Things To Do
in Nantou
Nantou, Taiwan, is a picturesque city surrounded by lush mountains and tranquil lakes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and the beautiful Sun Moon Lake, which is the largest lake in Taiwan. Nantou serves as a gateway to several popular tourist attractions, including the stunning Alishan National Scenic Area.
The area is also famous for its tea production, particularly high-quality oolong teas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a bike ride around Sun Moon Lake to enjoy stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. Stop at the iconic Wenwu Temple to appreciate its beautiful architecture.
Take a boat tour on Sun Moon Lake, visiting the small island of Lalu and exploring the nearby temples. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a lakeside restaurant, sampling local fish dishes.
Wrap up your day by watching the sunset at the lake, then head to the local night market to try out some street food and shop for souvenirs.
Begin your day with a visit to the picturesque Cingjing Farm, where you can see sheep grazing and enjoy the panoramic mountain views. Participate in a sheep-shearing show.
After lunch at the farm, head to the hiking trails in the nearby Hehuanshan National Park, where you can choose from various trails depending on your fitness level.
Return to Nantou city for dinner at a traditional Taiwanese restaurant, and enjoy a night stroll through the city to experience its local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of Noodles | $2 |
| ☕Cup of Coffee | $3 |
| 🍵Oolong Tea | $4 |
| 🍽️Meal in Restaurant | $8 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
- Welcoming and friendly local community.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation can be less frequent.
- Some areas may have language barriers for non-Mandarin speakers.
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請" - Please
- "我可以幫助你嗎?" - Can I help you?
- "再見" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Nantou
Visit one of these nice places.
The lake's stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, make it a perfect photography spot.
This temple offers intricate architecture and beautiful landscapes, ideal for capturing cultural and natural beauty.
With its rolling hills and sheep grazing, this farm provides picturesque pastoral scenes.
Food in Nantou
Nantou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting bowl of beef broth, tender beef slices, and fresh noodles, garnished with green onions.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish caught from the lake, typically served grilled or in hot pot style.
Famous high-quality tea from the region, best enjoyed hot or cold.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market filled with food stalls offering a variety of local delicacies, snacks, and drinks.
Known for its traditional snacks, including herbal rice dumplings and sweet potato balls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people with a smile and use polite language, especially when addressing elders.
When visiting temples, dress modestly and observe local customs, such as removing shoes where required.
Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and it's polite to offer food to others before serving yourself.
Safety
Tipping in Nantou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments; mobile payment apps like Line Pay are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is mild with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, ideal for water activities at Sun Moon Lake but be prepared for occasional rain.
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) is cool, especially in the mountains; it can be a good time for hot springs but pack warm clothing.
Nantou at Night
Hiking in Nantou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail leading to the main peak of Hehuanshan, offering spectacular views and a chance to experience high-altitude flora.
This trail offers a moderate hike through scenic landscapes, ideal for observing local wildlife and enjoying pristine nature.
Airports
How to reach Nantou by plane.
Located approximately 50 kilometers from Nantou, Taichung Airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Nantou, contributing to the local culture, language, and cuisine.
There are several Indigenous groups in the region, each with unique traditions, languages, and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Nantou, with many local courts available for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Cycling is a favored activity, especially around Sun Moon Lake, where bike paths attract both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nantou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff.
Gluten-free options may be limited; travelers with gluten sensitivities should communicate their needs clearly.