Best Time To Visit Taiwan | 2025 Complete Updated Guide

After three trips to Taiwan (most recently in November 2024), I’ve experienced everything from sweltering summer heat in Taipei to perfect spring weather in Taroko Gorge to misty winter days in Jiufen. Each season hits completely different, and picking the right time can seriously make or break your Taiwan experience. Let me break down when to go (and when to definitely avoid) based on my own sweaty, rainy, and occasionally perfect adventures around the island.

Quick Answer: Best Time to Visit Taiwan

Overall best time: October-November and March-April for ideal weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices

Best for beach lovers: June-August for Kenting’s beaches (though hot and humid elsewhere)

For budget travelers: May and September-October (shoulder seasons with 20-30% cheaper accommodations)

To avoid: June-September typhoon season and Chinese New Year (insanely crowded and expensive)

Best festival experiences: Lantern Festival (February/March) and Dragon Boat Festival (May/June)

I made the rookie mistake of visiting during Chinese New Year once. Everything was closed, trains were packed, and hotel prices literally doubled overnight. Learned that lesson the hard way!

When is the Cheapest Time to Visit Taiwan?

If you’re watching your wallet (who isn’t these days?), aim for May or September-October when you’ll hit that sweet spot between good weather and better prices. These shoulder seasons offer solid savings—I paid about NT$2,800 (roughly $90 USD) for a decent hotel in Taipei in October, but the exact same room was NT$3,500+ during high season.

Here’s what you can typically save during shoulder seasons:

Accommodations: 20-30% lower than peak season
Flight prices: Often 15-25% cheaper (I snagged a round-trip from LAX for under $700 in May 2023)
Tour packages: Many offer “shoulder season” discounts of 10-15%

The absolute cheapest time is during typhoon season (June-September), but I wouldn’t recommend risking your vacation for a discount. My June trip included three days straight of thunderstorms that basically trapped me in my hotel. Not worth saving a few bucks, trust me!

Another budget tip: avoid Chinese New Year (dates change yearly, usually January-February) and other major holidays when prices skyrocket and availability plummets. I literally couldn’t find a hotel room under NT$5,000 during Chinese New Year in Taipei. Everything was booked solid for weeks.

What’s the Best Season to Visit Taiwan?

Spring (March-May)

Spring is honestly magical in Taiwan. The temperatures are comfortable (around 65-80°F/18-27°C), cherry blossoms might be blooming, and rainfall is moderate but not constant. It’s busy without being overwhelmingly crowded.

Pros of Spring in Taiwan:

Cherry blossoms in Yangmingshan National Park (usually March)
Perfect hiking weather for Taiwan’s gorgeous mountain trails
Comfortable temperatures for exploring cities
Spring tea harvest begins (great for tea enthusiasts)
Tomb Sweeping Festival activities (early April)

Cons of Spring:

Rainfall increases as spring progresses
Some rain showers, especially in northern Taiwan
Accommodation prices start rising in April
Can get surprisingly hot by late May

My April hike through Taroko Gorge was literally perfect—not too hot, not too crowded, and with that slightly misty atmosphere that makes the mountains look straight out of a Chinese painting. Brought the wrong shoes though and ended up with blisters the size of dumplings. Pack proper hiking boots!

Summer (June-August)

I’m just gonna be straight with you: summer in Taiwan is HOT and HUMID. We’re talking 85-95°F (29-35°C) with humidity that makes it feel like you’re walking through soup. Your clothes will stick to you within minutes of leaving air conditioning.

Pros of Summer:

Perfect beach weather in Kenting (southern Taiwan)
Night markets are extra lively
Dragon Boat Festival (May/June depending on lunar calendar)
Longer daylight hours for exploring
Amazing tropical fruit everywhere (the mangoes will change your life)

Cons of Summer:

Oppressive heat and humidity in cities
Typhoon season (particularly July-September)
Frequent heavy rainfall, especially in the north
Higher prices during school holidays
Popular attractions get super crowded

During my August visit, I had to completely restructure my days—outdoor activities in early morning, indoor/AC activities from 11am-4pm, then back outside in the evening. I went through 3-4 shirts a day just from sweating through them. The upside? The most incredible mango shaved ice of my life in Tainan.

Fall (September-November)

Fall might be Taiwan’s best-kept secret. By mid-September, the typhoon threats start decreasing, humidity drops, and temperatures become actually pleasant again (70-80°F/21-27°C). It’s my personal favorite season to visit Taiwan.

Pros of Fall:

Most comfortable temperatures for exploring
Less rainfall than summer (especially October-November)
Gorgeous autumn foliage in mountain areas (November)
Fewer tourists than peak seasons
Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations (September/October)

Cons of Fall:

Early fall (September) still has typhoon risks
Some mountain areas can get chilly by November
Rainfall still possible, especially in northern Taiwan

I spent three weeks traveling around Taiwan last October, and the weather was almost perfect every single day. Started in Taipei (warm but not sweltering), headed down to Taichung and Sun Moon Lake (sunny and mild), then to Tainan (still warm enough for short sleeves). Only rained twice the entire trip!

Winter (December-February)

Winter in Taiwan isn’t extreme by any means, but it can be surprisingly chilly and damp, especially in Taipei and the north. Temperatures usually range from 55-70°F (13-21°C), but the high humidity makes it feel colder than the numbers suggest.

Pros of Winter:

Least crowded season (except during Chinese New Year)
Hot springs are extra amazing (Beitou hot springs in the rain is an experience!)
Beautiful plum blossoms in late winter
Lower accommodation prices (outside holiday periods)
Perfect hot pot weather

Cons of Winter:

Frequent rain in northern Taiwan
Chilly, damp weather (especially Taipei)
Mountain areas can be cold and misty
Chinese New Year causes price spikes and crowds
Shorter daylight hours

My January trip to Taiwan was definitely the dampest. It didn’t pour constantly, but there was this persistent drizzly mist in Taipei and Jiufen that got old after a while. That said, sitting in a hot spring with cool rain falling around me was pretty magical. Just pack a good rain jacket and waterproof shoes!

QUICK FACTS: Taiwan Weather & Seasons

North Taiwan (Taipei): More rainfall, cooler winters (55-65°F/13-18°C)
Central Taiwan (Taichung): Driest region, mild winters
South Taiwan (Kaohsiung): Tropical climate, warm year-round (rarely below 65°F/18°C)
East Taiwan (Hualien): Beautiful but more typhoons and rain
Wettest Months: May-October
Typhoon Season: July-September (peak) with occasional outliers
Driest Months: October-March in most regions
Hottest Period: July and August (85-95°F/29-35°C plus humidity)
Coldest Period: January and February
Chinese New Year: Dates vary (Jan-Feb), major holiday with closures

What Are the Best Monthly Events in Taiwan?

Taiwan loves its festivals! Here’s a monthly breakdown of the coolest events:

January

Taipei Lantern Festival: Stunning lantern displays
Hot Spring Season: Peak time for hot spring resorts

Some smaller towns practically shut down during Chinese New Year (dates vary year to year). I showed up in a small village near Taichung during the holiday and literally couldn’t find an open restaurant for dinner. Had to eat convenience store food in my hotel room!

February

Chinese New Year: The biggest holiday (dates vary by lunar calendar)
Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival: Literally one of the most dangerous festivals in the world—thousands of fireworks shot directly at participants. Absolute insanity but oddly fun with proper protection!

March

Taipei International Cycle Show: Huge bicycle exhibition
National Lantern Festival: Beautiful lantern displays nationwide
Cherry Blossom Season: Particularly in Yangmingshan

The cherry blossoms at Yangmingshan were incredible, but SO CROWDED I could barely move. Go super early morning if you want any personal space at all. I made the mistake of arriving at 10am and spent more time shuffling through crowds than actually enjoying the flowers.

April

Tomb Sweeping Festival: A public holiday for honoring ancestors
Spring Scream Music Festival: Alternative music festival in Kenting

May

Buddha’s Birthday: Celebrations at temples nationwide
Matsu Pilgrimage: Massive religious pilgrimage (biggest in Taiwan)
Spring tea harvest: Great time for tea plantation visits

The Matsu Pilgrimage is WILD. I stumbled across it by accident in a small town and got swept up in this massive procession with drums, incense, and thousands of people. One of those random travel moments I’ll never forget.

June

Dragon Boat Festival: Exciting boat races nationwide
Taipei Film Festival: International film screenings
Mango Season: Best time for tropical fruits

July

Taiwan International Balloon Festival: Hot air balloons in Taitung
Summer beaches: Peak season for Kenting beaches
Ghost Month preparations: Begins late July/August (lunar calendar)

August

Ghost Month: Fascinating cultural traditions and ceremonies
Summer music festivals: Various outdoor concerts
Hungry Ghost Festival: Massive temple celebrations

Ghost Month is genuinely fascinating. Locals set out food offerings for wandering spirits, burn ghost money, and avoid swimming (spirits might drag you under!). My Taiwanese friend’s grandma scolded me for scheduling my wedding during Ghost Month… even though my wedding was in America!

September

Mid-Autumn Festival: Mooncakes and barbecues everywhere
Confucius Ceremony: Traditional ceremony at Confucius temples
Taiwan International Documentary Festival: For film buffs

Mid-Autumn Festival means BARBECUE. Every park, sidewalk, and available space in Taipei was filled with families grilling food. The smoke was so thick in some neighborhoods you could barely see! My Airbnb host invited me to join their family barbecue—still dream about those grilled squid.

October

Double Tenth Day: Taiwan’s National Day (Oct 10)
Kaohsiung Pride: One of Asia’s largest Pride parades
Taiwan Cycling Festival: Various cycling events

November

Taipei Jazz Festival: International jazz performances
Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival: Open water swimming event
Autumn foliage: Beautiful colors in mountain areas

November in the mountains around Alishan was unbelievably beautiful. The colors weren’t as vivid as New England fall foliage, but the misty mountains with touches of red and gold were absolutely magical. Needed a jacket in the mornings though—surprisingly chilly!

December

Taipei Marathon: Major running event
Christmas markets: Surprisingly festive in Taipei
New Year’s Eve celebrations: Spectacular fireworks at Taipei 101

How’s the Weather in Taiwan Throughout the Year?

Taiwan’s weather varies significantly by region and elevation:

Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Jiufen)

Spring: Mild temperatures (65-75°F/18-24°C) with increased rainfall
Summer: Hot and humid (80-95°F/27-35°C) with frequent heavy rain
Fall: Gradually cooling (70-85°F/21-29°C) with decreasing rain
Winter: Cool and damp (55-70°F/13-21°C) with frequent light rain

The constant drizzle in northern Taiwan during winter is no joke. I spent three days in Jiufen where it never fully rained but never fully stopped misting either. My shoes didn’t completely dry out once.

Central Taiwan (Taichung, Sun Moon Lake)

Spring: Warm and mild (70-80°F/21-27°C) with moderate rainfall
Summer: Hot (80-95°F/27-35°C) but slightly less humid than Taipei
Fall: Pleasant (70-85°F/21-29°C) with less rainfall
Winter: Mild days (60-75°F/16-24°C) but cooler nights

Central Taiwan has the best overall weather on the island! My time in Taichung was so much more comfortable than Taipei—still warm but way less oppressive humidity.

Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan)

Spring: Warm (75-85°F/24-29°C) with limited rainfall
Summer: Very hot (85-95°F/29-35°C) but great for beaches
Fall: Warm (75-90°F/24-32°C) with decreasing rain
Winter: Mild (65-80°F/18-27°C) and relatively dry

I spent Christmas in Kaohsiung once and was in shorts and t-shirt the whole time. While friends back home were posting snowy pics, I was sweating on the beach. Not a typical Christmas vibe but definitely not complaining!

Eastern Taiwan (Hualien, Taitung)

Spring: Mild (65-80°F/18-27°C) with increased rainfall
Summer: Hot and humid (80-90°F/27-32°C) with typhoon risks
Fall: Warm (70-85°F/21-29°C) with beautiful scenery
Winter: Mild but variable (60-75°F/16-24°C)

The east coast is absolutely gorgeous but gets hit hardest by typhoons. My hiking trip in Taroko Gorge got cut short when they closed the park due to landslide risks after heavy rain. Always check weather warnings during summer!

Is There a Worst Time to Visit Taiwan?

If I had to pick the absolute worst times to visit Taiwan, these would be my no-go periods:

Typhoon peak season (July-September): Nothing ruins a vacation faster than being stuck indoors while a typhoon passes through. My June trip included a minor typhoon that shut down transportation and outdoor activities for 3 days.
Chinese New Year (dates vary, Jan-Feb): Unless experiencing this holiday is specifically your goal, it’s a logistics nightmare. Transportation is packed, many businesses close for a week, and prices skyrocket. Trying to book a high-speed rail ticket during this time was literally impossible.
Summer in Taipei (July-August): The combination of 90°F+ temperatures and 80%+ humidity in Taipei is genuinely oppressive. Walking 10 minutes left me looking like I’d jumped in a swimming pool, clothes completely soaked.

If you absolutely must visit during these periods, southern beaches are your best bet during typhoon season (they often avoid the worst weather), and major cities still function during Chinese New Year (just with limited options).

FAQ About Visiting Taiwan

How many days do I need to see Taiwan?

At minimum, a week to see the highlights. Ideally, 10-14 days to explore beyond Taipei. Taiwan looks small on the map, but transportation between regions takes time, and there’s so much to see. I did 7 days my first trip and felt super rushed.

Is Taiwan expensive to visit?

Moderately priced. Not as cheap as Southeast Asia but more affordable than Japan or Korea. Street food meals run NT$80-150 (US$2.50-5), decent hotels NT$2,000-3,500 (US$65-115) per night, and the high-speed rail isn’t cheap but very efficient.

Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?

Many countries (including US, Canada, EU, Australia) get visa-free entry for 90 days. Always check the latest requirements before traveling. The visa process was surprisingly simple—basically just got a stamp on arrival.

Is Taiwan safe?

Extremely safe! Even in Taipei at 2am, I felt completely comfortable walking around solo. Violent crime is very rare, though standard travel precautions still apply. The biggest danger might be scooter traffic—crossing streets sometimes feels like a real-life game of Frogger!

Bottom Line: When Should You Visit Taiwan?

After multiple visits across different seasons, I’d crown October-November and March-April as the sweet spots for visiting Taiwan. You’ll get comfortable temperatures, reasonable prices, fewer crowds (outside of cherry blossom hotspots), and less rain to interrupt your plans.

If you’re on a tight budget, aim for May or September-October when you’ll still get decent weather with lower prices. Beach lovers should brave the summer heat for Kenting’s beautiful shores, while hot spring enthusiasts might actually prefer the cooler winter months when soaking in thermal waters feels most rewarding.

The one time I’d genuinely recommend avoiding is Chinese New Year unless experiencing this holiday is specifically your goal (in which case, book EVERYTHING months in advance). And if you’re sensitive to heat and humidity like me, maybe skip July-August in Taipei—the subtropical summer is no joke.

Whatever season you choose, Taiwan’s incredible food, friendly people, and mix of urban energy and natural beauty make it worth visiting year-round. Just pack accordingly—everything from sunscreen and lightweight clothes to a compact umbrella and quick-dry layers depending on when you go!