Are you wondering what to do in Taiwan in September? September in Taiwan is all about soaking up the last bits of summer—whether that means cooling off by the ocean, escaping to the mountains, or diving into the island’s vibrant festivals. With the heat still going strong, beaches and islands are the perfect retreats for a refreshing swim or a lazy day by the shore. Just don’t forget the sunscreen and try to avoid the intense midday sun!
If you’re looking to beat the heat completely, the mountains offer a cool and scenic escape. Unlike the chilly, misty trails of winter, summer hiking in Taiwan is warm, lush, and full of life. Whether it’s a leisurely nature walk or a challenging summit, there’s something for every adventurer—just watch out for sudden rain showers!
Beyond nature, September is also packed with cultural festivities. From traditional celebrations to local events, it’s a great time to experience Taiwan’s unique heritage up close. Be sure to check the event calendar so you don’t miss out on any must-see experiences.
No matter how you prefer to spend your time—relaxing by the ocean, hiking through stunning landscapes, or immersing yourself in local culture—September in Taiwan has something for everyone. Plan ahead, stay cool, and make the most of this beautiful season!
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Table of Contents
Cool Mountain Escapes in Taiwan
September is the perfect time to explore Taiwan’s mountain trails. Unlike the cold, damp winters, hiking in September is much safer and more comfortable. Plus, the hot weather on the plains makes the cool mountain climate even more inviting.
Here are some top hiking destinations:
Taroko Gorge 太魯閣
Overview:
Taroko Gorge is one of Taiwan’s most famous natural landmarks, known for its stunning marble cliffs, clear rivers, and dramatic landscapes. The gorge offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels of hikers, each providing breathtaking views of nature.
Top Activities:
- Shakadang Trail: A beginner-friendly, flat trail that winds along a clear stream, perfect for families.
- Zhuilu Old Trail: A more challenging route with magnificent views of the gorge, suitable for experienced hikers.
- Baiyang Waterfall Trail: Walk past towering waterfalls that splash dramatically, creating an awe-inspiring sight.
Location:
Located in Hualien County on Taiwan’s east coast, about a 40-minute drive from Hualien City.
Alishan 阿里山
Overview:
Alishan is famous for its stunning sunrises, sea of clouds, forest railway, and tea plantations. There are several trails through lush forests and high-altitude tea gardens, allowing visitors to take in the fresh mountain air while enjoying spectacular views. The sunrise here is particularly breathtaking.
Top Activities:
- Alishan Forest Railway: Ride the historic train through the mountains and tea plantations, enjoying the view.
- Sisters Pond Trail: A gentle family-friendly trail leading to two symmetrical lakes, perfect for photos and a leisurely stroll.
- Zhushan Trail: Offers an incredible sunrise view and panoramic scenery of Alishan.
Location:
Located in Chiayi County, about 1.5 hours from Chiayi City.
Yushan (Jade Mountain) 玉山
Overview:
At 3,952 meters (12,966 feet), Yushan is Taiwan’s highest peak, offering a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. September is the best time to summit before the cold sets in, with panoramic views and stunning alpine scenery waiting at the top.
Top Activities:
- Yushan Summit: A challenging hike, but the summit rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain range.
- Yushan National Park: Explore other trails like the Hehuan Mountain Trail, which offers diverse natural landscapes.
- Hehuan Mountain Trail: A gentler hike compared to Yushan’s summit, but still offers magnificent alpine views.
Location:
Located at the border of Nantou and Chiayi Counties, about a 2-hour drive from Taichung City.
Xiangshan Trail (Elephant Mountain) 象山
Overview:
Known for its panoramic views of Taipei City, including a perfect view of Taipei 101, Xiangshan Trail is a short but steep hike. It’s an easy hike requiring no special gear, just comfortable clothing. The viewing platform at the top provides a stunning view, especially at sunset when the city lights and sunset merge into an unforgettable scene.
Top Activities:
- Viewing Platform: Get a stunning view of Taipei 101 and the entire city.
- Sunset Viewing: The best spot for watching the sunset and the city’s nighttime lights.
Location:
Located in Taipei’s Xinyi District, with easy access from the Xiangshan MRT Station.
Yangmingshan National Park 陽明山國家公園
Overview:
Famous for its volcanic terrain, sulfur springs, rich plant life, and hot springs, Yangmingshan National Park offers diverse hiking trails. September is a great time to explore its natural beauty, from volcanic landscapes to lush flower gardens.
Top Activities:
- Caoshan Trail: A gentle trail with lush grasslands and diverse vegetation, perfect for a relaxing walk.
- Qixingshan Trail: A challenging trail offering panoramic views of the Taipei Basin from the top.
- Sulfur Valley: Experience geothermal steam vents and hot springs in this volcanic wonderland.
- Flower Clock: A popular photo spot, especially during the blooming season.
Location:
Located just 40 minutes north of Taipei City.
Qingjing Farm 清境農場
Overview:
Known as “Little Switzerland,” Cingjing Farm is located in Taiwan’s central highlands and is famous for its vast grassy fields, pastures, and breathtaking alpine views. The cool September weather makes it an ideal retreat for nature lovers and families, especially those who enjoy interacting with animals and exploring alpine flowers.
Top Activities:
- Green Grassland: Wander through lush, rolling meadows, taking in the stunning alpine views.
- Farm Animal Interaction: Get up close with cows and sheep, feeding them and participating in milking activities.
- Alpine Flowers: Stroll through flower gardens and enjoy the fragrance of blooming flowers.
- Trail Exploration: Explore mountain trails for a closer look at the natural beauty surrounding the farm.
Food:
Don’t miss local specialties like lamb hot pot, dairy products, and high mountain tea.
Location:
Located in Nantou County, about a 2-hour drive from Taichung City.
Beaches, Diving, and Water Activities
Summer is not only the perfect time for hiking but also a great opportunity to try snorkeling, diving, or other water activities, as the cool ocean waters provide a refreshing way to beat the heat. Taiwan’s diving season usually runs from April to October, during which the water is warm, the weather is pleasant, and the visibility underwater is optimal. The peak season for diving is from July to September, when the water temperature is most suitable, but be mindful of typhoon season, which can affect diving conditions. After a typhoon, visibility can temporarily decrease, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning a dive.
Lanyu (Orchid Island) 蘭嶼
Lanyu is famous for its unique indigenous culture, stunning coastline, and rich marine life. The island is home to several indigenous villages where visitors can experience local traditions, culture, and cuisine.
- Recommended Activities:
- Diving and Snorkeling: Lanyu’s coral reefs offer an abundance of marine life, making it a haven for diving enthusiasts.
- Cycling Around the Island: Rent a bike and explore the island’s beautiful coastline and natural scenery.
- Cultural Experiences: Participate in indigenous cultural activities and learn about the local way of life.
In September, visitors to Lanyu can spot various tropical fish, coral reefs, and occasionally sea turtles. The clear waters make these marine creatures even easier to observe. Lanyu’s coral reefs, consisting of both hard and soft corals, are teeming with clownfish, lionfish, and a wide variety of colorful reef fish. Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles are common in the surrounding waters, especially during diving and snorkeling sessions.
- Other Notable Species:
- Giant Trevally: A popular species for photography, often seen around Lanyu’s coral reefs.
- Manta Rays: Occasionally spotted in Lanyu’s waters, offering a lucky encounter for divers.
- Green Sea Turtle: Lanyu’s waters are a known habitat for green sea turtles, frequently encountered during dives.
Kenting National Park 墾丁
Taiwan’s first national park, Kenting National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, beautiful beaches, and abundant coral reefs, tropical plants, and wildlife. The park’s marine biodiversity makes it a crucial area for oceanic research.
- Recommended Activities:
- Beach Activities: Nanwan and Baisha Bay are perfect spots for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, offering relaxation and sunshine.
- Hiking: Kenting has multiple trails for hiking, allowing you to explore its natural landscapes and experience its beauty.
- Stargazing at Night: With its clear night skies, Kenting is an excellent place for stargazing, especially in areas far from city lights.
In September, Kenting’s waters attract many divers due to their clarity and rich biodiversity. Visitors can spot a variety of fish, starfish, sea urchins, and coral. These creatures are often found in tidal zones and coral reefs, where they thrive. The waters also host species like yellowfin tuna, sharks, and rays, which are more commonly seen near diving spots.
- Other Notable Species:
- Blue-ringed Octopus: A unique species in Kenting’s waters, known for its vibrant blue rings but toxic nature. While they can be seen throughout the year, they are more elusive and harder to encounter.
- Coral Fish: Common reef fish such as the black triggerfish and queen angelfish are popular sights in Kenting’s marine environment.
- Whale Shark: Occasionally spotted in Kenting’s waters, whale sharks are the largest fish species in the world and a rare treat for divers.
Green Island
Green Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. It is home to famous underwater hot springs, well-preserved coral reefs, and unique natural and historical landmarks, making it an ideal destination for exploring marine ecosystems.
- Recommended Activities:
- Diving and Snorkeling: Green Island’s underwater world is rich and diverse, attracting diving enthusiasts keen to experience marine life and coral reefs.
- Hot Springs: After a dive, relax in the island’s natural hot springs, offering therapeutic effects.
- Cycling Exploration: A great way to explore Green Island’s scenic beauty and historical landmarks is by biking around the island.
In September, Green Island’s marine ecosystem is highly active, and visitors can see a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and rich coral. This is also an ideal time for diving and snorkeling. Tropical fish like blue clownfish and Bahama fish, along with vibrant reef species, are common near the coral reefs. Occasionally, dolphins can be seen leaping out of the water in Green Island’s waters.
- Other Notable Species:
- Sea Turtles: Green Island is a major nesting ground for green sea turtles, and they are frequently seen during dives.
- Blue Dragon Sea Slug: A rare and beautiful marine creature that occasionally appears in Green Island’s waters, beloved by divers.
- Leopard Shark: A gentle species of shark, occasionally seen in Green Island’s waters, though they are relatively rare.
For more information, check this out: Green Island Oceanfront Hot Spring | One of the World’s Top 3 Underwater Hot Springs | Diving & Snorkeling Guide + 4 Dive Shops Recommended
Liuqiu Island/Lambai Island 小琉球
Located off the southwestern coast of Taiwan, Liuqiu Island is known for its pristine natural environment and rich marine life. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island’s clean beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine creatures make it perfect for snorkeling and diving.
- Recommended Activities:
- Snorkeling and Diving: Liuqiu’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling. Visitors can swim with sea turtles and explore colorful coral reefs.
- Hiking: The island has multiple trails that allow visitors to enjoy its natural beauty on foot.
- Bird Watching: Liuqiu is a great spot for bird watching, especially during the migration season when various species stop to rest.
Liuqiu is famous for its pristine coral reefs and rich marine life. The island’s natural environment remains well-preserved, allowing visitors to explore marine ecosystems in crystal-clear waters. Liuqiu’s waters are home to various tropical fish species, including marlins and snappers, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling and diving. Other marine life, such as starfish, sea cucumbers, and shellfish, can be found in tidal zones and coral reefs.
- Special Marine Species:
- Dolphins: Liuqiu’s waters are home to several species of dolphins, and visitors often see groups leaping above the surface.
- Purple Coral: A unique coral species found around Liuqiu, adding a distinct color to the underwater world and providing a highlight for divers.
- Giant Octopus: Liuqiu is home to giant octopuses that often hide among the coral reefs, providing a delightful surprise for divers.
September’s Unique Scenery and Festivals
Hsinchu Kite Festival:
Held annually in September in Hsinchu City, this event celebrates the city’s strong winds, earning it the title of “Wind City.” The festival features kite enthusiasts from all over the world and includes professional kite flying performances, with intricate aerial tricks and multi-kite formations. You can also participate in kite competitions, categorized by age group and kite type, with winners receiving prizes. After admiring the special kites, join a DIY kite-making workshop, which is especially fun for families with children.
Mid-Autumn Festival:
One of the most significant Chinese festivals, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month (around September). In 2024, it will be on September 17th, 2025 on October 6th, and 2026 on September 25th. Traditionally, people enjoy mooncakes, tea, and pomelos while gazing at the full moon. In Taiwan, it’s also common to have barbecue parties in the evening, either at designated parks, riversides, or beaches, where people gather to grill food together. This modern take on the traditional festival is popular, especially among younger generations.
Confucius Birthday and Teacher’s Day:
On September 28th, Taiwan celebrates Confucius’s birthday and Teacher’s Day, commemorating the founder of Confucianism. Ceremonial rituals take place at temples like the ones in Tainan and Taipei. Students express their gratitude to teachers, and visitors can observe traditional rites at the temples.
Conclusion
Though September is technically the end of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, Taiwan’s climate has shifted in recent years, making it still quite hot, with the cool weather typically arriving in November. Therefore, the recommended activities above are great for staying cool and refreshed. Be sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities under the blazing sun to prevent heatstroke. Check this out to know more about Taiwan’s weather: Taiwan Weather by Month: Seasons, Temperatures, and Packing Tips
