Nantou
· TW

Nantou

Nantou, Nantou, Taiwan

Escape to Nantou: Taiwan's Emerald Isle Nestled in the heart of Taiwan, embraced by emerald mountains and shimmering lakes, lies Nantou, a county brimming with natural wonders and cultural treasures. Forget the urban jun…

#Mountainous#Scenic#Tourist destination#Taiwanese culture#Tea production
1/5
Stay & flyVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Nantou.

Top Hotels in Nantou

Top Flights to Nantou

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Nantou.

Currency
NT$ | TWD | New Taiwan Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Nantou, Nantou, Taiwan is around 0.1 million.
Languages
Taiwanese Hokkien, Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka
Average weather
Nantou
Jan
cloud
19°10°
Feb
cloud
20°11°
Mar
cloud
23°13°
Apr
rain
26°17°
May
rain
28°20°
Jun
rain
30°22°
Jul
rain
31°23°
Aug
rain
31°23°
Sep
rain
30°22°
Oct
cloud
27°20°
Nov
cloud
24°16°
Dec
cloud
21°12°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Nantou.

What people love

Nantou, located in central Taiwan, is known for its stunning natural landscapes and cultural attractions. Here are some pros of traveling to Nantou:

  1. Sun Moon Lake: Nantou is home to Sun Moon Lake, one of the most famous scenic spots in Taiwan. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, visit the temples and pagodas around the area, and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

  2. Alishan National Scenic Area: While not directly in Nantou, Alishan National Scenic Area is easily accessible from Nantou and is a popular day trip destination. Alishan is known for its ancient cypress trees, beautiful hiking trails, and stunning sunrise views.

  3. Cingjing Farm: Another popular attraction in Nantou is Cingjing Farm, where visitors can see sheep grazing on lush green pastures, enjoy the cool mountain air, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

  4. Tea plantations: Nantou is a major tea-producing region in Taiwan, and visitors can explore tea plantations, learn about tea production, and sample different varieties of local tea.

  5. Hiking and outdoor activities: Nantou is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking trails, cycling routes, and water activities available in the area.

Overall, traveling to Nantou offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the heart of Taiwan.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Nantou, Taiwan could include:

  1. Limited public transportation options: Nantou is a more rural area compared to larger cities in Taiwan, so public transportation options may be limited. This could make it more challenging to get around the area, especially if you are not familiar with the local transportation system.

  2. Language barrier: While many people in Taiwan speak English, you may encounter some language barriers in more rural areas like Nantou. It could be helpful to learn some basic Mandarin phrases before your trip to help with communication.

  3. Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Nantou is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, but it may not offer as many nightlife or entertainment options as larger cities in Taiwan. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, you may be disappointed in Nantou.

  4. Weather considerations: Nantou's weather can be unpredictable, with typhoons and heavy rainfall occurring during certain times of the year. It's important to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly to ensure you are prepared for any weather-related challenges.

Overall, Nantou offers a unique and tranquil travel experience with its beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions. However, it's essential to be aware of these potential cons to have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Nantou, the only landlocked county in Taiwan, is situated in the central part of the island. Its capital is Nantou City, which is also the address you provided. Here's a detailed history of Nantou, focusing on significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

  1. Early Settlement

    • The area now known as Nantou was originally inhabited by the indigenous Thao people, among other Austronesian tribes. The Thao were primarily located around Sun Moon Lake, which remains a significant cultural and historical site.

  2. Qing Dynasty (1683-1895)

    • During the Qing Dynasty, Nantou became part of the administrative region as Han Chinese settlers began to migrate inland, developing agriculture and establishing settlements.

  3. Japanese Rule (1895-1945)

    • After the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895, Taiwan was ceded to Japan. The Japanese initiated infrastructural developments in Nantou, including roads and railways, which helped integrate the region further into the island's economy.
    • Sun Moon Lake was developed as a hydroelectric power site, transforming it into a major tourist attraction.

  4. Post-World War II

    • After Taiwan was handed back to the Republic of China in 1945, Nantou continued to develop. The region faced challenges such as the devastating 921 Earthquake in 1999, which caused significant damage and loss of life but also led to rebuilding and modernization efforts.

Significant Events

  • 921 Earthquake (1999)
    • On September 21, 1999, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Nantou County and other parts of central Taiwan. It was one of the deadliest natural disasters in Taiwan's history, leading to extensive reconstruction and emergency response improvements.

Historical Figures

  • Lin Jiakang (林佳慶)
    • A notable figure involved in the development and modernization of Nantou, particularly during the reconstruction efforts post the 921 Earthquake. His contributions to disaster recovery initiatives have been recognized locally.

Important Landmarks

  1. Sun Moon Lake

    • A natural and cultural landmark, Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in Taiwan and a popular tourist destination. It holds cultural significance for the Thao people and features attractions such as the Wenwu Temple and Ita Thao Village.

  2. Cingjing Farm

    • Located in the Ren'ai Township of Nantou, Cingjing Farm is a high-altitude farm known for its scenic landscapes and recreational facilities, attracting both local and international tourists.

  3. Xitou Nature Education Area

    • This area, part of the Experimental Forest of National Taiwan University, offers hiking trails and a diverse range of flora and fauna, promoting environmental education and ecotourism.

  4. Chung Tai Chan Monastery

    • One of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Taiwan, known for its modern architectural design and cultural significance in promoting Buddhism.

Nantou's historical evolution from indigenous lands to a modern county reflects Taiwan's broader historical and cultural transformations. The county remains a significant region for both its natural beauty and its role in Taiwan's development.