Do you love the fresh blooms of spring or the cozy vibes of a romantic winter? Taiwan’s seasons each bring something special—cooler months are perfect for outdoor adventures, while summer calls for lazy days at the beach.
Before you start packing, though, here’s a heads-up: Taiwan’s weather can vary a lot between the north and south. So, when you’re checking the forecast (which you totally should!), make sure you know which part of the island you’re heading to. Let’s break down the weather across Taiwan so you’ll know exactly what to pack!
Table of Contents
December to February (Winter)
Winter in Taiwan runs from December to February, bringing different vibes depending on where you go. In the north, like Taipei, temperatures range from 15°C to 18°C during the day, dipping as low as 10°C—and occasionally even below 7°C. The chilliest time is around Christmas and early January. While the temperatures aren’t extreme, the combination of winter rains and cold winds from the northeast monsoon can make it feel much colder, especially in coastal spots like Tamsui and Keelung or higher-altitude areas like Yangmingshan and Elephant Mountain.
For winter wear, a good winter jacket with a waterproof and windproof outer layer will keep you cozy. No need for heavy snow boots unless you’re planning a hike, but if you’re sensitive to the cold, pack extras like thick socks, a scarf, and a warm hat. As for the rain, umbrellas don’t work well in the windy drizzle—bring a hooded jacket instead. If you forget, don’t worry; raincoats are easy to find in convenience stores.
In the south, like Kaohsiung, winter feels more like a mild spring. Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, rarely dropping below 15°C even at night. It’s mostly dry and pleasant, and unless a cold front sweeps through, you’ll enjoy warm, comfortable weather. For visitors from colder regions like Northern Europe or Russia, it might even feel like summer! Pack lightweight layers like long sleeves and pants, with a light jacket for cooler evenings. If you’re used to the cold, short sleeves might do just fine.
March to April (Spring)
Spring in Taiwan lasts from March to April. In the north (e.g., Taipei), temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, and the weather starts to warm up, making it an ideal time for flower watching. Early March can still feel chilly, but by April, it’s no longer cold. Rain is light during this period, with occasional drizzle or light rain, but nothing heavy. In March, you should pack long sleeves and pants, or short sleeves with a thin jacket. By April, even a thin jacket may no longer be necessary.
In the south (e.g., Kaohsiung), temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C, with warm and comfortable weather. Rain is infrequent in March and April. You can pack short sleeves, as it’s no longer chilly, but early March can still feel a bit cold at night, so a thin jacket might be useful for those sensitive to the cold.
May to June (Plum Rain Season)
May and June mark Taiwan’s plum rain season, when rain is frequent across the island. Be prepared for constant showers, longer durations of rain, and increased humidity. Things can get moldy, so it’s wise to bring a lightweight, foldable umbrella. Regular umbrellas and raincoats are easily available at convenience stores in Taiwan.
By June, the weather begins to warm up, signaling the start of summer. In the north (e.g., Taipei), temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C, with high humidity. In the south (e.g., Kaohsiung), it’s hotter, ranging from 25°C to 33°C. Be sure to pack light, breathable clothing during this time.
July to September (Summer)
Taiwan’s summer is hot and humid, often feeling stifling and sweaty. Along with light, breathable clothing, consider fabrics with good moisture-wicking properties to stay comfortable. Pack sandals and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. If you plan to engage in water activities, don’t forget your swimsuit!
This period also coincides with Taiwan’s typhoon season, from July to September, with August and September being the peak months. While the plum rain season brings frequent light showers, typhoon season can bring heavy, torrential rain and strong winds. Typhoons can severely affect outdoor activities, transportation, and even flight schedules, so stay informed about the latest typhoon updates.
Summer is a great time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking. Don’t forget to protect yourself from the intense sun. The most effective sun protection is physical, such as using an umbrella or wearing a sun hat, since sunscreen cannot fully block the sun’s rays. If you’re heading to the beach, make sure to use ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
In the north (e.g., Taipei), the average summer temperature ranges from 28°C to 34°C, but the high humidity can make it feel like 35°C or higher. In the south (e.g., Kaohsiung), temperatures range from 29°C to 35°C, with similar humidity, making it feel even hotter. Be sure to stay hydrated while traveling during this season.
October to November (Autumn)
The intense summer heat and typhoon season have passed, and the weather gradually cools down. It marks the end of the rainy season, with less rainfall and lower humidity. In the north (e.g., Taipei), the average temperature ranges from 22°C to 27°C, bringing a pleasant coolness. While October can still feel warm, by November, the temperature cools down significantly. In the south (e.g., Kaohsiung), temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, which is still warm but not as hot as in summer.
Daytime temperatures are generally mild, but significant temperature differences between day and night are common. It’s advisable to bring light clothing such as short sleeves and long pants, and also pack a light jacket for the evenings. Scarves and warm hats are unnecessary. For those who feel the cold more, a thin jacket may be needed in the north during November. In the south, a jacket may only be necessary at night by mid-November.
Summary
Overall, each month offers different experiences in Taiwan, depending on your weather preferences and travel plans. Therefore, it’s best to dress comfortably and practically for the climate each month, avoiding discomfort caused by dampness or excessive heat. During the typhoon season, stay updated on weather warnings, and in summer, be sure to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated. Here’s a summary of Taiwan’s weather patterns:
Taiwan’s Main Rainy Seasons:
Plum Rain Season (May – June):
This season brings heavy rainfall to both northern and central/southern Taiwan. The plum rain is caused by the convergence of cold and warm air currents, leading to continuous rain.
- In the north (e.g., Taipei), rain is frequent and persistent, with heavy downpours.
- In the south (e.g., Kaohsiung), while there is still plum rain, the rainfall is typically lighter than in the north.
Typhoon Season (July – September):
The typhoon season generally brings the heaviest rainfall of the year in Taiwan. Typhoons are frequent from July to September, with August and September being particularly active, bringing heavy rains that affect the whole island.
Winter Rain (November – February):
In the north, the northeast monsoon causes continuous cloudy and rainy weather, especially from November to February, with substantial rainfall.
- In the south, winter is typically dry with significantly less rain.
Comparative Table of Climate and Temperatures in Northern (Taipei) and Southern (Kaohsiung) Taiwan for 2023:
| Taiwan’s Northern Region (Taipei) | Taiwan’s Southern Region (Kaohsiung) | |
| Winter Temperature (December – February) | 15°C-18°C, with a low of around 10°C, occasionally dropping below 7°C, damp and cold. | 18°C-25°C, with a low no lower than 15°C, dry and warm. |
| Spring Temperature (March – May) | 18°C-25°C, gradually warming up, and sometimes rainy. | 23°C-30°C, temperatures rise with little rainfall. |
| Summer Temperature (June – September) | 28°C-34°C, feels like 35°C or higher, hot and humid. | 29°C-35°C, feels like 35°C or higher, scorching hot. |
| Autumn Temperature (October – November) | 22°C-27°C, weather gradually cools down. | 25°C-30°C, still hot in autumn, slight cooling in November. |
| Annual Precipitation | Higher annual rainfall, especially in winter and the plum rain season, with continuous rain. | Lower annual rainfall, concentrated in the summer typhoon period, with almost no rainfall in winter. |
| Plum Rain Precipitation (May – June) | Monthly precipitation around 300-500 mm, with multiple days of continuous rain. | Monthly precipitation around 150-300 mm, with shorter rainfall periods. |
| Typhoon Precipitation (July – September) | Typhoons bring heavy rainfall, with frequent thunderstorms. | Typhoons bring strong rain, with heavy amounts but shorter durations. |
| Winter Precipitation | Affected by the northeast monsoon, winter is mostly cloudy and rainy. | Dry winter with little rain and plenty of sunshine. |
| Temperature | High humidity, especially in winter and the plum rain season. | Relatively low humidity, dry in winter, increased humidity in summer due to typhoons. |
Also Interested in festivals throughout the year?
Feel free to check out: Taiwan Festivals & Holidays: Top Events to Plan Your Trip Around | Lunar New Year, Sky Lanterns, Dragon Boat Races & More
