money is refundable, so don’t lose your card.

iPass is Kaohsiung ’s version of Easycard, which is issued by Taipei. The two are interchangeable. 

4. Download those transportation apps

The government’s bilingual apps are wonderful for checking routes, fares, arrival and departure times, and even whether or not you can bring your cello on board. You can purchase digital train tickets via T Express  (for high-speed rail) and 台鐵e訂通  (for railway), or simply use the apps for information and buy tickets at the station counters.

Taiwan’s metro systems are straightforward, but apps like Taipei's  台北捷運Go  can help you make better decisions about whether to get the day pass or whether you should just bus it. Taiwan’s bus apps give similar information to Google Maps but with more accurate arrival times.

5. Convenience stores are little shops of wonder

Taiwan’s convenience stores let you buy prepaid phone cards, print and photocopy, buy train and concert tickets, send and pick up local packages and use the ATMs.  You can do most of this on an automated kiosk while basking in the aroma of tea-infused eggs, roasted sweet potatoes or whatever decent-tasting rice or pasta dish a fellow customer happens to be reheating for indoor-seated enjoyment. Bear in mind not all kiosks have full English translations, so ask a staff member for help if you need it. Many convenience stores have toilets open to the public, too.

6. Pack enough prescription meds for your trip

If you’re on a specific antidepressant drug, blood pressure medication,or contraceptive pill, bring enough with you to be safe. If you need flu and cold medicine, head over to Watson’s or Cosmed for Tylenol or its local equivalents.  

Sanitary products can be easily purchased from supermarkets and drugstores. Some cafes and restaurants even provide them for free in the women’s toilets. 

7. Be considerate on public transport

The metro  and  buses  have priority seating that's a different color from the other seats. Most Taiwanese who are not elderly, pregnant or physically challenged would never think of sitting there, but in recent years, detractors have been questioning whether age and appearance are accurate reflections of need, arguing that it’s fine for anyone to use the seats until someone needier comes along. Whatever you choose to do, it helps to be aware of these dynamics.

Taiwanese metro commuters take the 'no eating and drinking' rule very seriously. Chewing gum and sips of water are frowned upon. Carriages are also quiet. Your chances of overhearing someone’s life story are disappointingly low. 

8. Tipping is not customary (but it is appreciated)

You are not expected to tip at restaurants, whether or not they levy a 10% to 15% service charge (many do). Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but you may hear a brighter " xie xie"  (thank you) if you round up to the next dollar. It is courteous to give the porter at better hotels NT$100. If you’re happy with a massage or a tour guide, add 10% to the bill. 

9. Wear whatever you like, but dress respectfully at temples 

While middle-aged Taiwanese tend to dress conservatively, young urbanites in Taipei and Kaohsiung are sartorially quite open-minded. That said, clothes that show more skin, such as crop tops or halternecks, are much less commonly worn than in London or New York, for example, and may get some stares.

It’s a different story when you visit a temple – here, wearing clothes that cover the thighs, shoulders and midriff is regarded as a sign of respect. 

10. Take off your shoes when entering homes 

Taiwanese do not wear outdoor shoes inside their homes. If your host offers you a pair of slippers, accept or propose going with socks. 

It is not customary to remove shoes before entering a temple, especially in urban temples, though the rule may be enforced in a particular hall housing a sacred relic or a fragile heritage building.

11. You can get by without much Chinese

Most Taiwanese in the major cities know at least some English. Naturally, the further you go from the metropolitan areas, the less prevalent the language is. But with the friendliness and hospitality of the Taiwanese, and some help from good old Google Translate, you can get pretty far.

12. Bring your reusable water bottle

Taiwan’s tap water is officially deemed safe to drink; however, it’s hard to know for sure if the pipes in a particular building are up to par. 

Using your own drinking water bottle is by far the cheapest, greenest and safest way to hydrate. There are water fountains in all metro and train stations, public facilities, such as information centers, libraries and museums, and even temples. When checking in at your lodging, ask reception where the water dispenser is.

13. Taiwan is affected by frequent natural disasters

This includes earthquakes, typhoons, floods and landslides. Avoid mountainous areas after quakes and heavy rains. Strong winds often mess up sailing schedules to and from Taiwan’s islands, and cross-island buses may stop running after a landslide. Check with the relevant authorities before heading to the station or pier with your umbrella. 

14. Be wary of where you smoke

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, such as hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and metro stations, and this is strictly enforced. Smoking at alfresco cafes is common.

15. Taiwan is great for solo women travelers 

Taiwan has a very low crime rate, and many solo women travelers report feeling safer here than in other destinations. Some train and metro stations have nocturnal women-only wait zones that you can take advantage of, especially if traveling alone at night. 

16. Taiwan is a welcoming place for LGBTIQ+ travelers

The first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, Taiwan is friendly and progressive, especially Taipei, home of the Chinese-speaking world's most vibrant Pride parade. Kaohsiung, which has its own Pride, comes a close second. In terms of nightlife, however, Taipei wins hands down. Useful resources include Utopia , Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association  and Taiwan LGBT Pride .

17. Taiwan is fantastic for toilets

Free and usually spotlessly clean facilities are everywhere. While most public toilets are the squat style, there are usually at least one or two stalls with sit-down facilities. They often also have toilet paper. Western-style toilets are standard in hotels and apartments. Many restaurants ask you not to flush used toilet paper but to put it in the wastebasket beside your throne.

This article was first published October 2022 and updated October 2023

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Taiwan?

Last Updated: 11/06/2023

Published: 04/02/2022

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The best time to visit Taiwan is between September and November. Everyone’s in school. Typhoon season has passed. Temperatures will begin to cool. And you won’t have to worry about fall allergies.

I’ve lived in Taiwan for more than 5 years now. Throughout this time, I’ve learned about the country’s weather patterns. I want to help you know the best times to visit Taiwan. That way, you don’t have an unpleasant experience.

To pinpoint the best time to visit the island nation, you’ll want to know the following:

• Humidity levels
• Average temperature
• Common natural disasters
• Events and festivals
• October is the best time to visit Taiwan due to decent temperatures & lack of holidays.
• July through September are bad times to visit because of typhoons.
• February is the best time to visit to see cherry blossoms.

Taiwan’s Weather and Things To Do by Month

Here are festivals and average temperatures by month in Taiwan:

These temperatures don’t account for Taiwan’s high humidity. Air humidity can raise what temperatures ‘feel’ like. I’ll cover more details on this in a bit.

The following sections will cover more details about monthly weather and things to do in Taiwan.

January in Taiwan

January is one of Taiwan’s more comfortable months . It has temperatures averaging between 57 °F (13.9 °C) and 66 °F (19.1 °C). It’s also the country’s coldest month that doesn’t experience much sunshine (2.6 hours a day).

You won’t find any noteworthy festivals or holiday celebrations . Sometimes Lunar New Year, or otherwise Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, will begin at the end of January. If this is the case, beware of visiting Taiwan during this period.

Because you’ll find much higher flight and hotel prices . Plus, car pile-ups seem to rise in popularity during this time of year. Due to many traveling throughout the country to visit their family. A lot of these people are more likely to drink and drive.

Here’s what I recommend doing in January:

• Check out Hehuanshan : One of few places in Taiwan with snow.
• Hike : The colder weather COULD make hiking more bearable.
• Relax in hot springs : An excellent way to combat the cold weather.

Central & Southern cities like:

The cooler weather makes exploring these cities much more bearable. Since these cities get super hot in summer and autumn.

February in Taiwan

It’s Taiwan’s most humid month , with humidity that averages 81%, making this month the most uneasy time of the year. On average, you’ll encounter rainfall for at least 14.6 days out of the month. This can build up 6.7 inches (170.3 millimeters) of precipitation.

Partially because of this and other factors, this is also one of the least sunny months of the year. You’ll see an average of 2.5 hours per day.

This month also transitions the nation into its Spring allergy season, which will last between February and May. Taiwan doesn’t have ragweed. Grass pollen, certain molds, and tree pollen are the main allergens you must endure. Even in a city like Taipei, you will still face these symptoms.

Heed my warning under the “Festivals in January” section about visiting during the Spring Festival.

The Cherry Festival starts this month . It’s the best time of year to catch a glimpse at cherry blossoms throughout the country. If that’s why you want to visit, enter Taiwan once the Lunar New Year ends.

Here’s what to do this month:

• View all the cherry blossoms
• Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall : To View cherry blossoms.
• Explore night markets : Learn more about Taiwan’s food culture.

Taipei & New Taipei . Great places to see the cherry blossoms.

Where Can I See Cherry Blossoms in Taipei?

The best places that you can see cherry blossoms in Taipei include:

• Lohas Park in Neihu
• Pingjing Street in Taipei’s Shilin District
• Yangmingshan National park
• Tianyuan Temple in Tamsui (New Taipei)
• New Taipei City Gold Museum, Jinguashi (New Taipei)
• Sanxia (New Taipei)

And here’s a map of all the best places to see cherry blossoms throughout Taiwan:

March in Taiwan

March is when temperatures begin to rise . Most of the time, you’ll experience temperatures around 60.4 °F (15.7 °C), and sometimes you’ll see 71.8 °F (22.1 °C).

You’ll experience at least an average of 79% humidity.

One takeaway for this month is the varying flowers that blossom, which I’ll cover in a second.

It’s also the last month of the year that you’ll want to consider visiting an outdoor hot spring. The nation will begin to warm up from hereon.

In Taipei , around mid-March to early April, attend the Taipei Azalea Festival at Daan Forest Park. Or, visit Yangmingshan National Park to view calla lilies.

Taiwan’s firefly season begins in March and will last until May. The best place to find these flies is in Hualien’s Liyu Lake.

If you prefer music, attend the Eden Hill Music Festival (伊甸高原戶外音樂節), which is somewhere in Nantou County.

Here’s what I recommend doing this month:

• Yangmingshan National Park : Hike & view the calla lilies.
• Stroll through Daan Forest Park : Also view the azaleas.
• Explore Alishan National Forest : The weather isn’t too bad.

Taipei , due to all the places to view flowers.

April in Taiwan

Due to having balanced and dry weather and plenty of festivals, April is one of the ideal months to visit.

In early April, the Taiwanese will celebrate the Qingming Festival, or Tomb Sweeping day. There’s also Children’s Day. Both festivals give the Taiwanese a four-day weekend, leading to massive migrations. These days usually fall on April 4th, 5th, or 6th.

Consider booking flight tickets and hotel rooms outside this window .

Also, check out the Urban Nomad Film Festival in Taipei, the Organik Music Festival in Hualien, or the Spring Scream Music Festival in Kenting.

Here’s what I recommend doing in April:

• Hike : Explore any of Taiwan’s hiking paths.
• Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum in Kaohsiung: A mesmerizing religious site.
• Explore Tainan City : Refer to the next section for an explanation.

Tainan and Kaohsiung . It’s a good time of year to explore both cities since the weather isn’t too hot.

May in Taiwan

May is one of the hotter months in Taiwan, with temperatures ranging between 71.1 °F (22.3 °C) and 84.6 °F (29.2 °C). Those temperatures are without humidity taken into account.

It’s around 76.6%.

Starting this month and lasting until October, be careful with the heat . Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, wear sunscreen, and stay in the shade when possible.

Starting from the middle of this month and lasting until mid-June, Taiwan will experience plum rain (梅雨). It’s also known as the East Asian rainy season. During this time, heavy rainfall will pound East Asian nations. These conditions also lead to serious flooding.

The name “plum rain” derived from a belief that plums fell, and their moisture turned into rain.

Toward the middle of the month, spring allergies will fade.

As Taiwan approaches warmer weather, you’ll find various festivals throughout the country like:

• Taichung International Matsu Festival
• Hakka Tung Blossom Festival : you’ll find these in Miaoli, Hsinchu, and New Taipei
• Heartown Music Festival : metal festival in Taichung
• Earthfest Music Festival : psytrance music in Puli, Miaoli, or Nantou

Here’s what I recommend doing in May:

• Yehliu Geopark in New Taipei: See interesting rock formations.
• Visit religious sites : Visit as many of Taiwan’s thousands of temples as possible.
• Taipei Zoo : The weather isn’t too hot to see all the animals.

Miaoli for the multiple festivals.

June in Taiwan

June is Taiwan’s wettest month. It averages 16 days of rain with around 0.04 inches (1.02 mm) of precipitation. Because of this, you won’t find many tourists around. With the nation moving into summer, you’ll begin to feel the heat. June’s heat index averages 109.8 °F (43.2 °C).

Fortunately, you’ll find that the humidity will reduce a bit.

July is the last month to visit Taiwan before typhoon season hits. 

No matter where you are in Taiwan, watch the weekend-long Dragon Boat Festival (端午節). During this period, you’ll find various teams racing boats with dragon heads.

If you prefer being in Taipei, visit the Taipei Film Festival.

When traveling to Tainan during this month, don’t forget to buy something with mangos . The region’s mangos peak around this time; hence, they’ll taste the best.

If you’re a tech. nerd like me, check out Computex in Taipei. It’s a technology trade show that’ll give you a peak into what’s to come.

Taipei for Computex and Tainan for their mangos.

July in Taiwan

Be careful when visiting from hereon for a couple of months. Because you may encounter harsh weather conditions. July is also Taiwan’s warmest month.

If you decide to sightsee during the day, you’ll wear yourself down and also need to keep a few things in mind:

• Dress light
• Drink Super Sapau or Pocari Sweat
• Relax indoors and embrace air conditioning

There’s the Hohaiyan Rock Music Festival at Fulong Beach along Taiwan’s northern coast. Sometimes this festival will happen in August.

Another big event that happens throughout July and August is the Taitung International Balloon Festival. It’s the perfect place to watch hot air balloons with various shapes and characters float into the sky.

I recommend staying indoors when possible to avoid the heat. Here are some activities you could try:

• Try a tea house : Try locally-grown tea.
• Check out Huashan Creative Park in Taipei: Various indoor exhibits & local shops.
• Taipei 101 Observatory : Get an amazing view of Taipei City from one of the world’s tallest buildings.

Hsinchu, Taichung, Miaoli, & Taichung . They’re protected by Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range and less suceptible to severe damage from typhoons.

August in Taiwan

During this time, Taiwan faces the highest chances of typhoons increasing while the blazing heat continues. If you’re coming to Taiwan to study at a Mandarin Training Center , I recommend arriving this month.

These storms will sweep the country with winds and heavy rainfall. The rain ranges from 2 inches (50 millimeters) to 12 inches (300 millimeters). Whereas, the wind speeds vary between 73 to 120 mph (118–190 km/h).

That way, you have enough time to find an apartment, and finish any requirements for classes. You may also have time to relax before your classes begin.

The entire month is Taiwan’s Ghost Month, which means spirits will briefly roam the mortal plane. Throughout this time, the Taiwanese will practice various ceremonies and superstitions.

For example, you will find many people burning ghost money, or joss paper, in metal containers along sidewalks.

Otherwise, you won’t find much happening.

If it’s raining, do activities indoors like:

• Peruse shopping centers: Buy stuff while taking in the air conditioning.
• Visit art galleries : Support local artists.
• Sing at a karaoke room.

Hsinchu, Taichung, Miaoli, & Taichung .

September in Taiwan

With classes underway, you’ll find fewer people crowding beaches and tourist hotspots. You still run a smaller risk of encountering typhoons while dealing with the heat.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, or Moon Festival, is a weekend-long celebration. Many Taiwanese families will gather and have barbecues.

If you don’t mingle with the locals, try the holiday’s famous snack. Moon cakes. You’ll find them at most bakeries. I also recommend getting them as a souvenir if possible. Most of the time, this festival will happen during September. On rare occasions, it’ll start in October.

Again, stick to indoor activities like the following to avoid the heat and stay away from typhoons:

• Museums : Learn about Taiwan’s history & culture.
• Beitou hot springs (hotels): Great way to relax.
• Knife massage (or normal massage): Draw out “negative energy” & relax your body.

October in Taiwan

The chaotic conditions begin to wind down as typhoon season comes to a close. This makes Taiwan safer (weather-wise) to visit. It’s also an ideal time of year to go hiking and explore the country’s beautiful landscapes before the rain comes back.

This is also the best month to visit Taiwan’s offshore islands. But the hotels and tour businesses understand this. Meaning you’ll find higher prices.

Festivals you’ll find in October include:

• Boat Burning Festival
• Hakka Yimin Festival
• Taipei Jazz Music Festival
• Double Ninth Festival
• Taipei Digital Arts Festival

The nation doesn’t celebrate Halloween. Though, some nightclubs and other businesses will host costume parties. While it’s one of the best months to visit, you won’t find any celebrations that’ll happen during this month.

• Hiking: The weather isn’t too hot or cold.
• Lanyu (Orchid Island)
• Turtle Island
• Little Liuqiu

The offshore islands . Since the calmer ocean weather makes it safer to ride boats.

November in Taiwan

Take advantage of the remaining days of the beach season . Toward mid-November, a cold front will begin to descend on Taiwan. If you’re from a colder region, it’ll likely feel like summer to you, though.

The Taiwanese don’t celebrate Thanksgiving. For the most part, they also do not acknowledge Black Friday. Because of these reasons, you won’t have to worry about an influx of travelers .

If you’re into hot springs , see if the Taipei Hot Springs Festival is happening in Taipei City. You’ll find discounted hot springs hotels here.

If you love flowers, visit the former residence of Chiang Kai-Shek in Taipei’s Shilin District . Once there, you’ll find displays of chrysanthemum flowers.

Taipei. The temperature’s great for Beitou’s hot springs, which you could get discounted tickets for at the Hot Spring Festival.

December in Taiwan

During most of the month, you’ll find a mix of autumn weather, short periods of hot weather, and cold snaps. Once the end of the month comes around, the weather will get colder.

If you love running, take part in or watch the Taipei Marathon. It happens in the middle of the month. Otherwise, visit the various Christmas displays throughout the country. City governments will have them set up toward the beginning of the month.

They’ll later take them down when January approaches.

If you’re around Taipei 101 on New Year’s Eve, watch all the fireworks that erupt throughout the skyscraper . I recommend taking the Maokong Gondola to Maokong mountain. When there, chill at a tea house and watch the sky catch on fire.

It’s an excellent alternative for those who don’t like stuffing themselves in crowds. However, whether you can see Taipei 101’s fireworks is hit or miss. The first year, I had a clear view of them. The following 2 years were cloudy.

But the locals launched a bunch of fireworks.

• Hiking : If it’s not raining, you could get in a good hike without bearing the sweltering heat.
• See Christmas displays.
• Attend New Year’s events.
• Soak in a hot spring: They feel amazing in cold weather.

Taipei & New Taipei . Visit the former on New Year’s Eve and you’ll catch a massive firework show at Taipei 101. Around Christmas, the latter will have a enormous collection Christmas exhibits in Banqiao.

Taiwan Vacation Packing List

Ensure you include these items in your packing checklist:

I have tested and frequently use all of these products except for the travel adapter and the backpack cover. I do have the travel adapter on my list of things to buy, though. I do thorough research on the products I recommend. As I always want to use the “best” of whatever I buy.

Explore my guide to find details on why I recommended these items.

Taiwan Packing List

Taiwan Winter Packing List

FAQs: Best Time to Visit Taiwan

Since you better understand the best time to visit Taiwan, you likely still have questions. I’ve put together several questions regarding specific periods in Taiwan throughout the year.

Which Month Is Typhoon Season in Taiwan?

Taiwan’s typhoon season begins in the summer and ends in mid-autumn; July–October. The nation will face an average of 3.7 typhoons per year.

Best Time to Visit Taiwan for Cherry Blossoms

Blooming times for cherry blossoms, or yinghua (櫻花), in Taiwan vary each year. The best time frame to catch a glimpse of these trees is mid-to-late February.

• Average hours of sunlight [ 1 ]
• Average relative humidity [ 2 ]
• Average days of rainfall [ 3 HTTP link]

More Guides for Visitors

• TPASS Transportation Card Guide 07/10/2023
• Taiwan Packing List 03/01/2023
• Taiwan Hot Springs: An Overview 01/26/2023
• Taiwan Travel Costs 12/10/2022
• Taiwan Winter Packing List 10/28/2022
• How to Rent a Car in Taiwan 10/27/2022
• Is Taiwan Safe to Visit? 10/21/2022

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When is the best time to visit taiwan — the best, worst, cheapest & best season to visit taiwan.

Taiwan was once listed in the top 40 of best places to visit in the world, attracting a large number of tourists from around the world each year. What is the best month to travel to Taiwan and the most pleasant weather is a common question of those who are planning to visit this land with many beautiful scenes from nature, history to cultural values. In this article, we would like to share the most detailed information about Taiwan’s 4-season climate so that you have a basic information for planning the most suitable your itinerary.

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• Cherry blossom in Taiwan 2024 forecast — The best time & 8 best places to see cherry blossoms in Taiwan

So, what is the best time to travel to Taiwan, when is the best time to visit Taiwan, when to visit Taiwan, is November a good time to visit Taiwan? Let’s check our best guide to visit Taiwan by season ( best season to go Taiwan, best season to travel to Taiwan, best season to visit Taiwan), by time (best time to go to Taiwan, best time to travel to Taiwan, best time to visit Taiwan, best time to visit Taiwan weather, Taiwan weather best time to visit), by travel cost (cheapest time to travel to Taiwan, cheapest time to visit Taiwan) and the worst time to visit Taiwan as follows!

Taiwan is not only attractive with countless beautiful landscapes, vibrant night markets, ancient villages and delicious cuisine, but also blessed with a diverse four-season climate, the sea, sky and clouds and mountains combine harmoniously in rare charming scenery. Taiwan is a place that converges both natural beauty, ancient nostalgia of traditional culture and the modernity and excitement of one of the most modern cities in Asia.

Taiwan is favored by travel lovers with many special nicknames, but perhaps the most memorable is Formosa. The name comes from Portuguese explorers in the 16th century. Formosa means a beautiful island.

Along with the noise and bustle of dynamic cities is the bustle of famous night markets, colorful and attractive cultural and historical relics, extremely friendly people and beautiful scenery. You will be surprised to discover how many wonderful things there are on this island.

Taiwan – a picturesque island that attracts tourists from all over the world with its amazing beauty and unique attractions. From mist-shrouded mountains to beautiful beaches, Taiwan has a unique charm in every season of the year.

What is the climate in Taiwan? (# when is the best time to visit taiwan)

Taiwan is located in a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Northern Taiwan often has heavy rain from October to March every year. The climate in the South is hotter than the North, especially in the summer with southwest winds accompanied by thunderstorms.

Tourists should note that Taiwan often has storms in July, August, and September. You should monitor weather forecasts to avoid unnecessary natural disasters.

Taiwan weather and best season to visit Taiwan (# what is the best time to travel to taiwan)

Is a beautiful small island located in East Asia. The sides border the sea and the terrain is mountainous. Taiwan’s climate is typical of the tropical ocean region. But there are still 4 separate seasons with clear seasonal shifts: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter.

Spring (March to May)

• Average temperature: 18 – 27°C (in Taipei)
• Rainfall: 130 – 160 mm

Spring in Taiwan has an average temperature of about 18 – 27°C, starting from March to May, it is cold in the evening and warm in the morning. There will be some rain, but it certainly won’t disrupt your plans. In late May and June, rainfall begins to increase in frequency. It’s close to peak season, so you can expect your accommodation to be less expensive too. With such comfortable temperatures, this is the good time to travel to Taiwan. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom everywhere, giving Taiwan a romantic and poetic beauty, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Along the length of the leaf-shaped country, there are many spots to see cherry blossoms. Because Taiwan’s weather is warmer than Japan or Korea, cherry blossoms bloom earlier and last longer than elsewhere. Therefore, late February and early March is the right time to see cherry blossoms in Taiwan.

At this time, the mountains, trees, and flowers are green and full of life, making the picture of Taiwan even more beautiful. However, if you want to learn about local culture, this is not a suitable time because there are not many festivals or events during this season. In particular, you should avoid coming in early April because this month has Qingming Festival with a large number of people circulating in traffic, causing heavy congestion.

This is the best time to visit Taroko National Park, Yangmingshan National Park, or Alishan National Forest Recreation Area to enjoy the beautiful flowers and pleasant weather. For those who enjoy hiking, Elephant Mountain is a great choice – the trails are really beautiful, and it will be easy to hike in this weather! The most exciting festival that takes place during this season is the Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place in May/June, where teams from all over Taiwan compete in boat races.

Additionally, in Nantou, you can visit Sun Moon Lake or Cingjing Farm, which are two very famous spots in Taiwan. In spring, the area around the lake is dyed a gentle pink color by delicate flower petals.

Summer (May to August) / Peak Season (# when is the best time to visit taiwan)

• Average temperature: 27-38°C (in Taipei)
• Rainfall: 160 – 230 mm

Taiwan’s summer falls from May to August, the weather is hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 27 to 38°C. During the day, the sun is intense, so local people often avoid going out, especially at noon. Especially in summer there are often storms and heavy rains. This is peak season, due to holidays, which also means tickets and accommodation are booked out early. Although the weather is not very favorable, this season coincides with the bustling dragon boat racing festival and is also an opportunity for you to enjoy the traditional sticky rice dumplings in Zhongzi.

This is the time to visit Taiwan if you want to explore the northern part of the country, where the weather is pleasant. Later in the season, beaches in southern Taiwan, especially those in Kenting National Park, offer a cool respite from the rains and summer heat. Another popular destination this season is the stunning Taroko Gorge. You can also enjoy Chenghuang’s birthday in Xiahai City. It is celebrated with a lot of pomp and pageantry, and you should definitely go out and experience it!

Scuba diving to see coral in Kenting

Did you know that Taiwan is one of the places that owns the most wonderful coral reefs in the world? There are more than 350 types of coral here, concentrated mainly in Kenting, so summer is the best time for you to participate in scuba diving to see coral in Kenting.

In addition to diving, you can also participate in many useful sports activities here such as swimming, boating, surfing and exploring the surrounding islands.

Watch the beautiful sunset over Sizih Bay

If you are a tourist who likes photography and is fascinated by the beauty of nature, then coming to Taiwan in the summer you will have the opportunity to hunt for wonderful sunrise moments. And the best place to admire that spectacle is Sizih Bay – praised as a beautiful sunset spot, where the sky is almost on fire and incredibly magical.

If you like taking photos, Sizihwan Bay is a destination not to be missed, which is considered to have beautiful sunsets, especially in the summer, the sky in this bay looks like it’s on fire, incredibly magical.

Ancient temples (# best season to visit taiwan)

Famous for different religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, etc., Taiwan is also the gathering place of many famous temples with special geographical locations, impressive architecture and unique culture. So don’t miss the opportunity to visit ancient temples when coming to this island nation.

Visit Sun Moon Lake (# best season to visit taiwan)

It is impossible not to see Sun Moon Lake – the green pearl of Taiwan, one of the most famous tourist attractions in Taiwan. The best time to visit the lake is early morning when the sunrise spreads and life on the lake begins to awaken. It is guaranteed that the breathtakingly beautiful sight of the lake will make visitors sobbing.

Fall (September to November)

• Average temperature: 22 – 28°C (in Taipei)
• Rainfall: 80 – 270 mm

What month is best to travel to Taiwan? The best answer is in autumn from September to November. The weather at this time is warm with lots of sunshine, very little rain, very convenient for you to be able to travel and visit without losing much sweat. You just need to wear a light jacket and it’s enough for a journey.

With a subtropical climate and high humidity, autumn here often has quite cool and pleasant air. From early September to November is also the season of blooming flowers. Therefore, traveling to Taiwan in the fall will give you the opportunity to fully enjoy the flower paradise here. The whole island nation seems to be wearing the splendid red outfit of the maple forest and the soft golden sunlight spreads across every street. Taiwan in the early days of autumn has a mildly chilly air, buildings with deep colors, and a feeling of tranquility spreading in the space. It feels like life is moving slowly in that gentleness.

This is a best time to visit southern and eastern Taiwan, especially the beautiful Taroko National Park. Since this is the best season for outdoor activities, this is the best time to visit Taiwan for those who want to visit Sun Moon Lake, Alishan National Forest Recreation Area or Yushan (Jade Mountain). In September, Taiwanese celebrate Confucius’s birthday, and in October, the Mid-Autumn Festival. The latter includes lots of delicious barbecues and great outdoor picnics!

You also cannot help but visit Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest natural lake at an altitude of over 760m above sea level.

Early in the morning, the lake surface is covered with thin mist, creating a magical and poetic scene. Fall makes the Sun Moon lake even more enchanting. You can take a boat around the lake to immerse yourself in the mysterious world of the lake.

The scenery of Taipei city is also very beautiful in autumn. You can go up to building 101 to see the panoramic view of Taipei to have a unique experience of this land.

Kenting Beach in autumn with white sand beaches stretching in the sunshine is also worth a leisurely stroll for tourists.

Hot spring bathing is a very widely well-know service in Taiwan that you should not miss. Most districts of this island have this activity to help visitors have the most relaxing and comfortable moments on their journey.

For those who love shopping, you should visit Ximending area because fall is also the time when stores start discounting many products.

Fall is when locals celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival and also the National Day of the Republic of China (Double National Day) on 10 October. Therefore, there will be many festivals taking place on this holiday. You will witness a military parade in front of the presidential palace or special fireworks displays.

Winter (December to February) / Low Season

• Average temperature: 13 – 20°C (in Taipei)
• Rainfall: 60 mm- 120 mm

Winter in Taiwan is usually quite short but the weather is colder, this time is more suitable for people who can tolerate the cold well, like snow and hot and spicy hot pot dishes. December is the coldest month in Taiwan, so expect things to get a bit chilly. The weather in Taiwan is chilly, but temperatures are quite mild, especially compared to winters in Europe. Come February, some rainfall occurs across the country, but not enough to worry about your travel plans.

Winter falls between December and February with the highest temperature around 20°C with fog and dry weather. The temperature at this time is quite cold, many places have snow and frost, you have to equip yourself with quite heavy warm clothes. Because the weather is quite harsh and it also coincides with the Chinese New Year, people here have a holiday for about a week and all shops are closed, even public transport may not operate during the holiday.

The biggest attraction of this season is the hot springs. Taiwan has more than 150 hot springs, most of which are located in beautiful mountains. Beitou is one of the most famous hot springs and a must-see for those visiting Taiwan. There are wonderful mountain retreats at Yangmingshan National Park, which will be chilly, but isolated and charming. If you want to avoid the cold, the southern beaches will still be warm. Lunar New Year (December – January) is a celebration across the country.

Hehuanshan is located in Taroko Gorge National Park. At 3,416 meters high, this is the highest peak you can visit by car. Due to its altitude, temperatures can drop below freezing point in winter. Many Taiwanese people like to come here to see the first snowfall of the season.

Which is the best season to visit Taiwan?

After researching specifically about the four seasons in Taiwan, and according to the practical experience of a large number of tourists, the best time to visit Taiwan is in autumn from September to November, the climate is cool, dry and in winter – spring, from February to April, the weather is also favorable with natural scenery blooming, suitable for you to have wonderful experiences in Taiwan.

In just 7 to 10 days you can explore most of the places you need to visit in Taiwan, but depending on time and your budget, you can choose a suitable itinerary. The two largest cities in Taiwan are Taipei and Kaohsiung. From these two cities you can easily go to other places.

Which month is best to travel to Taiwan?

The answer is not easy, because every month in Taiwan has its unique and different features. Depending on personal preferences, you can choose the most suitable time for your trip. If you are concerned about travel costs, you should choose months with few tourists such as December to March.

In Taiwan, the lowest temperature is about 13 degrees Celsius and the highest is 16 degrees Celsius. January is considered a relatively mild time compared to the same period in Europe or North America. However, this is also Taiwan’s coldest month. If you want to travel to Taiwan in January, you should try the fun skiing resorts in the South. Sometimes, Lunar New Year will start at the end of January. Because this is the busiest time for Taiwanese people, you must book air tickets and hotels in advance, as early as possible.

The weather in February has been warmer than January with a little drizzle across Taiwan. Low temperatures are mainly concentrated in the northern region of Taiwan around 10 degrees Celsius and the highest is about 25 degrees Celsius. Booking rooms and accommodation services at this time is still very necessary because the Lunar New Year still lasts until early February. In the South, the temperature will be warmer and this is also the time when nature begins to change its color.

February is at the end of winter, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the snowy scenery and enjoy the chilly air. At this time, the temperature is only about 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. In some northern provinces, the temperature is still low but is relatively higher than a few months ago.

Coming to Taiwan in February, you will be able to participate in the New Year festival, the sky lantern festival for good luck, or the flower festival in Yangmingshan park. This is also an opportunity for you to experience activities such as climbing Hehuanshan snow mountain, bathing in Xinbeitou hot spring, and viewing cherry blossoms at Wuling farm.

Especially at this time, it is still Lunar New Year, so you can go to the temple to visit the beautiful scenery and pray for good luck. Wuji Tianyuan Temple or Fo Guang Shan Temple are temples that local people often visit every New Year.

March is the season when the rains start and the temperature gradually increases (lowest 18 degrees Celsius and highest 24 degrees Celsius). If you plan to travel to Taiwan in March, the climate in the tropical South will be most suitable with warm sunshine and blue sea.

In the North there will be a great combination of weather. Hot spring resorts and museums are the most popular tourist destinations during this time because rainfall increases and the climate remains cool.

March is when the pearl island of Taiwan enters a warm spring, trees sprout. Early in the morning or late at night it will be colder, but the weather during the day is very pleasant. This is also the time when most tourists book tours to Taiwan.

Exploring Taiwan at this time is to visit and admire the wonderful spring scenery. Some prominent places include Sun Moon Lake, Yangmingshan National Park, Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village,…

If you go to the South, the weather will be warmer, playing on the beaches will be great now. As for the North, where the temperature is lower, hot spring bathing will be the most reasonable choice.

April (# best season to travel to taiwan)

April is when the temperature becomes pleasant. However, there was a significant increase in rainfall towards the end of the month. With the lowest average temperature of 19 degrees Celsius and the highest of 23 degrees Celsius. The weather in the North is most suitable for visiting beautiful scenery in the national park or climbing Elephant Mountain in the capital Taipei. You should do these activities before the humidity increases and summer heat sets in.

April is the period when tourist arrivals to Taiwan begin to decrease. So you will enjoy maximum comfort.

April is the transition time between spring and summer, so the climate in April is still very beautiful. The weather is not hot or uncomfortable, but on the contrary, cool and pleasant. The temperature is only 19-23 degrees Celsius so it is also very suitable for hiking or climbing.

Mornings are warm and mornings and evenings are cold. Dry weather is also an advantage when traveling to Taiwan.

To some extent, many people have felt the rainy season starting in May with midday storms that appear on a daily basis. Humidity and heat begin to appear when the temperature increases from 21 degrees Celsius – 26 degrees Celsius. And sometimes up to 30 degrees Celsius. Spring is present everywhere with clear images. May is the best time to explore national parks. Prepare yourself with an umbrella and prepare clothes suitable for the weather.

Taiwan officially enters the bustling summer season in June with heavy rainfall and gradually hotter weather. Temperatures fluctuate around 24 degrees Celsius – 27 degrees Celsius, the South can be hotter with temperatures up to 30 degrees Celsius. June is the month of showers. If you come to Taiwan on this occasion, the northern region will be more comfortable without the heat and rain in the south hindering your plans.

The weather becomes wetter and hotter in July with storms and thunderstorms in the middle of the night. With temperatures ranging from 26 degrees Celsius – 28 degrees Celsius and sometimes unusually high up to 35 degrees Celsius. The only advice is that you should drink lots of water to not lose strength and provide enough water for your body during this time.

August will be the time when you feel the intense heat when the average temperature fluctuates between 28 degrees Celsius – 33 degrees Celsius. This will also be the time when there are frequent August storms and thunderstorms, causing panic for tourists. At this time you should go to the beach to feel the cool air the sea breeze will bring you in August.

Autumn in Taiwan starts from September to November with quite mild and pleasant weather. Therefore, when going to Taiwan during the best season, this is the best time to enjoy the cool climate of beautiful Taiwan. In particular, in September, Taiwan begins to transition into autumn, creating a scene full of quiet and peace.

The temperature at this time is also quite cool, averaging about 27-29 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperature can drop to 18 degrees Celsius at night. Therefore, a warm jacket is essential when traveling to Taiwan in September. In addition, the rain also decrease a lot at this time so you can move around comfortably.

It can be said that this is the most beautiful and romantic time of the year in Taiwan. In October, the island nation enters a time of changing seasons, witnessing the transformation of plants, especially the color of leaves.

If someone asks what is special about autumn in Taiwan, the answer will definitely be that the leaves of maple trees range from green to red and yellow, extremely brilliant and poetic. In addition to beautiful scenery, autumn in Taiwan also brings together many special events and festivals: Taiwan National Day, Food Festival, Memorial Day of President Chiang Kai-shek…

November in Taiwan is autumn. At this time the weather is quite cool, temperatures range from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius. Rainfall has clearly decreased since the summer, the sky is clear and dry. Therefore, November in Taiwan is considered a best and wonderful time for exploration trips.

Coming to Taiwan, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in the Kunshen Wangye Festival, Bicycle Festival, Taiwan Surfing Tournament, Taroko Gorge Marathon Festival,… and many other activities. At this time, the scenery in Taiwan is extremely beautiful, the water of Sun Moon Lake is as clear as a mirror reflecting the image of red leaves, truly unique.

Where to go in Taiwan by seasons? (# best season to travel to taiwan)

No matter which season you decide to come to Taiwan, each season will bring you its own experiences and unique beauty. So what are the unique beautiful scenes in each season in Taiwan?

This is the most beautiful season of the year, so coming to Taiwan in the fall, you will fully admire the heavenly scenery of red and yellow here, the whole city seems to be wearing a splendid red outfit of the ordination weaving in and out. Gentle sunlight spreads across every street. Autumn will be chilly, a feeling of tranquility spreads in the dark-colored buildings with a gentle and peaceful atmosphere.

Some Taiwan tourist destinations in the fall you can visit include:

• Sun Moon Lake – the largest natural lake in Taiwan with a magical and poetic scene, especially in the early morning when the lake surface is still covered with thin mist. You can row a boat around the lake to fully experience that magical world.
• Besides, you can visit Kenting beach with white sand beaches stretching in the sun or take a relaxing hot spring bath.
• If you love shopping, fall is the sale season for many stores, so stop by Ximending to have the opportunity to buy your favorite items at quite affordable prices.

Admiring red maple leaves

If spring is considered the “Miss” then autumn in Taiwan deserves to be named the “first runner-up” of this beautiful country. With a cool, pure and clear climate and bright yellow maple leaves all over the road, it seems to accentuate the loveliness and magnificence of Taiwan’s autumn, attracting many tourists to come here.

Mid-Autumn Festival

If you can go on the occasion of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Taiwan then you are truly lucky to discover another way to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival different from your homeland. The Mid-Autumn Festival in Taiwan is also prepared with candies, fruits, and lanterns, but more special is always a grilled meat dish. According to Taiwanese tradition, grilling meat symbolizes reunion, happiness, and warmth. Families gather around the charcoal stove, grill meat together and then enjoy their finished dishes.

Long Yellow Daylily flower festival on Liushishi mountain

The Liushishi mountain in Hualien and the Taima Li mountain in Taitung, from August to October every year, tourists from everywhere will flock here to admire the bright yellow flowers blooming. covered the mountains and forests. This place was chosen as the venue for the largest Long Yellow Daylily flower flower festival on the planet.

Hot spring bath

In winter, bathing in hot springs is definitely as comfortable as anything. Soak in the hot springs, relax and admire the natural scenery. To see the first snowfall of the season, Hehuanshan located in Taroko Gorge National Park at an altitude of 3,416 meters will be the ideal destination for you. There are 4 beautiful hot springs in Taiwan that you can choose from such as Mingzhi hot spring, Beitou hot spring, Dragon hot spring and JiaoShi hot spring.

Watch snow fall

The temperature in Taiwan in winter is not very low, but some high mountain areas will have snow. If you come here in winter, you have the opportunity to see beautiful snowfall in some tourist destinations such as Yangmingshan, Tuyet Son, Hehuanshan, Wuling farm,…

There’s nothing more exciting than in the cold winter to immerse yourself in the warm water of a hot spring. After a tiring day of sightseeing and playing, soak in the hot springs to relax, regain your spirit and restore your health.

Viewing cherry blossoms

If you want to see the cherry blossoms blooming without having to go all the way to Japan to see them, then traveling to Taiwan in spring is definitely the more reasonable choice. Everywhere you go, there are beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots from Taipei, Taichung, Tainan to Kaohsiung, New Taipei,… so wherever you go, you can easily see bright cherry blossoms. Brilliantly blooming, there are moments when you can immerse yourself in the deep colors of the cherry blossom gardens here. Some of the places where you can see the most beautiful cherry blossoms when you come to travel to Taiwan are in Yangmingshan, Alishan, Danshui, Sun Moon Lake, Wuling farm or Wulai Old Street.

You can see cherry blossoms at Yangmingshan or visit Sun Moon Lake and Cingjing Farm. In spring, the surrounding lake is dyed a pleasant peach color by the color of delicate, gently falling flower petals.

Sky lantern festival

Taiwanese people have the custom of releasing sky lanterns on the evening of the Lunar New Year every year, to pray for the best for themselves and their loved ones. You will witness an extremely sparkling and magical scene if you have the opportunity to come to Taiwan on Lunar New Year. Thousands of people stood under a wide sky, lit sky lanterns and released them into the sky, making all time and space seem to stop to pray together for the best things to come to everyone. This is considered a unique and beautiful festival in Taiwan.

Seeing apricot and plum blossoms

In the beautiful country of Taiwan, there is also an area specializing in growing peaches and plums, which sounds similar to Moc Chau district in Vietnam. Around February and March, when spring comes, thousands of peach and plum trees are in bloom, creating a natural picture that is both majestic and strangely poetic. If you want to see with your own eyes the most beautiful peach and plum blossom gardens in Taiwan, visit places such as Xinyi, Wusonglun, Weipingding, Tuchang, Ren’ai, Niouchoukeng.

Admire the reed grass and lily forests on Yangmingshan Mountain

Visiting Yangmingshan Mountain in spring, you will encounter vast expanses of reed grass starting to “bloom” . Because the temperature here is cool all year round and the rainfall in Yangmingshan is quite large, this place is an ideal paradise for lilies to live and grow. When you come here in the spring, you will see a whole “sky area” of white lilies, delighting the hearts of tourists when they come here.

Taiwan is one of the places that owns the most beautiful coral reefs in the world with more than 350 types of coral, so coming to Taiwan in the summer will make it convenient for you to scuba dive to see coral in Kenting as well as participate in other activities. sea such as swimming, boating, surfing, visiting islands. If you are a photography enthusiast, especially beautiful natural scenes, you must definitely visit Sizihwan Bay, which is considered to have magically beautiful sunsets, especially in the summer, the sky looks almost on fire. Incredibly magical.

Go to the beach

In the summer, the temperature in Taiwan is only about 30 – 33 degrees Celsius, not too hot, but swimming is still a very popular summer activity. Not every beach in Taiwan has sand like Vietnam’s, but the sea water is very clear. You can choose some tourist destinations such as the beach at Yehliu Geopark, Fulong Beach, Da’an Beach,… there are beautiful beaches where you can go to bathe.

Mountain climbing activities in Taiwan are great to explore in the summer. To fully experience the natural beauty of Taiwan, you can participate in mountain climbing to reach the top of Jilong Mountain, Jade Dragon Mountain or Yangmingshan. When you conquer it, you will feel great and unforgettable.

Hot air balloon festival

The hot air balloon festival, held once a year in the summer, is extremely popular in Taiwan. Hundreds of hot air balloons of all shapes and colors are gathered on a large plain such as Wuling Farm and CingJing Farm to release. All create a scene that is both brilliant and majestic, showing off against the clear sky.

Some small notes when traveling to Taiwan

• Low season: The period from November to March next year is considered the time when Taiwan has the less crowded with tourists. Except for the Lunar New Year in January, almost all luxury services are discounted, sometimes up to 40%, to attract tourists during this low season.
• Season changes: The changing seasons usually last from September to October or April to June. This is the best time to set foot on Taiwan’s islands with many preferential programs in accommodation services. In March and May every year, there are often large groups of Chinese tourists traveling to Taiwan.
• Peak season: During the peak season, tourism services will increase by 30 to 50% compared to the special days of July and August, as well as at lunar times every year or every Saturday evening, or even during the June rainy season. This can cause traffic jams and disrupt your daily itinerary.
• Regularly update the weather before the trip to prepare the most suitable clothing.
• Always bring a raincoat, waterproof jacket or umbrella whenever you go out because the weather in Taiwan can change suddenly and rain can come at any time.
• You can try wearing traditional Taiwanese costumes for interesting photos.
• Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and skin from the effects of strong sunlight. This is also a useful photo prop.
• If you want to enjoy the festive atmosphere and participate in outdoor activities, choose to visit during the months of April and October.
• If you love the Christmas atmosphere and want to experience unique entertainment programs, December is the ideal time.
• When coming to Taiwan in any month of the year, you should prepare a jacket to cope with the cold weather and sudden changes.

Hopefully with the characteristics of Taiwan’s climate and four-season Taiwanese tourist destinations that we suggest, you will have an enjoyable trip for yourself.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Taipei you can refer to

• Taoyuan Airport Private Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• Sedan Taoyuan Airport Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• [SALE] Taoyuan Airport MRT Ticket & Exclusive Shopping Coupon
• Luxury Taoyuan Airport Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• Explore Taipei City
• Taipei Free Walking Tour Historic Route
• Taipei Double Decker Bus Tour
• Taipei Popular Sightseeing Private Car Charter : Jiufen, Pingxi, and North Coast (Chinese/English/Korean)
• Northeast Coast Scenic Day Tour
• Jiufen Shuttle Bus from Ximen
• Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen Day Tour with Korean and English Speaking Guides
• Taipei: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen, and Golden Waterfall Day Tour
• EasyCard (TPE Airport Pick Up)
• Klook Pass Taipei (For international travelers)
• Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket
• Maokong Gondola Ticket
• Yeliou, Jinguashih, Juifen and Shihfen Join Day Tour
• Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass
• Taipei: Beitou and Yangmingshan One-Day Tour
• [10% Off + 1 Extra Free Day] 4G SIM Card (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Chunghwa Telecom
• 4G SIM Card (TPE Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Far EasTone Telecom
• 4G WiFi (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan
• 4G Portable WiFi for Taiwan from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for Taiwan from WiFiBB (Unlimited Data)
• 4G LTE WiFi (TW Airport Pick Up) for Japan
• [Sale – Taiwan Food Promo] Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taipei
• Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Consecutive Unlimited Pass (2 or 3 Days)
• Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taoyuan
• THSR Exclusive Discount One Way Ticket from Taoyuan (Two Tickets for the Price of One)

Are you finding more top things to do in Taipei: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Taipei travel blog — The fullest Taipei city guide for a wonderful trip to Taipei for the first-timers.

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The Best Time to Visit Taipei City: An Insider’s Guide

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Taipei is, I’ve compiled this article to answer exactly that, based on my 10+ years of living in the Taiwanese capital, Taipei .

This article is a Taipei-focused version of my when to visit Taiwan guide , which covers the whole country. Below, you’ll find links to individual articles I’ve written for visiting Taipei and Taiwan in every season and month of the year.

Taipei sits in a basin and has its own unique climate that differs from the rest of Taiwan. The city lies north of the tropic of cancer, so it has more distinct seasons and chillier, wetter weather in winter. The tropical south of Taiwan, which is below the tropic of cancer, is hotter year-round, while cities on the west coast are less affected by typhoons.

Moreover, Taipei has its own set of unique cultural events, festivals , and night markets . For all these reasons, I’ve created this separate guide to the best time to go to Taipei.

Essential Resources for Traveling to Taipei – Read my recommended things to do in Taipei , how to visit Taipei with kids , and Taipei itinerary for 2 days , 3 days , 4 days , or 5 days . For Taiwan newbies, see my general guide to visiting Taiwan . – Follow my guides to funky Ximending district , historic Dadaocheng and Dihua Street , the hot springs of Beitou Thermal Valley , and the best day trips from Taipei . –  Sign up for Klook to enjoy sweet discounts on travel in Taipei, and decide whether you need to buy a Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass . – Learn about where to stay in Taipei , or find the best Taipei hotel deals .

Table of Contents

When Is the Best Season to Visit Taipei?

When trying to narrow it down to which season to visit Taipei, the weather is going to play a big role. Winter and summer may be the hardest to bear, but they may also appeal to you for a number of reasons. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant, with autumn taking the lead due to the lowest chance of rain.

Taipei in Winter (December to March)

Winter usually starts sometime in December, although in recent years December has been unusually warm. January through March are characterized by bone-chillingly damp, cold weather, nearly constant gray, overcast skies and occasional drizzling rain. Beitou Hot Springs in the north of the city are the perfect cure to the chilly weather.

Winter is festive in Taipei, with Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Lunar New Year, and the Taipei Lantern Festival all falling within a few months. Winter is also the season of cherry blossom viewing in Taipei .

See here for my detailed guide to spending winter in Taipei .

Taipei in Spring (April to June)

The temperatures finally start rising in late March, and from April to June the weather gradually transforms from pleasantly warm to uncomfortably hot.

A mini rain season called Plum Rain or the East Asian Monsoon usually brings a few weeks of nearly constant rain sometime in mid- to late-May. Here are my recommended things to do when it’s raining in Taipei .

See here for my detailed guide to spending spring in Taipei .

Taipei in Summer (July to September)

Taipei is stiflingly hot and humid in summer. The entire city sits in a kind of bowl that traps heat and humidity throughout the day, often resulting in heavy but brief late-afternoon showers. Unless you love (or are used to) tropical heat, you may want to limit your time sightseeing in Taipei in this season. Fortunately, there are many beaches within easy reach of Taipei .

Summer is also typhoon season, and 3-4 major typhoons usually affect Taipei per year. See my guides to Taipei in July, August, or September (linked to below) for more details about typhoons in Taipei.

See here for my detailed guide to spending summer in Taipei .

Taipei in Autumn (October to December)

Autumn is generally the clearest and driest season of the year in Taipei, perfect for city explorations of hiking. It begins out warm, but can be a little chilly by late November. If you want to see autumn foliage around Taipei, try Yangmingshan National Park , but the best spots are further afield in Taiwan.

See here for my detailed guide to spending autumn in Taipei .

When Is the Best Month to Visit Taiwan?

It’s almost impossible for me to declare a certain month to be the best one to visit Taipei, but if I had to, I would choose October as my personal favorite, with April, September, and November in second place. Each month comes with some ups and downs, though, with many factors to consider before you make a choice.

January in Taipei

January is the coldest month of the year in Taipei, often hovering around 15°C (59°F), and dipping as low as 10°C (50°F). Perfect time for soaking in hot springs !

Snow is extremely uncommon in Taipei, although snow fell on Yangming Mountain and a few other parts of the city in January 2016 and again in 2018, much to the delight of locals who had never seen snow before. You can begin to see cherry blossoms in parts of Taipei or New Taipei City, such as Pingjing Street Lane 42 on Yangming Mountain and Wulai, in January.

January is the end of the school semester and work year in Taiwan. Students have a few weeks off school before Chinese New Year break, while companies hold weiya (year-end-parties).

Chinese New Year sometimes falls in late-January, such as it did in 2020 (January 25). In the weeks before Chinese New Year, Dihua Street in Dadaocheng and Nanmen Market in Da’An District are popular places for locals to go to stock up on CNY treats and supplies.

See here for my detailed guide to spending January in Taipei .

February in Taipei

The weather in Taipei in February is as cold as in January, but it rains more and the sky is almost always gray. Chinese New Year most often falls in February (Feb. 12, 2021 and Feb. 1, 2022). This comes with five national days off, which can result up to 9 days when it has a weekend on either end.

For the first three days of the holiday (Lunar New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and Lunar New Year Day 2), Taipei can practically resemble a ghost town, as almost everyone has left to gather with their relatives in the countryside and villages in southern Taiwan. On days 3-5, people gradually return to the city and more things start opening again.

Most restaurants close during the holiday, but a surprising number of attractions remain open. Read my guide to Taipei during Chinese New Year to find out what’s open and the best days to leave the city.

The Lantern Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year (Feb. 26, 2021 and Feb. 15, 2022). Every year, a different outdoor location in the city will host an impressive display of colorful and incredibly intricate and cute lanterns. The famous mass sky lantern release takes place in Pingxi, a remote district of New Taipei City.

See here for my detailed guide to spending February in Taipei .

March in Taipei

Everyone is back to school and work again in March, but winter temperatures often drag on into the month. Usually by late March it’s finally starting to warm up again.

At the beginning of March, a final (and very impressive) round of cherry blossoms bloom at Tianyuan Temple in New Taipei City (see more info in my guide to the best temples in Taipei ), while azaleas and calla lilies also start blooming in mid- to late-March.

See here for my detailed guide to spending March in Taipei .

April in Taipei

Spring has finally arrived to Taipei in April. The month opens with a 4-day long weekend; local families head to funeral homes in the countryside around the city for Tomb Sweeping Festival, while many youths head down to Kenting at the southern end of Taiwan to party and enjoy the hot weather on the beach.

The Urban Nomad Film Festival and its associated music festival usually take place from April to May in Taipei. The warming weather also makes it a great month for hiking around the city.

See here for my detailed guide to spending April in Taipei .

May in Taipei

The weather continues to get warmer in Taipei in May, and sometime during the month the plum rains usually arrive, bringing nearly constant rain for days in a row. It doesn’t rain for the entire month or as intensely as in monsoons in other parts of Asia, though, so I like to call it a “mini-monsoon.”

You can still see calla lilies on Yangming Mountain in May, as well as fireflies right in the city at Da’An Park, Muzha Park, and Rongxing Park; try 6-8 PM on non-rainy days.

See here for my detailed guide to spending May in Taipei .

June in Taipei

Summer heat usually comes in full force around the beginning of June in Taipei. June sees fewer tourist arrival numbers than most other months in Taiwan, but you may hardly notice in Taipei, where the city streets and night markets are crowded with locals year-round.

The Dragon Boat Festival (June 14, 2021 and June 3, 2022) is an event worth checking out. The country’s most famous races take place at Dajia Riverside Park in Zhongshan District, while you can also see boat racing at Bitan near Xindian MRT station in New Taipei City.

See here for my detailed guide to spending June in Taipei .

July in Taipei

July is the hottest month of the year in Taipei. The heat can be so oppressive that most locals avoid going outside whenever possible, and use umbrellas or hide from the sun when they do have to go out.

This means you can enjoy some of the city’s attractions without crowds, if you can handle the heat. To cool off, head to one of the great beaches around Taipei or one of the city’s few water parks (click the link below for details).

The first typhoon of the city usually affects Taipei in July, but sometimes it doesn’t come until August.

See here for my detailed guide to spending July in Taipei .

August in Taipei

The intense heat and humidity in Taipei continues through August, only dropping by a degree or two by the end of the month. It can seem never ending, but if you’ve already been in Taipei for a while, at least you’ll be more used to it by August.

You’re most likely to experience a typhoon in Taipei in August or September, and historically, the typhoons that caused the most damage in Taipei occurred in these two months. Ghost Month usually starts in August, a time when locals believe the spirits of the deceased return. You’ll see offering tables in front of houses and shops and lots of ghost money being burned; be prepared to walk through clouds of smoke everywhere in the city.

See here for my detailed guide to spending August in Taipei .

September in Taipei

With everyone back to school and work in Taipei and around the world, September is one of the lowest tourist months by arrival numbers. The heat continues, though, only dropping slightly from July and August. By the end of the month, it finally becomes more bearable.

Taipei residents celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival (Moon Festival) by having barbecues and drinking beer with their families on the street in front of their homes. The smell of roasted meat can take over the city in the evening. The event will be on Sept. 21, 2021 and September 10, 2022.

See here for my detailed guide to spending September in Taipei .

October in Taipei

Besides Double Ten Day (National Day), there aren’t too many major events in Taipei in October, but the month enjoys some of the clearest, driest, and most pleasant weather of the year, so get out and enjoy it. It’s the perfect time for hiking.

Halloween passes practically unnoticed, but if you want to celebrate it, pick up a costume from “Costume Street” (Ximending MRT exit 1) and head to one of the Halloween parties thrown by night clubs or event organizers in Taipei.

See here for my detailed guide to spending October in Taipei .

November in Taipei

The weather usually starts getting slightly chilly in Taipei in November, and it is often the first month I even think about putting a sweater or hoodie on. It is still comparatively clear and dry, though, so it remains a great month for hiking around the city or cycling on the riverside bike paths.

See here for my detailed guide to spending November in Taipei .

December in Taipei

The weather in Taipei in December can range from unusually warm to winter-like, so you’ll have to play it by ear.

Christmas is not celebrated by local families and it is a normal working day, but stores and malls take decorations pretty seriously. To see some wild Christmas lights, head to the “Christmas Land” in the plaza just south of Banqiao Train Station in New Taipei City.

See here for my detailed guide to spending December in Taipei .

Conclusion: When Is the Best Time to Travel to Taipei?

Just like I say in my article on the best time to visit Taiwan , I feel the best time to visit the capital city, Taipei, depends on the person.

If you love hot springs, flower viewing, and don’t mind the gray weather, winter in Taipei may be for you. Spring is a lovely time but beware of those plum rains.

Summer is best for lovers of tropical heat, but for some, this may be the only time you can visit and you’ll just have to deal with it. Don’t let the typhoons scare you off, but do follow the necessary precautions such as staying indoors if one does strike during your trip.

Autumn is my personal favorite season in Taipei, thanks to the mild weather, lovely blue skies, and lower chance of rain.

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2 thoughts on “The Best Time to Visit Taipei City: An Insider’s Guide”

Good day from Canada/Thailand. We have been to Taipei several times and i was lookimng for fresh, up-to-date info, for a June trip. I found your site searching Google, i must commend you for a well structure, easy to navigate site. Thanks

Thanks a lot!

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 🇹🇼 Planning a Trip to Taiwan: 11 Practical Things To Know

Receiving over 20 million tourists last year in 2023, Taiwan is a popular destination in East Asia that is known for its vibrant night markets, centuries-old temples, and lush mountains.

Having spent an incredible week in Taiwan, I share must-know travel tips that are especially useful for first-time visitors.

This Taiwan guide is also informed by my local friend, Ella Park-Chan, who lived in Taipei for three years.

• 1. Best Places To Visit
• 2. When To Visit
• 3. How Long To Visit
• 4. Entry Requirements
• 5. Budgeting & Cash
• 6. How To Get Around
• 7. How To Stay Safe
• 8. Language Barrier
• 9. Cultural Differences
• 10. Food To Try
• 11. DIY vs. Guided Trip

Taiwan Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

1. Best Places To Visit in Taiwan

Taiwan has incredible places to visit ranging from modern cities to stunning mountains made out of marble.

Below are Taiwan’s most popular destinations and the top things to see and do in each location.

Taipei , the capital city of Taiwan, is a modern, progressive city integrated with culture and tradition . It’s often visitors’ first stop and sometimes the only stop if they’re traveling to Taiwan for the first time.

There are many things to do in Taipei, ranging from hikes and temples to night markets and museums. Top attractions in Taipei include:

• Taipei 101 , the former tallest building in the world and an architectural icon
• Night markets that sell delicious street food for cheap. Taipei’s best night markets are Raohe and Shilin Night Market.
• Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, a stunning significant historical landmark. The memorial hall is also near the National Theater and Concert Hall.
• Elephant Mountain , a metro-accessible hike with amazing views of Taipei city

• Beitou Hot Springs , a metro-accessible hot spring
• Maokong Gondola , a scenic cable-car ride
• National Palace Museum , a world-renowned museum
• Longshan Temple , an intricate 300-year-old temple

Taipei is also cyclist-friendly and one of the best ways to explore it is by biking through it. Taking a Taipei cycling tour is one of the most efficient ways to see both popular and less well-known attractions.

📍 Taroko National Park in Hualien

Taroko National Park , also called Taroko Gorge, is a beautiful park known for its marble canyons, towering cliffs, and lush forests. It’s a popular destination with many visitors taking a day trip from Taipei or spending a night in Hualien City just to visit Taroko Gorge.

Top attractions in Taroko Gorge include:

• Shakadang Trail , a popular hiking trail well-known for its scenic beauty

• Eternal Spring Shrine , a landmark shrine commemorating the workers who lost their lives while carving tunnels in the marble mountain

• Swallow Grotto , a unique part of the marble canyon where swallows nest

See how to plan a trip to Taroko National Park .

📍 Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake , located in the center of Taiwan, is the country’s largest lake and another popular tourist destination. It’s known for its scenic backdrop and various activities.

Top attractions in Sun Moon Lake include:

• Cycling around the lake , a common way to sightsee and explore the area
• Wenwu Temple , a palace-styled temple offering breathtaking views of the lake
• Xuanzang Temple , a Buddhist temple featuring panoramic views
• Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village , an amusement park that introduces the diverse culture of Taiwan

Although a bit far, Sun Moon Lake can be visited as a day trip from Taipei .

📍 Other Amazing Places in Taiwan

Taiwan has another endless number of places to visit.

• Kenting National Park , located in the south, is popular for its beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.
• Jiufen , a small picturesque village perched on the side of a mountain, is famous for Jiufen Old Street and traditional teahouses. It’s the village that people claim inspired the movie, Spirited Away, although the director has denied this.

Here’s how to spend a day trip in Jiufen from Taipei .

• Tainan , called the “City of Temples”, is one of Taiwan’s oldest cities and is celebrated for its culinary scene and ancient temples.
• Alishan , located in central Taiwan, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, breathtaking sunrise views, and hiking trails.
• Yehliu Geopark is popular for its unique rock formations.

You can visit Yehliu Geopark on a day trip from Taipei .

• Lukang , located on Taiwan’s west coast, is known for its traditional architecture dating back to the Qing Dynasty.

🍀 My Experience in Taipei, Jiufen, and Taroko Gorge

I generally find Taiwan amazing. I find it incredible that it’s not a more popular, south-after destination. During my Taiwan trip, I visited Taipei, Jiufen, Taroko Gorge, and Hualien City.

• Taipei as a city has everything I like: hiking trails, nature getaways, hot springs, ancient temples, a modern city center, and amazing food.
• Jiufen , which is about a 40-minute drive east of Taipei, is worth a day trip. It’s a bit touristy, but I love the charming atmosphere.
• Taroko Gorge is a beautiful part of Taiwan and I highly recommend it as a two-day trip. The nearby Hualien City is more residential than Taipei, but still has great things to see and do.

This 7-day Taiwan itinerary features my trip’s highlights.

2. When To Visit Taiwan

Taiwan has a subtropical climate and is a great place to visit year-round , as it has mild temperatures almost all time of the year.

☀️ Best Time to Visit Taiwan

The best and most popular time to visit Taiwan is during its spring and fall seasons .

• The spring season , which runs from March to May, has mild weather, averaging 60 to 75 °F, which makes it ideal for being outdoors. Like Japan (although less famous for them), the cherry blossoms in Taiwan bloom in late March and April.
• The autumn season , which runs from September to November, is another popular time to visit. During this time, the weather is warmer, averaging 68 to 85 °F, making it a great time to swim, hike, and admire the lush landscape.

🍃 Taiwan’s Seasons

Taiwan has four seasons. Here’s a quick overview of its seasons:

Here are some things to keep in mind about the seasons and climate in Taiwan:

• Taiwan has a rainy season from June to September, but compared to other Asian countries, the rainfall is not heavy.
• Typhoon season is from May to November. About a dozen typhoons hit Taiwan per year, but rarely do they make landfall and cause widespread damage. Most typhoons only lead to road blockages and landslides.
• As is true with many island destinations, the temperature and weather in coastal vs. inland regions of Taiwan can be different. Inland areas are always warmer.

The Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year, is on February 10th, 2024, and it’s not a popular time for tourists to visit. Many students and employees take days to weeks off around this time, so attractions, shops, and even transportation are limited or closed.

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Weather

I traveled to Taiwan in  mid-October and early November  and found the weather mild.  

I primarily wore summer clothes and threw on a hoodie or light jacket around nighttime. I experienced two days of brief rain and had a few cloudy days, but it was overall pleasant.

3. How Long To Spend in Taiwan

Taiwan is a medium-sized island nation where visitors typically spend seven to ten days traveling.

🗓️ How Many Days Do You Need in Taiwan?

First-time visitors should spend at least five days in Taiwan to explore Taipei and have enough time to see one other destination for a more complete trip.

• With three to five days in Taiwan, you’ll have enough time to visit the capital city of Taipei and do a day trip outside of it. This would be considered a short visit and you won’t have much time for anything else.
• With one to two weeks in Taiwan, you can visit several of the top places in Taiwan, including Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, and Taroko National Park. You may also get to drive along the eastern side and see Tainan.

See how to spend a week in Taiwan .

• With more than two weeks in Taiwan , you can head all the way south to Kaohsiung City and spend more time seeing parts of the country that are off-the-beaten-path.

🍀 How Long I Stayed in Taiwan

I visited Taiwan for one week . I spent three to four days in Taipei, one day in Jiufen , and two days in Hualien City with a day trip to Taroko Gorge .

Having been to a dozen destinations in the past year, Taiwan is at the top of my list of destinations I plan to return to , as I felt like I hardly got to see a lot of the island and there are so many beautiful places to visit.

4. Entry Requirements for Taiwan

The entry requirement for Taiwan is straightforward for US citizens.

🛃 Taiwan’s Visa and Passport Requirements

A tourist visa is not required for United States citizens visiting Taiwan for up to 90 days .

Also, your US passport must be valid during your Taiwan trip , but there’s no requirement for it to be valid before or after.

🍀 My Experience Entering Taiwan

Being an American citizen comes with the privilege of holding one of the world’s most powerful passports, so I had no issues flying into Taipei, Taiwan.

5. Budgeting and Cash in Taiwan

Taiwan is a semi-affordable tourist destination for Asia.

💰 Expected Budget in Taiwan

Here’s approximately how much you can expect to spend when visiting Taiwan:

While a round-trip ticket to Taiwan from the United States will be expensive at around $1,000, Taiwan has many free attractions and places where you can eat a meal for less than $10 .

🏧 Do You Need Cash In Taiwan?

Credit cards are sometimes accepted in Taiwan, but the economy is still largely based on cash transactions , so make sure to bring cash .

You’ll find ATMs widely available at convenience stores , like Family Marts and 7-Elevens.

💵 Are US Dollars Accepted in Taiwan?

Taiwan’s local currency is the New Taiwan dollar (NT). The US dollar is not widely accepted , so make sure to exchange currencies.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = 32 NT at the time of writing.

🍀 My Taiwan Trip’s Budget

Taiwan remains one of my most affordable vacation trips to date. I share all my travel expenses and credit card usage in this Taiwan budget breakdown .

6. How To Get Around in Taiwan

There are several ways to get around Taiwan. While many areas have reliable public transportation , a rental car would make some places easier to get to .

✈️ Flying Into Taiwan

Taiwan has four international airports to fly into:

Most first-time visitors land at the Taoyuan Airport in Taipei. You can get to Taipei’s city center by bus, taxi, or train. The taxi and bus ride will take about 35 minutes while the train ride takes over an hour.

Once you land in Taiwan, there are several common ways to get around the country.

🚇 Best Way To Get Around Taipei: The MRT

If you’re staying in Taipei, the best way to get around is by public transportation. Taiwan’s metro, known as the MRT, is clean, well-maintained, and punctual. See the MRT map in English .

Here are some tips when riding the Taipei MRT:

• Buy a one-time token or a rechargeable card . At the metro station kiosks, you can either buy a one-time blue token or an EasyCard (aka IC Card) to ride the MRT.

The station kiosks only accept cash . I found that the station attendants are willing to break larger bills.

• Get an EasyCard. If you are going to be frequently riding the MRT like I did, I recommend getting an EasyCard for convenience, despite the 100 NT (about $3 USD) non-refundable fee. Any remaining balance on your EasyCard can be refunded at the end of your trip.

• Check Google Maps. The listed train times are accurate, so you can trust the listed times to plan your trip. However, I found the listed times for buses are not accurate.
• Follow the rules. Taiwan has a polite culture that tends to follow the rules. For example, the MRT tends to be very quiet as talking loudly is considered a nuisance to others.

MRT train stations are clean and have trash cans (public ones are not common in Taiwan) and bathrooms . It’s a good idea to bring toilet paper just in case.

🚆 Option 1: Train

Outside of Taipei, Taiwan also has an efficient train system run by TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) that will take you to all parts of the country, including Sun Moon Lake and Hualien City.

There’s a high-speed rail that takes you from Taipei in northern Taiwan to Kaohsiung City in southern Taiwan in less than three hours.

You can buy TRA train tickets in two ways:

• Through a Taiwanese mobile app ( iOS ,  Android ). Booking a train ticket only reserves it, so you need to claim it as well. If you don’t claim your ticket (whether in person or digitally) within 20 minutes of departure time, they can give it to someone else.
• In person at the train station . Some train times are very popular (e.g., going from Taipei to Hualien City) and need to be booked in advance. When I booked a train to Hualien a week in advance, a few of the afternoon departures were sold out.

Most trains will depart from the Taipei Main Station. Google Maps has several “Taipei Main Stations”  depending on whether you’re catching a train, bus, or the MRT. Double-check the “Subway services” section of the app to make sure it is the right place for your transportation needs.

🚌 Option 2: Public Bus

Another common way to get around Taiwan is by bus or shuttle bus. These are great options for shorter distances (e.g., anything that takes less than two hours to drive) or to reach places where the train won’t take you.

You can also take a shuttle bus from Taipei to popular destinations like  Jiufen  and Sun Moon Lake.

🚗 Option 3: Rental Car or Scooter

One common way for locals to get around Taiwan is by car and scooter.

Most foreign visitors do not rent a car or scooter in Taiwan, except to do a road trip on the east coast where the train infrastructure is lacking. Renting a car is not as straightforward in Taiwan as it is in other destinations.

To rent a car or scooter in Taiwan, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP ) and familiarize yourself with the country’s confusing rental laws.

🚙 Option 4: Taxi and Uber

Yellow taxis are readily available in Taiwan, especially in concentrated city areas, and it’s a common way to get around.

You’ll find Uber only in bigger cities like Taipei. Compared to taxis, they’re more convenient to use for tourists.

✈️ Option 5: Domestic Flight

Taiwan has several airports around the country. While you can get around by taking domestic flights, they’re typically not the most budget-friendly way to travel domestically.

For example, taking a domestic flight from the northern to the southern part of Taiwan will cost at least $160 one-way , whereas the high-speed rail would be closer to $40 USD.

🚲 Option 6: Cycling

Taiwan’s infrastructure is cyclist-friendly . You’ll find many bike-sharing services in major cities and tourist destinations, including Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge, and Kaohsiung City.

🍀 How I Got Around Taiwan

Like many visitors, I primarily relied on Taiwan’s trains, metro, and bus to get around. I called an Uber twice in Taipei when it significantly saved more time than taking the train. I also had a local friend drive me to Jiufen , which made me realize how driving in Taiwan can be confusing.

Overall, I found Taiwan’s public transportation reliable, clean, and pleasant although it can be occasionally confusing to navigate with just knowing English .

7. How To Stay Safe in Taiwan

Here are safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Taiwan.

⚠️ Is Taiwan Safe to Visit?

Taiwan is considered a safe country to visit. Violence and even petty theft against tourists are very rare. Taiwan has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the world .

Taiwan not only has a travel advisory level of 1 per the US Department of State, but it is also ranked #33 out of 163 safest countries by the Global Peace Index (for reference, the United States is ranked #131).

🚖 Common Scams in Taiwan

Tourist scams are not common in Taiwan, but here are scams to watch out for:

• Some restaurants will overcharge tourists by hiding additional service fees or inflating the menu prices, so make sure to always check your receipt.
• Taxi drivers will also try to overcharge tourists , which you can avoid by using Uber. However, this is a rare occurrence.
• Once in a while, you might find that tour vendors are not legitimate . They may try to sell you a tour or a ticket to Taipei 101, but they’re not authorized to do so. Make sure to book tours with legitimate platforms like Viator .

💧 Is Tap Water Safe To Drink in Taiwan?

Tap water in big cities like Taipei and Hualien City is safe to drink , but many locals are still dubious of tap water safety. It’s a little less clear if tap water is safe in other places in Taiwan, especially in smaller towns.

I brought my reusable water bottle , which I refilled at restaurants, hotels, and vending machines with no issues.

🦟 Does Taiwan Have Mosquitoes?

Taiwan has  disease-carrying mosquitoes  ( dengue virus is common ), especially during the summer and rainy season, so protect yourself as best as you can.

While walking around in Taiwan, you’ll see several posters warning people of getting dengue .

🍀 My Safety Tips for Taiwan

I didn’t have any issues with theft, scams, or violence in Taiwan. Based on my experience, I recommend these safety tips:

• Be vigilant of your surroundings. While Taiwan is very safe, it’s a foreign country with a somewhat high language barrier, so asking for help can be difficult in certain scenarios.
• It’s a good idea to pack   insect repellent . I didn’t have issues with mosquitoes in places like Taipei, but I wore repellent in places like Taroko National Park.

8. Language Barrier in Taiwan

Taiwan’s official language is Mandarin Chinese.

🗣️ Is English Common in Taiwan?

Roughly 30% of Taiwan’s population speaks some English , but you’ll find that the rest of the population speaks only Mandarin.

Major cities and tourist-friendly places will have some signs and menus in English, but Taiwan is largely not as English-friendly as some would expect.

Taiwan currently has a goal of becoming a bilingual nation by 2030 .

Here are some common Mandarin words and phrases to know while visiting Taiwan:

🍀 Traveling Taiwan With Just English

Although navigating Taiwan’s public transportation was relatively easy, I found getting around with just English a bit more challenging than I expected , especially in non-tourist areas.

Unlike Japan, Taiwan doesn’t have a lot of signs in English, locals who don’t work in tourism will not understand any English, and hand gestures are not as common. That said, if you mostly travel in touristy areas, you’ll have no issues getting around .

9. Cultural Differences in Taiwan

The Taiwanese culture has been heavily influenced by Chinese traditions, Japanese colonial rule, and indigenous culture.

Taiwanese people place special emphasis on politeness , social harmony, and respect, which is not very unlike Japanese people .

Due to the relatively recent 50-year Japanese occupation of Taiwan, you’ll find many Japanese influences on the small country . This extends to architectural style, education, railway infrastructure, and cultural practices.

👟 Proper Etiquette in Taiwan

Here are a few cultural norms and Taiwanese etiquette to keep in mind when visiting:

• It’s impolite to speak loudly in public spaces as it can be a nuisance to others, so make sure to keep your voice at a low to medium volume.
• Waiting in line in an orderly manne r is a social norm as it creates social harmony. Line cutting and disorderly lines are not common.
• Family-style dining is typical in Taiwan. When eating in these situations, it’s polite to sample and taste all dishes , even if you don’t end up eating a lot of everything.
• Taiwanese people respect their elders , so it’s important to show respect towards them and to address them with the proper titles.

Taiwan is an open-minded and progressive nation and you’ll find this reflected in its culture. For example, it’s the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage .

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Culture

I love many aspects of Taiwan’s culture, particularly the ones around orderliness, politeness, and cleanliness . Taipei is incredibly clean and peaceful, which deeply contrasts against the many large cities I’ve lived in the United States.

Note that like in Japan, street trash cans are uncommon in Taiwan, so be prepared to hold onto your trash. You can find trash cans at the metro stations.

10. Taiwanese Food To Try

Taiwan is internationally known for its street food culture and unique dishes . When visiting Taiwan, try some classic Taiwanese food:

• Beef noodle soup (niú ròu miàn) is one of the most iconic meals in Taiwan. The dish features chewy noodles with slow-cooked, tender beef.

• Boba or bubble tea ( zhēn zhū nǎichá ) is a flavored tea base with chewy tapioca ball. They’re now globally available and popular, but boba tea originated in Taiwan.

There are many great boba tea shops , but some of the best ones in Taipei are CoCo, DaYung’s Tea, Ten Ren’s Tea, and Chun Shui Tang.

• Stink tofu ( chòu dòufu ), which is fermented tofu, is a beloved dish in Taiwan. I like natto and durian, but I can’t get behind stinky tofu. It’s part of the experience to try one!
• Pork rice bowl (lǔ ròu fàn) is a comforting dish with minced pork belly served with five-spice seasoning and often topped with a boiled egg.
• Pineapple cake (fènglí sū) is a Taiwanese pastry that has a buttery crust surrounding a pineapple jam. This is a very popular souvenir gift to bring back from Taiwan.

SunnyHills is a popular pineapple cake cafe in Taipei, but I personally love the ones at Chia Te Bakery .

• Oyster omelet (òa-á jiān) . There are many Taiwanese street foods worth trying, but one of the most famous ones is the oyster omelet served with eggs and potato starch.

Din Tai Fung is one of Taiwan’s most globally recognized restaurants and one of my favorite places to eat. If you haven’t been to one yet, you can visit the original restaurant in Taipei and try their world-famous soup dumplings .

If you’re unfamiliar with Taiwanese street food or want to learn more about the cuisine’s history, you can also go on a five-star backstreet food tour .

11. DIY vs. Guided Trip in Taiwan

Given the island’s relatively small size and high language barrier, Taiwan is a popular place to travel with an organized tour. Here’s my take on guided vs. DIY trips for Taiwan:

🚐 Guided Taiwan Trip

If you have less than a week in Taiwan and want your trip to be super efficient, you can book all-inclusive guided tours that take you to the best places to visit.

The organized tour will take care of everything (i.e., transportation, accommodations, attractions, food) for you, but they’re not as flexible and will not be as budget-friendly.

🗺️ DIY Taiwan Trip

If you’re planning a Taiwan trip on your own, you can focus your planning efforts on Taipei and then take guided day tours to the top places .

Here’s how to plan a week in Taiwan while taking day trips to top places like Taroko Gorge and Jiufen .

🍀 My DIY Taiwan Trip

I spent a week in Taiwan on a DIY trip, but I had a local friend help me and provide a lot of helpful Taiwan travel tips.

I plan to keep traveling to Taiwan on my own, but I will occasionally book a guided tour for specific attractions, national parks, and food tours.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Taiwan Travel Guides

• 🧋 Taiwan Guide: 5-7 Day Itinerary + 20 Great Things To Do
• 💰 My 2024 Taiwan Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown
• 🏮 Jiufen Day Trip From Taipei: 9 Great Things To Do + Itinerary
• 🍃 How to Plan a Taroko Gorge Day Trip from Taipei

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

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Best Time to Visit Taiwan – Monthly guide with Event Highlights

Your are at the right place if you are wondering when is the best time to visit Taiwan. Which month and which season is the best to visit Taiwan, we all wonder. Our vacations and paid time off (PTO) hold immense value in our lives, as they offer us the opportunity to create lasting memories and experiences. It’s only natural to contemplate whether we are making the most of these precious moments? In this comprehensive post, we will address this concern by diving into the ideal times to visit Taiwan, a captivating Asian country nestled along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Throughout this guide, we will provide a month-by-month breakdown of Taiwan’s weather conditions, highlighting the unique experiences each month and season offers. From vibrant festivals to exhilarating activities, beautiful blossoms to nice sunny beaches. We will present an array of options to ensure that your trip to Taiwan becomes a collection of unforgettable travel memories. So, continue reading and embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished moments to treasure for sure!

Best Time to Visit Taiwan

• 1-2: January and February
• 3-4: March and April
• 5-6: May and June
• 7-8: July and August
• 9-10: September and October
• 11-12: November and December

Traveling to Taiwan in January and February

Source: [email protected], eToday

January is the coldest month in Taiwan, with an average temperature of around 17 degrees Celsius. February will be milder, around 17-19 degrees Celsius. While this may not sound excessively cold, it is advisable to carry a jacket, especially in the northern regions like Taipei. Due to the humidity, the perceived temperature can feel even colder than the actual temperature. The southern parts of Taiwan is relatively drier and warmer.

If you plan to go hiking in places like  Hehuan Mountain  or Snow Mountain, you will notice a significant drop in temperature. In these mountainous areas, there is even a chance of snowfall at times. Therefore if you are looking to experience beautiful snow sceneries in the subtropical island, January will be the best time to visit Taiwan!

Events and influx of tourists highly depends on the date of the Lunar New Year . As this holiday is determined by the lunar calendar, it can fall in either the late January till mid February (most often in February). If you choose to travel during the Lunar New Year period in Taiwan, you should anticipate closed stores and restaurants on Chinese New Year day and busy transportation, bustling tourist attractions for the rest of the week. It is recommended to enjoy this period with a local friend or host to experience the festive, lively atmosphere, as students start their winter breaks, people return home to reunite with their families and embark on outings together. Otherwise, you might want to avoid the high prices and crowds at this time.

Source: news.housefun

Following the conclusion of Taiwan’s Lunar New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival, or Yuanxiao Festival, takes place. They are celebrated in almost every city, and a simple google search can bring you to pretty lanterns! Some popular ones include:  Yuejin Lantern Festival  in Tainan, which received the Red Dot Design Award in the past; and Taipei Lantern Festival , usually a collaborative effort spanning across the entire Xingyi and Zhongxiao Area. People also like to release sky lanterns in Pingxi with their families. Another exhilarating and even dangerous way of celebrating is to participate in the infamous Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival , where literally thousands of fireworks shoot straight to audiences. There are tons of options, so don’t forget to check if your travel plans coincide with the Lantern Festival, which usually falls in February but occasionally occurs in March. This will be the best time in winter to check out pretty lights.

Visiting Taiwan in March and April

Source: Line Travel, travel.taipei, Vogue Taiwan

If you plan to travel to Taiwan in March, you can look forward to enjoying a comfortable spring season. Temperatures gradually rise during this time and you’ll start witnessing various types of blossoms. In April, Taiwan begins to bask in more sunlight, and the average temperature rises to over 20 degrees Celsius. It’s an excellent time to hike and travel around, however, it’s worth noting that towards the end of the April, both Taipei and Taiwan as a whole experience an increase in rainfall.

The vibrant cherry blossoms can start as early as January, but the warm weather in March makes it a popular season for cherry blossom enthusiasts. Cherry Blossom Hotspots include Yangmingshan National Park, the Flower Research Center, Yangde Boulevard, Gezhi Road, and the areas along Yangming Road. If you’re seeking a unique nighttime spectacle, Taiwan’s forests come alive with fireflies during this season. Both Yangmingshan National Park and Dongshi Forest in Taichung are prime spots to witness the mesmerizing glow of these luminescent creatures. For those eager to explore more of Taiwan’s natural beauty, a trip to the north to visit Bamboo Lake will allow you to marvel at the blooming white calla lilies .

Source: China Daily News, 廖啟佑

In addition to the flower season events, one exciting festival not to be missed in March is the various “ Mazu Pilgrimage ” held throughout Taiwan. The most famous ones include the  Dajia Mazu  International Tourism Cultural Festival and the Baisha Tun Mazu Festival. Another internationally renowned event during this month is the “ New Taipei City Wan Jin Shi Marathon ,” Taiwan’s first and only marathon certified by international standards.

April also marks the start of the annual Penghu Fireworks Festival , a two-month extravaganza where fireworks illuminate the Penghu Islands at regular intervals. Some other cultural festivals include the “ Fulong Sand Sculpture Art Festival “, the “ Baosheng Culture Festival ” and the beautiful Taiwanese folk art procession called the “ Neimen Song Jiang Jhen Series ,” held annually from late March to early April. Last but not least, an outdoor music festival called the Spring Scream is held in Kenting annually, Spring is one of the best time to visit Taiwan for cultural events and music festivals.

Traveling to Taiwan in May and June

Traveling to Taiwan in May means encountering the onset of the rainy and humid weather that characterizes East Asia’s plum rain season. Lasting for two months, this season brings increased rainfall not only to Taiwan but also to surrounding countries. It’s named after the ripening of plums during this period. Expect brief showers and afternoon thunderstorms, so it’s advisable to carry an umbrella or lightweight raincoat when venturing outdoors. June then comes with soaring temperatures and abundant rainfall, ushering into a humid tropical climate. However, evenings are typically cooler and less prone to rain, providing a comfortable respite. This is an excellent time to explore Taipei’s night markets and savor the delicious street food if you plan to visit Taiwan in early summer.

Source: NewTalk, skyticket

If you don’t mind the occasional afternoon shower, plenty of blossoms are waiting for you in May. The snow-white tung blossom blankets the mountainous areas north of Chiayi in Taiwan, as well as regions in the east like Hualien and Taitung. May also marks the peak season for the golden shower tree (Cassia fistula) to bloom. Strings of yellow flowers sway in the breeze, resembling the radiant drops of golden rain. The hydrangea season also begins, and due to the different soil pH levels, hydrangeas exhibit various colors. Entering June, you can start seeing lotus flowers. One of the most famous spots are the Baihe Lotus Ponds in Tainan. Spring to summer is definitely the best time to visit Taiwan too see beautiful blossoms.

The major cultural highlight during this period is the Dragon Boat Festival , or Duanwu Festival. As this festival is based on the lunar calendar, the date varies each year but usually falls in June. Taipei, Miaoli, and Lukang are known for hosting dragon boat races, with intricately designed boats. Many people gather by the riverside to watch the races and enjoy traditional rice dumplings (zongzi). Starting June is also a “fishy” season, you can enjoy the Flying Fish festival in Orchid Island (Lanyu) and Bluefin Tuna Season in Donggang.

Source: Shopee, BusinessToday

Visiting Taiwan in July and August

July and August are the hottest months in Taiwan, with average temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius. Coupled with high humidity, it can feel more like 35 degrees Celsius. July also marks the typhoon season, so when traveling during this time, it’s essential to stay updated with weather forecasts. While it is not the absolute best time to visit Taiwan, you don’t have to worry too much, typhoons usually come and leave within a few days, so the chances of meeting a disastrous one is probably quite slim. However, even without typhoon visiting, afternoon showers are common. If the coast is clear, and you can handle the heat, there are plenty of exciting activities to participate in.

If you visit Taiwan for the summer break, you can witness a colorful spectacle at the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival , where a variety of hot air balloons take to the skies. Do not forget the Hohaiyan Rock Festival , the Taiwanese version of Coachella. An annual Taiwan rock music festival held in Fulong Beach, visitors craving an electrifying atmosphere, diverse music acts, and a beachside setting flock to this event, making it a must-attend for music enthusiasts and festival-goers alike.

Source: iHappyDay.tw, Northeast Yilan Coast National Scenic Area

For those interested in exploring the culture of the Amis indigenous people in Taiwan, the “ Fengnian Festival ” in Hualien is an excellent event to attend. This festival combines music and dance performances, showcasing the essence of indigenous songs, dances, and cultural rituals. In Yilan, there is also Yilan International Children’s Folklore and Folkgame Festival , featuring art, games and water parks!

When the weather is favorable, Taroko Gorge in August is a popular destination due to its cooler temperatures. If you’re looking to soak up the sun, scenery, and gentle breezes on the beach, Kenting National Park is a great choice. In Hualien on the east coast, the vibrant orange day lilies cover the mountains, creating stunning landscapes that don’t require any filters to capture beautiful photos. After all the fun, if you need to cool off, you can visit the National Palace Museum or the Taipei Fine Arts Museum for some indoor activities. Check out our post about the 20 must visit places in Taipei , many of them are indoors. Also don’t forget to grab a refreshing cup of bubble tea to beat the heat—it’s a must-do on your itinerary.

As students start taking their summer breaks and travelers around the world feel their travel itch, no matter how hot it is in Taiwan, it is still a pretty busy tourist season. So if your schedule allows, we recommend skipping the scorching sun and unbearable humidity of the island, and come visit Taiwan some other times.

Source: Yahoo News, kkday

Visiting Taiwan in September and October

After enduring the scorching summer, Taiwan’s weather in September finally starts to become more comfortable. Temperatures in Taipei and other northern regions begin to drop (though only slightly in the south), and there is less rainfall compared to August. September still falls within the typhoon season, but on clear days, the southern beaches continue to attract many visitors. October brings warm and mostly dry weather to Taiwan, making it one of the best months for traveling in the country. The average temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius, and cool breezes start to prevail. It’s an ideal time for hiking or admiring the bright autumn colors in the mountains. One highly recommended destination is Alishan, where, if you wake up early enough, witnessing the sea of clouds and the sunrise at mid-mountain level is an unforgettable experience.

While the climate may not yet offer the coolness of autumn, Taiwan’s festivals in this month serve as a reminder that the fall season is on its way. Mid-Autumn Festival , aside from moon-watching, is an excellent time to savor mooncakes. A unique tradition of Taiwanese is to barbeque and get together during this time. Another tasty and beautiful festival is the Persimmon Festival in Xinzhu county. You will see miles of orange balls soaking up the autumn sun and turning into tasty snacks. Other worthwhile events include the Taipei Arts Festival and the Sun Moon Lake International Swimming Carnival , where thousands of swimmers take on the challenge of crossing Taiwan’s largest lake. There are also fireworks around Sun Moon Lake around this time. Fall is one of the most recommended times to travel to Taiwan because of the nice weather and abundance in fun activities.

Source: China Times, TravelKing, TaiwanHot, taiwan.net

In the major cities, plenty of exciting activities are waiting for you partake in. Taiwan Pride, the largest LGBTQ+ celebration in East Asia, features vibrant parades and colorful crowds lining the streets of Taipei. In New Taipei City, one of the most vibrant and colorful event, Shimen Kite Festival paints the sky into rainbow. Meanwhile, in Taichung, the renowned Jazz Festival is held every October. This week-long music extravaganza attracts top Taiwanese and international musicians, offering a fantastic musical experience.

Visiting Taiwan in November and December

In accordance with Taiwan’s standards, November offers cool and comfortable weather, making it an excellent time for outdoor travel and one of the best times to visit Taiwan. The average temperature hovers around the low 20s in degrees Celsius, and Taichung and Kaohsiung often enjoy sunny days. Taipei tends to be overcast or experience light rain, so packing a light jacket should suffice to stay warm. December in Taiwan typically sees average temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it one of the coldest months in the country. This is especially true in southern cities like Kaohsiung and Tainan, where the climate is usually dry.

While the climate is pleasant, the tourist crowds are relatively smaller, making it an ideal time to visit many popular attractions like Elephant Mountain, Jiufen Old Street, or Longshan Temple. The season is also great to see the fluffy Miscanthus , or called Chinese Silver Grass, around most mountain ranges. The renowned Golden Horse Film Festival also takes place in November. If you’re in Taipei, take advantage of the opportunity to catch a movie. After the film, don’t forget to leave some time to explore the street food delights at Shilin Night Market.

Source: SmileTaiwan

Throughout December, there are plenty of rich and diverse activities to participate in. The mild winter weather is perfect for indulging in hot springs in places like Beitou and Wulai, or if you’re in southern Taiwan, the Kaohsiung Art Fair offers an opportunity to admire modern art creations from emerging local artists. Additionally, the Taipei Marathon takes place in December, attracting runners from all over. Whether you want to cheer them on or participate yourself, it’s an excellent way to explore the city and be part of a vibrant event.

Finally, Taiwan is an excellent destination for New Years celebration , festive activities are scattered all around major cities of Taiwan. One of the most spectacular and popular one are the fireworks in Taipei 101 .

Source: Taipei 101, Radio Taiwan International

Now that you found out more than enough activities to do in Taiwan, it is probably even harder to decide when is the best time to visit Taiwan. The answer of course really depends on what you are looking for in your trip. There are exciting cultural festivals, artistic celebration, beautiful sceneries and tasty food all year round in Taiwan, so you can never really go wrong. If there is one thing to consider, most people will probably find the summer in Taiwan a little unbearable; otherwise feel free to hop on a plane and come visit anytime you like!

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• When Is The Best Time...

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Taiwan?

Taiwan is enjoying a huge boom in tourism with sightseers flocking to the region’s many sights and attractions throughout the year. But when is the best time to visit? Should you avoid public holidays and festivals? And what about the weather? Well, the truth is that no matter when you visit this beautiful island, you’re guaranteed an exciting trip but, of course, some seasons might suit better than others.

Spring in Taiwan runs from March to May and temperatures are usually a nice and comfortable 20-25°C. It’s a great time to visit and many people come to see the cherry and plum blossoms. With temperatures at such comfortable levels, it’s a good time for hiking and visiting the island’s parks.

There aren’t too many holidays during this season, however, you should try to avoid arriving at the beginning of April. The fifth of the month is Tomb Sweeping Day and many people take the opportunity to visit family graves, so public transport and the freeways are incredibly busy.

Summer in Taiwan is both hot and humid. In fact, locals spend as much time out of the sun as possible during the hottest months of the year, preferring to go out in the evenings. Temperatures routinely top 30°C and although it’s quite hot, it’s also typhoon season so you can expect heavy downpours from time to time.

The start of the season usually coincides with Dragon Boat Festival . During this festival you can attend one of the island’s many Dragon Boat race events and enjoy the traditional treat of sticky rice dumplings known as Zhongzi.

Anyone who lives here will tell you that autumn is perfect season to visit Taiwan . The typhoon season is winding down and the weather cools considerably. There’s very little rain and lots of sunshine, making it a very comfortable season for sightseeing.

This is also when locals celebrate both Moon Festival and Double Ten Day . Moon Festival is quite fun if you can spend it with a local family. People usually spend the festival enjoying time with family while barbecuing under the full moon. Double Ten Day is a much livelier holiday with a military parade taking place in front of the presidential palace each year. Some cities also have firework displays but this varies from year to year.

Winters in Taiwan are pretty mild. You’ll find that although most locals kit themselves out in the warmest of winter gear, tourists used to colder weather can survive in sweaters and jackets. Temperatures rarely drop below 10°C and unless you’re up a mountain in one of the region’s incredible parks , you won’t see any snow or even frost.

The best thing about winter in Taiwan is the fact that there are so many things going on. While Taiwanese generally don’t celebrate Christmas, there’s still the impressive Christmasland to visit out in Banqiao. As for New Year’s Eve, you’re spoiled for choice. Taipei 101 is the most popular event but there are also firework displays and performances in Taichung and Kaohsiung.

And towards the end of the season the biggest celebration of them all takes place, Chinese New Year. This public holiday usually lasts for about a week and it’s a great time to be in Taiwan. Everyone is in holiday mode and the shops are filled with great bargains. Be warned though, public transport, particularly trains to the south can be packed throughout the holiday.

When not to visit Taiwan

Typhoon season.

Although public holidays can be quite challenging when it comes to public transport, if you plan ahead or avoid travelling on those days, it’s not really an issue.

However, typhoon season (from June to September) is something you can’t quite plan for. There’s usually plenty of warning that a typhoon is approaching the island so once you stay indoors, you’re pretty safe. Having said that though, do you really want three days of torrential downpours and strong winds in the middle of your week-long stay? Best to avoid the season entirely if possible.

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When is the best time to visit Taiwan?

The info on this page is based on historical averages and might not reflect current conditions. Check with local authorities for the latest travel advice.

The best time to visit Taiwan is from February to April and October to December . Falling on either side of the sweltering summer and typhoon season, these two periods let you make the most of the warm, subtropical climate and some of Taiwan ’s top events.

With the weather on your side, Taiwan ’s great outdoors are well worth exploring during these months. Go sakura spotting at Yangmingshan starting in February , see the mesmerizing fireflies at Dongshi Forest Garden in April , or admire the beautiful autumn colors of Alishan later in the year. Whenever and wherever you embark on your outdoor adventure, the hot springs at Beitou and Wulai are the perfect place to recover. Back in the cities, the comfortable climate makes it prime time to explore top attractions like Shilin Night Market and Elephant Mountain , and join in with the infectious atmosphere during the Lantern Festival and Taiwan Pride.

More about the best time to visit Taiwan

• Weather and temperature
• Month-by-month cost
• Places to visit
• Taiwan reviews
• Travel articles

Monthly weather and travel tips for Taiwan

January is the coldest month in Taiwan with an average temperature of about 63°F for the month. While this might not sound very wintery a jacket is still a good idea, since the humidity in the northern regions like Taipei can make it feel a few degrees colder. It’s drier and slightly warmer in the south of the country, but you’ll feel a much more noticeable difference if you venture higher up into the mountains—like Hehuanshan and Xueshan —where there’s even a chance of snow.

January tends to be fairly quiet in terms of events, unless Chinese New Year happens to fall in this month. The festival follows the lunar calendar, which means it can take place anytime from January 21 to February 20, so it’s best to check ahead to see if the big crowds and even bigger celebrations will be here during your trip.

February in Taiwan is generally mild, with average temperatures in the 60s. You’ll get cooler and wetter weather up north in Taipei , while southern and eastern cities like Kaohsiung and Taitung bolster the average temperatures up with dry, sunny days.

The crowds in February depend on the timing of Chinese New Year. This festival follows the lunar calendar, so it can fall in either January or February – but there’s a bigger chance it’s the latter. If you’re in Taiwan during Chinese New Year, expect busy transit hubs, lively tourist spots, and an uplifting atmosphere as locals travel to their hometowns and go on trips with family. Chinese New Year is capped off in Taiwan with the Lantern Festival, when families gather in cities like Pingxi to release floating lanterns into the sky. Check ahead to see if the Lantern Festival will take place during your visit. It’s usually in February , but can occasionally take place in March too.

A comfortable spring feel awaits if you’re visiting Taiwan in March . Places like Taipei and Taoyuan are prone to wet weather, but the rain paired with the rising temperatures help Tung blossoms and other flowers spring into life.

Another flower you can see in Taiwan in March is the cherry blossom. These light pink flowers can actually bloom as early as January , but the warmer weather makes March a popular time to see them – and a less crowded alternative to sakura season in Japan . If the start of spring has given you a taste for the great outdoors, continue your adventures hiking Yushan National Park ’s mountain trails, exploring the breathtaking Taroko Gorge, or unwinding in the Beitou Hot Springs .

April in Taiwan sees the sun come out more and average temperatures rise above the 70°F mark. It’s prime time to climb up Taipei ’s Elephant Mountain , but be mindful of rainfall increasing both here and all over Taiwan as you approach the end of the month.

April marks the start of the yearly Penghu Fireworks Festival – 2 months of fireworks displays every few days over on the Penghu archipelago. If you want a different kind of light show, head into Taiwan ’s wilderness to catch the peak of firefly season. Places like Yangmingshan National Park and Taichung ’s Dongshi Forest Garden are home to swarms of fireflies, which light up the evening with a magical bright green glow. To take in more of Taiwan ’s natural sights, venture north to Zhuzihu to see the beautiful white calla lilies come into bloom.

Expect heat, humidity, and rain if you’re visiting Taiwan in May . This month signals the start of East Asia ’s plum rain season, a 2-month period of rainfall across Taiwan and some of its neighboring countries. The season is named after its ripening plums and brings rain in short but heavy thundershowers, usually in the afternoon. An umbrella and a thin rain jacket are essentials at this time of year.

If you’ve already been caught in a downpour, save yourself the trouble of drying off and head to one of Taiwan ’s hot springs. The natural thermal waters in areas like Beitou and Wulai are popular places to unwind and de-stress. If you’re happy to brave the afternoon showers, Taiwan ’s national parks are well worth a visit too. The rocky landscape at Taroko National Park , beaches and mountains at Kenting , and diverse flora at Yangmingshan National Park all make for great photos – but keep that umbrella handy to keep you and your camera dry.

June in Taiwan is nearing the peak of summer, so expect soaring temperatures, heavy rainfall, and a generally humid, tropical climate. The plum rain season is in full swing, with short but heavy afternoon thundershowers, particularly down south in Kaohsiung . The heat and the rain ease off in the evening for cooler, more comfortable weather – perfect for exploring Taipei ’s street food-fueled night markets.

A highlight on the cultural events calendar in Taiwan is the Dragon Boat Festival. The date varies since it follows the lunar calendar, but more often than not it falls in June . Crowds congregate by rivers in Taipei , Miaoli and Lukang to watch rowers race in intricately painted boats and eat “zongzi” – pyramid-shaped sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. If the June heat is getting a little too hot to handle, cool off in blissfully air-conditioned shops in the famous Taipei 101 tower, or in malls and restaurants dotted all over the capital.

July is the hottest month in Taiwan , with temperatures averaging in the upper seventies across the country and humidity making it feel more like 95°F. July is also part of the typhoon season here, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on the weather forecast during your visit. If the coast is clear and you’re not put off by the heat, you’ll find plenty to do.

Taitung Balloon Festival sees an array of colorful hot-air balloons take to the skies, while Fulong Beach transforms into an outdoor art gallery, thanks to incredible works at the International Sand Sculpture Festival. For an air-conditioned break from the outdoors, head inside to the National Palace Museum or the Taipei Fine Arts Museum , then keep cool with an ice-cold bubble tea in the very country that invented it.

The heat shows no signs of stopping in Taiwan in August , which experiences the same tropical temperatures and afternoon downpours as July . Typhoon season continues into August too, so be sure to check weather forecast often to see how it might affect your travel.

The season tends to only bring a couple of typhoons to Taiwan over the few-month period, so for the most part you should be able to head out and explore all that the country has to offer. Weather permitting, Taroko Gorge is a popular August activity due to its cooler climate, or you can soak up some sun, sights, and the sea breeze at the beaches of Kenting National Park . Over in the eastern county of Hualien , mountains covered in seasonal bright orange day lilies make for beautiful, no-filter-necessary photos.

After a sweltering summer, Taiwan in September is a bit more comfortable when it comes to weather. The temperature drops slightly down south but more so in Taipei and other northern regions, and some of the August rains ease off, too. September is still part of the typhoon season, but the beaches down south remain popular in the sunny weather.

The temperatures might not seem all that autumnal, but one of Taiwan ’s festivals at this time of year acts as a seasonal reminder. The Mid-Autumn Festival—also known as the Moon Festival—is a chance to gorge on mooncakes and join locals for riverside barbecues in Taipei . As a lunar calendar festival, the date varies but usually happens in September . Other events worth noting include the Taipei Arts Festival and the Sun Moon Lake International Swimming Carnival – a swim across the country’s largest lake attracting tens of thousands of participants.

Warm and mostly dry weather make October one of the best months to visit Taiwan . With an average temperature of 75°F and some cooling winds coming in, it’s a great time to head up to the mountains and see the bright autumn-colored woodlands. A popular place to do this is Alishan , where—if you’re up early enough—you can also watch the sun rise above a “sea of clouds” floating around the lower parts of the mountain.

There’s plenty worth getting out of bed for in the big cities too. Taiwan Pride is East Asia ’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebration, with lively parades and colorful crowds taking to the streets of Taipei . It’s party time in Taichung , too. The annual jazz festival attracts a variety of top Taiwanese and international talent for over a week of music-filled festivities each October .

By Taiwan standards, November is a cool and comfortable to visit the country. Average temperatures are just above 65°F, so you should get some sun in the Taichung and Kaohsiung regions. Taipei tends to be a little gray with some rain, but a light jacket should be more than enough to keep you warm here.

Despite the pleasant weather conditions, it’s one of the quieter months in terms of tourists. Use this opportunity to explore some of the major attractions like Elephant Hill , Jiufen Old Street , or the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas . If you’re in Taipei in November , grab yourself a seat for screenings at the prestigious Golden Horse Film Festival, and save time to fill up on street food at Shilin Night Market .

With average temperatures in the fifties, December is one of the coldest months in Taiwan . It’s the driest too, particularly in southern cities like Kaohsiung and Tainan . The days in Taipei can look a little gloomy, but Christmas lights and the Taipei 101 New Year’s Eve Fireworks brighten up the capital later in the month.

You’ll find plenty to do in the lead up to the end of year festivities in December . The mild winter weather makes a soak in Beitou ’s and Wulai ’s hot springs an appealing prospect. Or, if you’re in the south of Taiwan , the Art Kaohsiung fair showcases contemporary works from up-and-coming local talent. December also sees Taipei Marathon runners put to the test in the capital. Cheer them along or sign up and take part yourself for a great way to explore the city.

Weather and temperature in Taiwan

You’ll get the best weather in Taiwan from February to April and October to December . The summer brings soaring temperatures, short but heavy thundershowers, and occasional typhoons, so either side of these months offer much more pleasant conditions. A raincoat is still a good idea if you’re in northern regions like Taipei from February to April , while the days should be a little drier from October to December . Southern and central cities like Kaohsiung and Taichung tend to be dry for most of the spring and autumn, with temperatures hovering in the 70s and even some December sunshine.

Weather data provided by Forecast.io

Cost of stay in Taiwan

Want to travel smart? Here you can check out the average cost of accommodations per night in Taiwan.

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The best places to visit in Taiwan

Check out some of the most popular cities, places to visit, and things to do in Taiwan!

Popular in December

Convenient Public Transportation, Night Markets, Food

Night Markets, Local Food, Food

Popular in February

Night Markets, Local Food, Relaxation

Local Food, Street Food, Food

Hualien City

Popular in July

Nature, Scenery, Nature Walks

Taitung City

Nature, Scenery, Clean Air

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What other travelers say about their trips to Taiwan

Taipei is a great city to visit. The foods are great and inexpensive. People are friendly. Public transportation (MRT) can reach lots of tourist spots. Night Markets are fun to visit. I went to many night markets and the foods are clean. Never got issue with food poisoning. Get your google translate ready if you do not speak Chinese. But you can just point or ask other customers which food is good. Usually a long line indicated it's good!

台南，台灣最古老的城市之一，並且也是台灣的美食之都。 每一條小巷每一個轉彎，都有不同的小吃、咖啡店、酒吧。 太多太多的驚喜，無法用短短的兩三天去體驗。 一定要去國華街吃美食，成大校園巡禮、赤崁樓安平古堡孔廟....太多太多古蹟旅遊

Interesting metropolis with night markets offering good food, and mountainous surroundings offering weeks of hiking opportunities to shed the extra pounds from too much fatty pork ;-) Not much real history outside of the great Palace Museum (Taipei is about as old as Los Angeles), but much cleaner than the chinese mainland.

Great city with convenient and easy to navigate transit system. Clean streets and friendly locals to assist English speaking tourists. Amazing food options ranging from inexpensive quality foods to high end quality foods/experiences. Will definitely go back near the end of the year.

We really only walked to old town one day as we spent a lot of time in the hotel and in the hotel spa. However, in one day we in the village we had great street food, took a tram up the mountain, took a vintage train ride, went for a long walk, and we loved our hotel Volando Urai. We didn't get a chance to go to the indigenous museum which looked great. We will visit Wulai again!

The area was bustling with shops and food stalls. It was a train ride away from Taipei, but it was a LONG and crowded trip both directions. It is a very walkable area with great access to multiple transit lines and types.

Good food. I gained like 5kgs eating Lu Rou Fan. Beautiful places. Too many tourists though (Yes I am one).

Taichung is kinda my hometown, the weather is nicer than Taipei and Kaoxiong. Life expense is a little cheaper than Taipei. It's easy to get to parks, shopping malls, very convenient for travelers to walk around either by buses or on foot.

Feels like you are in Japan when u are in Taipei. The foods are best, the locals can talk in English so communication is a lot easier. I love the cold weather. Transportation is accessible and cheaper compared to other countries. People are nice like Japanese. Will definitely go back in Taiwan.

Lots to see and do in Taipei, night markets, museums, shopping and so much more.

The free hot springs in the Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park and Tangweigou Park are enjoyable. Easy to reach them, right besides with many vendors and convenient stores where can buy some drinks, snacks. Recommend to bring your own towels and shorts. The hotspring is very warm around 40 degree Celsius.

Great place. Inexpensive, people are friendly, great transit. Can do lots & never leave Taipei. Lots of toilet facilities everywhere. Clean country. Good food.

A must visit place ! Jiufen old street is Too pretty !

A small and beautiful city. There are lots of nice small restaurants providing authentic local food, which is fresh and tastes so good. People here are very nice! If you need to rent a car, make sure you have international driving permit. Otherwise you are not allowed to rent a car. Taroko national park is a must visit attraction . It is amazing !

Beautiful city with many places to visit. People are friendly. Transportation is good with MRT and buses. Many good food available.

if you into temples and a few other sightseeing options, Taipei is a pretty interesting city. I only had a layover so did not have much time to do some exploring. Knowing some mandarin will help a lot!

Taipei - such a safe and convenient place to enjoy, unwind, and stay. People are friendly, so systematic, organized, clean, and fresh. Nature is very accessible via transportation. Just need to be more prepared to have google translate but overall, it is a place to discover and explore if you are fond of nature and the hostel is in the city center so you can just go around anytime you are free.

City has grown very large from last time we were here but there still many sights to see and many restaurants to explore

I love the food, places we visited and especially climbing at elephant mountain during a cold weather, I want to travel next time to other provinces of Taiwan.

Sun Moon Lake and its surroundings is a fantastic family vacation

Fantastic destination for families and beach explorers. The resort we stayed was fantastic which had lot to do within the resort itself in addition to access to beach.

Taipei is a very dynamic city. Transport and communication facilities are top notch. Food is everywhere. The people are warm.

Taipei is great city to visit! And there are many near by cities that you can travel to with great scenery that just a quick train ride. Many choices of food and most are inexpensive. Overall, people are friendly and helpful!

Cijin island is great, and there are fun trips to take around Kaohsiung. I extended my stay to feel mitempfand the vibe of the city, and I did really not regret it!

The best thing is the soft wind from the ocean. We stayed in Taipei fora few days before we came to here, it was too warm and too sticky to stay there, next time we might consider to stay in Kaohsiung more if we come in summer again. The city is newer looking and feel cleaner than Taipei too. Take a ride with the light rail around the city is a good way to find out what you want to see .

Taipei is a great city, whether you like culture, shopping, walking or eating! You will find the best food, in restaurants or night markets. Great museums and many place for shopping, with a great transportation system . You can also easily get away from the city by going to Maokong, where you can spend the afternoon or evening admiring the view of the city from the mountains, and drink locally-grown tea.

Hualien is easily accessible by train from small or major cities, either with the express or local trains. It is also a great starting point to discover the central east cost, with wonders like Taroko gorge and Walami trail. In the city, the Dongdamen night market is worth spending a few evenings.

1 day is enough if you go on a e-bike to round Sun Moon Lake. If you use bicycle, it can be quite taxing going up slopes.

A city is improving except some city bus drivers are rude.

島自体が狭いので歩くにも困らない。まだベストシーズンではなかったので休みの飲食店がかなりあった。台湾初民宿だったがオーナーは親切で部屋にもシャワールームがあって良かった。ただ階段のみだったのでオーナーがスーツケースを運んでくれなければきつかった。自分の年齢を考えると多少高くてもホテルの方が良かったかも。

Taipei is a great city - efficient, clean, and friendly. We love it's "organic-ness" - you get the vibe of how people really live. It might be pricier though than some might expect, and certainly more expensive than most other Asian cities, so be prepared.

Many museums and cultural sites. June fireworks festival is spectacular!

Taipei is a great place to go and visit, especially because the public transportation is particularly good and easily accessible by walking. There is so much to see. Some of my favorite places that I have traveled to in the past are Taipei 101, Taipei Zoo, National Palace Museum, Tamsui waterfront.

It's nice city. A bit old but beautiful. 101 is a nice tower to visit. Food is good.

It's a nice city. I was there for only one day for business purpose so don't know much about the city. Food is good and available from my hotel.

We love the food, hospitality of the people there, the nature and relax feel.

A mountain town, not too far from Taipei. It's known for the narrow alleyways of its old town, packed with teahouses, street-food shacks and souvenir shops! Safe, friendly and interesting both day and night!

ived been check in for how many times in this hotel every time i go in tainan and its near in train station and accesable in all store

I was absolutely lost in all of the amazing food stalls at the night market. That pretty much took my entire agenda. I originally wanted to go to take a dance class however I arrived too late. Transportation is rather swift and easy. I think there is definitely a lot to explore with this area so I'm excited for my next visit.

Staff was nice Room was very nice for the price. Only complaints are the expired coffee and tea packages (from 2022) and the toilet needs maintenance as it kept running but everything else was good

One of the priority locations everyone should visiting when in Taiwan. Includes Alishan Township, Yushan National Park and Yushan Peak (highest geolocical location in Taiwan/Asia Pacific).

Taipei is a dynamic and vibrant city with a rich culture, wonderful people, delicious food, an efficient transportation system, and much more to offer. You will fall in love with the city as well as Taiwan!

Great country to visit. The railways are not intimidating. Rich history and good food! I recommend especially for beginners in traveling.

Taipei was a really great city! It's good for solo female travelers. I felt safe the whole time I was walking by myself. Food was amazing and affordable too!!!

Yilan city is a suburban area. If you like to experience the countryside but not that far in the city, Yilan is very recommended. There are so much activities to be done and a lot of off the beaten paths are worth the visit.

Been here for the 3rd time and I'm still in love with this country! I still have so much to go to! I want to go to Kaoshiung next time. I love Taipei and Taiwan!

It’s rural area in Taiwan. You will need your own transportation or call taxi to move you around. I can speak Chinese, so not a problem for me. Hot air balloon is cool.

Taipei is not that much advertised compared to its East Asian neighbors - Japan and Korea, but nonetheless a truly great country to visit. The weather is nice and the people are courteous, and the place offers an equally unique set of experience. Truly a must visit country!

Taipei is a good place for nature lovers, and for food lovers. There are lots of places to hike to and Taipei has lots of night markets to go on food trips. I noticed that there are a lot of claw machine games around Taipei, but the toys are hard to get.

the best place to go if u looking for a solo trip. super safe. vast coverage of public transportation. food heaven. excellent hospitality.

Will surely return to Taipei and stay again in the same Hotel. I recommend fully this hotel for others to experience the excellent services.

Less expensive than Taipei. I would rate it higher than Taipei

The name of the two International Airports are confusing. I flew into Taipei on Star Lux Airline. My booking says LAX to Taipei International Airport but the actual airport is Tayuan International Airport so took a yellow cab to Taipei international but it was the wrong airport. Same thing with my friends flight from Manila to Taipei on China Airline. The airport is Tayuan International.

Gorgeous historic town and amazing local markets. I was fascinated but the old town sections and history. It was great ti see people’s daily li es around the markets and temples. Highly worthwhile visiting. Lukang old sector is under threat from development and really take the opportunity to enjoy this experience.

Everything is so cheap compared to Los Angeles. Taking the bus to some places was like 50 cents. Good food is cheap too.

Jiu Feng worth to visit. not only old street. I would suggest go to hike the mountains and avoid from the busy crowd in old street. try something different than normal path.

Great town for a relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Friendly locals.

Tapei has really excellent public transportation. The main airport is in a nearby sister city, Taoyuan. The Taipei metro (MRT) takes you right from the Taoyuan airport into Taipei City — easy peasy. Just get an EasyCard for the fare, and you can use it to get around on buses and subway. The Taipei subway is way nicer than what we have in NYC — no comparison. If you're a foodie, then Taipei is a destination not to be missed: a major street food venue.

海岸的景色很美，看夕陽的好地方 很多特色餐廳與景點 適合走走

convenience to get to all the places with Taipei MRT

Good for natural scenery visit. Tourist areas are all about seafood. No other options regarding restaurants except the cafe in the hotel. A very decent coffee shop near the hotel. Highly recommended.

You will never be disappointed for visiting Taipei. So many attractions, gourmet food and cultural areas.

The city is great and friendly. The papaya milk was delicious and local fold were good. I would have spend more time to explore the city more if I could stay longer. The city provides convenient access to Alishan.

The staffs are nice and approachable. The room was clean and comfortable to sleep with. Breakfast are good.

Public transportation is easy accessible to most of the places even attractions or one can hire private drivers. Food choices are plenty for different tastes.

Wonderful city. Extremely safe. Very well organized with tons of transportation options : MRT, YouBikes, Uber, Taxis, Buses, Walking... A lot to see and experience. Great great food and fabulous night markets. A memorable experience all around. Quieter than Bangkok, as safe as Hong Kong but not as diverse. Easy to venture out of the city with the Fast train.

We’re so grateful to spent our Christmas here at homestay located in the middle of the mountains, here we feel so relaxing and comfortable. A Highly recommended for the travelers especially for the nature lovers. A big thumbs up for the owner who’s being so friendly and kind to us!

Loved the circle fountain in the center of the city and the side streets that offered so many different food options. Lovely view of the mountains and short drive from a great hiking area. The facilities at the Grand Earl were lovely - especially enjoyed the rooftop bar, the rooms, and breakfast. It's a lot more affordable than other cities in Taiwan.

A must visit place one you are in Taiwan! Stay at least 2 nights to enjoy and explore the place.

We toured Taipei Botanical Garden (lovely) and the Ning Xia night market (very nice). We also did a food tour of Taipei which was excellent. No trip to Taipei is complete without a stop at the National Palace Museum. We also explored the Fine Arts Museum, which was quite interesting.

good cities, food slightly cheaper than taipei but nicer

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Invented in taiwan, loved far and wide..

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Spoiler: they’re all in taiwan., stay in the know.

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16 Unmissable Things To Do In Tainan, Taiwan

When people travel to Taiwan, they often visit Taipei, Kaohsiung, or Taichung, and rarely explore past these major cities.

Tainan is somewhat of a hidden gem in Taiwan, which seeks to challenge this status quo.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, there are so many things to do in Tainan that make it worthy of a pitstop on anyone’s travel plans.

From ancient temples to beautiful parks to delicious street food and bustling night markets, Tainan has so many attractions that will captivate you with its charm.

But if you’re not sure what to do in Tainan and why it’s worth a visit, keep reading to discover our insider travel tips and knowledge on Tainan for those looking for the best places to see, eat, stay, drink, and explore.

Is Tainan Worth Visiting?

• 1. Explore Tainan's Temples

2. Visit the National Literature Museum

Shanghai steamed pork buns | 上海好味道小籠湯包.

• Vonny's Garden Vegetarian Restaurant | 綠素界花果茶餐飲坊

Shangri-La Hotel | 香格里拉

4. explore the night markets, 5. wander around anping, 6. mingle with the locals in hai an r, 7. shop till you drop, 8. relax in tainan park, 9. attend a festival in tainan.

• 10. Visit Tainan County's Monkey Mountain

11. Visit The Hot Springs in Guanzling

12. hang out in blueprint cultural & creative park, 13. take a trip to taijiang national park, 14. see chihkan tower, 15. visit chimei museum, 16. hike qigu salt mountain.

Tainan is absolutely worth visiting. It’s the oldest city in Taiwan and is also the former capital, so it’s steeped in Taiwanese culture and history.

Although by western standards Tainan is a large city, it does not feel like a metropolis.

It has a distinctly old heritage city feel, and because it’s less explored by international visitors, it offers an authentic experience to anyone who travels there.

There is also a lot of support for the fine arts in Tainan. There are some fantastic modern art galleries and even art street.

Things to Do in Tainan

From historic landmarks to jaw-dropping nature sites, be sure to add the following attractions to your Tainan itinerary.

1. Explore Tainan’s Temples

There are a lot of temples in Taiwan, but as the oldest city, Tainan has an especially high concentration of them, several of which are very well-known.

The Tainan Confucius Temple is one of the most famous in the city, and dates back several centuries – though it has undergone renovations over the years and today looks like it was built yesterday.

It showcases traditional Taiwanese folk culture and has some of the most beautiful designs and reliefs.

Another prominent temple worth checking out is the Tainan Grand Matsu Temple, or Grand Mazu Temple as it’s sometimes known, which is the largest temple in Tainan.

This temple was the first Mazu temple built by the Taiwanese government, and is dedicated to the The Heaven God Mother – the most worshipped in Taiwan.

It therefore attracts hundreds of visitors each day, from around the world, and is one of the best places to glimpse into the country’s religious and cultural practices.

If you have more time, the Lady Linshui Temple and Baihe Lady Linshui Temple, which hold great historical and spiritual significance, are worth exploring.

The National Literature Museum is also an excellent place to learn about the country’s culture and history.

Established in October 2003, it holds the distinction of being the first national museum dedicated to literature in Taiwan.

Housed in the former Tainan Prefecture Office, a building constructed in 1916, this museum showcases the development of Taiwanese literature from ancient times to the modern era.

As you wander its halls, explore its extensive collection of Chinese, Taiwanese, and Japanese literary works, which allow you to gain insights into the rich literary heritage of the region.

3. Try The Local Delicacy

Taiwanese people are passionate about food, especially snacks, and Tainan is famous for having many of the best in the country.

In Taiwan most restaurants are small, only serve a few items, and have a specialty that they’re known for.

Since Tainan is so old, many of the recipes date back to the city’s early days during the Qing Dynasty.

Needless to say, street food stand and restaurant hopping is a fantastic experience here.

Be sure to try an oyster omelette, by far Tainan’s best-known specialty. Also, don’t forget to drink pearl milk tea, otherwise known as bubble tea, which originates in Taiwan.

If you get the chance, try some peking duck (about $8-9 USD for a whole duck), as well as coffin bread.

In Taiwan, it’s the small dumpy-looking restaurants with hundreds of years of history behind them that are best-known and are highly recommended. Here are a few of my favorite places to eat:

This restaurant is famous countrywide for its soup dumplings, but all the dumplings are fantastic!

There’s no English menu, so if you don’t speak Chinese you will either need to enlist some help or resort to pointing at other people’s food to order.

Ten steamed dumplings here will run you about $1.50 USD. That’s plenty for most people, but I usually can’t resist ordering a second plate.

Vonny’s Garden Vegetarian Restaurant | 綠素界花果茶餐飲坊

As a buddhist country, Taiwan has some amazing vegetarian food. The fake meat (they even have fake sashimi) is unbelievable.

Vonny’s is a homey restaurant in an old house with excellent vegetarian dishes, great service, and an English menu.

Meals here range from around $2.20 USD for noodles or rice, up to around $8 USD for the fake steak.

Shangri-La Hotels are known to be one of the most extravagant hotel chains in the country.

Most upscale hotels and shopping centres in Taiwan will also have a very upscale buffet restaurant serving exotic foreign cuisines, sushi, steak, seafood, and the like.

They are normally all you can eat and all you can drink (including beer and wine). If you are looking for an exceptional meal, visit Tainan’s Shangri-La for the best buffet in town.

The night markets are, of course, always entertaining. Among the most popular ones is the Tainan Garden Night Market, boasting around 400 vendors and serving as Taiwan’s largest night market.

Opened in 1999, it attracts locals and tourists alike, providing a wide variety of delectable street food and unique shopping opportunities.

Another notable night market is the Wusheng Night Market, Tainan’s oldest operating market since 1984, with approximately 250 market stands and food stalls. Here you can indulge in local delicacies, explore the bustling atmosphere, and immerse themselves in the lively energy of these night markets.

The Tainan Jade Market is also definitely worth a visit. It’s open Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday.

Anping is the oldest neighbourhood in Tainan, which makes it the oldest in Taiwan. It is said that Anping is where Chiang Kai Shek first landed when fleeing China.

Here you will find some of the biggest and oldest temples in Taiwan, the Anping Old Fort, also known as Fort Zeelandia, (which was built by the Dutch as defence against invaders) and beautiful historical character alley lined with specialty food shops and artisans.

Walk down Yanping Street, otherwise known as Anping Old Street, which is the oldest street in the city and is known for its market stalls.

Another landmark in Anping worth checking out is the Anping Tree House, which is a former warehouse that has been reclaimed by nature. It gets its name from the roots of banyan trees that cover the building.

Locals and expats alike can often be found relaxing with friends and people-watching on tea shop patios on Hai An R., Tainan’s ‘hip district’, which is also a fantastic area for shopping.

Hai An Rd. is the location of a city-funded art project, and many buildings are adorned with murals.

The area around Hai An Rd. is also the old center of town and former red light district, so it has a character and charm all its own.

Like I mentioned above, Hai An Rd. has fantastic clothing and jewelry on the road and, especially in the back alleys nearby.

Another great shopping street is BeiMen Rd., the main road in the middle of town that runs past the front of the train station.

It’s also a fantastic place for shopping. If you are looking for cheap computer parts, there are two large computer malls here with everything that you could imagine.

It has very good clothes shops (although not as awesome as Hai An Rd.).

Hayashi Department Store is another popular place to shop in Tainan.

Just north of the train station on Bei Men Rd., you will find the Tainan Park, the largest in the city, complete with a lake and a pagoda suspended above it.

Tainan Park is a picturesque oasis that offers a serene escape from the urban buzz.

Steeped in history, the park dates back to the Qing Dynasty and was once a private garden of a prominent official.

Today, visitors can stroll along winding paths, admire vibrant flowers, and relax by the water’s edge.

Every year, shortly after Chinese New Year, there is an unbelievably dangerous fireworks festival called the Yenshuei Fireworks Festival.

It takes place in the nearby township of Yenshuei. During this festival thousands of fireworks are shot directly into the crowds.

Every Chinese New Year Tainan also hosts a fantastic Lantern Festival. Almost any time of year you are likely to see some sort of parade for a god’s birthday (Daoism has a LOT of gods).

10. Visit Tainan County’s Monkey Mountain

I’m a big fan of Tainan County’s Monkey Mountain, which is a 750 meter high mountain known for its macaque population. It’s about a 40 minute drive east of town near the town of NanHua in Tainan County.

There are fantastic hiking trails and you’re almost guaranteed to see hundreds of macaques, in addition to an enormous Buddha statue and a beautiful temple.

It’s also free to enter, which makes it my top free thing to do in Tainan.

If you want to get out of the city for a while, head to Guanzling, which is home to fantastic hot springs, mud baths, and hiking trails, as well as a pool of burning water (it burns as natural gas bubbles up from fissures in the earth beneath).

Nestled in the serene countryside, Guanziling is a place to recharge your batteries. Soak in the hot springs, which boast medicinal qualities that are believed to alleviate various ailments and promote relaxation.

Nestled in the heart of Tainan, Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park is a multi-purpose park, formerly known as “the First Judicial New Village,” that was once the dormitory for Tainan Prison employees.

Today, it has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, featuring art studios, shops, and cultural events.

You can explore quirky bookstores, indulge in delectable snacks, and discover local artwork and pieces of handmade craftmanship.

Just outside Tainan on the southcoast is the captivating Taijiang National Park, which was established in 2009 and is famous for its picturesque coastal landscape and marine wonders.

From pristine beaches to lush wetlands, the park is a patchwork of diverse ecosystems, and is one of the best places to see the Black-Faced Spoonbill.

Walk along the scenic trails, grab your binoculars and look out for migratory birds, or just catch the sunset over the ocean, Taijiang National Park is the perfect nature retreat from the bustling city.

Another historic landmark in Tainan is the Chihkan Tower, which was originally built by the Dutch in 1653 as Fort Provintia.

Today, it’s a museum that allows visitors to learn about Tainan’s past, marvel at its architecture, and wander through the tranquil gardens.

The Chimei Museum is a private museum that contains an impressive collection of Western art, musical instruments, weaponry, and natural history.

Established in 1992 by Shi Wen-long of Chi Mei Corporation, this museum is famous for its renowned collection of paintings and classical music instruments from around the world.

The Chimei Museum is also a piece of architectural beauty and is worth visiting for its design alone.

If you’re looking for more unique things to do in Tainan, be sure to discover the enchanting Qigu Salt Mountain.

Although named a mountain, this is more of a hill that reaches approximately 6 stories high, made entirely out of salt. It was once Qigu Salt Field’s salt pile, but when they closed their doors in 2002, the salt mountain was abandoned and the salt naturally clumped together, making it easy to climb.

Once at the top, you’ll witness panoramic views of the surrounding landscape of the Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Getting To and Around Tainan

There are lots of budget airlines in Asia that fly to Taiwan. Some of the most common are Tiger Airways, when travelling to or from Singapore, or Cebu Pacific when travelling to or from the Philippines.

You’ll find plenty of Air Asia flights when travelling to or from Malaysia, as well as Cathay Dragon, the budget version of Cathay Pacific, if passing through Hong Kong.

It’s really not worth the money or trouble to fly inside of Taiwan. You can easily get to the Taiwan high speed rail from Taipei, which is much more convenient.

Note that Tainan HSR Station is located outside the city center, and you will need to catch another train from Shalun Railway Station (5 minutes walk away and connected by a walkway, so you won’t get lost) to Tainan Train Station.

Although Taiwan has a good local train system, I much prefer to travel between cities by bus. The cost is similar, but the busses are incredibly luxurious.

I strongly recommend travelling by HoHsin (the red bus). Each seat is the size of a Lazy Boy, has massage settings, and its own screen for watching moves and playing video games.

The price is comparable to a train ticket, and they have service between major cities at least once an hour 24 hours a day.

When it comes to getting around Tainan, the bus system is very difficult to navigate and seldom used.

Taxis, however, are quite affordable. You can get to most places in the city for $3-6 USD.

Renting a scooter is also a good option, as they are better than cars for navigating the crowded streets. There are several scooter rental shops behind Tainan Station, and scooters can be rented for $25-30 USD/day.

Best Time of Year to Visit Tainan

The best time of year to visit Tainan is November and December, which are the months when the weather is by far the most pleasant.

It’s like North American summer. Not too hot, nice and dry, sunny most days.

Where to Stay in Tainan

When visiting Tainan, there are several areas that offer good accommodation and are close to the major tourist attractions and landmarks.

The West Central District is a popular choice, known for its bustling atmosphere and numerous attractions.

If it’s your first time, I recommend staying in the Anping District, with its historical sites and charming Old Street, it offers a more authentic experience.

For those seeking a tranquil stay, the Fort Provintia area provides a peaceful ambiance.

The Tainan Park neighborhood is also a great area, which offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

A good all-round accommodation is the Kindness Day Hotel which is centrally located in the city center, has spacious and homey rooms, and a good price tag to match.

Another popular choice for those who want a little luxury is Silks Place Tainan , which is a 5* hotel within walking distance of Tainan city’s historic attractions.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Tainan

I love Tainan because the locals are so incredibly warm and friendly. It’s a city that’s so vibrant, so charismatic and so unique, that I want every traveler to discover it.

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Tainan and gave you some inspiration for what to do there. You may also like these posts: 19 Awesome Things To Do In Taipei, Taiwan and 20 Best Things to Do In Taiwan With Kids

Bio: Matt Gibson is a travel writer, photographer, blogger, who is passionate about eco-friendly adventure travel. Matt lived in Taiwan for six years, founded an island-wide magazine called Xpat Matt , and speaks Mandarin Chinese like a four-year-old with a lisp.  Matt’s Adventure Travel Blog ,  Twitter  

Should the United States change its policies toward Taiwan?

Subscribe to the china bulletin, michael e. o’hanlon , michael e. o’hanlon director of research - foreign policy , director - strobe talbott center for security, strategy, and technology , co-director - africa security initiative , senior fellow - foreign policy , strobe talbott center for security, strategy, and technology , philip h. knight chair in defense and strategy @michaeleohanlon ivan kanapathy , ivan kanapathy nonresident senior associate, freeman chair in china studies - center for strategic and international studies rorry daniels , and rorry daniels managing director - asia society policy institute, senior fellow, center for china analysis - asia society policy institute @rorrydaniels thomas hanson thomas hanson chair - minnesota committee on foreign relations, co-chair - minnesota international business council conveners: ryan hass , ryan hass director - john l. thornton china center , senior fellow - foreign policy , center for asia policy studies , john l. thornton china center , chen-fu and cecilia yen koo chair in taiwan studies @ryanl_hass patricia m. kim , and patricia m. kim fellow - foreign policy , center for asia policy studies , john l. thornton china center @patricia_m_kim emilie kimball emilie kimball senior project manager - foreign policy.

April 16, 2024

• 33 min read

In this written debate, the authors address the title question with essay-length opening statements. The statements are followed by an interactive series of exchanges between authors on each other’s arguments. The goal of this product is not to reach any conclusion on the question, but to offer a rigorous examination of the choices and trade-offs that confront the United States in its competition with China.

As China ramps up its military capabilities and tensions escalate in the Taiwan Strait, there are growing concerns about the risk of conflict that could involve the United States. Given the stakes, it is critical for American leaders and the American public to have a clear understanding of their top interests and objectives in the Taiwan Strait. Is America’s current approach working to protect its top interests? Should the United States change its long-standing policy of “strategic ambiguity” and its “One China” policy? Is conflict avoidable or inescapable? What policy tools will be most effective at upholding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait?

To dive into these issues and to provide a menu of options for U.S. policymakers grappling with this topic, Ryan Hass, Patricia M. Kim, and Emilie Kimball, co-leads of the Brookings Foreign Policy project: “ Global China: Assessing China’s Growing Role in the World ,” convened a group of leading experts—Rorry Daniels, Thomas Hanson, Ivan Kanapathy, and Michael E. O’Hanlon—to engage in a written debate examining if the United States should change its policies toward Taiwan. These experts also  will participate in a live discussion on this topic moderated by John Rash on April 25. Their opening statements and reactions follow below:

Michael E. O'Hanlon

Should the United States end its long-standing policy of “strategic ambiguity” about whether it would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack? Known more politely as a policy of “dual deterrence,” the idea of maintaining uncertainty about any American role in a future war has been intended to persuade  both  Taiwan  and  China not to take actions that the United States would find unacceptable. For Taiwan, that would mean unilateral pursuit or a declaration of independence (or perhaps the development of a nuclear bomb); for China, that would mean a military attack on Taiwan designed to force reunification with the mainland.

Such deliberate muddying of the deterrence waters has generally been thought to be a bad idea in modern American foreign policy—with an unredeemed legacy from Korea to Kuwait and beyond. For Taiwan, however, such a policy has enjoyed support for four decades.

A number of American scholars and officials now want to end the ambiguity, which they say is bad for deterrence. Given China’s greatly increased power in modern times, the traditional logic of a policy that sought in Goldilocks-style to perfectly balance between hot and cold options is no longer compelling, these critics say. The danger of an emboldened China lashing out has become substantially greater than the risks of Taiwan leaders throwing caution to the wind and pursuing independence recklessly in the false belief that America will always grant them a get-out-of-jail-free card.

At one level, these critics make a valid case. Beijing cannot be allowed to develop the misimpression that the United States might truly do nothing if the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) attacked Taiwan.

However, it is not that simple. Asserting that the United States should defend Taiwan under any circumstances presupposes that we could do so successfully. It also risks causing a huge crisis just by the simple declaration of Washington’s new stance on the situation.

As authors like Christian Brose have argued, in his recent book, “The Kill Chain,” it is far from clear who would win a fight over Taiwan—and far from clear how escalation would be avoided once the shooting starts. As Ryan Hass points out , this uncertainty is a powerful argument against China undertaking aggression; Beijing cannot be sure it would win, and it can be quite sure there would be serious costs associated with even making the effort. In particular, amphibious assault in the modern era remains a daunting military task. But that said, the United States should not assume that it will be able to regain unambiguous military dominance in regions near China’s own shores just because it develops a National Defense Strategy with that goal.

Indeed, China would likely begin any aggression against Taiwan at much lower levels of warfare, including deniable operations and other “gray-zone” tactics. Because limited attacks, such as a blockade, or gray-zone operations, such as deniable cyberattacks against Taiwan’s infrastructure, are the most likely kinds of aggressions that China would undertake against Taiwan, the United States and allies need better and more proportionate tools to address such eventualities.

I propose that the United States make it unambiguously clear to Beijing that, were it ever to attack Taiwan in a concerted attempt to coerce capitulation and reunification, the U.S.-China relationship could never be the same. War might happen, but we should remain ambiguous and non-committal on that point, partly to deter Taiwan from rash action (according to the original logic of dual deterrence, some of which still applies today). However, Beijing should have no illusions that the rich, broad, mutually beneficial relationship that it built with the United States over several decades could survive such a scenario. For all the setbacks to that relationship during the last decade, and especially since the Donald Trump years, U.S.-China trade remains near record levels in value. China’s trade with key American allies remains robust as well. That is a far cry from what would happen if the two nations wound up in direct combat. If and when such war occurs, the new U.S. policy of “ de-risking ” should indeed become, and would become, one of decoupling. Washington should say so and also announce that it would seek to persuade its allies and close partners to adopt a similar approach.

Raw military power still has a role to play in undergirding deterrence. But whatever the utility of such a capability against a massive invasion attempt, it is less germane against the much more likely scenario of limited aggression, to include a blockade of some type. In situations where China had not necessarily caused large numbers of casualties itself, the practicality or wisdom of a U.S. response that could quickly kill tens of thousands is not obvious. The essence of a better and more credible strategy should therefore be integrated, and asymmetric, deterrence. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has been rightly emphasizing the integrated element, just as I did in my 2019 book, “ The Senkaku Paradox: Risking Great-Power War over Small Stakes .”

For this strategy to deter successfully, advance preparations are required. That is especially true in the realms of economic resilience, perhaps even more so than in more technical matters of defense planning. As rough rules of thumb, American friends and allies should not allow themselves to develop dependencies of more than a given percent—perhaps typically 25 to 50 percent, depending on the area of trade and the possibility of finding alternative sourcing fast in a crisis—in everything from life-saving pharmaceutical medications to rare earth metals to key intermediate goods in supply chains for crucial technology such as transformers. Right now, of course, the Western world’s combined dependencies often are more than 25 to 50 percent, so we need to diversify and harden our economies. In other words, we must imagine ourselves in an economic war with China and be sure that our economies and peoples could survive that war (even if they face inevitable hardship in the process). If the threat of economic pain and punishment is to be a cornerstone of our deterrent against limited attacks in particular, the ability of the United States and allies to persevere in the face of inevitable Chinese retaliation in kind must be ensured.

Ivan Kanapathy

The U.S. “One China” policy framework has remained consistent for four decades while retaining flexibility in emphasis and execution to preserve the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Since the turn of the millennium, however, the scales have tipped dangerously out of balance. To maintain peace, Washington must invest more in hard deterrence. It should also reconsider its messaging posture on “non-support” for Taiwanese independence and how it refers to the collection of relevant U.S. policies.

The first Bush and Clinton administrations began the practices of sending U.S. cabinet members to Taiwan and allowing Taiwanese presidential transit stops in the United States, respectively. But in his second term, President Bill Clinton succumbed to People’s Republic of China (PRC) pressure and publicly articulated U.S. non-support for Taiwanese independence. The George W. Bush administration repeated this line as it worked to constrain the more provocative instincts of a fledgling democracy in Taipei.

Courting PRC cooperation on trade and counterterrorism, the second Bush administration also withheld cabinet-level visits and weapons from Taiwan even as the PLA rapidly modernized. President Barack Obama, pursuing multilateral climate and nonproliferation accords with Beijing, largely continued these policies of keeping Taiwan at arm’s length—despite a deteriorating military balance and a government in Taipei that willingly expanded political and economic ties with China.

Acknowledging the worrying cross-Strait power differential, the Trump administration removed self-imposed barriers to U.S.-Taiwan coordination and accelerated arms transfer approvals. To hammer home the point, the National Security Council declassified President Ronald Reagan’s 1982 internal memo ordering that “Taiwan’s defense capability relative to that of the PRC will be maintained,” and the related six private assurances made to Taipei at that time. President Donald Trump changed the formal articulation of the U.S. “One China” policy framework by adding the six assurances and leading with the Taiwan Relations Act, which obliges the provision of weapons to Taiwan.

To help balance the rising threat, President Joe Biden not only adopted the new formulation but also stated his intent to defend Taiwan against PRC attack, overturning decades of intentional ambiguity on U.S. intervention. Building on a July 2020 U.S.-Australia joint ministerial statement declaring “that any resolution of cross-Strait differences should be peaceful and according to the will of the people on both sides,” the Biden administration broadened and elevated allied statements calling for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait—enhancing deterrence by internationalizing concern over the Taiwan issue.

The above recitation shows that Washington has historically adjusted the emphases and implementations of its cross-Strait policies. But until recently, preserving a stable military balance across the Taiwan Strait was subordinated to other national priorities and challenges—leading to a dangerous erosion of deterrence. Meanwhile, the United States now finds itself dealing simultaneously with competing hot wars in Europe and the Middle East, unprecedented drawdowns of U.S. arms and ammunition, and a withered defense industrial base. The time to act is now.

• Most importantly, the United States must adequately resource its national security strategy—closing the “say-do gap” by significantly raising defense spending. The country will have to make tough choices and sacrifices in the name of peace and prosperity. The president should use his bully pulpit and make the case to Congress and the American people that China is a threat to global stability and that Taiwan is a vital U.S. interest—invoking the great power contests of the last century.

China. Attempts to reassure China regarding U.S. intentions are misguided and fruitless. From Beijing’s view, U.S. weapons and training cannot but support Taiwan’s continued separation. Furthermore, Washington openly opposes the governance methods deployed in Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong—presumptive models for a “unified” Taiwan. In the minds of PRC leaders, the United States remains the duplicitous “black hand” stirring anti-China dissent and the “strong enemy” the PLA must prepare to defeat. By its nature, the PRC government cannot meaningfully separate U.S. support for Taiwan’s democracy from perceived U.S. support for Taiwanese independence.

Taiwan. The effects in Taiwan are likely counterproductive. Stating non-support for independence signals to Taiwanese that Washington has made a deal with Beijing that presupposes a resolution for cross-Strait differences. The statement inadvertently supports PRC-promoted “U.S. skepticism” narratives in Taiwan that question American intent and reliability. These in turn weaken U.S. efforts to bolster deterrence on the island. A senior U.S. representative’s January public remarks delivered in Taiwan to this effect were thus likely detrimental to U.S. security objectives.

• The United States should begin referring to its “One China” policy as its “cross-Strait” policy instead. PRC information operations intentionally conflate the PRC’s “One China principle” with the subtler cross-Strait policies of other countries, claiming that “more than 180 countries and international organizations have reaffirmed their commitment to the one-China principle.” This proposed U.S. nomenclature change would make it easier to push back on the PRC’s misattributions and help unwind its narratives that isolate Taiwan from the international community, again potentially enhancing deterrence.

Rorry Daniels

The United States has never had a static Taiwan policy but always ebbed and flowed with shifting dynamics between Washington, Beijing, and Taipei. After switching recognition from Taipei to Beijing in the late 1970s, U.S. policy toward Taiwan has been shaped by U.S.-China communiques, congressional acts, and executive branch statements and codified by “transit” visits of key Taiwan leaders to the United States, a growing list of arms sales, and even sending the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet toward the Taiwan Strait during the 1990’s missile crisis. Taiwan policy is best seen as an ongoing process underpinned by the United States’ de facto neutrality—namely, the United States takes no position on the sovereignty of Taiwan but wants to see the issue resolved without the use of force or coercion.

This political ambiguity has allowed a stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait—one of no unification, no independence, and no use of force—and enabled Taiwan to exercise considerable autonomy from Beijing despite Taipei having very few formal diplomatic allies. It has been one of the most successfully durable and flexible U.S. foreign policies in the modern era and it is still the best hope to forestall global catastrophe arising from a conflict over Taiwan.

U.S. de facto neutrality on the settlement of Taiwan’s sovereignty has accomplished two things: first, it leaves open the door for the sovereignty issue to be resolved in either side’s favor, therefore allowing all capitals to kick the can down the road until circumstances most favor their preferred resolution; second and relatedly, it keeps Taiwan’s status in the realm of a political, rather than a military, dispute.

It remains in the U.S. interest to support Taiwan’s thriving democratic system and its political autonomy from Beijing—as well as to forestall or reduce the risk of conflict in and around Taiwan. This is a difficult balance to achieve. Too much unilateral support for Taiwan increases the risk of conflict, and too little erodes Taiwan’s ability to exercise autonomy.

This balance is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain as the Chinese Communist Party modernizes its military and continuously emphasizes the imperative to resolve the Taiwan issue by mid-century. The question for the United States becomes, how can it remain neutral on the overall question of Taiwan’s sovereignty while still pushing back against the PRC’s use of coercion and implied threat of force against Taiwan?

The more Washington leans into a preference for Taiwan independence, the more the threat of force against Taiwan increases. As the United States erodes its neutrality with policy changes, it hardens views in Beijing that there is no hope for a political settlement and that the PRC must rely on military means to achieve its Taiwan goals.

Such policy changes in recent years have been numerous. A non-exhaustive list includes:

• Language shifts in regular policy statements that replace support for an outcome acceptable to both sides of the Strait with an outcome acceptable to (only) the people of Taiwan.
• The declassification in 2020 of the Six Assurances the United States privately provided to Taiwan in the 1980s, which declared no U.S. commitment to stop arms sales at a specific date after agreeing in the third U.S.-China communique to reduce such sales.
• Sloppy references to Taiwan as a “country” in national security policy documents and State Department fact sheets .
• Deletion and reinsertion of language on the State Department website on not supporting Taiwan’s independence.
• The liberalization of the State Department’s Taiwan guidelines governing how officials engage in the unofficial relationship, including allowing officials from both sides to meet at government buildings.
• Very high-level political visits to Taipei, such as that of former U.S. Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi , who was third in the presidential line of succession at the time of the trip.

Supporters of the above policy moves tend to put military competition above all other considerations and see the political support as a necessary deterrence strategy. However, recasting Taiwan as a military problem with political dimensions, rather than a political problem with military dimensions, is a major mistake. It undermines all sides’ ability to handle the sovereignty issue, creating a path dependence toward conflict, by devaluing the effects of political maneuvering and changes.

A security dilemma has developed in the Taiwan Strait in which all sides see their own actions as defensive or deterrent in nature and see the other side’s actions as aggressive enough to warrant a response. Beijing builds up its military capabilities in ways it sees as preparatory defense against a Taiwan declaration of independence, Washington interprets the capabilities as intent to attack Taiwan and strengthens its support for Taipei in ways it sees as necessary defense (including the policy changes referenced above), Beijing reacts to those actions with its own “defensive measures,” and the cycle continues.

This cycle moves ever closer to the fundamental red lines on all sides: the PRC’s red line on independence and permanent separation, Taiwan’s red line on coerced or forced unification, and the U.S. red line on the outbreak of conflict. And the closer the three sides get to crossing each other’s red lines, the more likely that a single action sparks an uncontrollable escalation of conflict—one that is not in the national interests or the public appetite of Taiwan, the United States, and presumably even China.

Pushback is necessary but using U.S. force as a blunt instrument to confront the PRC’s military threat or use of coercion does little to support U.S. and Taiwan interests in peace and stability across the Strait. The optimal approach is not to attempt to meet these threats on Taiwan’s behalf through U.S. guarantees of military support or political showmanship but to help Taiwan prosper under threat by materially supporting Taiwan’s economic and social linkages around the world. In other words, the best defense is to diffuse the power of the threat by complicating the stakes of the conflict.

Successfully supporting Taiwan’s prosperity under threat includes using Taiwan’s economic autonomy to strengthen its resilience and to network its industries with partnerships around the world. Taiwan faces unique challenges as an island economy, particularly as one that has eschewed nuclear power in the wake of the Fukushima disaster. Helping Taiwan through international partnerships with its land, water, and power resilience will further embed other economies in the risk of cross-Strait conflict, raise international awareness about the PRC threat to Taiwan, buy the United States time to explore policy options in the event of a blockade, and prove that democracies can work together to manage shared challenges.

The more uncertain the conflict environment, the less confident Beijing will feel in launching a successful attack. The Taiwan issue’s importance for Beijing’s domestic political legitimacy is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it pushes Beijing toward policy responses, including threats of force or the use of coercion, to bolster and self-justify its position on Taiwan’s sovereignty. But on the other hand, no Chinese leader can risk a failed attempt to settle the sovereignty issue once and for all. Even a more risk-tolerant Xi Jinping is unlikely to shoot for the moon by launching an attack on Taiwan that is not guaranteed to succeed.

In short, the more international attention and support for stability across the Taiwan Strait, due to deepening linkages between today’s Taiwan and the international community, the higher the cost to China for breaking the peace.

This approach may not be satisfying to those who see the Taiwan issue as a mere facet of the U.S.-China great game, or whose exclusive interest is American military advantage. But it does support U.S. interests in regional peace and prosperity, as well as what polls show the majority of Taiwan people want—a durable status quo, officials who can solve economic problems at home, and the continuation of Taiwan’s autonomy and dignity as a self-organized and self-governing body politic.

Thomas Hanson

U.S.-China relations are plagued by mutual distrust and a drift toward potential conflict. In addition to intense competition over new technologies with military implications, the primary driver of tensions involves Taiwan. The security dilemma prevails, with each side reading aggressive intent into the other’s policies and actions. This vicious circle should be met with active diplomacy and a return to predictable adherence to a U.S. policy of “strategic ambiguity” regarding Taiwan. At the same time, it will be important to maintain deterrence in the Taiwan Strait within this context.

Strains between the United States and China grew with the 2008 financial crisis, leading to the Obama administration’s “pivot” (rebalancing) to reassert U.S. influence in Asia with an initial focus on China’s role in the South China Sea. Ironically, as the United States turned to Asia, China began its own pivot toward Eurasia with an ambitious geoeconomic strategy epitomized in the Belt and Road Initiative. So far, the Chinese challenge globally is more economic and diplomatic than military. It is on the Asian littoral around Taiwan that military confrontation looms with the United States.

When nuclear powers perceive, rightly or wrongly, encroachment and potential aggression on their immediate periphery—whether Ukraine, Cuba, or Taiwan—they predictably react. Chinese concern that the United States seeks to use Taiwan as part of a containment strategy is one driver of worsening tensions. On the U.S. side, there is rare bipartisan agreement in Congress on countering unfair Chinese trade practices, human rights violations, and rapid advances in tech , while also stepping up support for Taiwan as a vibrant democracy and vital link in key supply chains.

An underlying motivation for this more assertive posture is also the long-standing U.S. resolve to prevent the emergence of a regional hegemon, or peer competitor, in Eurasia. Realizing this ambition is more complex in a multipolar world of strengthened regional powers, and it increasingly requires buy-in from allies. Such strategic concerns have come to frame U.S. policy on Taiwan more overtly. For example, in a December 2021 Senate testimony , Pentagon official Ely Ratner described Taiwan as “a critical node within the first island chain, anchoring a network of U.S. allies and partners … that is critical to the region’s security and critical to the defense of vital U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific.”

The evocation of vital security interests implies that for strategic reasons the United States opposes the reunification of Taiwan with China, even as it cautions the Taiwanese against declaring outright independence. Prior adherence to “strategic ambiguity” has given way to mixed messaging on the “One China” policy that has provided the basis of U.S.-China reconciliation since 1972.

Given these developments, there is now a need for change in the current trajectory of U.S. policy on Taiwan. To reverse the rising danger of military confrontation between the United States and China, the United States should once again embrace “strategic ambiguity” while engaging in active diplomacy and military confidence-building measures with Beijing. Such steps will be essential to meet the security dilemma that plagues the U.S.-China relationship.

The military balance around Taiwan should be addressed within this context. The escalation of China’s military buildup, including toward Taiwan, has coincided with the unfolding of the U.S. “pivot” to Asia since 2010. For both sides, military distrust has come to dominate bilateral relations in the region. Xi has urged the Chinese military to be prepared to seize Taiwan, if necessary, as early as 2027, although decisions will depend on future developments. U.S. defense planners must also prepare for more likely scenarios involving Chinese quarantines, blockades, or seizure of islands off Taiwan. In addition, China has embarked upon a diversification of its nuclear arsenal , moving away from a “minimum deterrence” posture toward a credible nuclear second-strike capacity based on launch on warning and new strike options such as the fractional orbital bombardment system.

This dangerous escalation should occasion not just spiraling countermeasures but a return to active diplomacy on arms control. In tandem with diplomatic initiatives and confidence-building measures, the United States should take adequate steps to address shifting military balances that are the premise of this discussion, including through a far greater emphasis on naval preparedness within the U.S. defense budget.

The need for cooperation between the United States and China is growing in the face of shared global threats such as climate change, pandemics, and arguably artificial intelligence that are beyond the capacity of any individual country or fragmentary alliance to address. Younger generations are likely to prioritize these global challenges over Cold War paradigms from an outdated threat environment.

Accumulating crises elsewhere are already having some effect. Chinese cooperation could be welcome on Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as on unaddressed nuclear provocations from North Korea. Accordingly, there has been a slight easing of U.S.-China tensions in the wake of the November 2023 meeting between Presidents Biden and Xi and a phone call between both leaders in April. Mixed results from the January 2024 Taiwan elections may also have a mitigating effect. However, cooperative “gestures” that have resulted from this mild thaw, including the resumption of military-to-military contacts, rest on shaky foundations and should be reinforced through active diplomacy, especially in the management of issues concerning Taiwan.

The U.S. commitment to Taiwan’s security and prosperity remains essential to any prospect of a peaceful resolution, however long it may take, of Taiwan’s future status. A combination of returning to “strategic ambiguity,” proactive confidence-building measures, and credible naval preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region could reduce the likelihood of sleepwalking into a disastrous conflict. Such a balanced approach could also benefit a Taiwanese population for whom the sufferings of Ukraine may now loom as a cautionary tale. And a renewed emphasis on diplomacy might even lessen our geopolitically questionable urge to push Beijing and Moscow together, the very dynamic that motivated our turn toward China in the first place, a half-century ago.

The other scholars involved in this dialogue bring great expertise and sophistication to the subject; many are regional and country specialists in ways I am not. Therefore, I will use this podium for wrap-up commentary simply to reiterate, strongly and clearly, one key argument about military matters, which I have studied in great depth: A U.S.-China war must never be fought. The uncertainties about which side would win are not resolvable. That will remain true regardless of any plausible military modernization efforts by either side. The potential for escalation in any war is enormous. The possibility of nuclear war cannot be dismissed. All other considerations must be rendered secondary in comparison with these fundamental military and strategic realities. Those who would push either independence or reunification on any fast track are therefore reckless.

As expected, my co-panelists’ well-crafted and thoughtful pieces provide much to consider. I offer these initial reactions as a starting point for our forthcoming in-person discussion:

• O’Hanlon rightly pointed out that “China would likely begin any aggression against Taiwan at much lower levels of warfare, to include deniable operations and other gray-zone tactics.” In fact, we’re already past that point. Analogously, while his proposal for a credible threat of bilateral economic decoupling is sound, I believe that Beijing already assumes this in its planning, just as it predicts U.S. military intervention. Xi is aggressively pursuing technological indigenization and economic self-sufficiency while simultaneously indoctrinating his people to glorify sacrifice and struggle. In other words, China is actively preparing to accept a heavy economic cost (punishment) for aggression. To prevent the worst, Washington should focus on influencing Xi’s perception of military risk (deterrence by denial).
• Hanson’s analysis of congressional sentiment is spot on. On the executive side, he pointed to Ratner’s 2021 testimony. Another senior defense official later said Taiwan “could be used as a platform for the PRC to further project military power deeper into the Pacific.” Coupling these with the administration’s analysis that the PRC is “the only competitor with the intent, will, and capability to reshape the international order” makes Taiwan a vital U.S. interest, even before considering semiconductors (which only make the case stronger). The question, then, is whether Washington should: articulate these fact-based assessments to spur the investments and reforms necessary to compete and deter effectively or return to a posture of “non-provocative” constructive engagement. Accepting further erosion of cross-Strait deterrence in exchange for vague and unkept promises seems the wrong choice at this time.
• Daniels argues for deeper internationalization of the Taiwan issue—I agree. However, we should not underestimate the provocative nature of these proposals. Supporting Taiwan’s “political autonomy from Beijing” and “economic and social linkages around the world,” and raising “international awareness about the PRC threat to Taiwan” are tantamount to supporting Taiwanese separatists in the eyes of Beijing. As such, these prescriptions are hardly a path to lowering U.S.-China tensions. I also agree with Daniels’ assessment that Xi “is unlikely to shoot for the moon by launching an attack on Taiwan that is not guaranteed to succeed,” which is why U.S. policy should focus primarily on the issue recently raised by the top U.S. operational commander: increasing hard deterrence.

All of the authors agree that the current situation in the Taiwan Strait is dangerous and that a war would be catastrophic. All of us agree that a changing balance of power across the Taiwan Strait requires at least a review—if not a rethink—of what has made U.S. Taiwan policy successful and whether it remains fit for purpose. However, we differ on the drivers of risk and prescriptions for maintaining peace and stability.

Each of my fellow authors makes their own case for the best deterrence strategy, from Kanapathy’s recommendations to bolster military support and O’Hanlon’s deterrence threat of economic decoupling to Hanson’s plan to address U.S.-China strategic mistrust. I concentrate in my piece on a wider net of deterrence, complicating the decision-making landscape by making better use of Taiwan’s asymmetric advantage—the freedom to pursue economic and social ties with the world.

None of these strategies are actually mutually exclusive. In theory at least, it would be perfectly fine to simultaneously bolster U.S. capabilities to assist Taiwan’s defense, warn Beijing that the use of force against Taiwan would lead to a sharp decoupling, maintain and deepen diplomatic relationships to reassure that U.S. strategic intent is to avoid war, and to seek opportunities to lend support for Taiwan’s international economic and social ties.

But in reality, no strategic plan can be complete without considering and factoring in Beijing’s reactions. This is where cracks in each plan start to emerge.

O’Hanlon’s and Hanson’s plans are incomplete on their own but could be linked together to inform both sides of the deterrence coin: a threat, albeit non-military, to act if Beijing crosses the U.S. red line, and a reassurance delivered by stronger diplomatic contact. Together, they create the carrots and sticks dynamic of a successful deterrence strategy. Of course, China is already preparing for economic struggle against the United States and such a threat would lend credibility to the hawkish voices in Beijing that China needs to be even more self-sufficient—which would deepen strategic mistrust and the security dilemma. Still, muddling through U.S.-China tension may ultimately be the best and only available course.

Of all of the authors, I find Kanapathy’s plan to be the most ambitious but also the riskiest for maintaining cross-Strait peace and stability. Kanapathy’s strategy is to ratchet up political support for Taiwan in order to energize the American public and defense industry to the cause of defending Taiwan against China. This would undermine any reassurances to Beijing that the United States does not seek war (a common-sense policy that Kanapathy dismisses outright), go against public opinion that is wary of war with China, cause Beijing to rethink the value of any other cooperation with the United States on areas where there remain common interests, and potentially stretch U.S. resources to a breaking point with no guarantee that we are preparing well for war scenario we have not yet seen in the modern era.

All of the authors care deeply about Taiwan and its future. That we can bolster and build our own ideas on the U.S. role in maintaining Taiwan’s autonomy from Beijing through civil debate is an enduring strength of free and democratic societies.

All four contributors see the danger of military conflict over Taiwan, but they differ on which tools of statecraft—diplomatic, economic, or military—should take priority to deter Chinese aggression, reinforce Taiwan’s security and prosperity, and work toward the peaceful resolution of a standoff dating back to 1949. For my part, active diplomacy and military confidence-building measures should become a priority, along with necessary investment to assure a military balance in the Indo-Pacific region, accompanied by political and economic support for a vibrant Taiwan economy.

Daniels and I lament the “security dilemma” of mutual distrust that exacerbates tensions over Taiwan. Kanapathy agrees but feels that attempts to reassure China of our intentions would be “misguided and fruitless.” Daniels would stick to a policy of strategic ambiguity to make sure Taiwan remains a “political problem with military dimensions” rather than vice versa. I emphasize diplomacy and trust building, despite military tensions, in a larger context of global threats that urgently require U.S.-China cooperation.

Daniels and O’Hanlon favor economic tools but in different ways. Daniels maintains that the best way to bolster Taiwan is through support for its democracy, domestic economy, and strengthened ties to the outside world. This could enhance deterrence by complicating the stakes and increasing the cost of aggression. Such a policy might face headwinds, however, given China’s success in peeling away international support for Taiwan in recent years.

O’Hanlon emphasizes economic measures as a key element of “integrated and asymmetric deterrence” that mixes strategic ambiguity with the clear threat of “economic pain and punishment” should China act against Taiwan. He notes that strategic ambiguity serves as a deterrent not only to China but also to Taiwan, reducing the likelihood that Taipei might overreach out of a sense of moral hazard.

O’Hanlon posits that an economic strategy would be most effective against Chinese actions short of military invasion, such as blockades or gray-zone tactics—the most likely scenario. With strong support from allies and close partners, he says, de-risking would become harsh de-coupling. Yet any deterrent effect might lose credibility due to the example of Ukraine, where partners in the Global South such as India have demurred on economic sanctions against Russia.

Kanapathy recommends “hard deterrence” out of justified concern about the military balance around Taiwan. He advocates a comprehensive approach to include increased U.S. defense budgets and clear messaging that Taiwan is a vital U.S. interest. In that regard, he differs from the other three authors by recommending that we drop references to a “One-China” policy and replace it with “cross-Strait” policy in public messaging.

Kanapathy also cites the need to “internationalize” concerns about threats to Taiwan. In fact, the United States has already encouraged countries like Japan to take a stronger stand. In 2021, the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his brother, then-Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi, publicly described Taiwan as a vital Japanese interest, with Abe declaring that “Japan and the United States could not stand by if China attacked Taiwan.” Such statements aligned Japan with U.S. policy but risked evoking ghosts from the past.

One final point: it is perhaps noteworthy that none of the authors mentioned the “porcupine” strategy that would strengthen Taiwan’s homeland defense to allow the island to hold out long enough for the United States to join the fight against China. This scenario differs from Ukraine, where the United States and NATO helped strengthen Kyiv’s defenses after 2014 but with no initial intention of directly going to war with another nuclear power, Russia. Will China’s nuclear buildup eventually induce similar caution in U.S. calculations on Taiwan?

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China Is Battening Down for the Gathering Storm over Taiwan

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Chinese war drums beat on as pundits hotly debate if or when Beijing will try to seize Taiwan by force. There is no apparent countdown to D-day for initiating a blockade or invasion, but major strategic indicators clearly show that General Secretary Xi Jinping is still preparing his country for a showdown. Developments under way suggest Taiwan will face an existential crisis in single-digit years, most likely in the back half of the 2020s or front half of the 2030s.

Despite the manifesting peril, China’s recent economic setbacks and faux conciliations suggest to some, including President Joseph Biden , that the danger is passing and China will end up too preoccupied with domestic challenges to focus on a fight and risk global ostracism, leading to further economic calamity. Unfortunately, the opposite is true. Xi is militarizing Chinese society and steeling his country for a potential high-intensity war. China’s trajectory signals deepening danger and a hardening of Xi’s intent to execute an act of aggression similar to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The simple fact is that peace in the Indo-Pacific and even the wider world will be held hostage to one man with totalitarian control, messianic ambition, strategic impatience, and implacable resolve. Xi has made unification with Taiwan the signature issue of his tenure. He now calls it the essence of national rejuvenation. For years, his domestic speeches have been grooming officials, the military, and the public for a “great struggle” and “major test” that will require extraordinary sacrifice. At every turn, he dares them to fight and be good at fighting. At a meeting with Biden in late 2023, Xi stated , “Look, peace is … all well and good, but at some point we need to move towards resolution.”

Xi’s most critical choices reflect a march to war. Leadership changes at the 20th Party Congress in late 2022, for example, turned the Politburo into a body more akin to a war cabinet . Fifteen of its 24 members now have Taiwan-related experience. Included in this cadre is the most recent former eastern theater commander — the general responsible for executing a Taiwan fight — who was leapfrogged to the Politburo without being a prior member of the Central Committee.

As disturbing, the war machine of the People’s Liberation Army continues to modernize at a sprint in every area. China’s hyper-militarization represents the greatest build-up of arms since the end of the Cold War. In 2020, Xi accelerated significant military milestones from 2035 to 2027 because he wanted China’s military to modernize faster and give him Taiwan options earlier. The People’s Liberation Army has since built vast underground complexes , a modernized and proliferated space layer , thick aircraft and air defenses , and the world’s largest navy . China also created a Strategic Support Force , which integrates space, electronic warfare, and cyber capabilities. And it boasts the most active and sophisticated ballistic missile force in the world.

China is concurrently building up its nuclear triad at a gallop. China aims to neutralize any possible American nuclear advantage in a crisis in order to devolve a fight to conventional forces where China thinks it might have the edge. The former commander of U.S. Strategic Command, Adm. Charles Richard , repeatedly called China’s nuclear force advances “breathtaking,” “explosive,” and a “strategic breakout.” Their nuclear missile, warhead expansion, launch-on-warning, silo construction, and orbital bombardment developments are all part of Xi’s broader push through the 2020s to get ready for a potential major power confrontation.

On top of this, Xi has been deploying more military forces nearer to Taiwan to reduce Taipei’s warning time, practice in anticipated wartime areas, demonstrate supposed Chinese military superiority, and slowly exhaust and demoralize the Taiwan military. In U.S. parlance, these acts are akin to warm-start efforts at “softening the battlespace” for follow-on action. Employing a boiling frog tactic, China aims to condition Taiwan to an ever-increasing number of forces surrounding the island. Additional patrol patterns east of Taiwan are a form of psychological warfare attempting to highlight China’s power to cut off resupply lifelines. Meanwhile, the Chinese military has also been intensifying the scope and scale of exercises practicing simulated assaults on Taiwan, which last many months on China’s eastern coast each year.

At the strategic level, China dropped “peaceful reunification” as its longstanding official approach to resolving the Taiwan issue. Xi has passed new laws allowing the nationalization of foreign assets in wartime and stronger measures for nationwide civilian mobilization, including more societal drills, to improve support of the People’s Liberation Army in wartime. Efforts to boost food and energy security are well under way, and China is building overland pipelines and coal-fired plants with renewed fervor in anticipation of limiting the impact of expected foreign maritime interdiction of oil and gas during any conflict. China has been building its strategic petroleum reserves for years in above- and below-ground facilities well beyond nominal nation-state peacetime buffers. At the same time, Beijing has deepened its alliances to secure flows from global energy providers, notably Russia, Gulf Cooperation Council states, Iran, Iraq, Angola, Brazil, and others.

Xi’s absolute prioritization of security over the economy is perhaps the most telling of all war preparation indicators. In the last 18 months alone, Xi has undertaken massive efforts to insulate the Chinese economy from potential external vulnerabilities, stressing self-reliance at the expense of growth. This strategic shift is not just related to trade wars, perceived supply chain vulnerabilities, or de-risking dynamics. Xi seems to have studied the sanctions playbook the West used against Russia over Ukraine and subsequently initiated long-lead protective measures to batten down the hatches of China’s economy to resist similar pressure. In contrast to the milquetoast pushback from the other leading powers after China put Hong Kong under its boot, Xi likely knows attempting to assimilate Taiwan would lead to much fiercer global resistance and harsher whole-of-society repercussions that would likely last years. And he intends to ready China to endure them.

In addition to the extraordinary measures Xi has already undertaken to protect Chinese supply chains, cyber security, and critical infrastructure, China may be quietly reducing exposure of its foreign exchange reserves. Steady declines in Chinese holdings of U.S. Treasury bonds since 2018 (from $1.2 trillion to less than $800 billion) roughly parallel year-on-year increases held by Belgium and Luxembourg , suggesting China may be shifting the financial custodianship of its American bonds. If true, this would presumably serve as a layer of protection against Washington directly capturing China’s reserves in wartime. It remains unclear if China’s shift to U.S. agency bonds (held by government-sponsored enterprises instead of the U.S. Treasury) may also be a protective measure. These moves would make sense considering Xi’s order to Chinese banks in May 2022 to reevaluate risk and insulate against possible “severe U.S. sanctions.” Guidance like this might also explain other curiosities such as why China, as the world’s largest producer of gold, has been buying gold on global markets for 16 straight months. Economists who tend to attribute these financial moves solely to diversification, de-dollarization, or increasing the yuan’s value may be missing the forest for the trees. These measures would also help shock-proof China from cyclopedic sanctions stemming from a Taiwan conflict.

All strategic war preparation indicators are brightly lit, but the most telling is Xi’s willingness to breach the Chinese Communist Party’s covenant with the Chinese people established 45 years ago to allow China the freedom to get rich. Xi has deliberately switched the party’s mandate from enabling China’s economic vitality and building up comprehensive national power in a stable ecosystem to the securitization of everything and tightening down in anticipation of “reunifying the motherland” and preparing to recover Taiwan at the expense of that power. Xi’s charm offensive with the White House and attempts to curry favor with U.S. corporate leaders reflect less a re-prioritization of economic imperatives to the top billing than an experiential insight that many profit-myopic Americans can still be played to China’s advantage and induced into business-as-usual complacency during Xi’s crucial combat preparation years. China would classically call this approach wielding “a hidden knife behind a smile” and ultimately “killing with a borrowed sword.”

Xi’s elevation of geopolitics and security over China’s economic well-being might make sense in an era of strategic competition where paranoias about encirclement and containment abound. But the choices he is making today leading to domestic wealth destruction portend his willingness to countenance even greater wealth destruction on a global scale. Although estimates suggest a war over Taiwan would wreck China’s economy, cost 10 percent of global gross domestic p roduct, and devastate worldwide supply networks for years to come, Xi may not care overly much given the inescapable backsliding of his economy even in the absence of any war. In the coming years, he may conclude he has everything to gain and nothing to lose by waiting any longer.

In fact, a strong case could be made that Xi might need a nationalistic “wag the dog” issue to restore the legitimacy of the Chinese Communist Party. A rechanneling of public passions could prove essential as criticisms surge over a self-induced economic downturn created by greater state interference in private industry, dulled investor confidence , demographic graying stemming from the party’s one-child policy, after-effects of harsh pandemic lockdown policies and “long COVID” impacts, youth unemployment , a high debt-to-gross domestic p roduct ratio, poor domestic consumption rates, and de-risking by enlightened foreign companies that see both greater geopolitical and financial risk in China’s future.

Even in a so-called “war of choice,” where Beijing can carefully select when to move against Taiwan free of any domestic pressures, Xi’s age (70) matters. He only has ten reliable years of vitality to conduct a major operation and then lead China through the inevitable multi-year recovery from anticipated international retribution. Based on how Xi appears to be interweaving his legacy with assimilating Taiwan, it seems unlikely he would leave it up to a successor to absorb the forever glory of overseeing a long-sought unification and subsequently re-stabilizing China’s place in the world, a feat that could put Xi on par with Mao Zedong.

Following traditional Chinese decision-making that emphasizes advancing when the propensity of factors flows favorably in one’s direction, Xi will likely be inclined to wait opportunistically before making a major decision on Taiwan. He is more likely to make a big move when the People’s Liberation Army is deemed more ready and when domestic and international dynamics unfold in a way that is more conducive to success. Given the stakes for his leadership mandate of China, his power, his reputation, his legacy, and probably his very life, Xi knows he must do more to load the iron dice before he rolls them on a Taiwan crapshoot. International views of Chinese power may weigh heavily on Xi’s decision-making calculus. He may be tempted to act before China is seen as beyond the apex of its power, so that he can still overleverage coopted nations to remain compliant in the face of Chinese aggression.

A storm from Beijing is heading to Taiwan. Although hopes were high that the Russo-Ukrainian War might deter Xi from folly over Taiwan, nothing in his behavior, speech, or actions so far suggests he is learning anything other than how to better prepare to subjugate Taiwan. Xi’s internal views and decisions matter more than Beijing’s outward-facing guile that is threaded through the latest rounds of leader, business, or military talks. Washington ought to engage for many reasons, but the wise should see these so-called “stabilization” measures as Beijing likely does: devices to buy time and regain a sense of normalcy while hiding Xi’s true designs.

Xi’s worsening domestic economic troubles in coming years may only increase his temptation to take extreme action, especially as the true limits of Chinese coercion become apparent. U.S., allied, and partner political unity in defending Taiwan’s democracy and maintaining the current political status quo, coupled with substantial material strength forward where it matters, when it matters, remains the best hope for deterring Xi and confounding his expansionist agenda. The effectiveness of deterrence will probably swing on the extent to which Washington and allies field more capabilities that can make real the Indo-Pacific Command’s “ hellscape ” plan to wreak havoc on hostile forces threatening Taiwan. Deep magazines of long-range fires and more forces forward — especially many small, mobile, lethal, persistent, and uncrewed types — will not increase the chance of war, as some mistakenly fear. Rather, they would dissuade a would-be aggressor from a strategic blunder of epic proportions.  In facing the rising danger of a country that seems only to respect muscular opponents, not being fully prepared for war will be the surest invitation to naked aggression across the strait.

Mike Studeman was the former commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence and director for intelligence (J2) of the Indo-Pacific Command. He is a member of the National Bureau of Asian Research advisory board and is MITRE’s first national security fellow. 

Image: Sgt. Amber Smith

The Adversarial

War on the rocks, spacepower and the private sector, horns of a dilemma, leadership lessons from our top presidents.

Taiwan says new Chinese air routes threaten Taiwanese islands' flight safety

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• China opens new air routes running close to Taiwanese islands
• Taiwan decries move as flight safety risk
• Routes are near Taiwan-controlled Kinmen and Matsu islands
• China says flight paths to improve flight operations

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Reporting by Ben Blanchard and Ryan Woo; Additional reporting by Yimou Lee in Taipei; Graphic by Jackie Gu; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Jamie Freed and Angus MacSwan

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