Taiwan in May enters the plum rain season, bringing more frequent rainfall that usually lasts until June. The north usually sees the rainy season start earlier, around mid-May, with light but persistent drizzles that can stretch over multiple days, making the weather feel damp. In contrast, the south experiences the plum rain season later, around late May, with fewer rainy days but heavier downpours or thunderstorms, creating a noticeably warm and humid atmosphere.
The unpredictable rain during this time can affect outdoor activities like flower viewing, hiking, and camping. So, when planning your trip, it’s a good idea to have a Plan B for rain-sensitive activities and keep an eye on the weather forecast. But don’t let the rainy season scare you off—May in Taiwan is packed with amazing experiences! From the firefly season in Alishan to stunning tung blossoms that cover the hills like snow and whale and dolphin watching tours out at sea, there’s plenty of excitement waiting for you!
Just between us, May actually happens to be one of my favourite months. Compared to city tours, I personally prefer activities that bring you closer to nature. That said, I got really seasick during my whale-watching trip—so if you’re prone to motion sickness, I highly recommend taking meds in advance. And when you’re buying them, make sure to check if they cause drowsiness. Trust me, while being a bit sleepy might sound better than full-on seasickness, it’s still not ideal. You don’t want to end up napping through your whole boat ride and missing everything!
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Table of Contents
Things to Do in Taiwan in May
Adorable Creatures of the Mountains – Firefly Season in Alishan
May in Alishan is truly magical—a season when thousands of fireflies transform the mountain forests into a glowing spectacle. Picture yourself walking along a quiet trail at night, surrounded by tiny flickering lights, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. Fireflies are highly sensitive to temperature and humidity, so the best time to see them is on a clear night after rainfall when the air is crisp and the forest is illuminated with their glow.
On the other hand, the best locations for firefly-watching are along the Firefly Trails within the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, particularly in secluded areas away from crowds. These spots are ideal for an immersive night-time experience, surrounded by the enchanting glow of fireflies.
Since firefly-watching takes place at night, staying overnight in Alishan is highly recommended. Whether you prefer a cozy mountain lodge or a scenic forest retreat, waking up to fresh mountain air and stunning sunrise views makes your trip even more memorable. However, as Alishan hotels are quite limited and relatively pricey. Most open bookings 2-3 months ahead and they sell out fast, so grab your spot early!
Can’t make it to Alishan? No worries! There are several other great locations to see fireflies in May:
1. Dasyueshan (Nantou County): Fireflies light up the hiking trails and forests from May to June. Great for adventure seekers who love mountain scenery and fresh air.
2. Dongshi Dajia River (Taichung City): Fireflies can be seen in the river valley and forest trails starting in May. Less crowded, offering a peaceful nature experience.
3. Fushoushan (Nantou County): A forested area rich in wildlife and plant species, perfect for night walks .Fireflies are abundant in May.
4. Yangmingshan (Taipei City): Known for hot springs and beautiful landscapes, but also home to fireflies in May. Fireflies are scattered across secluded trails and mountain forests, ideal for those who prefer a quiet setting.
5. Liudui (Pingtung County): A lesser-known but local favorite firefly spot from May to June. A peaceful location away from city crowds, offering a brilliant firefly display.
Gentle Giants of the Ocean – Whale and Dolphin Watching in Taiwan
From May to October, Taiwan offers some of the best whale-watching opportunities, particularly in the waters off the northwest and east coasts. During this season, the ocean conditions are relatively stable, and the warm waters attract a variety of whales and dolphins. It’s an incredible experience to witness these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat.
In areas where whales and dolphins are frequently spotted, you’ll find designated whale-watching tours operated by experienced guides. These knowledgeable guides understand the habits of these creatures and will take you to the best spots based on their movement patterns. Many boats also provide expert commentary on marine life and conservation efforts, allowing visitors to appreciate not only the beauty of these animals but also their ecological significance. (If you require an English-speaking guide, be sure to check in advance with the service center or book a specialized tour designed for international visitors.)
Top Whale and Dolphin Watching Spots in Taiwan
Several locations in Taiwan are renowned for whale and dolphin watching, including Yilan, Keelung, Hualien, and Penghu. The waters off Yilan and Keelung’s northeastern coast are prime areas for spotting species like gray whales, humpback whales, and sperm whales. Hualien, on the other hand, is a hotspot for dolphin watching, with frequent sightings of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. Penghu Islands not only offer whale and dolphin encounters but also breathtaking ocean scenery.
Here are some of the most popular whale-watching departure points and the species you might encounter:
1. Hualien Harbor – One of the top departure points for whale-watching tours in eastern Taiwan.
Possible sightings: Bottlenose dolphins, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, occasional humpback whales and minke whales.
2. Chenggong Harbor (Taitung) – A key whale-watching hub in southeastern Taiwan, with access to the vast Pacific Ocean.
Possible sightings: Bottlenose dolphins, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, blue whales, humpback whales, minke whales.
3. Toucheng Harbor (Yilan) – A great location for marine wildlife tours along Taiwan’s northeast coast.
Possible sightings: Bottlenose dolphins, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, occasional humpback whales.
4. Pingtung Harbor – Near Kenting, offering quick access to offshore whale-watching spots.
Possible sightings: Bottlenose dolphins, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, occasional orcas and blue whales.
5. Magong Harbor (Penghu) – The primary departure point for whale-watching tours in the Penghu Islands.
Possible sightings: Bottlenose dolphins, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, occasional orcas and blue whales.
*****A Heads-Up: No Guaranteed Sightings
As amazing as whale-watching sounds, one thing to keep in mind is that sightings are never 100% guaranteed. Whale and dolphin appearances depend on various factors, including weather conditions, sea temperature, tides, ocean currents, and even migration patterns. Even in prime viewing areas, there’s always a chance that you might not see any whales or dolphins.
If you don’t spot any whales or dolphins during your trip, here’s what you can expect:
1. Compensation Policies – Many tour operators offer a “no sighting, no charge” policy or a free retry option. If no whales or dolphins are spotted, some companies provide a discount or allow you to join another trip free of charge. Be sure to check the specific policy before booking.
2. A Richer Marine Experience – Even without a whale sighting, many tours provide insights into marine ecosystems, pointing out other wildlife like dolphins, seabirds, or other fascinating ocean creatures. Guides often share fascinating knowledge about Taiwan’s diverse marine life.
3. A Memorable Ocean Adventure – Even if whales or dolphins don’t appear, the experience itself is still rewarding. You’ll get to enjoy the open sea, feel the ocean breeze, and take in stunning coastal views. Some tours even combine whale watching with other activities, such as snorkeling or fishing, making the trip an unforgettable ocean adventure.
So while spotting whales and dolphins isn’t always guaranteed, the journey itself is absolutely worth it—offering a rare chance to connect with nature in a way few experiences can.
“May Snow” – Tung Blossom Season in Taiwan
May marks the peak blooming season for tung blossoms in Taiwan. These delicate white flowers blanket mountain trails and forests, creating a picturesque scene that resembles freshly fallen snow—hence the nickname “May Snow.” Popular viewing spots can be found in Miaoli, Hsinchu, Taoyuan, and other areas. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect shot or simply enjoy leisurely walks surrounded by nature, this is the ideal time to immerse yourself in Taiwan’s breathtaking landscapes.
To avoid disappointment, it’s a good idea to check the latest blooming updates on local tourism websites or hotel pages before heading out. Some locations also host annual Tung Blossom Festivals, featuring cultural performances, local markets, and traditional Hakka activities. If you love nature and scenic beauty, experiencing “May Snow” should definitely be on your travel list.
Check out the Tung Blossom Forecast!
Best Places to Enjoy Tung Blossoms in Taiwan
1. Miaoli: Hakka Tung Blossom Trails
Miaoli is one of the best places to experience the beauty of tung blossoms, with scenic trails spread across several towns such as Sanyi, Toufen, and Yuanli. During the Tung Blossom Festival, visitors can enjoy Hakka cultural events, including handicraft exhibitions, food stalls, and folk performances.
Recommended spots:
- Sanyi Longteng Broken Bridge Trail
- Xiangtian Lake Trail, Nanzhuang Township
2. Hsinchu: Guanxi Tung Blossom Trail
Guanxi Township is a top destination for tung blossom viewing in Hsinchu. The tranquil trails offer a stunning snow-like floral landscape, perfect for a peaceful hike or a family outing.
Recommended spots:
- Maopu Forest Trail, Guanxi Township
- Jiuxiong Lake Scenic Area, Xinpu Township
3. Taoyuan: Daxi Tung Blossom Park
Located near the city, Daxi Tung Blossom Park is an easily accessible spot for a short getaway. The well-maintained trails make it an excellent choice for a relaxing nature walk. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful mountain and lake views alongside the floral scenery.
Recommended spots:
- Shimen Reservoir Tung Blossom Trail
- Lala Mountain, Fuxing District
4. Taichung: Dakeng Scenic Area
Taichung’s Dakeng Trails feature large clusters of tung trees, making it a fantastic location for both hiking and photography. The combination of diverse natural scenery and delicate white blossoms creates an unforgettable experience.
Recommended spots:
- Dakeng Trail No. 9
5. Nantou: Zhushan Township
Zhushan in Nantou is another hidden gem for tung blossom viewing, with romantic mountain landscapes filled with blooming trees. Visitors can also explore other nearby attractions like Xitou Forest and Monster Village for a more immersive experience.
Recommended spots:
- Surrounding areas of Daan Village, Zhushan
- Outskirts of Jiji Township
6. Yilan: Toucheng Tung Blossom Trail
For those seeking a quieter escape, Yilan offers scenic tung blossom trails nestled in the mountains. Pairing a blossom-viewing trip with a visit to Yilan’s hot springs or countryside makes for a truly unique experience.
Recommended spots:
- Longtan Lake Trail, Jiaoxi
- Hiking trails near Toucheng Farm
Among all these locations, Miaoli and Hsinchu are considered the most iconic tung blossom viewing spots, particularly the Sanyi Longteng Broken Bridge in Miaoli and the Guanxi Trails in Hsinchu—perfect for fully experiencing the romance of “May Snow.” If you’re short on time, Daxi Tung Blossom Park in Taoyuan is the most convenient choice, as it’s close to Taipei and easily accessible by public transportation.
Family-Friendly Activity: Farm Experiences in Taiwan
There’s a famous Chinese poem that says:
“Who knows how much toil goes into every grain of rice on our plates?” (谁知盘中餐，粒粒皆辛苦)
It serves as a reminder to cherish our food, as every grain comes from hard labor. But rather than simply teaching children about food production in textbooks, nothing beats taking them to the fields to experience farming firsthand.
May is the peak season for farm experiences in Taiwan, with many rural communities and farms offering hands-on agricultural activities. Visitors can participate in rice planting, fruit and vegetable picking, or even making traditional farm snacks. Popular destinations include the Rice Eco-Park in Taitung and the Farm Recreation Areas in Yilan. These experiences are perfect for families and friends, offering a chance to connect with nature while learning about Taiwan’s rich rural culture.
Best Places for Farm Experiences in Taiwan
1. Taitung: Rice Eco-Park
Taitung’s Rice Eco-Park is famous for its vast rice fields and immersive agricultural activities. Visitors can try their hand at rice planting, harvesting, and learning about the farming process. There are also opportunities to make and taste traditional farm snacks, providing a full countryside experience. This is an ideal activity for families and friends looking to enjoy nature.
2. Yilan: Farm Recreation Areas
As one of Taiwan’s key agricultural regions, Yilan offers a variety of seasonal farm activities. Depending on the time of year, visitors can pick strawberries, oranges, or bamboo shoots. Additionally, you can participate in traditional food-making workshops, such as rice cakes and handmade noodles. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, many of Yilan’s farms also offer camping opportunities, making it a great weekend getaway.
3. Nantou: Ren’ai Township
Ren’ai Township in Nantou blends natural scenery with agricultural experiences. Here, visitors can engage in rice planting, fruit picking, and even sample fresh, local farm-to-table cuisine. The mountain farms in this region provide a serene and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for those who love the countryside.
4. Taoyuan: Daxi Farm
Daxi Farm in Taoyuan offers hands-on farming experiences, where visitors can plant and harvest vegetables while learning about sustainable agriculture. It’s a great place to witness the seasonal changes of the countryside and enjoy the simplicity of rural life.
5. Pingtung: Jiuru Township
Known for its rich agricultural resources, Jiuru Township in Pingtung offers rice planting and fruit-picking activities. During spring and summer, the lush green fields create a beautiful setting for a farm visit. This area is ideal for those who want to experience Taiwan’s farming culture in a hands-on way.
6. Hualien: Shoufeng Township
Hualien’s Shoufeng Township is another hidden gem for agricultural experiences. Visitors can take part in rice farming, vegetable picking, and even traditional handicraft workshops, providing an authentic glimpse into Taiwan’s rural life.
7. Miaoli: Sanyi Township
In addition to farming activities like rice planting and fruit picking, Sanyi Township is also famous as the “Woodcarving Capital of Taiwan.” Here, you can visit local woodcraft workshops and try your hand at carving. If you visit during May, you’ll also get to see the beautiful Tung Blossom Festival, where the landscape is covered in white flowers, adding to the charm of the experience.
Final Thoughts for Taiwan in May
May is still a great time for outdoor activities in Taiwan, but as June and July approach, temperatures rise significantly, especially in the southern and northern regions. If you’re thinking about enjoying farm experiences or other outdoor adventures, now is the perfect time!
Since all these activities involve outdoor work, remember to wear comfortable, breathable clothing for easy movement. And if you’re heading out to sea, don’t forget to bring motion sickness meds—just in case! For more insights on Taiwan’s upcoming weather, check out Taiwan Weather by Month: Seasons, Temperatures, and Packing Tips
