Taiwan in December marks the arrival of winter, but due to its subtropical location, temperatures remain relatively mild. In northern Taiwan in December, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 18°C, accompanied by frequent winter rains that create a damp chill. If you’re sensitive to the cold, a down jacket is recommended to stay warm in the moist weather. Conversely, southern Taiwan in December is less humid and slightly warmer, with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, offering cool and comfortable weather. Layering thicker clothing with a light jacket will suffice for most travelers.
While snow is rare in Taiwan, the island’s numerous high mountains offer unique opportunities to witness snow-capped peaks. For those seeking winter wonderlands, Hehuanshan is one of the most accessible spots to see snow. Located in central Taiwan, Hehuanshan offers breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes without requiring extreme hiking skills. On clear days, you might even witness a stunning sea of clouds rolling over the mountain peaks, creating an ethereal experience. Another prime location is Alishan, famous for its sea of clouds and sunrises. In December, the chilly air adds a crispness to the scenery, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
These snowy landscapes are thrilling to behold but typically require ascending mountains above 3,000 meters. These challenging hikes are not recommended for beginners due to the rugged terrain and slippery, snow-covered trails that increase the difficulty. Even seasoned hikers must prepare thoroughly to ensure safety during winter climbs.
December in Taiwan is also infused with festive Christmas spirit. Many shops and malls are adorned with holiday decorations, creating a joyful atmosphere perfect for those who love to soak in the holiday vibes. Seasonal sales and promotions abound, making it an ideal time for shopping enthusiasts. As the New Year approaches, the grand New Year’s Eve celebrations on December 31st are a must-see, especially for those who enjoy lively festivities.
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Recommended Places to Visit in December
Jiufen
Jiufen is a perennial favorite among tourists, a charming mountain town known for its historic old street district. In December, the cool weather (around 15°C to 20°C) and occasional mist or drizzle lend Jiufen an enchanting, almost otherworldly atmosphere. As winter sets in, layers of fog blanket the hillside town, adding a mysterious and romantic vibe. The iconic red lanterns lining the old streets glow warmly against the chilly air, and when illuminated at night, Jiufen transforms into a magical, dreamlike setting.
The old street winds up the mountain with narrow alleys flanked by traditional shops, lanterns, and ancient buildings, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia. A-Mei Teahouse, one of Jiufen’s most recognizable landmarks, becomes especially photogenic at night when its red lanterns light up, reminiscent of scenes from Spirited Away.
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Jiufen’s local delicacies, such as taro balls, grass cakes, and red bean soup. A steaming bowl of taro ball soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly winter day. The teahouses along the streets also offer a serene spot to sip tea while admiring the stunning mountain views and soaking in Jiufen’s quaint charm.
Jiufen Old Street isn’t located in downtown Taipei—it requires taking a train followed by a bus, which can be a bit inconvenient compared to getting around the city. Booking a private car is a hassle-free option. You can easily plan a full-day trip that includes out-of-town spots like Pingxi, Shifen Old Street, and Yehliu Geopark all in one go. You could also check out these tours—they’re great too!
New Taipei: Jiufen In-depth Half-Day Tour
Houtong Cat Village & Jiufen & Shifen Day Tour
🏮Discover Taiwan’s Charms: Jiufen & Shifen Private Day Tour
Taipei 101 and Xinyi District
Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world, remains an iconic landmark of Taipei. For breathtaking panoramic views of the bustling city, head to the Taipei 101 Observatory and take in the stunning skyline.
Located in the heart of Taipei’s most vibrant district, Taipei 101 is surrounded by large department stores, forming the city’s premier shopping destination—Xinyi District. Often compared to Tokyo’s Ginza, Xinyi is home to luxury brands, popular retail stores, and a variety of restaurants, cafes, cinemas, and the renowned Eslite Bookstore. As the economic and cultural hub of Taipei, Xinyi is fondly referred to as the “Egg Yolk District,” symbolizing its central importance, much like the yolk in a sunny-side-up egg.
The most dynamic part of Xinyi District lies between MRT City Hall Station and Taipei 101 Station, where you’ll find department stores like Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Breeze Nanshan, and Bellavita. Visiting in December, you’ll be treated to festive Christmas decorations and numerous holiday events in the shopping centers, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere. On December 31st, Taipei 101 becomes the epicenter of Taiwan’s grand New Year’s Eve celebrations, featuring spectacular fireworks and performances—an unmissable event to ring in the new year with excitement.
Wuling Farm: A Prime Spot for Autumn Maple Viewing
When autumn arrives, vibrant red maple leaves are a must-see. Due to temperature differences between northern and southern Taiwan—cooler in the north and warmer in the south—the timing of when the leaves turn red varies across the island. While November is typically the peak season for maple viewing, there are still plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy them well into December.
At Wuling Farm in Taichung, the maples start turning red in late November, usually reaching their most vivid display in early December. Known as one of Taiwan’s top destinations for maple viewing, Wuling Farm offers a stunning gradient of colors as you ascend in elevation—leaves transition from green to yellow to fiery orange-red, creating a breathtakingly layered landscape. Driving up the mountain, you’ll witness this mesmerizing shift from lush greenery to a kaleidoscope of autumn hues.
Sunrise and Sea of Clouds at Alishan
Located in Chiayi, Alishan is another great place to catch autumn foliage. However, the maples here start turning red as early as November, so by December, you’ll only spot scattered patches of color. But Alishan is famous for more than just its maple leaves—its sunrise views and sea of clouds are natural wonders that attract visitors year-round. The best time to catch these sights, though, depends on the season and weather conditions.
The sea of clouds forms when there’s a significant difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures, combined with high humidity. It’s most commonly seen in the early morning or late afternoon, especially during autumn and winter (October to February). In December through February, the cold, crisp mornings often offer the clearest and most spectacular views. After a rain shower, the chances of seeing the sea of clouds are even higher, particularly one to two days post-rainfall.
As for sunrises, the timing varies by season but generally falls between 5:00 and 7:00 AM. In December, you can expect the sun to rise around 6:00 to 7:00 AM. The Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform is the most popular spot, offering expansive views of the sun rising over the mountains, often accompanied by the sea of clouds. For a quieter experience, Xiaoliyuan Mountain Viewing Platform is a hidden gem, offering equally stunning views without the crowds.
Seasonal Highlight: Taiwan’s Snow-Capped Mountains
While snow is rare in most parts of Taiwan, the island’s towering mountains offer some breathtaking winter landscapes. Taiwan’s famous “100 Peaks” list features mountains known for their dramatic beauty, attracting avid hikers from around the world. If you love hiking and want to experience Taiwan’s snow-covered peaks, here are some must-visit destinations:
Hehuanshan (Mt. Hehuan)
Location: Border of Nantou and Hualien Counties
Elevation: 3,422 meters
Snow Season: December to February
Highlights: As one of Taiwan’s most popular snow destinations, Hehuanshan’s high elevation often results in beautiful snowfall during winter. The vibrant trails are perfect for hiking and photography, with snow typically appearing in December.
Tips: Roads can be slippery due to snow, so bring tire chains and check weather forecasts before heading up.
Xueshan (Snow Mountain)
Location: Border of Taichung and Hsinchu Counties
Elevation: 3,886 meters (Taiwan’s second-highest peak)
Snow Season: December to February
Highlights: Xueshan’s summit is often blanketed in snow starting in December. Its breathtaking scenery makes it a favorite among experienced hikers.
Tips: Winter climbs require good physical fitness and professional gear. It’s best suited for seasoned hikers.
Yushan (Jade Mountain)
Location: Border of Nantou and Chiayi Counties
Elevation: 3,952 meters (Taiwan’s highest peak)
Snow Season: December to March
Highlights: Snow begins appearing on Yushan in December, with peak snowfall in January and February. Reaching the summit in winter offers stunning, snow-covered views.
Tips: A climbing permit is required, and trails may close due to adverse weather. Winter ascents are challenging, so prepare accordingly.
Dabajianshan (Mt. Dabajian)
Location: Border of Hsinchu and Miaoli Counties
Elevation: 3,492 meters
Snow Season: December to January
Highlights: Known for its steep, rugged terrain, Dabajianshan occasionally receives light snowfall in December, offering picturesque winter views despite lesser snow compared to other peaks.
Tips: Winter hikes demand proper warm gear and caution, as the weather can change rapidly.
Tataka (Near Yushan)
Location: Xinyi Township, Nantou County
Elevation: 2,610 meters
Snow Season: December to January
Highlights: As a gateway to Yushan National Park, Tataka may see light snow in December. It’s a great stopover for those heading to Jade Mountain to catch the first snow of the season.
Festivals & Food in December
Winter Solstice and Tangyuan (Sweet Rice Balls)
The Winter Solstice, usually between December 21 and 23, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. In Taiwan, it’s traditional to eat tangyuan—sweet glutinous rice balls symbolizing unity and good fortune. There’s even a saying that eating tangyuan means you’ve grown a year older! They come filled with flavors like sesame, peanut, or red bean, though plain ones are popular too. A warm bowl of tangyuan on a chilly December day is the perfect comfort food.
Many local dessert shops sell tangyuan, especially during winter. If you’re staying in a guesthouse with a kitchen, you can find frozen tangyuan in supermarkets to cook yourself. For an immersive cultural experience, check out community events—some neighborhoods host tangyuan-making activities during the Winter Solstice. Visitors can also find these events at malls, cultural museums, or temples.
Christmas in Taiwan – New Taipei City Christmasland
Though Christmas isn’t a traditional Taiwanese holiday, it has grown in popularity thanks to Western cultural influence. On December 25, major cities deck out malls and shopping districts with dazzling lights, Christmas trees, and festive markets. Shops run special promotions, adding to the holiday cheer.
The largest and most iconic Christmas celebration in Taiwan is New Taipei City Christmasland. Held annually since 2011, it takes place around the New Taipei City Hall and Civic Plaza, typically starting in late November and running into early January. The highlight is the spectacular light show, with dazzling 3D projections on government buildings and enchanting light displays throughout the area. A towering Christmas tree, themed markets, live performances, and amusement rides like carousels and mini Ferris wheels make it a festive experience for families, couples, and friends alike.
Looking for more Christmas events in Taipei? Check this out: How to Celebrate Christmas in Taipei 2024? Best Places to Go & Things to Do
Hot Pot: The Ultimate Winter Comfort Food
Nothing beats the warmth of a bubbling hot pot in December. In Taiwan, hot pot comes in many forms—from the hearty mutton hot pot to light seafood broths. Thanks to Taiwan’s diverse food culture, you’ll also find many Japanese-style hot pot restaurants across the island.
Hot pot is a social meal, perfect for sharing with family or friends, but solo travelers needn’t worry—many places offer single-serving hot pots. Hot pot restaurants usually charge either per person for all-you-can-eat buffets or à la carte for individual dishes. Make sure to confirm the pricing style beforehand to avoid surprises at the register.
Ice Cream in Winter – Family Mart & Miyahara (宮原眼科)
Here’s a personal favorite: ice cream in winter! No need to worry about it melting too quickly. Family Mart convenience stores often release seasonal ice cream flavors, like matcha and chocolate, which are consistently delicious. The soft texture of Family Mart’s ice cream means it melts fast, making winter the perfect time to savor it.
For a more unique experience, head to Miyahara in Taichung. Despite its name sounding like an eye clinic, it’s a famous historical building turned dessert shop. Miyahara offers a variety of handcrafted ice cream flavors, with options featuring Taiwanese fruits, chocolates, and teas. Unique flavors include wax apple and starfruit, and you can pair your ice cream with local treats like pineapple cakes. The building’s vintage, grand decor adds to the charm, making it a must-visit spot for both food and history lovers.
New Year’s Eve Countdown Events
New Year’s Eve countdown events are among the most anticipated celebrations in Taiwan every December, with the Taipei 101 fireworks show drawing huge crowds of local and international visitors. On December 31st, cities across Taiwan host various countdown events, featuring not only dazzling fireworks but also live music and celebrity performances. In cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, people gather in public squares and around iconic landmarks to ring in the new year together, creating a joyful and exciting atmosphere. Here are some of the largest New Year’s Eve events in Taiwan:
Taipei 101 Fireworks Show
The Taipei 101 fireworks show is the highlight of New Year’s Eve in Taiwan, attracting hundreds of thousands to the Xinyi District. The show features several minutes of synchronized fireworks, lights, and music. Nearby shopping centers and plazas host countdown activities and concerts, adding to the festive vibe. For a more comfortable experience away from the crowds, consider booking a table at a restaurant with a view of Taipei 101.
Taichung Lihpao Land New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show
The New Year’s Eve fireworks at Lihpao Land in Taichung is the biggest countdown event in central Taiwan. This large amusement park offers musical performances, light shows, and a spectacular midnight fireworks display. It’s perfect for families, as you can enjoy the park’s attractions during the day and join the countdown festivities at night.
Kenting Beach New Year’s Party
If you love the beach, don’t miss Kenting’s New Year’s Eve party. This seaside celebration features live music, dance performances, and bonfires. Watching the last sunset of the year and welcoming the first sunrise by the sea is a truly romantic experience. The laid-back, festive vibe makes it a perfect choice for young people and party lovers.
Final Thoughts
December in Taiwan isn’t just about beautiful scenery waiting to be explored; it’s also the season for delicious winter foods that you won’t want to miss. Whether it’s a steaming hot lamb stew, flavorful braised pork rice, or sweet winter fruits, these seasonal delights taste even better in the cooler weather.
For those planning a hiking trip, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. Make thorough preparations to ensure safety, as winter hikes, while offering stunning views, can be physically demanding. Be sure to check your gear and keep an eye on the weather forecast. If conditions are unfavorable, don’t push yourself to hike—it’s better to stay safe and enjoy the journey when the time is right.
