The Ideal Time to Visit Taiwan

A stunning island boasting everything from snow-capped mountains and bubbling hot springs to wildlife-rich nature reserves and vibrant cities, Taiwan is a top destination in Asia.

Culinary enthusiasts flock to Taipei for some of the globe’s most delicious street food (be sure to try a bowl of beef noodle soup, Taiwan’s unofficial national dish), while nature lovers venture out to explore its national parks, towering mountains, and breathtaking coastlines. Curious about the best time to visit Taiwan? The good news is, thanks to its diverse topography, there’s no wrong time to go.

Winters are relatively mild in this subtropical paradise, and while light rain can fall year-round, these brief showers are essential for the lushness of Taiwan’s vibrant scenery. Typically, September, October, and November are ideal months for outdoor adventures, while spring offers countless chances to witness nature's vivid colors and partake in some of Taiwan’s top festivals.

November and December are excellent months to discover cities like Taichung and Taipei. Keep in mind that the further south you travel, the warmer it gets. Don’t underestimate a winter getaway—winter in Taiwan is much milder than in Japan or China. Plus, you’ll always be near a soothing hot spring to fend off the winter chill; however, be aware that hot spring hotel rates tend to rise during colder months. Fortunately, this doesn’t apply to other accommodations, which often offer fantastic deals during this time. Here’s when to explore Taiwan.

Cherry blossom season in Taiwan occurs in January and February

Think the cherry blossoms in Japan are breathtaking? The cherry blossom season in Taiwan is equally mesmerizing, and you’ll find fewer selfie sticks intruding on your sakura photographs. Prime locations for cherry blossoms are scattered throughout Taiwan’s cities, making January and February some of the most recommended months for visiting Taipei.

Key locations for cherry blossom viewing include gardens around the city's temples, like Taipei's Wuji Tianyuan Temple, where winding pathways are adorned with Yoshino cherry trees.

The beginning of the year, particularly winter, is a perfect time to indulge in a hot spring experience—visitors can soothe their aches in over 150 hot springs across Taiwan. Many of the finest options are located near Taipei, and there are several hot spring resorts in Guguan, a mountainous area a 2.5-hour bullet train ride from Taipei. With excellent public transport connections, the Beitou hot springs near Taipei are easily reachable, and you'll find fewer crowds in January and February.

Experience culture (and caffeine) from March to May

Spring in Taiwan is a celebration of nature. You can still admire cherry blossoms in March and May, but it’s also a fantastic period to venture into Taiwan’s more secluded areas and coastal regions. Want to explore on two wheels? Biking through Taiwan is a great option as temperatures are cooler than in summer, and the national parks burst with vibrant colors.

Spring is an ideal time to explore Taiwan's tea plantations, particularly as the lushness peaks during this season, with oolong being the predominant variety. Key tea regions include Chiayi, Miaoli, and Taoyuan. While there are exciting festivals year-round, many significant Indigenous celebrations occur in spring.

Our favorite event? The Bunun tribe's Ear-Shooting Festival, held in April or May (date varies based on the lunar calendar). This festival features coming-of-age rituals, where men venture into the woods to hunt wild deer. An ear from the deer is attached to a wooden post, and young men attempt to shoot it with arrows, symbolizing the transfer of hunting skills to the next generation. Locals welcome tourists to observe the ceremonies, typically held in rural villages in eastern Taiwan.

Discover Taiwan’s urban life from June to August

June, July, and August are excellent months to explore Taiwan, particularly its urban areas. While these months can be hot and humid, many locals tend to escape to the coast during this time.

Cities will experience less foot traffic, and the abundance of museums, galleries, and indoor attractions provide good options for dodging the rain. Though this is officially monsoon season in Taiwan, rain showers are generally brief (with the heaviest rainfall in the south). If you plan to visit during these months, especially on a budget, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance—hotel prices can spike by up to 50% in July and August (similarly, expect increases during Chinese New Year).

What is typhoon season in Taiwan?

Typhoon season spans from May to November, also referred to as tropical cyclone season. While typhoons are more common during this period, Taiwan typically experiences an average of only 3.7 each year. The country's infrastructure is well-equipped to handle these events, and most typhoons affect only specific regions.

The best strategy is to monitor weather forecasts and remain adaptable with your plans. It's important to remember that peak tourist season runs from May to September, coinciding with typhoon season—yet Taiwan remains a remarkable destination during these months.

August offers the perfect conditions for hiking

In August, expect nighttime temperatures to average around 28°C (82°F) and daytime highs reaching approximately 32°C (90°F). While it can be hot and humid, this is an ideal time to escape the heat by venturing into higher elevations—such as Yushan National Park, which features an extensive network of trails. The Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail is another favorite; located near Taipei, its well-marked paths meander past numerous waterfalls, offering ample chances to cool down.

Experience the beauty of fall in Taiwan’s nature reserves

Taiwan's autumn scenery is breathtaking—vast stretches of forest in places like Nantou County's Aowanda Forest Recreational Area (notably featuring the stunning Maple Trail) transform into vibrant displays of gold, red, and ochre. Fall is also an excellent time for a scenic train journey. We suggest securing a seat on the Alishan Forest Railway, a historic steam train that travels through the enchanting forests and mountains of Chiayi County in southwestern Taiwan. Plus, visiting in September and October means you'll benefit from shoulder season, with significantly lower rates for midweek hotel stays.