Taiwan’s only inland county is also one of Taiwan’s most beautiful and peaceful destinations.
Nantou: Explore the Scenic Soul of Taiwan
In the very center of Taiwan lies a hidden gem that many travelers overlook—Nantou County (南投縣). The only landlocked county in the country, Nantou is a nature lover’s paradise brimming with breathtaking mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and spiritual sanctuaries. It’s where you can rise above the clouds in the highlands, sip tea in peaceful villages, and feel completely at one with nature.
Home to the iconic Sun Moon Lake, tranquil temples, and rolling tea plantations, Nantou offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and soul-soothing serenity. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a solo escape, Nantou has something magical for everyone.
🧭 Where Is Nantou?
Nantou is located in central Taiwan, bordered by Taichung to the north and Chiayi to the south. Despite being inland, it’s one of Taiwan’s most visited counties thanks to Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest and most famous body of freshwater.
Easily accessible from Taichung via car or public transportation, Nantou is often included in weekend escapes or multi-day tours of central Taiwan.
🌟 Why Visit Nantou?
If you’re looking for an escape into nature, a taste of indigenous culture, or simply a slower, more meaningful pace of travel, Nantou delivers. Here’s what makes it stand out:
🏞️ Must-See Natural Wonders
1. Sun Moon Lake (日月潭): Taiwan’s Crown Jewel
No visit to Nantou is complete without experiencing Sun Moon Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by misty mountains and temples. The lake gets its name from its unique shape—one part resembles a sun, the other a crescent moon.
Top Activities:
Take a boat cruise across the lake
Cycle the Sun Moon Lake Bike Trail (named one of the most beautiful in the world)
Visit Wenwu Temple, perched above the lake
Try local cuisine at Ita Thao Village, home to the Thao indigenous people
Sun Moon Lake is also a popular destination for sunrise and sunset views, especially from Ci’en Pagoda or Xiangshan Visitor Center.
2. Cingjing Farm (清境農場): Taiwan’s Little Switzerland
Located in the Ren’ai Township of Nantou’s highlands, Cingjing Farm is a picturesque alpine area often dubbed “Taiwan’s Little Switzerland” for its European-style pastures, cool climate, and breathtaking vistas.
Things to Do:
Watch sheep grazing on green meadows
Stroll through the Green Green Grasslands
Enjoy panoramic views of the Central Mountain Range
Stay overnight in cozy B&Bs and mountain lodges
The scenic Hehuanshan (Mt. Hehuan) is also nearby—a perfect spot for hiking, stargazing, and even snow watching in winter.
3. Xitou Nature Education Area (溪頭自然教育園區)
This forest park near Lugu Township is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in Taiwan’s rich biodiversity.
Highlights:
Walk the skywalk above the treetops
Visit the iconic Giant Sacred Tree
Discover rare plant species and cool-climate forest life
It’s a peaceful spot great for families, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.
🍵 Discover Taiwan’s Tea Culture
Nantou is famous for its high-mountain oolong teas, and tea culture is deeply woven into its identity.
Lugu Township (鹿谷鄉):
Known as the home of Dong Ding (Tung Ting) Oolong Tea
Visit local tea farms, take part in tea-picking experiences, or join a traditional tea ceremony
Buy authentic, fresh teas directly from the source
Tea lovers will appreciate the depth of flavor and careful craftsmanship that goes into every cup here.
🛕 Temples and Spiritual Sites
Chung Tai Chan Monastery (中台禪寺):
One of the largest and most impressive Buddhist monasteries in the world, Chung Tai combines modern architecture with deep spiritual meaning. The serene atmosphere and intricate design make it a must-visit for both religious pilgrims and architecture buffs.
Xuanzang Temple (玄奘寺):
Dedicated to the Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang, this temple overlooks Sun Moon Lake and houses sacred relics. It’s a tranquil spot for reflection and offers a commanding view of the lake.
🍱 What to Eat in Nantou
Nantou’s food reflects its mountainous environment, indigenous influences, and agricultural richness.
Local Specialties:
President Fish (總統魚) – a must-try freshwater fish from Sun Moon Lake
Bamboo rice (竹筒飯) – sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes, often served in indigenous villages
High-mountain vegetables – fresh, crisp greens from the Cingjing area
Sweet potato balls, wild boar sausage, and tea-flavored snacks
Don’t forget to enjoy a warm cup of Dong Ding Oolong with a traditional Taiwanese dessert!
🚗 Getting to and Around Nantou
From Taichung:
By bus: Regular routes go to Sun Moon Lake, Cingjing, and Puli
By car: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore rural areas
Within Nantou:
Local buses, bike rentals, and shuttle tours are available near major tourist areas
Scooter rentals are popular in places like Sun Moon Lake for scenic drives
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Nantou
Spring (March–May): Blooming flowers and ideal hiking weather
Autumn (September–November): Cool, crisp air and changing foliage in the mountains
Winter (December–February): Snow at higher elevations like Hehuanshan
Summer (June–August): Warm but great for lake activities and escaping city heat
📍 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Day 1: Sun Moon Lake
Arrive in Nantou and take a boat ride on Sun Moon Lake
Visit Wenwu Temple and Ci’en Pagoda
Dine at Ita Thao Village and stay overnight lakeside
Day 2: Cingjing Farm
Head up to Cingjing Farm in the morning
Enjoy the Green Green Grasslands, sheep shows, and mountain views
Relax in a cozy farm lodge or B&B for the night
Day 3: Lugu & Xitou
Visit tea farms in Lugu Township
Hike or explore the forest in Xitou Nature Area
Return to Taichung or continue your Taiwan journey
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Nantou Deserves a Spot on Your Taiwan Bucket List
Nantou isn’t just a scenic destination—it’s a place where culture, nature, and tranquility come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over a mountain ridge, sipping freshly brewed oolong in a hillside farm, or simply enjoying the stillness of a temple by the lake, you’ll find that Nantou speaks to the soul.
It’s not about big city thrills here—it’s about slowing down, breathing deeply, and discovering the natural beauty and cultural richness at Taiwan’s very core.
Top Tips for Visiting Nantou: Nature, Culture & Mountain Magic in Central Taiwan
Nestled in the heart of Taiwan, Nantou County is a serene and captivating destination known for its towering mountains, tranquil lakes, and rich indigenous and Han culture. Home to Taiwan’s highest peak and the legendary Sun Moon Lake, Nantou offers something for every traveler—whether you’re seeking nature, spirituality, or a taste of rural Taiwan.
If you’re planning a trip to central Taiwan, here are the top tips for making the most of your visit to Nantou:
🚗 1. Getting There: Drive or Bus from Taichung or Taipei
While Nantou doesn’t have a high-speed rail stop, it’s still quite accessible. The most common way to get there is by bus or car from Taichung, which is just 1–2 hours away. If you’re coming from Taipei, buses take about 3 hours.
Popular Routes: Taipei or Taichung to Sun Moon Lake, Puli, or Cingjing Farm.
Private car hire is a convenient option, especially for visiting more remote attractions.
✅ Pro Tip: If you want flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path areas like Xitou or Qingjing, renting a car or hiring a driver is ideal.
🌅 2. Visit the Iconic Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is the jewel of Nantou and one of Taiwan’s most famous scenic spots. Surrounded by lush mountains and rich in indigenous Thao culture, this is a must-visit.
Take a Boat Tour to see key sights like Lalu Island, Xuanguang Temple, and Ita Thao Village.
Bike the Lakeside Path – ranked one of the most beautiful cycling routes in the world.
Try Local Delicacies like President Fish, Thao millet wine, and tea eggs at lakeside stalls.
✅ Tip: Stay overnight to catch the sunrise or sunset—the lake transforms into a dreamlike mirror at golden hour.
🌄 3. Explore the Mountain Escape of Cingjing Farm
Known as the “Switzerland of Taiwan,” Cingjing Farm offers rolling green hills, sheep pastures, and cool mountain air. It’s especially popular for:
The Green Green Grasslands, where you can interact with fluffy sheep.
Hehuanshan (Mt. Hehuan), perfect for high-altitude hikes and sunrise views.
European-style lodges and tea plantations.
✅ Pro Tip: The elevation here (around 1,800m) means it’s cool even in summer. Pack a light jacket!
🏞️ 4. Take a Forest Bath at Xitou Nature Education Area
Xitou Forest Recreation Area, located near Lugu Township, is a peaceful forest park full of towering cedar trees, walking trails, and bamboo groves.
Visit the Skywalk for elevated views of the forest canopy.
Enjoy a tea tasting session in nearby Lugu, the home of Dong Ding Oolong Tea.
✅ Tip: This is a fantastic spot for birdwatching and a quiet picnic.
🛕 5. Discover the Tranquility of Chung Tai Chan Monastery
Located near Puli, Chung Tai Chan Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world. Its striking modern architecture contrasts beautifully with traditional spiritual elements.
Walk through peaceful halls and sculpture gardens.
Visit the Chung Tai World Museum to learn more about Buddhist art and philosophy.
✅ Pro Tip: Dress modestly and visit during weekday mornings to avoid tour groups.
🧘 6. Unwind in Hot Springs at Dongpu or Lushan
For some serious relaxation, visit the hot spring towns in Nantou:
Dongpu Hot Springs – located near the base of Yushan National Park, great for hikers.
Lushan Hot Springs – smaller, but known for its scenic riverside baths.
✅ Tip: Book a room with a private hot spring tub to enjoy the mountain views in comfort.
🌸 7. Visit During Cherry Blossom or Tea Season
Spring (Feb–Mar) is cherry blossom season, especially beautiful in Cingjing and Sun Moon Lake. Autumn (Oct–Nov) is tea harvest season, when you can tour plantations and taste fresh brews.
✅ Pro Tip: Check local festival schedules—Nantou often hosts tea, flower, and indigenous cultural festivals.
🧺 8. Explore the Market Town of Puli
Puli is a charming town known for its paper-making heritage, temples, and Taiwanese wine.
Visit the Paper Dome, a church made entirely of paper and bamboo.
Tour a sake brewery or try locally made Shaoxing rice wine.
Sample Puli noodles and buy handmade paper goods.
✅ Tip: Puli makes a great base for exploring both Sun Moon Lake and central Nantou.
🛍️ 9. Bring Home Locally Made Tea and Snacks
Nantou is Taiwan’s leading tea-producing region, especially known for Dong Ding Oolong and Sun Moon Lake black tea. You’ll also find:
Dried mushrooms, mountain honey, and local tofu products.
Aboriginal crafts, millet wine, and handmade soaps.
✅ Pro Tip: Visit a tea farm in Lugu or Shuili for a tasting and to buy fresh tea straight from the source.
📅 10. Best Time to Visit Nantou
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons: clear skies, mild temperatures, and colorful landscapes.
Summer is green and lush but can be rainy.
Winter is chilly in the mountains, but great for hot springs and cloudless mountain views.
✅ Pro Tip: For the best Hehuanshan sunrises, visit in winter when skies are clearest.
Final Thoughts
Nantou may not be on every tourist’s radar, but that’s part of what makes it so special. With its serene lakes, misty peaks, and deep cultural roots, this is a place to slow down and breathe deeply. Whether you’re cycling around Sun Moon Lake, hiking above the clouds at Hehuanshan, or sipping oolong tea in a quiet village, Nantou invites you to reconnect with nature—and yourself.
So if you’re looking for an authentic, refreshing escape in Taiwan, make Nantou your next stop.