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Weather & Packing Tips in Taiwan in February
February marks the tail end of winter in Taiwan, and the weather can shift quite a bit depending on where you are. In general, expect mild daytime temperatures, cool evenings, and occasional rain, especially in the north. It’s not freezing, but layering is essential, especially if you’re heading into the mountains to catch cherry blossoms.
Average Temperature of Taiwan in February
| Destinations | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei (North) | 16–20°C (61–68°F) | 12–15°C (54–59°F) |
| Taichung (Central) | 18–23°C (64–73°F) | 12–15°C (54–59°F) |
| Sun Moon Lake | 16–21°C (61–70°F) | 10–13°C (50–55°F) |
| Alishan Mountains | 8–15°C (46–59°F) | 2–7°C (36–45°F) |
| Tainan (South) | 22–26°C (72–79°F) | 14–17°C (57–63°F) |
| Kaohsiung (South) | 23–27°C (73–81°F) | 15–18°C (59–64°F) |
| Hualien (East Coast) | 19–23°C (66–73°F) | 14–17°C (57–63°F) |
Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Yangmingshan, Jiufen, Yilan)
In February, the north of Taiwan is often wrapped in a chilly drizzle. The weather here leans toward damp and cold. Rain is frequent, and when it comes, it usually stays a while.
On sunny days, temperatures can climb to around 20°C (68°F), and you’ll feel comfortable in just a single layer, with a jacket for early mornings and evenings.
But once the rain sets in, the temperature can dip quickly to 12°C (53°F) or even lower at night or before sunrise. That’s when you’ll be glad you packed a warmer jacket or even a cozy sweater.
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Central Taiwan (Taichung, Sun Moon Lake)
Compared to the north, central Taiwan in February feels noticeably milder and drier. Rain is less frequent, and when the sun’s out, daytime temperatures can reach around 22°C (72°F), making it pleasant for outdoor strolls and flower viewing.
You can often get by with light long sleeves or a T-shirt during the day, but mornings and evenings still carry a chill, so it’s smart to have a sweater or jacket on hand.
The comfortable weather makes central Taiwan ideal for short hikes, lakeside walks, and relaxed exploring - just dress in layers so you can adjust as the day changes.
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Southern Taiwan (Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting)
Southern Taiwan in February often feels like spring has already arrived. With plenty of sunshine and temperatures ranging from 18–25°C (64–77°F), it’s the warmest and most comfortable region on the island this time of year.
You’ll likely spend most of your days in light clothing: T-shirts, breathable pants, maybe even short sleeves. A thin jacket or cardigan is enough for the occasional cooler evening.
Rain is rare in the south during February, and the overall vibe is bright and relaxed. Just remember sunscreen. It’s easy to underestimate the sun when the weather feels this nice.
Mountain Areas (Alishan, Wuling Farm, Hehuanshan)
February in Taiwan’s high mountain regions is crisp and chilly - sometimes downright cold, especially before sunrise. Daytime highs may reach 15°C (59°F), but early mornings and nights often drop to 5°C (41°F) or lower.
If you're heading up to see cherry blossoms or catch a famous mountain sunrise, be ready for that sudden temperature drop.
Dress warmly with thermal layers, a fleece or insulated jacket, and accessories like a scarf or gloves. The air is dry and fresh, and with fewer tourists, it’s a peaceful time to explore.
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Festivals & Events in February
February in Taiwan is about tradition, celebration, and light. The month revolves around two major festivals: Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival.
Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year): Usually Early to Mid-February
Chinese New Year is the most important holiday across Taiwan. The first few days of the holiday are quiet in some cities, as many businesses close and locals return to their hometowns. But temples and traditional neighborhoods stay vibrant.
From the first day to fifteenth day of the lunar calendar, temples all over Taiwan host events. You’ll see dragon and lion dances, parades, firecrackers, and blessings.
Popular traditions include:
- Lighting the first incense at midnight, especially at large temples like Longshan and Ciyou Temple
- Welcoming the God of Wealth on the 5th day, popular at Taoist temples
- Folk arts performances and snack stalls at temple plazas
Traveler Tip: Visit Dihua Street in Taipei a few days before the New Year to shop for festive snacks, couplets, and traditional goods. It’s a great place for both shopping and photos.
Lantern Festival: Usually Late February
It’s a festival all about lantern displays, sky lanterns, and temple processions celebrated on the 15th day of Chinese New Year. It’s a romantic, joyful night, perfect for couples, families, and first-time visitors.
Where to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere?
- Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, Shifen: Write your wishes on a paper lantern and release it into the night sky. It’s magical and very popular, expect crowds and book ahead.
- Kaohsiung Lantern Festival: Held along the Love River, this event features massive lantern installations, light shows, and a festive market.
- Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival, Tainan: One of the world’s most intense firework events. Locals in protective gear brave the “beehives” — massive racks shooting fireworks in every direction. It's wild, loud, and unforgettable.
Best Places to Visit in February
February is a great time to explore Taiwan, cool in the north, warm in the south, and just the right moment for cherry blossoms and festivals.
1. Taipei & Surroundings
Taipei is full of energy during Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival. Wander through Dihua Street for festive snacks and decorations, visit temples like Longshan or Xingtian Temple, and head to Yangmingshan or Tianyuan Temple to catch the early cherry blossoms.
Nearby Jiufen and Pingxi is also full of festival vibe. These misty mountain towns feel extra atmospheric in winter. Pingxi is famous for its Sky Lantern Festival. You can join locals in writing wishes on paper lanterns and watching them float into the night sky.
2. Sun Moon Lake
February brings calm skies and cool breezes to Sun Moon Lake, making it ideal for lakeside walks or a peaceful bike ride around the water. Cherry trees also bloom along the lakeshore, especially near Xiangshan Visitor Center and Wenwu Temple.
If you time it right, you can also visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, which holds a cherry blossom festival complete with performances and seasonal treats.
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3. Alishan
High in the mountains, Alishan is cold but magical in February. The crisp morning air, the sound of forest silence, and the slow rhythm of the Alishan Forest Railway all make this a deeply tranquil escape.
You’ll likely catch the very first wave of sakura here, usually pale pink and delicate. It’s also a great place to see sea-of-cloud sunrises and enjoy peaceful hikes beneath towering cedars.
4. Tainan
As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan comes alive with Chinese New Year rituals and temple festivities. Wander through centuries-old temples like Grand Matsu Temple and Confucius Temple, where incense fills the air and colorful banners wave in celebration.
Tainan’s food scene also peaks during the holidays - expect long queues at famous street food stalls, but also a rich festive atmosphere worth savoring. If you're lucky, you may also catch a temple parade, complete with lion dances, fireworks, and local drum troupes.
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5. Kaohsiung
Further south, Kaohsiung offers a warmer, sunnier escape and a modern take on Taiwan’s Lantern Festival. When the Taiwan Lantern Festival is hosted here, it often stretches along the Love River or fills Weiwuying or Lotus Pond with large-scale lantern displays and nightly light shows.
Even if the main festival is held elsewhere, Kaohsiung’s riverside parks, Pier-2 Art Center, and large night markets like Liuhe and Ruifeng are great places to enjoy the festive energy under clear skies.
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Where to See Cherry Blossoms in February
Cherry blossoms start blooming in Taiwan from mid to late February, especially in cooler mountain areas. Here are some of the best places to catch the early blossoms:
- Yangmingshan (Taipei)
Yangmingshan National Park is one of the earliest places to see cherry blossoms in Taiwan. The Flower Clock area, Erziping trail, and Yangming Park are popular for soft pink and white blossoms set against mountain scenery.
- Tamsui Tianyuan Temple
It’s famous for its dramatic cherry trees surrounding a round, five-story temple. By late February, the blooms here create a picture-perfect contrast of pink petals and colorful temple architecture.
- Wuling Farm (Taichung area)
Arguably, the most famous cherry blossom spot in Taiwan. Wuling Farm bursts into full bloom in late February with thousands of cherry trees lining walking paths and hillsides.
- Sun Moon Lake
This romantic lakeside destination gets even more dreamy in February when cherry blossoms begin to bloom along the walking and cycling paths.
- Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Riverside by Sun Moon Lake, this cultural theme park is known for having some of the most vibrant sakura festivals in Taiwan. With over 2,000 cherry trees, it becomes a full-blown floral wonderland in mid-to-late February.
Tips for Traveling During Chinese New Year
Plan Ahead — Way Ahead
The holiday is Taiwan’s biggest travel season. Trains, buses, and hotels book up fast — especially a few days before and after the New Year. If you're planning to visit popular spots likeAlishan, Sun Moon Lake, or Wuling Farm, reserve transportation and accommodation weeks in advance.
Expect Closures (But Not Everywhere)
Many restaurants, shops, and small businesses close for the first 2–3 days of the New Year (starting from New Year's Eve). But don’t worry — temples stay open and bustling, and tourist-friendly places like Taipei 101, major malls, and some convenience stores still operate.
Visit Temples Early in the Morning
On New Year’s Eve and Day, locals crowd temples to light incense and pray for good luck. Visit Longshan Temple (Taipei), Ciyou Temple, or Tainan's Grand Mazu Temple in the early hours to witness traditional rituals like 抢头香 (grabbing the first incense).
Eat Like a Local
Try traditional New Year dishes such as: Sticky rice cake (年糕) — for rising fortune; Dumplings (饺子) — shaped like gold ingots; Hot pot — perfect for family-style meals in winter
Suggested 6-Day Travel Itinerary in February
February is a fantastic time to explore northern and central Taiwan. Here's a well-paced 6-day itinerary that blends iconic sights, seasonal highlights, and local charm. It’s ideal for first-time visitors coming in February.
Day 1: Arrival in Taipei
Day 2: Taipei → Yehliu Geopark → Shifen Waterfall → Pingxi/Shifen Old Street → Jiufen Old Street → Taipei
Day 3: Taipei National Palace Museum → Dadaocheng → Dihua Street → Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hal → Taipei 101.
Day 4: Taipei → Tamsui Tianyuan Temple → Yangmingshan National Park → Taipei
Day 5: Taipei → Sun Moon Lake → Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Day 6: Sun Moon Lake → Taipei → Longshan Temple
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