About 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.
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
A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of Taiwan
Located in Nantou County, Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Named for its unique shape—resembling the sun on one side and a crescent moon on the other—this stunning alpine lake is surrounded by lush mountains and rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides, explore temples like Wenwu Temple, bike around the award-winning lakeside trails, or delve into the traditions of the indigenous Thao people who call this area home. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat, Sun Moon Lake offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of city life.
Cingjing Farm
A Breathtaking Highland Getaway in Taiwan
Nestled in the mountains of Nantou County, Cingjing Farm is a peaceful alpine retreat known for its cool climate, rolling green meadows, and stunning mountain views. Perched at 1,750 meters above sea level in Nantou County’s Ren’ai Township, Cingjing Farm is a serene highland destination often dubbed “Taiwan’s Little Switzerland.” This scenic destination offers a refreshing escape from city life.
Visitors can stroll through the Green Green Grasslands, watch sheep grazing freely, enjoy charming European-style gardens, and walk the Cingjing Skywalk for panoramic views of the Central Mountain Range. Whether you’re there to relax or explore, Cingjing Farm is the perfect blend of nature, fresh air, and highland charm.
Xitou Nature Education Area
Nestled in the misty mountains of Nantou County, 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.
Highlights of Xitou Nature Education Area
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.
Xitou Monster Village in blog post
Nestled at the entrance of Xitou Nature Education Area in Nantou County, Xitou Monster Village is a whimsical Japanese-style village that blends local folklore with playful monster-themed architecture. Established in 2011, this charming destination attracts over 200,000 visitors monthly, offering a unique experience for families and travelers seeking a touch of fantasy.
Highlights of Xitou Monster Village
Japanese-Inspired Architecture: The village features traditional red torii gates, lantern-lit streets, and quaint buildings adorned with monster motifs, creating an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a Japanese anime village.
Kubota Bakery: A must-visit for food enthusiasts, the bakery is renowned for its “biting cat bread,” a unique pastry topped with stinging nettle leaves. These limited-edition treats are available at specific times and often have lines of eager customers.
Interactive Experiences: Visitors can enjoy various interactive elements, including themed shops, games, and opportunities to dress in traditional Japanese attire, enhancing the immersive experience.
Evening Ambience: As dusk falls, the village transforms with illuminated lanterns, offering a mystical ambiance perfect for evening strolls and photography.
Zhongxing New Village
Zhongxing New Village in Nantou, Taiwan, is a charming town where history and modernity blend together. Established in 1956, it was originally designed as a planned city and served as the seat of the Taiwan Provincial Government. Over time, the village has witnessed political and social changes in Taiwan, and with the dissolution of the provincial government in 1999, the area has become quieter but remains an attractive destination for those seeking tranquility and nostalgia.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The name “Zhongxing” symbolizes the rebuilding and revitalization of Taiwan’s provincial government. The village’s architecture reflects a mix of traditional and British-style garden city elements, featuring green streets, vintage clock towers, and a peaceful ambiance that transports visitors to a different time.
Local Delights and Scenic Spots
Despite its quieter atmosphere, Zhongxing New Village still maintains a vibrant community feel. Popular spots like “Zhengdian Milk King,” known for its cookie ice cream sandwiches, have become local favorites. For those interested in a more refined culinary experience, “Taste Explorer” offers private dining with nostalgic Taiwanese flavors.
Visitor Information
Located in Nantou City, Zhongxing New Village is approximately a 30-minute drive from Sun Moon Lake, easily accessible by bus or car.
Houtanjing Sky Bridge
Located in Nantou City, Taiwan, the Houtanjing Sky Bridge is a captivating pedestrian suspension bridge that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and plains. Affectionately known as the “Smiling Sky Ladder” due to its gentle curvature, the bridge is a popular spot for both daytime sightseeing and sunset photography.
Length & Design: Spanning 204 meters with 265 steps, the bridge is Taiwan’s longest sky ladder. It stands approximately 70 meters above the valley floor, providing a thrilling yet safe experience for visitors.
Scenic Views: From the bridge, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Changhua Plain and, on clear days, distant landmarks like the Xiluo Bridge and Zhuoshui River. The area is also known for its breathtaking sunsets.
Visitor Information
Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Admission: NT$50 for adults; discounts available for local residents.
Puli
wned for its serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and central location, making it an ideal base for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Surrounded by lush hills and valleys, Puli offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels. One notable spot is Huzi Shan, a popular vantage point that provides panoramic views of the town and its picturesque surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a relatively easy hike to the summit, making it accessible for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Cultural and Religious Sites
Chung Tai Chan Monastery: This modern Buddhist monastery is one of the tallest in Taiwan, standing at 136 meters. Its impressive architecture and tranquil ambiance make it a significant cultural landmark in Puli.
Muh Sheng Museum of Entomology: A unique museum showcasing over 16,000 insect specimens, including more than 350 species of butterflies and moths. It’s an educational stop for those interested in entomology and natural history.
Local Delights
Puli is famed for its high-quality spring water, which has led to the establishment of several local breweries. The Puli Distillery, located near Liyu Lake, offers a glimpse into the region’s brewing history and provides samples of its award-winning spirits.
Weekend Night Market
The Puli Town Night Market, open on weekends, is the largest in Nantou County. Spanning over 12,000 square meters, it features a wide array of food stalls, games, and local products. Notably, some stalls are dedicated to charity, reflecting the community’s spirit of giving.
Puli Brewery
Puli Brewery is a historic distillery renowned for producing high-quality Shaoxing wine and other traditional spirits. Established in 1917 during the Japanese colonial era, it was originally a supplier to the imperial court,
Puli Brewery gained prominence in 1952 with the introduction of its Shaoxing wine, crafted using the pure spring waters of Ailan Spring. By 1966, the brewery shifted its focus to mass production of Shaoxing wine, achieving significant success. In 1995, the launch of Ailan White Liquor further solidified its reputation in Taiwan’s liquor industry.
The brewery houses Taiwan’s first Wine Culture Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolution of winemaking in the region. The museum showcases a diverse collection of fine wines and spirits, including bottles adorned with artwork by renowned artists.
Visitors can explore the brewery’s marketplace, sampling and purchasing a variety of products such as Shaoxing wine, wine-flavored ice cream, and local delicacies. The second floor features the museum, where guests can learn about the history and craftsmanship behind Puli’s renowned wines.
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 .
Taiwan Hikes
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.
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
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