Things To Do
in Zhushan

A Taiwanese staple of minced braised pork over rice; widely available in Zhushan’s eateries and night market stalls—perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Must-Try!

Fresh seasonal greens from local farms, often simply stir-fried with garlic and soy; try them at family-run restaurants and farm-to-table stalls.

Local tea (often high-mountain or mid-altitude varieties) appears in drinks, jellies and sweets at tea houses and markets—sample different grades during tea tastings.

When in season, bamboo shoots are used in soups, stews and stir-fries—available at market stalls and traditional restaurants that specialize in bamboo cuisine.

Small morning markets and street stalls sell breakfast rice balls, soy milk, steamed buns, fresh fruit and seasonal snacks—great for sampling everyday local foods and meeting vendors.

Evening street vendors offer grilled skewers, sweet potato snacks, stinky tofu and bubble tea; while not a large night market, the town’s evening stalls provide an authentic, low-key experience.

Polite, modest behavior is appreciated—greet shop owners with a nod or a brief '你好' (nǐ hǎo) and show deference to elders.

Remove shoes when entering private homes or some traditional guesthouses—follow hosts’ signals and use provided slippers if offered.

Form orderly lines at counters and buses, keep noise levels moderate in public areas and avoid loud phone conversations on public transport.

When visiting temples, be respectful: dress modestly, avoid pointing at altars, and observe rituals quietly. Photography may be restricted in some areas.

Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation make spring a pleasant time to visit; expect occasional rain and good conditions for hiking, tea picking and photography of new growth.

Warm and humid with frequent afternoon showers and the risk of typhoons between June and September; mornings can be pleasant and green, but carry rain gear and plan indoor alternatives.

Crisp, drier weather and clearer skies make autumn ideal for outdoor activities, cycling and mountain views; temperatures are comfortable and the post-monsoon period reduces insect activity.

Cooler nights and mild daytime temperatures—rarely freezing at lower elevations but chillier in higher nearby mountains; good season for tea tastings and fewer crowds.

A network of well-maintained forest trails, boardwalks and suspension bridges through mixed broadleaf and bamboo forest—suitable for families and photographers; expect cool, mossy scenery.

Scenic paved and dirt trails around parts of Sun Moon Lake offer easier hikes, viewpoints and opportunities to combine hiking with cycling and boat trips.

Shorter local trails and service roads near tea plantations provide pleasant walks with panoramic views—best early morning or late afternoon for light and cooler temperatures.

For more ambitious hiking, drive further into Nantou to reach alpine trails around Hehuanshan and central-range peaks—require preparation, layered clothing and checking weather/park advisories.

Vegetarian options are common (vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, noodle soups) but confirm whether broths contain fish or meat. Buddhist-style vegetarian restaurants can be found in the region; asking for 素 (sù) dishes helps.

Vegan choices exist but are less plentiful—communicate restrictions clearly (no egg, no dairy, no fish sauce). Carry a translation card to explain dietary needs in Mandarin.

Rice-based dishes are usually safe, but wheat sauces (soy sauce) and fried items can contain gluten; clarify cooking methods with vendors and opt for plain grilled or steamed items when possible.

Peanuts, shellfish and soy are commonly used—always state allergies clearly and carry essential medication (antihistamine, epinephrine if prescribed).