Nantou Travel Guide

Located in the lush central highlands of Taiwan, Nantou is a destination where tranquil lakes, misty mountains, and rich indigenous culture come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. Unlike the bustling cities of Taipei or Kaohsiung, Nantou offers a peaceful escape into nature—perfect for travelers seeking authentic Taiwanese landscapes, spiritual retreats, and eco-friendly adventures. Whether you're drawn to the iconic Sun Moon Lake, the cultural heritage of the Atayal and Bunun tribes, or the tea-scented hills of Xinyi Township, Nantou is a region filled with discoveries at every turn.

Why Nantou Should Be on Your Travel Radar

Nantou stands out thanks to its diverse landscapes, serene atmosphere, and cultural authenticity. Here’s what makes this region truly special:

Breathtaking Natural Scenery

From Taiwan’s largest lake to towering peaks like Hehuanshan, Nantou offers endless opportunities for outdoor lovers.

Rich Indigenous Heritage

Local tribes maintain vibrant traditions, music, and craftsmanship—giving visitors a deeper, more personal understanding of Taiwan’s cultural roots.

A Paradise for Hikers & Nature Lovers

Dense forests, waterfalls, hot springs, and rivers make Nantou ideal for eco-tourism and adventure travel.

Perfect for Slow Travel

Nantou encourages travelers to unwind, reconnect with nature, and explore its hidden corners at a relaxed pace.

Best Time to Visit Nantou

The ideal time to visit Nantou is:

March to May (Spring)

Comfortable weather, cherry blossoms, and lush mountain landscapes.

October to December (Autumn)

Crisp air, clear mountain views, and golden forests—best time for hiking and photography.

Best for Sun Moon Lake

September to November offers calm waters and stunning sunsets.

Avoid July–August due to heat, humidity, and possible typhoons.

Top Things to Do in Nantou

1. Explore Sun Moon Lake (Top Keyword: Sun Moon Lake Taiwan)

Nantou’s most iconic landmark offers:

• Bike trails along the lake

• Boat cruises at sunrise or sunset

• Visits to Wenwu Temple and Ci’en Pagoda

• Cycling on the famous Xiangshan Bike Path

2. Hike Hehuanshan – Taiwan’s Accessible Alpine Peak

Located in Taroko National Park but accessible from Nantou, Hehuanshan is famous for:

• High-altitude hiking trails

• Cloud-sea viewpoints

• Snowfall in winter

• Astro-photography and star-gazing tours

3. Discover Xitou Nature Education Area

A forest sanctuary perfect for:

• Easy walking trails

• Bamboo groves

• A skywalk above the canopy

• Family-friendly nature experiences

4. Explore the Tea Plantations of Nantou

Nantou is Taiwan’s top tea-producing region. Visit:

• Lugu Township (famous for Dong Ding Oolong)

• Xinyi Township for mountain tea tastings

• Local tea houses for traditional tea ceremonies

5. Experience Indigenous Culture

Meet the Atayal, Bunun, and Seediq communities through:

• Cultural performances

• Handicraft workshops

• Village tours

• Traditional cooking sessions

Where to Stay in Nantou

Luxury & Lakefront Resorts

• Fleur de Chine Hotel Sun Moon Lake

• The Lalu Sun Moon Lake

Mid-Range Hotels

• Sun Moon Lake Hotel

• Lealea Garden Hotels

Eco-Lodges & Homestays

• Guesthouses in Puli Township

• Rustic farms in Lugu Township

• Mountain cabins near Qingjing Farm

Getting Around Nantou

From Taipei

• 2.5 hours by bus

• 2 hours by car

• High-speed rail to Taichung + 1 hour bus to Nantou

Local Transport

• Buses around Sun Moon Lake and Puli

• Taxis for short distance

• Scooter or car rental for full flexibility

Guided Tours

Highly recommended for Hehuanshan, tea farms, and cultural villages.

Where to Eat in Nantou

Nantou’s cuisine is a mix of mountain flavors and indigenous traditions.

Must-Try Dishes:

• President Fish (Sun Moon Lake specialty)

• Aboriginal millet dishes

• Bamboo rice

• Dong Ding Oolong tea snacks

• Wild boar BBQ

Best Local Dining Spots:

• Local restaurants around Shuishe

• Indigenous eateries near Qingjing Farm

• Street food at Puli Night Market

Shopping in Nantou

Perfect souvenirs include:

• Dong Ding Oolong Tea

• Handmade bamboo crafts

• Aboriginal beadwork

• Local honey and plum wine

• DIY craft souvenirs at cultural centers

Family-Friendly Activities

• Qingjing Farm (sheep performances and flower fields)

• Xitou Monster Village (fun for kids)

• Sun Moon Lake boat rides

• Skywalks & nature parks

Romantic Experiences in Nantou

• Sunset cruises on Sun Moon Lake

• Private hot springs with mountain views

• Couples’ photoshoot on Xiangshan Bridge

• Tea-tasting in scenic plantations

Festivals & Events in Nantou

• Sun Moon Lake International Fireworks Festival (October)

• Cherry Blossom Festival in Qingjing (February–March)

• Indigenous Harvest Festivals in summer

• Tea Harvest Festivals in Lugu Township

Practical Tips for Your Nantou Trip

• Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)

• Language: Mandarin & Taiwanese; English limited in rural areas

• Health: No major risks; comfortable climate most of the year

• Respect: Ask before entering tribal villages or taking photos

• Packing: Light layers, hiking shoes, raincoat, power bank, tripod

Nantou is a destination that blends Taiwan’s natural wonders, indigenous traditions, and serene landscapes into a truly enriching travel experience. Whether you’re hiking mountain peaks, cruising on Sun Moon Lake, or learning ancient tea-making techniques, Nantou offers a journey filled with discovery and tranquility.