Nantou Travel Guide – Taiwan: Xiangshan, Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola, Yangmingshan, Taroko Gorge, Alishan

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.

In the very center of Taiwan lies a hidden gem that many travelers overlook—Nantou County. 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.

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.

What to Eat in Nantou

Nantou’s food reflects its mountainous environment, indigenous influences, and agricultural richness.

President Fish – a must-try freshwater fish from Sun Moon Lake

Bamboo rice – 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,

Things to Do in Nantou

Sun Moon Lake

(日月潭) is Taiwan’s largest natural lake, nestled within the lush mountains of Nantou. Its unique shape—one side like a sun, the other like a crescent—coupled with serene water and smooth boat cruises, creates a perfect setting for relaxation and photography. Winding cycling paths, like the iconic 30 km route around the lake, let you explore viewpoints, pagodas, and indigenous Thao villages along the shore.

Cultural richness extends beyond natural beauty. Highlights include the sacred Ci’en Pagoda, which offers sweeping vistas following a gentle climb, and a traditional aboriginal ceremony showcasing Thao culture. Keep an eye out for sunrise festivals and the Heart of the Lake Origami event, which add local flavor and communal charm to the tranquil landscape.

Key Points:

Scenic boating, cycling, and indigenous village exploration

Cultural sites like Ci’en Pagoda and Thao community events

Seasonal festivals add local ambiance

Qingjing Farm (Cingjing Farm)

Perched high in Nantou’s mountain range, Cingjing Farm (清境農場) evokes the ambience of a European alpine meadow with lush pastures and grazing sheep. Visitors can enjoy sheep shearing shows, farm-fed meals, and flower-filled gardens with panoramic hills. Its cooler climate provides welcome relief from Taiwan’s heat.

The experience is both pastoral and powerful. Hiking trails lead through misty forests to the Qingjing Skywalk—offering cliff-edge views nearly a thousand meters above sea level—and seasonal blooms from cherry to rhododendron. Accommodation here ranges from camping to lodge stays, making it a comfortable mountain retreat year-round.

Key Points:

Alpine-style farm with sheep shows and flower meadows

Cliff-view skywalk and hiking trails

Cool climate and overnight mountain lodging

Zhongxing New Village

Zhongxing New Village (中興新村) is a mid-century planned township that once served as Taiwan Province’s government seat. Its wide boulevards, European-style facades, and leafy parks give it a serene, organized air. Today, the Provincial Assembly building is surrounded by institutions like the Literature Museum and exhibition halls.

This compact historical zone invites slow walking—visitors can enjoy riverside promenades, artsy markets, and café breaks under plane trees. With its unique architecture and nostalgic calm, Zhongxing offers an easy break from tourist-heavy sites and timing for quiet reflection on Taiwan’s post-war administrative legacy.

Key Points:

Mid-20th-century planned township with classical architecture

Cultural institutions like museums and libraries

Relaxed riverside walking and café culture

Houtanjing Sky Bridge

Houtanjing Sky Bridge (后潭景觀天空橋) is a gently curated cable-suspended walkway that spans a deep creek valley in Nantou’s mountains. The structure frames forested slopes and bubbling streams below in a graceful, immersive design. It’s ideal for a peaceful wander amid the treetops.

The setting is secluded and unspoiled—hikers will find wooden trails and rest pavilions leading to the bridge. The combination of rustling forest, flowing water, and scenic elevation makes it a meditative half-day side trip in Taiwan’s Little Switzerland.

Key Points:

Elevated walkway with creek and forest views

Secluded mountain location with eco-trails

Designed for meditation, hiking, and nature lovers

Puli

Puli (埔里鎮) is a relaxed market town situated by central Nantou’s fertile basin, serving as a convenient base for nearby lakes and mountains. It’s famed for its artisanal rice wines, tofu-based snacks, and wooden handicrafts. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere with traditional markets and eateries.

Puli’s heart is cultural curiosity. The Catholic church provides contrast to local temples, while small art galleries and night markets reflect provincial Taiwan’s creativity. Close-by hiking trails and farm routes round out a classic Central Taiwan experience.

Key Points:

Artisanal rice wines, local food, and traditional crafts

Riverside market lanes blended with cultural attractions

Convenient base for regional exploration

Puli Brewery

The Puli Brewery (埔里酒廠) is renowned for producing Taiwan’s signature rice wines and herbal liqueurs. Housed in a factory setting amid greenery, the site offers guided tours explaining local fermentation methods and ingredients. Displays include traditional tools alongside modern brewing equipment.

Tasting sessions offer jasmine, plum, and fruit-infused wines. Visitors can stroll through aromatic herb gardens and shop for unique spirits or crafts. The experience is experiential, perfect for gastronomy enthusiasts seeking sensory education.

Key Points:

Interactive tours of rice wine production

Tasting room with diverse local wines

Garden pathways and souvenir shop

Xitou Monster Village

Xitou Monster Village (溪頭妖怪村) is a whimsical, Japanese-style theme village located near the entrance of the Xitou Nature Education Area. Inspired by Japanese folklore, the village is filled with yokai (supernatural creature) statues, red lanterns, torii gates, and quirky architecture. It’s a visual delight, especially for photographers and families with children, and has become one of Nantou’s most Instagram-worthy spots.

Beyond photo ops, the village also features themed bakeries, souvenir shops, and street performances. Try the signature monster bread or mochi while enjoying the atmospheric soundtrack of traditional Japanese music mixed with eerie sound effects. Whether you’re coming for fun, snacks, or a cultural oddity, Monster Village offers a playful break amid the natural serenity of Xitou Forest.

Key Points:

Japanese-themed monster village with yokai statues and photo spots

Unique food like “monster bread” and folklore-inspired souvenirs

Located next to Xitou Nature Education Area, ideal as a combo visit

Xitou Nature Education Area

Located in the Xitou Valley of Nantou, this forested reserve is part of the wider Experiment Forest system and offers well-defined walking routes through bamboo groves, mixed woodland, and moss-covered trails. It’s rich in biodiversity, with bird-watching hides and streams that provide a natural, educational escape.

Xitou Nature Education Area (溪頭自然教育園區) includes the Sky Walk canopy bridge, the “Heart of the Forest” tree-lined avenue, and the mystical “Monster Village” shops. Seasonal flora like azaleas and cool mist enhance the temperature—often 5 °C lower than city level—making it an inviting getaway any time of year.

Key Points:

Educational forest with bamboo groves and wildlife viewing

Canopy walkway and atmospheric woodland trails

Distinct cool climate and seasonal natural displays

Highlights of Xitou Nature Education Area

Xitou Nature Education Area is a serene forest park renowned for its rich biodiversity and tranquil atmosphere. Spanning 2,500 hectares at an elevation of 1,150 meters, this area is part of National Taiwan University’s experimental forest and serves as a living classroom for ecological education.

Forest Skywalk: A 22.6-meter-high, 180-meter-long canopy walkway that offers a unique perspective of the forest ecosystem, allowing visitors to observe tree-dwelling animals, epiphytes, and the dynamic changes of the forest throughout the seasons.

University Pond (Daxue Pond): A picturesque spot featuring a bamboo bridge and serene waters, especially enchanting on misty mornings. It’s a perfect location for relaxation and photography.

Giant Tree Viewing Platform: Once home to a 2,800-year-old red cypress, the area now features a viewing platform where visitors can learn about the ancient tree’s significance and its role in the forest’s ecology.

Ginkgo Forest: Home to one of Southeast Asia’s largest ginkgo forests, the area showcases these ancient trees, known as “living fossils,” offering spectacular views, especially during the autumn season when the leaves turn golden.

Bamboo Arboretum: Featuring over 70 species of bamboo, this section allows visitors to compare different growth patterns and appreciate the diversity of bamboo forests.

Trails and Activities

Xitou offers a network of over 20 kilometers of trails catering to various skill levels:

Forest Shower Trail: A 3 km trail near the southern edge, featuring forested gazebos and areas to rest, connecting visitors to the University Pond and the Giant Rock Trail.

Bird Watching Trail: A 2 km trail close to the Visitor Center, ideal for spotting over 70 bird species that inhabit the forests of Xitou.

Phoenix Logging Road: The longest trail at 5.7 km, connecting hikers from the Giant Tree and Giant Rock to the Mt. Phoenix Overlook and Astronomical Observatory, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Admission Fee: NT$220 per person; parking fee is NT$100.

Facilities: The park is equipped with a Visitor Center, restrooms, a coffee shop, and a restaurant, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.

Getting There

Xitou Nature Education Area is accessible by public transportation from major towns such as Taichung, Caotun, and Zhushan. Visitors can also opt for private transportation or guided tours to reach the park.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family seeking outdoor adventures, or someone looking to immerse yourself in Taiwan’s rich ecological heritage, Xitou Nature Education Area offers a refreshing and educational experience amidst the tranquility of the forest.

Hehuanshan

Hehuansha, or Mount Hehuan, is a prominent peak in Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, straddling Nantou and Hualien counties. Standing at 3,422 meters (11,223 feet), it ranks among Taiwan’s “100 Peaks” and is renowned for its accessibility, making it a favored destination for both seasoned hikers and casual nature enthusiasts.

Scenic Beauty and Accessibility

Hehuanshan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and convenience. Highway 14, which traverses the area, reaches Wuling, Taiwan’s highest point accessible by road at 3,275 meters (10,745 feet). From here, well-maintained trails lead to several peaks, including the Main Peak, East Peak, and North Peak.

These trails are relatively short and manageable, with the Main Peak trail being approximately 3.6 km (2.2 miles) round-trip .

Seasonal Highlights

Each season brings its own charm to Hehuanshan. In spring, the mountain is adorned with vibrant azaleas, creating a picturesque landscape. Summer offers cool respite with temperatures averaging around 18°C (64°F), providing a refreshing break from the coastal heat.

Autumn presents clear skies and crisp air, ideal for stargazing. Winter transforms Hehuanshan into a snow-covered wonderland, attracting visitors eager to experience Taiwan’s rare snowfall .
Blue Canoe Travel

Stargazing Destination

In 2019, Hehuanshan was designated as Taiwan’s first International Dark Sky Park, making it a premier spot for stargazing. The absence of light pollution allows for unobstructed views of the night sky, drawing astronomy enthusiasts and photographers alike .

Hiking Trails

Hehuanshan features several hiking trails catering to various skill levels:

Main Peak Trail: A 3.6 km (2.2 miles) round-trip hike suitable for most hikers.

East Peak Trail: Approximately 2.1 km (1.3 miles) round-trip, offering stunning views and a chance to see alpine flora.

North Peak Trail: A 4.8 km (3 miles) round-trip hike that provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains .

For more challenging adventures, the West Peak Trail extends about 13.4 km (8.3 miles) round-trip, requiring more time and preparation .
Taiwan Hikes

Visitor Information
Location: Hehuanshan is accessible via Highway 14, with Wuling serving as the main access point.

Best Visiting Times: Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and enjoying the mountain’s beauty. Winter is perfect for snow enthusiasts.

Permits: No permits are required for hiking the Main and East Peaks. However, permits are necessary for the North and West Peaks and can be obtained from the Hualien County Police Bureau .

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely hike, a stargazing experience, or a winter snow adventure, Hehuanshan offers a diverse range of activities amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

How to Get to Nantou from Taipei

The Complete Travel Guide
Nantou, located in central Taiwan, is a stunning destination known for its natural beauty, including Sun Moon Lake, Cingjing Farm, and the Hehuanshan mountain range. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, hike scenic trails, or relax by the lake, Nantou has something for every traveler.

This post will guide you through all the ways to get to Nantou from Taipei, including by train, bus, and car, so you can make the most of your trip.

The main tourist attractions are Sun Moon Lake, Cingjing Farm, and Hehuanshan. The journey to Nantou is filled with breathtaking views, making it well worth the trip.

Option 1: Taking a Train to Taichung + Bus to Nantou

Although there isn’t a direct train route to Nantou, you can take a train to Taichung and then transfer to a bus to reach Nantou. This option is comfortable, affordable, and relatively quick.

Route: Taipei Main Station → Taichung TRA Station → Nantou Bus Station
Train to Taichung:
Travel Time: 1 hour to 1.5 hours
Cost: NT$175–320 (depending on the type of train)
Trains: Tze-Chiang Express or Chu-Kuang trains
Departure: Trains run frequently, every 20–30 minutes

Bus to Nantou:
Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
Cost: NT$150–200
Bus Operators: Nantou Bus or Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport

Pros:
Affordable and direct once you reach Taichung
Comfortable train ride to Taichung
Nantou buses are convenient for reaching various parts of the county

Cons:
You’ll need to transfer from the train to the bus at Taichung Station
The total trip will take around 2.5–3.5 hours depending on transfer times

Tip: Make sure to check the bus schedules to ensure you don’t have to wait long in Taichung. You can check the Nantou Bus website for details.

Option 2: Driving – For Ultimate Flexibility and Scenic Routes

If you’re looking for freedom and the chance to enjoy some of Taiwan’s beautiful countryside, driving from Taipei to Nantou is a great option. Renting a car or driving your own vehicle allows you to stop at scenic spots along the way, like the Xitou Nature Education Area or the scenic hills of Cingjing.

Route: Taipei → National Freeway No. 3 → Nantou

Travel Time: ~2.5–3 hours (depending on traffic and your destination in Nantou)
Costs: Toll: ~NT$200 (depending on the route)
Fuel: ~NT$300–400

Pros:
Flexibility to explore hidden gems like Cingjing Farm or Sun Moon Lake
Comfortable, especially for families or groups
Scenic drive with plenty of places to stop along the way

Cons:
Driving in mountainous areas can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the roads
Traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends and holidays
Finding parking in popular tourist spots like Sun Moon Lake can be difficult

Tip: Renting a car from Taichung may be an option if you’re planning to explore central Taiwan extensively.

Option 3: Direct Bus from Taipei to Nantou

For those who prefer to take a direct bus to Nantou, there are several intercity bus services that offer comfortable, air-conditioned rides to the county.

Route: Taipei Bus Station → Nantou Bus Station

Travel Time: 3–3.5 hours
Cost: NT$250–350
Bus Operators: Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport, Nantou Bus

Pros:
No transfers—direct bus service from Taipei to Nantou
Affordable and air-conditioned
Comfortable ride with Wi-Fi on some buses

Cons:
Longer travel time than the train or car option
Limited departure times

Tip: Book bus tickets in advance, especially if traveling on weekends or during peak tourist seasons.

Option 4: High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Taichung + Bus to Nantou

Another option is to take the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Taichung, then transfer to a bus that goes to Nantou. While the HSR is not directly connected to Nantou, it’s still a fast and comfortable option.

Route: Taipei HSR Station → Taichung HSR Station → Nantou Bus Station

Taipei to Taichung by HSR:

Travel Time: 40 minutes
Cost: NT$400–700 (depending on the class)
Frequency: Every 30 minutes

Bus to Nantou:
Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
Cost: NT$150–200
Operators: Nantou Bus, Kuo-Kuang

Pros:
Fast to Taichung by HSR
Comfortable and reliable
Great if you prefer the speed of HSR but still need to use a bus for the final leg

Cons:
Transfer required between HSR and bus
HSR station is not in central Taichung, so you’ll need to travel a bit to the bus terminal

Tip: HSR is the fastest option to reach Taichung; from there, buses to Nantou are frequent.

Final Travel Tips

Book train or bus tickets in advance if traveling during weekends or holidays, as they can fill up quickly.
Use apps like Taiwan Railways, Kuo-Kuang Bus, or Nantou Bus for live schedules and online bookings.

If driving, take the Taichung Freeway (National Freeway No. 3) for the fastest route to Nantou, and enjoy the views of Cingjing along the way.

If you’re planning on visiting Sun Moon Lake, Cingjing, or Hehuanshan, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect accessibility, so plan accordingly.