Things To Do
in Caotun
Caotun is a tranquil rural township in Nantou County, central Taiwan, cradled by rolling hills and patchwork fields. The area thrives on fruit farms, tea plantations, and small-town markets that reveal a slower pace of life. It serves as a convenient gateway to Nantou's natural attractions, from lush hillsides to nearby Sun Moon Lake and traditional temples.
Visitors come to savor farm-to-table flavors, enjoy scenic drives, and soak in a peaceful country atmosphere away from Taiwan's bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a visit to the Caotun Old Street, where you can soak in traditional Taiwanese architecture and enjoy authentic street food. Stroll through the vibrant alleys, stopping to pick up local handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to interact with friendly local vendors who share stories of their craft.
After lunch, head over to the nearby Zhongxing New Village, a charming area filled with artisans and boutique shops. Take your time exploring the unique creations, from handmade pottery to intricate textiles, and appreciate the artistry that goes into each piece. Make sure to visit the local art galleries showcasing the talents of Caotun's artists.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café to relax and enjoy Taiwanese tea while watching the bustling street life unfold around you. Consider joining a local cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes, making for an enriching cultural experience. End the day by visiting a night market to savor local snacks and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby mountains, where you'll be greeted by stunning views and fresh air. Look for local flora and fauna on your trail while capturing the beauty of nature through your camera. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the wilderness.
After your hike, visit the revered Caotun Cihji Temple, known for its intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Spend time learning about the temple's history and take part in the local rituals to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance. Capture photos of the enchanting architecture and the serene surroundings.
Dine at a local restaurant where you can relish regional specialties and engage in conversations with the locals about their traditions. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the temple grounds, observing the beautifully lit structures and the calming atmosphere. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚍Local transport (bus/taxi) per day | $3-14 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural scenery and easy access to tea farms and fruit orchards
- Relaxed pace of life with authentic local cuisine
- Good base for day trips to Sun Moon Lake and other Nantou attractions
- Friendly locals and a safe, family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Public transport can be sparse outside the town center
- Weather can be rainy or typhoon-prone in certain seasons
- Hills and rural roads can be challenging without a car or bike
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the restroom?
- "這個多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "你會說英文嗎？" - Do you speak English?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay with a credit card?
Places to Visit in Caotun
Visit one of these nice places.
Mist over neat rows of strawberry plants with soft light—an ideal backdrop for vibrant close-ups and landscape shots.
Historic lanes with traditional storefronts, lanterns, and wooden signage, perfect for candid street photography.
Green terraces undulating across the hillsides, often with morning fog and distant mountains in the background.
Open fields and gentle hills along countryside roads offer wide-angle shots of agricultural life and sunsets.
Food in Caotun
Caotun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised pork belly served with crisp, young bamboo shoots; a comforting mountain dish that showcases local produce.
Must-Try!
A classic, flavorful pork stew served over fragrant short-grain rice; a staple found in many Caotun eateries.
Fresh strawberries turned into desserts, smoothies, or small snacks during peak season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market selling fresh produce, locally produced teas, tofu, and wrapping snacks perfect for a quick bite.
Roasted corn, mochi, dumplings, and other light bites ideal for sampling while wandering the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple hello (你好, Nǐ hǎo) and thank you (謝謝, Xièxiè). Show respect to elders, address people politely, and use both hands when giving/receiving small items.
Queue patiently, wait to be seated, and avoid loud conversations in temples or quiet cafes. When sharing dishes, use utensils to serve others rather than pointing directly.
Remove shoes when entering homes and many traditional establishments; dress modestly in temples and community spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Caotun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Taiwan venues, including Caotun; it’s appreciated in high-end restaurants or guide services if you’re particularly satisfied.
Cash in New Taiwan Dollars is widely accepted; major credit cards are increasingly common in restaurants and shops; contactless payments and mobile wallets are gaining popularity; EasyCard or iPass can be used for public transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming fruit trees and tea bushes; expect occasional showers. Great for flower and tea-field photography and gentle hikes.
Warm and humid with a higher chance of rain and typhoons. Stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan indoor tea-house breaks between outdoor activities.
Cooler temperatures with clearer skies and harvest festivals in some villages. Ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to cold mornings and nights; strawberries reach peak in some areas, and frost on hills can be picturesque. Layered clothing recommended.
Caotun at Night
Hiking in Caotun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A selection of easy to moderate trails along the foothills offering forest scenery and hilltop viewpoints.
Accessible peaks and forest trails a short drive from Caotun; suitable for day hikes with panoramic views on clear days.
Several lakeside and hillside trails near Sun Moon Lake, combining water scenery with shaded forest paths; ideal for a combined nature ride.
Airports
How to reach Caotun by plane.
Nearest airport with domestic and some international connections; about 40–60 minutes by car to Caotun depending on traffic.
Major international hub; travel time to Nantou usually involves rail or bus transfer to Taichung or Nantou area.
City airport with domestic and some regional flights; typically used when combining a Taiwan north itinerary with Caotun.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in Caotun and Nantou; many residents work in agriculture, small business, or commuting to larger cities.
Nantou County includes Bunun and other groups in nearby regions; their cultural influences are felt in markets and local events.
Rural towns in the area tend to have a higher median age with strong family and community networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on rural roads and near tea plantations; many routes are scenic and flat-to-rolling.
A common sport in schools and community leagues across the region.
Widespread in gyms and parks; casual games are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caotun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in Caotun; ask for vegetable-forward dishes and request no lard or meat-based sauces. Use the word 素 (sù) when ordering and specify clearly if dairy is acceptable.