Nestled in the mountainous heart of Taiwan, Nantou County is blanketed with tea plantations that produce high-quality oolong. It’s the only landlocked county in Taiwan and encompasses the nation’s most famous body of water, Sun Moon Lake. It also features historic temples, cultural sights and hiking trails along its shores.
Things to do in Nantou County
Stunning natural scenery, cultural wonders and a thriving wine industry - Nantou County offers an idyllic escape from Taiwan’s bustling cities.
Explore the shores of Sun Moon Lake. Surrounded by forested peaks, Sun Moon Lake has been designated as one of Taiwan’s 13 National Scenic Areas and is best appreciated along one of its walking trails. You can admire the majestic Wen Wu Temple or get a bird’s eye view from the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway before learning about Taiwan’s indigenous cultures at the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
Climb to the top of the Ci En Pagoda. One of Nantou County’s most striking landmarks is the Ci En Pagoda, a towering octagonal structure that rises to 46 metres in height. It was constructed by former President Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his late mother Wang Caiyu. After admiring its golden-red architecture, climb its nine stories for incredible views across Sun Moon Lake.
Sample traditional Taiwanese wines. In addition to tea, Nantou County is renowned for producing some of the best wines in Taiwan, home to several cellar doors where you can sample traditional Taiwanese varieties. Puli Winery is particularly well known for its delicious Shaohsing, which is made using high-quality sticky rice, barley and water from the Alian springs. Learn about the Chinese origins of Shaosing wine and the history of the Puli Winery while sipping on this bright yellow beverage.
Getting around Nantou County
Nantou County is around an hour’s drive from Taichung International Airport and is connected to destinations across Taiwan along the Jiji railway line. Buses are the main means of getting around the county, although having your own vehicle will give you greater freedom to explore.