The best time to visit Taiwan is autumn (late October to early December) and spring (March to April). Temperatures are mild, between 22 to 27 °C (72 to 81 °F) in the afternoon in Taipei, and the typhoon season is over or has not yet begun. Summer is hot, humid and rainy; winter is mild in the south but often gray and drizzly in Taipei. To compare the north and south of the island, see the map of Taiwan.
Taiwan is a mountainous island crossed by the Tropic of Cancer: the north has a humid subtropical climate, the south is tropical. Regions therefore do not share the same dry season. The advice below is based on the 1991–2020 climate normals of Taiwan’s weather service (the Central Weather Bureau, now the Central Weather Administration).
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When to go to Taiwan at a glance
- Best times late October to early December, then March–April
- Typhoons the season normally runs from May to November, and is most active from July to September (UK FCDO, GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026); typhoons can cause road blockages and landslides, especially in central and southern Taiwan
- Spring rains (“plum rains”) about May–June, more than 220 mm (8.7 in) a month in Taipei
- Summer (June to September) about 33 to 35 °C (91 to 95 °F) in the afternoon in Taipei, high humidity, thunderstorms
- Winter (December to February) 19 to 21 °C (66 to 70 °F) in Taipei, often gray weather; 24 to 25 °C (75 to 77 °F) and very dry in Kaohsiung and Kenting
- Best value November and early December, outside Asian holiday periods
- Top events Lunar New Year and the Lantern Festival (January–February depending on the year)
When to go to Taiwan by priority
- Best weather: November (the driest month in Taipei), then March, April and early December
- Cheapest: November, early December and March, outside Asian holiday periods; prices rise during Lunar New Year
- Fewest crowds: outside July–August (holidays) and Lunar New Year, crowds stay moderate all year
- Events: Lunar New Year (late January or February), Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival (usually in June), National Day on October 10; check lunar dates every year
Taiwan: the calendar at a glance
✅ Best months: March, April, November, December
❌ Period to avoid: September
Weather and climate in Taiwan month by month
The table below gives the normals for Taipei, the arrival point for most travelers. The south, the east coast and the Kenting peninsula are compared further down.
| Month | Avg. high | Avg. low | Rain | Crowds | Prices | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19.4 °C (67 °F) | 14.2 °C (58 °F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ⚠️ Cool and often gray, drizzle |
| February | 20.3 °C (69 °F) | 14.4 °C (58 °F) | 102 mm (4.0 in) | High (Lunar New Year) | High during the holidays | ⚠️ Cool, New Year festivities |
| March | 22.7 °C (73 °F) | 16.0 °C (61 °F) | 108 mm (4.3 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ✅ Mild, spring |
| April | 26.4 °C (80 °F) | 19.3 °C (67 °F) | 101 mm (4.0 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ✅ Pleasant, before the heavy rains |
| May | 29.7 °C (85 °F) | 22.6 °C (73 °F) | 225 mm (8.9 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ⚠️ Plum rains |
| June | 32.7 °C (91 °F) | 25.1 °C (77 °F) | 235 mm (9.3 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ⚠️ Hot, rainy and humid |
| July | 34.8 °C (95 °F) | 26.6 °C (80 °F) | 214 mm (8.4 in) | High (holidays) | High | ⚠️ Very hot, typhoon risk |
| August | 34.2 °C (94 °F) | 26.4 °C (80 °F) | 237 mm (9.3 in) | High (holidays) | High | ⚠️ Very hot, typhoon risk |
| September | 31.5 °C (89 °F) | 25.0 °C (77 °F) | 237 mm (9.3 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ❌ Rainy, peak typhoon season |
| October | 27.6 °C (82 °F) | 22.4 °C (72 °F) | 163 mm (6.4 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ⚠️ Milder, typhoons still possible |
| November | 24.8 °C (77 °F) | 19.7 °C (67 °F) | 89 mm (3.5 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ✅ Mild and drier, the best month |
| December | 21.0 °C (70 °F) | 16.0 °C (61 °F) | 97 mm (3.8 in) | Moderate | Moderate | ✅ Cool and pleasant |
These averages hide an important reality: in Taipei, it can rain in every season. In winter, rain often takes the form of persistent drizzle brought by the northeast monsoon; in summer, it is more often violent late-afternoon thunderstorms. A compact umbrella is useful all year.
The seasons in Taiwan: pros and cons
Two phenomena set the rhythm of the year: the northeast monsoon, from autumn to spring, which waters the north and east of the island; then the southwest monsoon and typhoons, from May to October, which bring most of the rain to the south and the mountains.
Autumn (late October to early December): the best season
Once the typhoon season is over, the air becomes drier and milder: 24.8 °C (77 °F) in the afternoon in Taipei in November, with 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, the lowest total of the year. In the south, the dry season begins. It is the most balanced period for a tour of the island.
- Pros: pleasant temperatures, low typhoon risk from November, ideal conditions for hiking and cycling
- Cons: the northeast coast (Keelung, Jiufen, Yilan) and Hualien stay fairly wet as the northeast monsoon returns
- Our tip: November is the best month for a first trip
Spring (March to April): mild and in bloom
Spring is mild, around 23 to 26 °C (73 to 79 °F) in the afternoon in Taipei. Cherry trees bloom in the mountains, notably at Alishan, on dates that vary every year. The main rainy season has not yet begun.
- Pros: pleasant temperatures, mountain blossoms, good summit visibility on some days
- Cons: frequent fog in the mountains, crowds at Alishan during the blossom season; April has several local public holidays
- Who is it for? Hiking and mountain-scenery fans
Rainy season and summer (May to September): heat and thunderstorms
The “plum rains” arrive in May–June, then summer becomes very hot and humid: an average high of 34.8 °C (95 °F) in July in Taipei. In the south, this is the wettest season: more than 400 mm (15.7 in) in June and more than 500 mm (19.7 in) in August in Kaohsiung. On top of that comes the typhoon season: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026), typhoons can affect Taiwan in June, but the most active period is July to September.
- Pros: very green landscapes, beaches open at Kenting and on the islands, tropical fruit (mangoes, lychees), summer festivals
- Cons: muggy heat, daily thunderstorms, typhoon risk: mountain roads cut off, trains and flights canceled, landslides
- Good to know: the FCDO advises checking the Central Weather Administration website for typhoon news and staying flexible, as flights, trains and buses may be delayed or canceled. Build a day or two of leeway into your itinerary
- Who is it for? Travelers who only have summer, staying flexible and following the forecasts
Winter (December to February): mild in the south, gray in the north
Taiwanese winters are mild but contrasting. In Taipei, it is about 19 to 21 °C (66 to 70 °F) in the afternoon and 14 °C (57 °F) at night, with often overcast skies and frequent drizzle. The south, by contrast, enjoys its dry season: less than 20 mm (0.79 in) of rain a month in Kaohsiung from December to February, and 24 to 25 °C (75 to 77 °F) in the afternoon.
- Pros: sunny, dry south, ideal for Tainan, Kaohsiung and Kenting; pleasant hot springs in the north; no typhoons
- Cons: gray, damp weather in Taipei and on the east coast; cold at altitude; very busy transport during Lunar New Year
- Our tip: in winter, spend more time in the south and west of the island
When to go to Taiwan by region
A mountain range peaking at nearly 4,000 m (13,123 ft) cuts the island from north to south. It explains large differences in rainfall between the coasts. Here is a comparison of the normals for four stations:
| Month | Taipei (north) | Kaohsiung (southwest) | Hualien (east) | Hengchun (Kenting) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19.4 °C (67 °F) / 94 mm (3.7 in) | 24.2 °C (76 °F) / 19 mm (0.75 in) | 21.4 °C (71 °F) / 55 mm (2.2 in) | 24.4 °C (76 °F) / 22 mm (0.87 in) |
| February | 20.3 °C (69 °F) / 102 mm (4.0 in) | 25.0 °C (77 °F) / 18 mm (0.71 in) | 21.9 °C (71 °F) / 75 mm (3.0 in) | 25.5 °C (78 °F) / 23 mm (0.91 in) |
| March | 22.7 °C (73 °F) / 108 mm (4.3 in) | 27.0 °C (81 °F) / 32 mm (1.3 in) | 23.6 °C (74 °F) / 77 mm (3.0 in) | 27.3 °C (81 °F) / 16 mm (0.63 in) |
| April | 26.4 °C (80 °F) / 101 mm (4.0 in) | 29.3 °C (85 °F) / 68 mm (2.7 in) | 26.2 °C (79 °F) / 77 mm (3.0 in) | 29.5 °C (85 °F) / 35 mm (1.4 in) |
| May | 29.7 °C (85 °F) / 225 mm (8.9 in) | 31.0 °C (88 °F) / 202 mm (8.0 in) | 28.7 °C (84 °F) / 187 mm (7.4 in) | 31.2 °C (88 °F) / 147 mm (5.8 in) |
| June | 32.7 °C (91 °F) / 235 mm (9.3 in) | 32.1 °C (90 °F) / 416 mm (16.4 in) | 30.9 °C (88 °F) / 166 mm (6.5 in) | 31.8 °C (89 °F) / 351 mm (13.8 in) |
| July | 34.8 °C (95 °F) / 214 mm (8.4 in) | 32.7 °C (91 °F) / 377 mm (14.8 in) | 32.4 °C (90 °F) / 199 mm (7.8 in) | 32.1 °C (90 °F) / 391 mm (15.4 in) |
| August | 34.2 °C (94 °F) / 237 mm (9.3 in) | 32.1 °C (90 °F) / 512 mm (20.2 in) | 32.2 °C (90 °F) / 259 mm (10.2 in) | 31.8 °C (89 °F) / 533 mm (21.0 in) |
| September | 31.5 °C (89 °F) / 237 mm (9.3 in) | 31.8 °C (89 °F) / 225 mm (8.9 in) | 30.7 °C (87 °F) / 330 mm (13.0 in) | 31.3 °C (88 °F) / 320 mm (12.6 in) |
| October | 27.6 °C (82 °F) / 163 mm (6.4 in) | 30.1 °C (86 °F) / 53 mm (2.1 in) | 28.3 °C (83 °F) / 351 mm (13.8 in) | 29.7 °C (85 °F) / 125 mm (4.9 in) |
| November | 24.8 °C (77 °F) / 89 mm (3.5 in) | 28.1 °C (83 °F) / 26 mm (1.0 in) | 25.8 °C (78 °F) / 175 mm (6.9 in) | 27.8 °C (82 °F) / 58 mm (2.3 in) |
| December | 21.0 °C (70 °F) / 97 mm (3.8 in) | 25.3 °C (78 °F) / 19 mm (0.75 in) | 22.8 °C (73 °F) / 84 mm (3.3 in) | 25.1 °C (77 °F) / 29 mm (1.1 in) |
In one table: the recommended period for each main region, month by month.
| Region | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taipei and the north | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ |
| West and south (Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| East coast (Hualien, Taroko) | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ❌ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Kenting and the far south | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ |
Taipei and the north (Jiufen, Keelung, Yangmingshan)
The north gets rain all year: the northeast monsoon in winter, plum rains in spring, thunderstorms and typhoons in summer. The best windows are March–April and late October to early December. The northeast coast, around Keelung and Jiufen, is wetter still than Taipei in winter.
The west and south (Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung)
The southwest has a well-marked dry season, from October to April: in Kaohsiung, less than 70 mm (2.8 in) falls per month, and often less than 30 mm (1.2 in). Conversely, summer is very wet there, with 512 mm (20.2 in) in August. Taichung, in the center-west, follows the same pattern: only 25 mm (1.0 in) of rain in October, but more than 300 mm (11.8 in) a month from June to August. The UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026) also reports a significant increase in dengue fever cases in the south of Taiwan, including Kaohsiung and Tainan: take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
The east coast (Hualien, Taroko, Taitung)
The east coast is exposed to typhoons from the Pacific and to the northeast monsoon. In Hualien, September (330 mm (13.0 in)) and October (351 mm (13.8 in)) are the wettest months. The best periods are March–April and November–December. Some parts of the Taroko Gorge have been closed after earthquakes: check trail status with the national park before you go.
Kenting and the far south
The southern tip of the island is the warmest, with 24 to 25 °C (75 to 77 °F) in the afternoon even in January, and the driest in winter (16 mm (0.63 in) in March at Hengchun). For the beach, aim for November to April. Summer is the local beach season, but also the rainiest, with 533 mm (21.0 in) in August.
The mountains (Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Hehuanshan)
At altitude it is much cooler: bring a warm jacket all year, and winter clothing from December to February above 2,000 m (6,562 ft). Fog is frequent in the afternoon. Autumn often offers the clearest skies for sunrises.
When to go to Taiwan by trip type
| Trip | Best time | Where? |
|---|---|---|
| First trip (tour of the island) | Late October to early December, March–April | Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hualien |
| City trip to Taipei | March–April, November–December | Taipei, Jiufen, Beitou |
| Mountain hiking | October–November, March–April | Alishan, Yushan, Taroko (depending on trail openings) |
| Beach and diving | April–May, October–November | Kenting, Green Island, Penghu |
| Cycling around the island | November to March | East coast and the southern road |
| Budget | November, early December, March | Whole island, outside Asian holiday periods |
| Traditional festivals | January–February (Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival) | Taipei, Pingxi, Tainan |
Major events in Taiwan
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Late January or February (lunar calendar) | Lunar New Year: several public holidays, very busy transport, some businesses closed | Nationwide |
| 15th day of the first lunar month (February or early March) | Lantern Festival and lantern releases | Pingxi and sites across Taiwan |
| 5th day of the 5th lunar month (usually in June) | Dragon Boat Festival | Rivers and harbors, including Taipei |
| 15th day of the 8th lunar month (September or October) | Mid-Autumn Festival (barbecues, mooncakes) | Nationwide |
| October 10 | National Day (public holiday) | Taipei |
Taiwan month by month: what to expect
Taiwan in January: Mild in the south (24 °C (75 °F) in Kaohsiung, almost no rain), cool and often gray in Taipei (19 °C (66 °F)). Lunar New Year can fall in late January: plan your transport ahead.
Taiwan in February: The same north–south contrast. A frequent period for Lunar New Year and the Lantern Festival: festive atmosphere, but trains and hotels are full.
Taiwan in March: Spring arrives: about 23 °C (73 °F) in Taipei, blossoms in the mountains. The south is dry and warm. A good month for a tour of the island.
Taiwan in April: Very pleasant everywhere, before the heavy rains: 26 °C (79 °F) in Taipei, 29 °C (84 °F) in Kaohsiung. Several local public holidays early in the month.
Taiwan in May: The plum rains begin: more than 200 mm (7.9 in) in Taipei and Kaohsiung. The heat becomes humid. Still possible with a flexible itinerary.
Taiwan in June: Rainy and hot, especially in the south (416 mm (16.4 in) in Kaohsiung). Dragon Boat Festival. A good month for tropical fruit.
Taiwan in July: The hottest month in Taipei (34.8 °C (95 °F)). Typhoon season is in full swing from July. School holidays: beaches and islands are busy.
Taiwan in August: Very hot and the wettest month in the south (512 mm (20.2 in) in Kaohsiung, 533 mm (21.0 in) in Hengchun). High typhoon risk: keep some leeway.
Taiwan in September: Still hot and rainy, peak typhoon season. The east coast is very wet. A month to avoid if you have the choice.
Taiwan in October: Temperatures fall, the south turns dry. Typhoons are still possible, and Hualien gets its peak rainfall (351 mm (13.8 in)). Good for the west and south.
Taiwan in November: The best month for many travelers: 25 °C (77 °F) in Taipei, the driest of the year (89 mm (3.5 in)), dry and sunny south.
Taiwan in December: Cool and pleasant in Taipei (21 °C (70 °F)), mild and dry in the south. The northeast coast stays damp. A good time for hot springs.
When to book your trip to Taiwan
For autumn and spring, book your accommodation and transport 3 to 4 months ahead. For Lunar New Year, book high-speed trains and accommodation as early as possible, as a large part of the population travels at the same time. In summer, stay flexible: in case of a typhoon, flights and trains can be canceled. Compare itineraries and options at the time you book.
Planning your trip to Taiwan
- Entry requirements: rules depend on your nationality and can change, so check the entry requirements for Taiwan before you book.
- Currency: the New Taiwan dollar (TWD). Cards are accepted in many city shops, but night markets are paid in cash. Our currency converter helps you estimate your budget.
- Health: the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026) reports a significant increase in dengue fever cases in the south of Taiwan, including Kaohsiung and Tainan, and advises precautions against mosquito bites; it also notes that altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Taiwan. Check current vaccine advice with a health professional.
- Customs: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026), do not bring animal products into Taiwan without authorization; you may face a heavy fine.
- Typhoons and earthquakes: follow the alerts of the Central Weather Administration and the instructions of the authorities. The UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026) notes that earthquakes are a risk in Taiwan.
To go further, see our complete Taiwan travel guide. To compare with a neighboring destination, see also when to go to Japan, when to go to China or when to go to the Philippines, and our ideas for where to go in November.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Taiwan?
November is the best month for a first trip: 24.8 °C (77 °F) in the afternoon in Taipei, the driest month of the year (89 mm (3.5 in)) and a dry south. March, April and early December are also good choices.
When is the typhoon season in Taiwan?
According to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026), the typhoon season normally runs from May to November, and the most active period is July to September; frequency gradually decreases in October. Typhoons can cause road blockages, landslides and delayed or canceled flights and trains. Check the Central Weather Administration website for alerts.
Can you visit Taiwan in summer?
Yes, but it is very hot and humid (nearly 35 °C (95 °F) in Taipei in July), with frequent thunderstorms and a typhoon risk. Keep your itinerary flexible and favor early-morning visits.
Is Taiwan cold in winter?
Not in the lowlands: about 19 to 21 °C (66 to 70 °F) in the afternoon in Taipei and 24 to 25 °C (75 to 77 °F) in Kaohsiung. The north is often gray and drizzly. In the mountains, it can be cold, with occasional snow on the highest peaks.
Which region of Taiwan is driest in winter?
The southwest and the far south: in Kaohsiung, less than 20 mm (0.79 in) of rain falls per month from December to February, and in Hengchun, near Kenting, only 16 mm (0.63 in) in March.
When should you avoid visiting Taiwan?
September combines heat, heavy rain and peak typhoon season. During Lunar New Year, transport and accommodation are saturated and some businesses close for a few days.
What is the weather like in Taiwan in November?
It is the best month in Taipei: an average high of 24.8 °C (77 °F) and 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain (1991–2020 normals from the Central Weather Bureau), after the typhoon season. The south is warmer and drier.
What is the weather like in Taiwan in July?
Very hot and humid: an average high of 34.8 °C (95 °F) in Taipei, the hottest month, with 214 mm (8.4 in) of rain. It is the height of the typhoon season, and beaches are busy during the holidays.
Our sources
- Central Weather Bureau (now the Central Weather Administration), 1991–2020 monthly normals: Taipei, Kaohsiung, Hualien and Hengchun stations
- Typhoon, health, customs and natural hazard information read on November 11, 2026: UK FCDO, foreign travel advice for Taiwan (GOV.UK, updated 28 August 2026); festival dates checked on Taiwan Gold Card website (Government of Taiwan), traditional festivals
- Our methodology
Updated November 2026.
