Things to do & places to visit in Nantou, Taiwan

Taking in the breathtaking beauty of Nantou's Sun Moon Lake is truly an ethereal experience. The turquoise basin is shaped like the sun on the east side, a crescent moon on the west, and it reads like a rippling celestial journey. After a day of hiking the seven miles of trails in the lake's surrounding mountains, hop a cable car and whiz through the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village or take a soothing dip in one of the area's many hot springs. Local farms grow juicy drupe fruits, the perfect refreshment on a steamy day.

Nantou #7 destination in Taiwan 2023. The average rating score is 4.11 based on 11.6k traveler reviews, of 292 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Taipei, current date and time: Friday, May 10, 2024, 4:25.

Top things to do (27)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Chung Tai World Museum (261 reviews)
- World Class museum
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums

I learned a lot, but it helps if you already have an interest in the historical expansion of Buddhism in China. This museum is very accommodating to foreigners. All of the English descriptions were just as informative as the Mandarin signs, and the volunteers used English to thoroughly explain the museum facilities. I also loved the sections on epitaphs and Confucius, but there was no extra info via audio tour. Note: the snack bar is cashless and the full service restaurant is near the Wood Carving Museum, which is near the monastery; this museum is a separate complex. Bus time were well displayed. I spent all day here. I really enjoyed my visit. See more..
5.0 Yushan National Park (62 reviews)
- Great place
Mountains • National Parks

We went here for our Mt. Jade hike as completion of my Asia trilogy. The mountain is beautiful. We were very fortunate about the weather as it did not rain and there is sea of clouds. The number of foreigners hiking in Mt. Jade is limited. I believe this is a good effort to maintain the mountain and the park. It is clean. The mountain can be cold though particularly if you hike near the winter season. See more..
4.5 Ali Mountain (Alishan) (665 reviews)
- Scenic View: Sea of Clouds, Misty Forest
Mountains • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests

Great place to go if you like to do easy forest trails. All trails take about an hour to finish. How to get there from Chiayi Railway Station per way: By cab from is about 250NT per person, 2hour 30mins By public bus 7322 is 236NT per person, 2hour 40mins (purchase bus ticket at counter next to bus bay) Entry Fee per pax is 150NT (pay upon entering) Place/features to visit: Scared Wood (fallen trees) A 3 Generation Tree, (where a tree grow on top of each other - parasite) Misty/cloud Forest Century old tree stump (which has animals features: pig, elephants) Sisters' pond (Reflective ponds) Magnolia Garden Peach/plum blossoms (flowering in March to April) Best time to go: Weekdays, board transport earlier in the morning will allow you to reach destination by lunch time Catch afternoon Alishan mountain trail train to Zhaoping station and walk through the forest (about 90mins- slow walk) and back to Sacred Tree Station for the last train at 4:30pm See more..
4.5 Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area (559 reviews)
- Hike to Hehuanshan
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Mountains

The climate of the four seasons in Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area is distinct, and each season has very diverse scenery. In spring, you will see trees growing in green abundance with new leaves. In summer, the cool weather and beautiful sea of flowers of the blooming alpine plants is very attractive. In autumn, splendid red leaves glow, while the winter brings pure, white snow. If you stay in Song-Syue Lodge, you can enjoy the gorgeous glow of the ocean of stars. Transport to this location is convenient so it is a great place to enjoy the mountain scenery of Taiwan. See more..
4.5 Wen Wu Temple (493 reviews)
- Impressive Temple with Beautiful Views!
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

We stopped at Wenwu Temple which is located well on the mountain and overlooks the Sun and Moon Lake. The views from the temple are beautiful inside and outside. The temple is impressive. The staff are friendly and helpful. We donated money to the temple and wished for good lucks. See more..
4.5 Xitou Nature Eduction Area (251 reviews)
- The Famous Xitou
Spent More than 3 hours Parks

Ever since I was at college, I heard about and wanted to come to Xitou. However, it has just fulfilled my wish after 30 some years. It’s, indeed, a paradise like in busy Taiwan. It’s great to come here to breathe fresh air, to see the nature and more importantly, to relax and free your spirit. It’s a perfect location to meditate, to allow you to talk to natures, to exchange, to recharge yourself. We surely will return at different season to explore and enjoy of Xitou beauties. See more..
4.5 Wuling (142 reviews)
- Highest Highway in Taiwan
Mountains

We drove past this highest peak that one can travel by road in Dec. Its amazing that this peak has been incorporated as part of the highway. We traveled from Hualien to Sun Moon Lake and this peak is en route on the journey from Hualien via Taroko and finally ending up in Sun Moon Lake. From this peak onwards the journey is pretty much downhill. There is ample parking provided on one side of the road and on the opposite side there is a staircase and platform built to take it the 360 degree view of the mountains. We were in awe and took many pictures, but nothing can beat the view that is taken in by the eye. Be warned that the temperature can be cold and it is windy up here. When we were there the temperature was around 7-8 deg Celcius. See more..
4.5 Siang Shan Bikeway (141 reviews)
- A dream come true!
Biking Trails

I absolutely loved our bike ride! We got our bikes from Happy Bicycle which is not downtown when you get off the bus. It is near the start of the trail. You start seeing beautiful views of the lake and mountains immediately. They have places to pullover to take pictures as the entire trail is very scenic. Take water because they don’t have many places to stop along the trail to get something to drink. To me, I dreamed of riding a bike along the beautiful lake with the mountains as a backdrop. I felt like I was living a dream ❤️ Loved this! See more..
4.5 Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort (137 reviews)
- Magnificent & gorgeous nature resort
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Forests

Located in Jhu-Shan Village, Nantou County, Sun-Link-Sea Forest and Nature Resort has been on of the best tourist spots in Taiwan. Sun-Link-Sea near apart from the Sun Moon Lake. Visitors can exit the freeway from Jhu-Shan interchange. Change to route 3A, head for Luge and just follow the direction guidance, then, visitors can get to the destination at approximately time 70 minutes. Sun-Link-Sea is at an elevation of about 1,600 meters, belonging to the weather of the temperate zone monsoon, and it’s average temperature is 20℃ in summer. Visitors can see the cloud and must curl up the whole year round. Sun-Link-Sea is undoubtedly a perfect spot to spend a holiday. See more..
4.5 Zi Nan Temple (125 reviews)
- A family trip
Religious Sites

This is a well known temple to give away “seed money” or let people borrow some seed money to make you rich. I just watched it from the TV few days ago but have not been here yet. Anyway, it’s a raining Sunday when we drove down here. It’s a small temple (actually much smaller that I had expected) but full of people, it’s so crowd that you almost need to squeeze in to worship or pay your respect to the gods. Interesting to find a lot of so called “ FREE” parking on your way to the temple. I was told it’s not really FREE because they expect you to buy stuff there to go to the temple. The symbol “logo” of the temple is the “gold hen with gold egg”. We bought one and had it prayed for our mom. See more..
4.5 Sakura Festival (110 reviews)
- Best time to come during sakura festival
Cultural Events

The biggest cherryblossom festival event in Taiwan. There are 5000 cherry trees planted in the park. Every Feburary and early March is the best time to view the gorgeous full blooming of cherry blossom. Besides, visitors can experience the Taiwanese indigenous people's culture and performance as well as the amusement attractions in the same visit. See more..
4.5 Wangyou Forest (99 reviews)
- Gorgeous Forest with positive Energy
Forests

This reminds me the root of wood at Kurama Mountain in Kyoto. You can sense the positive energy and very Zen-like atmosphere to let you relax & meditate. Somehow, only this circle of trees show this special energy to comfort you within. Standing or sitting inside the circle, you mingle yourself (your spirit) with all the woods surrounding, sky and the earth underneath. Instead of driving up to the entrance, you have the option to take one of 4 wheel drive autos for a very reasonable price. Have fun and enjoy this unique experience. See more..
4.5 Sun Moon Lake Ci-en Pagoda (88 reviews)
- Best view there is of Sun Moon Lake
Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

This offers the best view of Sun Moon Lake in our opinion. Period. Nothing comes close. We did the long climb all the way from the pier before realizing the round island bus goes there too. (The hike is nice actually.. good exercise and scenery - in winter). The pagoda is clean, well maintained and nice. The view at the top offers a panoramic 360 view of SML. Well worth it. See more..
4.5 Sun Moon Lake Bikeway (87 reviews)
- Must do in Sun Moon Lake
Biking Trails

Cycling on a rented bike is a must do activity in Sun Moon Lake and is very popular. Sure beats walking as the lake is quite big. We booked our bikes online and cycled from Shuishe to Xiangshan and around. We met many fellow cyclists. On one of the boardwalks, we need to get down and push our bikes as cycling was prohibited. Weather was pleasant but sunny. Enjoyed this activity and got some exercise too. This bikeway is quite scenic. See more..
4.5 Ci'en Pagoda (55 reviews)
- Paranomic view of sun moon lake
Points of Interest & Landmarks

I hiked from the xuanguang pier, first to the xuanzang temple then to ci en pagoda.twas long but totally worth the effort. If u have a vehicle, you can stop at cien pagoda car park. See more..
4.5 Hehuanshan Main Peak Trail (54 reviews)
- Superb!
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Hiking Trails

This was Taiwan’s first designated national forest recreation area, which was bestowed this honor because of its special scenery and alpine ecosystem. Among the numerous high summits in the park are Mt. Hehuan Main Peak, Mt. Hehuan East Peak, Mt. Hehuanjian, and Mt. Shihmen. The coniferous forest landscape over 3,000m high is a rarity around the globe, featuring an undulating interchange between coniferous trees and waving Yushan Cane that creates a forest boundary terrain that is dramatically unique. On your ascent, you can observe the rich flora and fauna of the alpine ecology waiting patiently for your visit! Mt. Hehuan Main Peak is one of hundreds of mountains in Taiwan. It has a unique vantage point – if you stand at the summit and look all around, you can see the Hehuan range, Mt. Qilai clusters, Mt. Nanggao, Mt. Nanhu and Central Range Point all from that one spot. See more..
4.5 Antique Assam Tea Farm (41 reviews)
- Informative
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Farms

The guided tour was very thorough and informative. First, they presented how the farm was restarted: how the founders believed in nature and organic farming. The presentation was followed by a demonstration about how tea leaves were picked and handled, together with the machines. Finally, there was a buffet with organic vegetables. Really worth visiting to hear what they have to say about nature. See more..
4.5 Sunglungyen Waterfall (31 reviews)
- Brilliant experience 很棒的體驗
Waterfalls

This waterfall is located in the Sun-Link-Sea forest. According to one of the tour guides, the water is not as strong as rainy season but still stunning. If you would like to hike, there is a hiking trail where you are able to explore more about this forest. I like it pretty much while I was there. Also, the air is so fresh. 這個瀑布在杉林溪森林游樂區裡面。根據一個導遊說現在由於不是雨季，所以瀑布的水沒有那麼大但還是很漂亮。如果你想要爬山，這裡面也有一條登山步道，可以探索。我非常喜歡這裡，還有空氣真的超新鮮。 See more..
4.5 Fuci Tree (26 reviews)
- Drive from Alishan to Sun Moon Lake , 21 State Road
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Wonderful View, Coolz at 11am. Together with family. LOcal People Camping and Drive CAmp Truck park at Nearby Public Parking Area. See more..
4.0 Sun Moon Lake (2.623 reviews)
- Lake of many moods
Bodies of Water

Sun Moon Lake is Taiwan's largest lake. This beautiful lake is one of Taiwan's favorite scenic areas. It's loved by travelers, local and international alike. Sun Moon Lake's changing moods are fascinating, The weather in the mountains is changeable. which only enhances the lake's attraction. See more..
4.0 Cingjing Veterans Farm (1.056 reviews)
- Love the breathtaking views
Spent More than 3 hours Farms

We paid a total of 840NT for the Green Green grassland and skywalk for two adults and two students. The student price did not include the combo so we had to buy skywalk tickets separately. There were some shows featuring how to use a whip and also a horse show but we did not see either . We were all busy snapping away as the views were superb . In all we spent about 1.5 to 2 hours. I suppose if you like to see the shows you can expect to spend about 3-4 hours here . See more..
4.0 Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (595 reviews)
- Slow day, hardly anyone there
Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

Formosa Aboriginal Cultural Village has the largest outdoor museum in Taiwan dedicated to displaying the traditional homes and architecture of Taiwanese indigenous tribes. The nine villages are arrayed over an expansive section of hillside to give visitors a feel of what native Taiwanese villages looked like so many years ago. All buildings were reconstructed based on fieldwork research and blueprints drawn up by anthropologists in the 1930s and 40s. See more..
4.0 Xiangshan Visitor Center (349 reviews)
- Beyond expectation
Visitor Centers

The architecture and building are amazing. The scenery is spectacular. The introductory film by round screen at the mutimedia center is also attractive.Sitting at the outdoor cafe is another cozy way to enjoy the surroundings. See more..
4.0 Xuanzhuang Temple (212 reviews)
- Best Temple of the Greatest Chinese Monk Ever
Religious Sites

My girlfriend and I visited this beautiful temple last year, and we stayed at a nice hotel in Nantou's Sun Moon Lake. It wasn't as big as the other new temples in Taiwan, such as Dharma Drum Mountain or Fo Guang Mountain, but it praises the most well known Chinese monk, also the main character of the "Journey to the West," Venerable Xuanzhuang Master of the Tang Dynasty. He is one of the four top Buddhism Sutra Translators, and in my mind, the only worthy mention of a real Chinese monk. Inside the temple holds his relics, believed to be the top of his skull, and is kept in close watch. I loved the environment and the serenity the temple brought. Namo Amitofo T_T See more..
4.0 Chung Tai Chan Monastery (177 reviews)
- Majestic and an architectural marvel!

The monastery is huge and impressive. The first floor, the Hall of the Four Heavenly Kings is awesome. The second floor has a red granite sculpture of Buddha. You are allowed to take pictures on the first and second floor (but not on the stairs). We got to go upstairs on a special tour and it is even better, but no photos allowed upstairs. The best part is the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddha and the Teakwood Pagoda in the middle. The staff is very nice and helpful. They do ask you keep your volume down since it is a place of worship. Definitely a must see. See more..
4.0 Checheng Station (167 reviews)
- Great place to spend a day
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Wow!! This is really a nice place to visit if you are in Nantou.. After visiting Jiji, we came here during our trip to Taiwan this Nov.. the weather was lovely and the scenery was even nicer.. There are a lot of trains and tracks to take photos for those who love railway.. There is also a wood museum as it used to be a lumber place.. Best of all, everything is FREE!!! there are also shops selling food and stuff for those who need their shopping fix.. haha.. NOTE : Near the wood museum, there is a cart selling drinks.. try their "OLD FASHIONED Winter Melon Drink with Lemon"... it is heavenly!!! Overall a very highly recommended place to spend a day.. PS 2 : if you want, go Jiji first then here.. else you will feel Jiji is boring,. skip Shueili.. see my other reviews for reason.. See more..
4.0 Yidashao Pier (126 reviews)
- Lively
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks

Was greeted with the sound of aboriginal music when I arrived at the pier. There were people gathered in front of the musicians, listening attentively. Just a short walk in, you’ll find food at every corner (lots of street food). Good place to hang out for meals, that’s about it. This place does not have enough entertainment. See more..
4.0 Sun Moon Lake Shuishe Wharf (113 reviews)
- 一個放鬆身心的地方
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks

Perfect for watching the sunrise, the sun and the lake, reflected a painting, very beautiful, also very suitable for a walk on the lake trails, enjoy the relaxation of body and soul非常適合觀看日出的地方，日光和湖面，映出一幅畫作，非常美，也很適合在湖邊步道上散散步，享受一下身心靈的放鬆 See more..
4.0 Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area (78 reviews)
- Good place to rest, waterfalls, easy trails
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Forests • Waterfalls

When the autumn comes, the golden red maple leaves throughout the mountains in Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area mark the hot season in the park. However, the beautiful scenery of the cherry blossoms in spring rivals the park’s autumn beauty. The ecological scenery in the park is plentiful, including the native zelkova (Taiwan Zelkova, Zelkova serrata (Thunb.) Makino), ring-cupped oak (Quercus glauca Thunb. ex Murray), Taiwanese red pine (Pinus taiwanensis Hayata), and Taiwanese Blue Magpie, as well as the 120 kinds of birds that inhabit the area. Luciola cerata arrives silently in May every year, while Cheirotonus formosanus and butterflies give a fabulous dance performance. In this appealing forest, the spectacular “Aowanda suspension bridge” connects to the beautiful pines zone, a must-see if you visit Aowanda. See more..
4.0 Cingjing Skywalk (59 reviews)
- Nice walk to see the mountains
Scenic Walking Areas

The skywalk stretches for a bit and they close the entry at about 4-430 pm . We just walked for a bit maybe 10 minutes and snapped away . Would suggest to start the walk from the farm and walked towards Carton King as it would be downhill . Gorgeous view. See more..