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Taiwan in December Weather by Regions
So, what's the weather like in Taiwan in December? Well, it's the start of winter season for us, but generally quite gentle.
We see average temperatures from around 13°C to 25°C (that's about 55-77°F). It's not scorching hot like summer, which is a big blessing for exploring!
You'll find distinct regional differences across the island, so let’s break down the Taiwan climate in December by area.
| Taiwan in December Weather | Avg. Temp | Weather Conditions | My Travel Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Taiwan | 14-21°C | Rainy (persistent drizzle), damp & cool (14-16 days), less sunshine | Indoor attractions + night markets, bring rain gear |
| Central Taiwan | 13-20°C | Mostly cloudy, dry & mild, less rain | Outdoor activities, light jacket |
| Southern Taiwan | 20-25°C | Warm & dry, plenty of sunshine | Beach resorts, just sun protection |
| Eastern Taiwan | 18-24°C | Mostly clear, occasional gusts | Coastal cycling, windproof jacket |
| Mountain Areas | 5-15°C (can drop below 5°C at night) | Low temperatures, thick fog, occasional snow in late Dec | Cold weather gear, check road/weather alerts |
Northern Taiwan Weather in December (Taipei, Yilan, etc.): Rainy, Damp and Cool
Get ready for some damp, cool and misty vibes in Northern Taiwan! With average highs around 21°C (70°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F), we often see about 14-16 days of persistent drizzle.
That high humidity can make the air bite a bit more, so you'll want a good windproof jacket and some rain gear – essentials for your Taiwan outfit in December here.
Outdoor plans might need a little flexibility!
Central Taiwan Weather in December (Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, etc.): Dry and Cloudy
Central Taiwan is much more forgiving in December! Our daily average temperatures hover around a 13-20°C (55-68°F), and it's much drier with more cloudy days.
For instance, Taichung in December 2024 only had one rainy day! This makes it absolutely perfect for outdoor fun!
South Taiwan Weather December (Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting, etc.): Warm and Dry
Heading south? You are in for such a treat!
Southern Taiwan is our warmest and driest region in December, with daily averages between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Rain is rare, and you'll get loads of sunshine.
This is my top pick for escaping the cold!
Eastern Taiwan Weather in December (Hualien and Taitung): Clear, with Monsoon Showers
Eastern Taiwan enjoys beautiful clear skies in December, offering breathtaking coastal scenery.
While you might encounter occasional monsoon showers, it's fantastic for hiking in Taroko Gorge or cycling along the stunning coastline. Just a light windproof jacket will do the trick here.
Mountain Areas (Alishan, Hehuanshan, Yushan, etc.): Does it snow in Taiwan in December?
If you're dreaming of cooler temperatures and dramatic landscapes, our Taiwan mountains are calling your name! Daily averages range from 5-15°C (41-59°F), but nights can dip below 5°C (41°F).
Does it snow in Taiwan in December? Yes, it can!
High-altitude areas like Hehuanshan (3,422m) and Yushan (3,952m) might see snowfall in the end of December. Remember to pack your warmest gear and check road conditions and alerts before heading up!
Where to Go in Taiwan in December? Anywhere!
So, with all this diverse weather of Taiwan in December, where to go in Taiwan in December? Honestly, you can go anywhere on the island!
For Northern adventures, consider Taipei City and its surroundings like Yangmingshan or Jiufen Old Street.
For Central charms, Taichung and Sun Moon Lake are great spots to visit.
Heading South, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Kenting are perfect for escaping the chill and soaking up some sun.
Eastern Taiwan's Hualien and Taitung are just waiting for you to explore their stunning landscapes, while Alishan and Hehuanshan offer spectacular mountain majesty, just be prepared for the cold!
What to Do in Taiwan in December? Festive Fun, Misty North or Sunny South
1. Taipei 101 Fireworks: Ring in the New Year with Us This December in Taiwan
On December 31st, Taipei 101 puts on 360-degree fireworks to say HELLO to new year. It's spectacular, and for the best views without the dense crowds, I highly recommend the Elephant Mountain.
Try to arrive before 6:00 PM to secure your spot, and bring a windproof jacket and a light raincoat – Taipei in December sees about 14 rainy days!
After the show, good news! The MRT runs extended free service until 2 AM. You can then zip over to Ningxia Night Market for some warm sesame oil chicken.
Rainy Day Backup: If it's really pouring, you can still join a New Year's Eve market at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park for indoor fun and live fireworks broadcasts!
20 Must Do in Taipei: Top Things to Do & Non-Touristy Spots
2. Jiufen Old Street in December: Dive into Its Chill Vibes (Rain or Shine, It's Magical!)
December's cool, damp weather actually adds a magical, poetic touch to Jiufen! Picture red lanterns glowing on wet cobblestone stairs, enjoying a hot cup of tea, overlooking the misty mountain and sea.
My tip is to take the Pingxi Line scenic train to Shifen Old Street to release a sky lantern in the morning. Then, head to Jiufen in the afternoon – honestly, the heavier the rain, the more it feels like a scene straight out of "Spirited Away"!
Just remember to wear non-slip shoes as the old street's stairs can be slick, and a lightweight raincoat is much more practical than an umbrella here.
How to Get to Jiufen (Jiufen Old Street) from Taipei? (4 Ways)
3. Taichung's December Fun: Festive Christmas Events & Must-Try Night Market Treats
Taichung lights up in December with festive cheer!
The Fisherman's Wharf Starlight Market (Dec 1-28) is fantastic, offering "starlight seafood parties" with Michelin chefs grilling king crab legs and seared scallops. They even have fun Christmas-themed DIY crafts like moss bottles, and the lighting ceremony around December 14th is especially lively.
Also, don't miss the Citizen Square "Star Wish Tree" Light Show (Dec 22-24) to catch the dazzling light show and hear carols from hundreds of Santas!
For your Taiwan outfit in December here, Taichung's average temperature is around 21°C (70°F), so a light jacket and scarf should be absolutely perfect.
12 Best Taiwan Night Markets (+ 8 Must-try Night Markets Food)
4. Sun Moon Lake in December: Find Your Serenity by Boat or Bike
This is one of Taiwan's true gems, and December offers a serene experience. For a morning mist boat ride, take an early morning tour where the mist hanging over Lalu Island creates a tranquil, ink-wash painting scene!
If you prefer cycling, the Xiangshan Water Bikeway is listed as one of CNN's most beautiful cycling paths in the world. December's cool, dry weather is ideal for a ride, and you'll see the bald cypress trees turning a gorgeous red!
As a hidden gem, experience indigenous culture at the Ita Thao village with a Thao-style meal.
My tip for a more peaceful visit is to try to avoid the weekend crowds!
10 Sun Moon Lake Things to Do (in 1 Day): Well-planned!
5. Alishan's Five Wonders: Unlock Its Majestic Beauty This December
Alishan in December offers crisp air and spectacular views, a truly magical experience to soak in the "Five Wonders" after the rainy season.
For sunrise, take the forest train to Zhushan Viewing Platform; check the official website for schedules.
In the afternoons, witness the "sea of clouds" phenomena from Ciyun Temple or Mt. Ogasawara Observatory, with a 70% chance of rolling cloud waterfalls!
Take a peaceful stroll along the Giant Tree Trail to explore ancient red cypress trees, breathing fresh air. Head to Eryanping Trail for an amazing sunset over golden tea fields.
Mornings are chilly (5-10°C), so pack a light down jacket and warm hat. Warm up afterwards with Alishan coffee and a Fenqihu bento box!
Alishan Taiwan Map: Day Trip, Train, Trail Map of Alishan (2025)
6. Tainan's December Charm: Savor History & Night Market Flavors on a Perfect City Stroll
Tainan is a city where history and food intertwine beautifully, and December is a lovely time to explore.
For daytime delights, spend your day wandering through our rich heritage. Start with Anping Tree House and Anping Fort to delve into Dutch colonial history. Then, visit Chihkan Tower to learn about Koxinga's era, and Tianhou Temple for a peaceful charm.
As evening falls, head straight to Tainan's Garden Night Market for dinner! You must try the freshly grilled mullet roe and our famous beef soup – local specialties that are delicious and warm you up perfectly.
15 Tainan Things to Do & See [With Tainan Itinerary Guide]
7. Kaohsiung in December: Explore Art and Coastal Beauty
Kaohsiung offers a blend of art, coastline, and night markets, making it perfect for your December visit!
The Pier-2 Art Center is just bursting with creativity! You'll love snapping photos with giant Transformer sculptures and colorful container art, and at night, the light installations create a romantic vibe.
For a Sizihwan sunset, head to the British Consulate at Takao for absolutely incredible sunset views as the sun dips into the Taiwan Strait. Pair it with a giant bowl of shaved ice – such a refreshing treat!
For seafood lovers, don't miss Gushan Fish Market! Pick your fresh seafood and have it cooked on the spot; I highly recommend the pepper crab and sakura shrimp fried rice – a local delight!
For your Taiwan outfit in December, Kaohsiung's average temperature is around 24°C, so a short-sleeve shirt with a light jacket is ideal.
Best Things to Do in Kaohsiung, 2025 Attractions Guide
8. Kenting in December: Enjoy Uncrowded, Warm Beaches
Dreaming of a beach escape without the summer crowds? Kenting in December is your spot!
The beaches are uncrowded, giving you a sense of having them all to yourself. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on Baisha Bay or go snorkeling around Small Beach (the water temperature is still a pleasant 25°C).
For nature lovers, head to Longpan Park Grassland to see the unique "wind-blown sand" landscape – the sunrise here, with the Pacific Ocean glowing gold, is breathtaking!
For evening fun, Kenting Main Street Night Market is bustling at night.
A Safety Note! While typhoons aren't a concern, winter brings strong currents (sometimes called "rogue waves"), so please only swim in areas supervised by lifeguards.
9 Best Beaches in Kenting for Swimming, Snorkeling or Surfing
9. Mt. Hehuanshan Hiking in December: Chasing the Snow
If you're looking for a winter wonderland in Taiwan in December, Hehuanshan (3,422m) is the place to be!
Late December marks the beginning of our snow season here, and based on the last decade, we've averaged 1-2 snowfalls around this time.
Even without special hiking gear, you can still enjoy the snow on the Main Peak. It's just a paved 1.1km walk (about 40 minutes), easy enough that you can even push a stroller up there!
Just be prepared for cold temperatures, which daily averages 5-15°C and nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing (0°C)!
10. Taroko Gorge in December: Ready for Breathtaking (and Safer!) Hikes?
December is seriously the best season for hiking in Taroko Gorge! With the main rainy season over, the risk of landslides on trails is lower, making it much safer to explore.
For your must-do hikes, I suggest Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) where you should wear a safety helmet as you marvel at the towering marble cliffs.
Another great option is the Baiyang Trail; brave the "Water Curtain Cave" (bring a raincoat for this part!) for a unique experience, ending at a spectacular double waterfall.
For your Taiwan outfit in December here, the gorge can be windy and cooler (around 15°C), so a good windproof jacket and hiking shoes with strong grip are recommended.
NOTE: Make sure to check if certain areas are open before you go, as some might still be closed!!
What to Wear in Taiwan in December? My Taiwan Outfit in December Tips
It really depends on where you're headed, as our island has quite a few microclimates!
For Northern Taiwan and mountain areas, think layers: a good windproof jacket, a light down jacket, and non-slip shoes are absolute essentials.
If you're heading south, you'll be comfortable in long-sleeve shirts and a light windproof jacket, and if you plan to hit the beach, don't forget your swimsuit!
Generally, a foldable umbrella and a portable raincoat are super handy, especially if you're exploring the north.
Taiwan Travel in December: How to Plan Your Taiwan December Itinerary?
Planning your Taiwan December itinerary is all about matching your interests with the best regional weather!
For Festival Lovers, focus your trip on Taipei and Taichung, where you'll find all the exciting Christmas and New Year's Eve events. You could consider a trip that starts in Taipei, heads to Sun Moon Lake, then enjoys Taichung's festive activities and Fengjia Night Market before departing from Taichung.
For Warmth Seekers, head straight to our sunny southern coast, like Kenting and Kaohsiung – you'll thank me later! Think about a route that begins in Kaohsiung and ends in Kenting, allowing you to explore vibrant city life and then relax on beautiful beaches.
For Nature Enthusiasts, Sun Moon Lake and Alishan are calling your name! An ideal journey might start in Taipei, move to Sun Moon Lake for serene beauty, and then continue to Alishan for its majestic landscapes before departing from Chiayi.
For Those with More Time, go for the ultimate island-wide adventure! You won't regret it. A popular route is to travel from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake, then Alishan, followed by Kaohsiung, with an optional stop in Kenting, before continuing to Taitung, Hualien, Yilan, and finally returning to Taipei.
Discover the Best Taiwan in December with Asia Odyssey Travel
With distinct regional climates, from Taipei's festive city vibes to Kenting's sunny beaches and Alishan's misty mountains, there's an adventure in Taiwan in December waiting for every traveler.
To make your journey easy and fun, consider traveling with Asia Odyssey Travel. Our expert guidance and personalized service ensure every detail is handled, allowing you to simply relax and immerse yourself in Taiwan's December charm!
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