Taiwan, seemingly a country with a perpetual spring-like climate, actually experiences four distinct seasons. The weather in Taiwan is generally mild throughout the year, with the coldest period during winter only experiencing snowfall in higher elevations, and the hottest period during summer not typically resulting in heatstroke. Many clients ask about the best time to visit Taiwan and which months are suitable for a trip. In my opinion, different seasons offer different experiences, and even within the same season, different cities may have varying climates. Therefore, Taiwan is a year-round destination for travelers.
Spring (March to May): The weather is mild with average temperatures ranging from 18 to 26 degrees Celsius. Recommended tour: Tour Around Taiwan
March, April, and May are the spring season in Taiwan, with varying weather patterns that can include sunny, cloudy, and rainy days all in one day, so it's important to carry an umbrella with you. Additionally, around mid-May to early June is the rainy season, known as the plum rain season, characterized by abundant rainfall. Typically, Taiwan's plum rain season lasts for about two weeks, with consecutive rainy days followed by clear days before raining again. Despite potential inconveniences caused by rain during travel, misty Jiufen in the rain has a unique charm and atmosphere.
Spring in Taiwan is also the season when cherry blossoms bloom. Cherry blossoms can be seen all over Taiwan in February and March. Higher altitude areas like Wuling Farm start blooming as early as February, and the cherry blossom season here rivals that of Japan and Korea. Other popular cherry blossom spots in Taiwan include Yangmingshan in Taipei, Tienyuan Temple in Tamsui, Wulai Cherry Blossom Boulevard, Cingjing Farm in Nantou, and Alishan Cherry Blossom season, which will bloom successively, and cherry blossom viewing activities generally last until early April
Summer (June to September): The weather is hot with average temperatures ranging from 28 to 36 degrees Celsius. Recommended tour: South Taiwan Tour
During the months of June to September, Taiwan enters the summer season with temperatures ranging from 30 to 36 degrees Celsius. The weather in Taipei during summer can be even hotter than tropical countries like Malaysia and Singapore. As it coincides with the summer vacation period, it is a popular season for tourism in Taiwan. If you are not a fan of the heat, you can escape to the mountains for cooler temperatures. Places like Alishan or Cingjing Farm are ideal destinations for a refreshing summer getaway. You can also beat the heat by enjoying water activities at the beach. Kenting, Penghu, Xiao Liuqiu, and Green Island are all great choices for beach vacations. Most of the waters in Taiwan are clean and clear, perfect for snorkeling, surfing, and underwater activities. With blue skies, white clouds, and sunny beaches, this is the perfect time for a relaxing vacation.
Autumn (October to November): The climate in Taiwan during autumn is dry and stable, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. Recommended tour: East Taiwan Tour
Taiwan experiences the autumn season in October and November, with generally stable weather. Starting from October, the weather in Taiwan becomes clear and cool, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. Foreign visitors who are sensitive to both heat and cold may find autumn the best time to visit Taiwan. Except for Hualien and Taitung, which still experience higher rainfall in October, other cities in Taiwan generally have lower precipitation from October to November. When it comes to autumn, one cannot miss the heartwarming maple leaves. The vibrant red maple leaves gradually paint the forests across Taiwan, creating a gradient of yellow and red hues with changes in altitude, resembling romantic scenes from idol dramas. November to January is the best time for maple leaf viewing in Taiwan, where one can enjoy the beauty of maple leaves and cypress trees while taking a leisurely walk in a sea of red and yellow, immersing oneself in the embrace of nature during the autumn season.
Winter (December to February): In Taiwan, winter occurs from December to February. The weather in the northern part of Taiwan is typically cold and damp, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The southern part of Taiwan is relatively warmer compared to the northern part. Recommended tour: Onsen Tour
The coldest time in Taiwan is during the winter months of December to February, and it's the perfect time to indulge in hot springs when occasional cold fronts hit. From north to south, Taiwan is home to numerous famous hot springs, such as Beitou Hot Springs in Taipei, Suao Cold and Hot Springs in Yilan, Wulai Hot Springs in New Taipei City, Zhiben Hot Springs in Taitung, Guanziling Hot Springs in Taichung, Sichongxi Hot Springs in Pingtung, and Ruisui Carbonic Acid Hot Springs in Hualien. Hot springs are known for their beauty and anti-aging properties, as well as their ability to improve blood circulation and nourish muscles and bones. When visiting Taiwan in winter, it's a must to stay in a hot spring hotel, and the most convenient option is Beitou Hot Springs, which can be easily accessed by MRT. If you want to see snow, you can head to Hehuanshan, Xueshan, or Yushan, as lower altitude cities in Taiwan do not experience snowfall. Consider arranging a sunrise tour to Hehuanshan, where you can spend a night at Cingjing Farm and catch the sunrise the next morning. Hehuanshan is one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan, offering breathtaking views of sea of clouds and a chance to take a photo at Wuling, the highest point of Taiwan's highways. If weather conditions permit, you may also be treated to a stunning snowy landscape with frost-covered mountaintops in Hehuanshan.
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