A nature lover’s dream destination, Nantou County is located in the central part of Taiwan. It stands out because of its mountainous landscape and landlocked geography; a visit to Nantou County promises various adventures for travelers looking to commune with nature. Come into close contact with cows and sheep when you visit Qingjing Farm or learn about its history and culture with a trip to Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village and Ci En Pagoda. This destination in Taiwan is sure to amaze travelers with its other distinctive attractions, such as the popular Sun Moon Lake and Yushan National Park. To find out more, keep reading for the best things to do in Nantou County, Taiwan.
1. Enjoy views of Qingjing Farm from Qingjing Skywalk
Established in 1961, Qingjing Farm is located in Ren’ai Township. It is a year-round must-see destination, especially for those seeking a change of scenery. It also offers a sheep-shearing show, and visitors themselves can interact with the livestock.
From an elevation of 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level, visitors will enjoy panoramic views from Qingjing Skywalk. The 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) bridge is perfect for all types of visitors. It is even accessible to families with kids on strollers since it comes with plenty of areas where you can stop, rest, and take photos with views of nature in the background.
Nantou Qingjing Skywalk and Swiss Garden Ticket
2. Stroll around Small Swiss Garden
Be sure to stop by Small Swiss Garden, located on Renhe Road, Ren’ai Township. Known as “Taiwan’s Little Switzerland,” this small yet charming garden is abundant with bright-colored flowers, red maples, and bald cypresses. Plus, the artificial sunflowers add a visual spectacle to the atmosphere.
Though it opens at 9am, it is highly recommended to visit this picturesque destination at dawn to see why it is called the “Paradise in the Mist.” Evenings at the garden are made special by the fountains lighting up the night sky. Outdoor facilities, such as convenience stores, public toilets, and souvenir shops, are available here, as well.
Swiss Garden
Address: No. 170號, Renhe Rd, Ren’ai Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 546
Website: Swiss Garden
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
Price: TWD 120 (USD 4.34)
3. Explore and learn at Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village is the best destination for vacationing families. This one-stop entertainment and educational destination covers 62 hectares (153 acres) of land in Yuchi Township in Nantou County. It features different areas, including Amusement Isle, European Palace Garden, and Aboriginal Villages.
Thrill-seekers can get their fill at the park’s highly recommended rides, such as UFO Gyro Drop, Mayan Adventure Roller Coaster, and Caribbean Splash. Meanwhile, history buffs can explore the village and experience living history. This area showcases the life of the country’s aboriginal people and allows visitors to participate in various activities, including blow-pipe darts.
Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Address: 55544, Taiwan, Nantou County, Yuchi Township
Website: Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 9:30am - 5:30pm; Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 5pm
Price: From TWD 420 (USD 15.12) - TWD 850 (USD 30.61)
4. Experience a serene atmosphere at Ci En Pagoda
Built in memory of his mother, Ci En Pagoda was established by Chiang Kai-shek, the first president of the Republic of China. It is located on Shabalan Mountain. Hence, the long walk on the 700-meter (2,297-feet) trail is no small feat, but your efforts will be rewarded at the top. Towering at 46 meters (151 feet), the historical landmark offers a picturesque view of Sun Moon Lake.
Fireflies populating the pagoda’s surroundings create a magical setting while you’re watching the sunset over Sun Moon Lake. Visit between April and May to see the black-winged fireflies or October and November for the mountain fireflies. With their presence, you will feel like you’re in a fairy tale.
Ci En Pagoda
Address: 555, Taiwan, Nantou County, Yuchi Township
Website: Ci En Pagoda
Opening hours: 9am - 4:30pm (daily)
5. Go stargazing on Wuling
Formerly called Sakuma Pass, Wuling is a mountain pass that traverses the Central Mountain Range at an elevation of 3,275 m (10,745 ft). This scenic spot is popular among stargazers who, from April to June, can view the Crux constellation from here at night. Birdwatchers can catch a glimpse of local bird species, such as the Taiwan rosefinch.
A trip to Wuling is also a good way to escape the tropical climate below as its high altitude guarantees cool air. In winter, the snow-capped mountain makes for a postcard-perfect setting.
Wuling
Address: No. 170號, Renhe Rd, Ren’ai Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 546
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Go hiking at Yushan National Park
With an area of 103,121 hectares (254,817.5 acres) Yushan National Park offers plenty of opportunities for beginner and expert hikers. The visitor centers provide trekkers with the best trails to match their skills so that they can have a good and safe experience. Be sure to secure permits beforehand. There are a variety of routes that you can explore, such as Yushan Peaks Trail and Southern Section Two Trail among others.
Adventurous guests can spend an evening at Yushan Park and choose between camping outdoors and staying in a hut or a hostel. Additionally, Dongpu Hot Spring Area invites hikers to rest.
Yushan National Park
Address: Xinyi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 556
Website: Yushan National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Marvel at the beauty of Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is Nantou County’s most famous tourist spot and often placed at the top of visitors’ itineraries. The lake’s sparkling blue water, paired with the mountainous backdrop, makes it an Instagram-worthy setting. While visiting the lake, check out Wenwu Temple, Ci en Pagoda, and Lalu Island. You can also traverse on the 400-meter (1312-feet) Shuishang Bikeway.
Weekends on Sun Moon Lake are busy due to the influx of visitors. You can also expect higher room rates on Fridays and Saturdays. Additionally, accessible restrooms and parking spaces are available here.
Sun Moon Lake
Address: Yuchi, Nantou County, Taiwan
Website: Sun Moon Lake
8. Experience Zen at Chung Tai Chan Monastery
Chung Tai Chan Monastery is one of the tallest Buddhist structures in the world, towering at 136 meters (446 feet). An afternoon visit to this monastery and its garden will be a Zen experience for you. It offers you a chance to get to know the Buddhist faith up close.
Despite its modern design, its features are a testament to the Buddhist faith. The doornails on its massive gates pay homage to Gautama Buddha’s 1,250 disciples. Giant statues of the Four Heavenly Kings are the first things that will greet visitors at the magnificent hall. On the second floor, the solid rose-colored granite statue of Gautama Buddha adds to the setting’s sacredness.
Chung Tai Chan Monastery
Address: No. 2, Zhongtai Rd, Puli Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 545
Website: Chung Tai Chan Monastery
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 200 TWD (7.19 USD)
9. Cool off at Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area
Established in 1963, Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area covers 457 hectares (1130 acres) of amazing landscapes. Situated on Hehuan Mountain, the area is a hiker’s paradise come to life. You can traverse on a number of trails going up from the main road, and bird and animal sightings can be seen and appreciated along the way.
The area’s cool climate is another reason many people want to visit the area. Temperatures here can reach a chilling 18 degrees Celsius (64.4 degrees Fahrenheit) and can go even lower in the winter season.
Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area
Address: Sioulin Township, Hualien County, Ren'ai Township, Nantou County
10. Head to the Geographic Center of Taiwan
Travel to Puli Township to visit the Geographic Center of Taiwan monument. There are two monuments in Mount Hutou that signifies the center point of Taiwan. The first one is found at the mountain’s base. It was built in the 70s and bears an inscription by the late President Chiang Ching-Kuo. The inscription means “clear mountains and graceful water.”
The second monument, and largest triangulation of the island’s center, is roughly a 10-minute walk up the mountain. Once you reach it, your efforts will be rewarded with an amazing view of Puli Basin. It is also a great vantage point for viewing the sunrise or sunset, which is why this tourist spot is a popular stop.
Geographic Center of Taiwan
Address: No. 421號, Section 1, Zhongshan Rd, Puli Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 545
Website: Geographic Center of Taiwan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Enjoy Nantou County’s best attractions
With everything Nantou County has to offer, it is no wonder why travelers want to visit this place. You can definitely look forward to having a full-packed itinerary with lots of adventures to share with loved ones. With the provided list of things to do in Nantou County, Taiwan, above, you are sure to take home wonderful memories.
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