Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Is May a Good Time to Visit Taiwan
Yes, and it might just be one of the smartest times to go for the following reasons:
- Outdoor-friendly weather: Warm but not scorching, with lower humidity than summer. Perfect for cycling, hiking, and walking tours.
- High cost-effectiveness: It’s a shoulder season — airfare, hotel rates, and crowds are all more manageable than in summer or during major holidays.
- Island travel opens up: Offshore islands like Penghu and Green Island become more accessible, with ferries and flights running regularly, but still before the high-season crowds.
- Flexible travel styles: Whether you like nature (mountains, lakes, hot springs) or city life (cultural walks, street food, museums), May lets you enjoy both without the extremes of weather or tourism pressure.
- No typhoons yet: May is before the typical typhoon season (which usually starts in July), so outdoor activities are less likely to be disrupted.
Taiwan Weather in May - Mild & Green
May marks the beginning of summer in Taiwan — warm, green, and great for traveling around the island. It’s one of the most balanced months weather-wise: not yet too hot, with no typhoons, and just the start of the plum rain season.
Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Jiufen, Keelung):
Expect mild to warm days around 23–28°C (73–82°F). It can still be cloudy or drizzly, especially later in the month as the plum rain season begins. Bring an umbrella or a light raincoat just in case.
How Many Days in Taipei: Itinerary for Taipei [1,2,3,4 & 5 Days]
Taipei City Map: Districts & Tourist Map with Attractions
Central Taiwan (Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan):
Generally dry and sunny, with daytime highs around 26–30°C (79–86°F). Mornings in mountain areas like Alishan can still be cool (15–18°C / 59–64°F), so a light jacket is useful.
Alishan Taiwan Map: Day Trip, Train, Trail Map of Alishan (2025)
10 Sun Moon Lake Things to Do (in 1 Day): Well-planned!
Southern Taiwan (Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting):
Sunny and summery, with temperatures climbing to 30–32°C (86–90°F). Humidity starts to build, but rain is still infrequent. Bring sunblock, a hat, and breathable clothing. Great for outdoor exploring.
15 Tainan Things to Do & See [With Tainan Itinerary Guide]
Best Things to Do in Kaohsiung, 2025 Attractions Guide
Eastern Taiwan (Hualien, Taitung, Taroko Gorge):
Mild to warm, usually 25–30°C (77–86°F). Occasional rain showers possible, especially in the mountains. Roads and trails are lush and green — ideal for hikes and coastal drives.
Offshore Islands (Penghu, Green Island, Orchid Island):
Ferries and flights begin regular service in May, with sunny, breezy weather — usually 26–30°C (79–86°F). It’s a great time for snorkeling, biking, and seaside walks before the summer rush.
Average Temperature of Taiwan in May
| Destination | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei (North) | 27–31°C (81–88°F) | 21–24°C (70–75°F) |
| Taichung (Central) | 28–32°C (82–90°F) | 22–25°C (72–77°F) |
| Sun Moon Lake | 25–30°C (77–86°F) | 19–22°C (66–72°F) |
| Alishan Mountains | 18–24°C (64–75°F) | 12–16°C (54–61°F) |
| Tainan (South) | 29–33°C (84–91°F) | 23–26°C (73–79°F) |
| Kaohsiung (South) | 30–33°C (86–91°F) | 24–27°C (75–81°F) |
| Hualien (East Coast) | 27–31°C (81–88°F) | 21–24°C (70–75°F) |
Best Places to Visit in May: Around the Island
May is one of the most flexible months for exploring Taiwan, especially if you love the outdoors. It’s the ideal time to explore both city and nature, mountain and ocean — including some hidden gems that shine brightest this month.
1. Taipei & Northern Taiwan
The north is fresh and lively in May, less rain, more sunshine. In Taipei, you can enjoy walks through historic neighborhoods, visit bustling markets, or hike to scenic viewpoints like Elephant Mountain. The weather can be warm and slightly rainy, but not yet oppressive.
Don’t miss Yangmingshan National Park, which is lush with greenery, or Yehliu Geopark, where wave-eroded rock formations like the “Queen’s Head” stand dramatically against the sea. Day trips to Tamsui, Jiufen, and Shifen also offer a mix of coastal views, old streets, and street food.
2. East Coast: Taitung, Hualien & Coastal Highway
Taiwan’s east coast is at its most scenic in May. This stretch is perfect for travelers who enjoy the open road and the ocean.
One of the best ways to experience it is by riding or driving along the East Coastline from Taitung to Hualien, a route that takes 1–2 days. The scenery along the Pacific — cliffs, rice paddies, fishing villages, and endless ocean views — is unforgettable.
Note: While Taroko Gorge is normally a highlight of this region, it remains closed due to earthquake damage. Still, the surrounding area offers plenty of coastal beauty and small-town charm to enjoy on the way.
3. Offshore Islands: Green Island or Orchid Island
May is the start of island season, before the ferry and flight crowds surge.
If your timing is right, take a side trip to Green Island for snorkeling, coastal trails, and a natural sea salt hot spring. Orchid Island, more remote and culturally unique, offers rugged landscapes and rich indigenous heritage — best visited now before it gets too hot or stormy.
Further west, the Penghu Islands open up for summer with clear skies, wind-carved rock formations, and traditional fishing villages.
4. Southern Taiwan: Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting
In May, the south feels like summer, but without the chaos of summer break. This is one of the best times to enjoy Tainan’s temple culture, historical alleys, and street food, or explore Kaohsiung’s harborfront, art districts, and river parks. The heat is manageable, the skies are clear, and there’s a relaxed energy in the air.
Further south, Kenting National Park shines in May — beaches, coral reefs, and ocean views are all at their best, and it’s not yet crowded. You can enjoy coastal drives, fresh seafood, and long walks along the beach with fewer tourists.
5. Central Taiwan: Alishan & Sun Moon Lake
Central Taiwan is calm and refreshing in May, especially in mountain and lake areas.
Alishan is often shrouded in mist, with blooming forests and summer tea fields. Ride the forest railway, wake early for sunrise views, and go firefly watching at night.
Nearby, Sun Moon Lake is one of the most relaxing places to stay — cycling around the lake, boating, or simply enjoying the calm scenery with a cup of local black tea.
What to Wear in May - Light Layers & Sunscreen
Lightweight clothing: T-shirts, short sleeves, and breathable pants or shorts work well everywhere.
Rain-ready layers: A foldable umbrella or thin rain jacket is handy in the north and mountain regions.
For mountain areas (Alishan, Taroko): Bring a light fleece or windbreaker, especially for early mornings or after sunset.
For southern/coastal regions: Sun protection is essential — pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
For island hopping: Include swimwear, quick-dry clothing, and sandals for beach days, plus something warmer if you’re out at night.
Suggested Taiwan Loop Itinerary in May
A loop around Taiwan in May is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the island. You can complete the loop in 7 to 10 days, moving counterclockwise.
Day 1: Arrival in Taipei
Day 2-4: Taipei City & Surrounding Sightseeing
Day 5: Taipei → Sun Moon Lake
Day 6: Sun Moon Lake → Alishan → Chiayi
Day 7: Chiayi → Kaohsiung
Day 8: Kaohsiung → Taitung
Day 9: Taitung → Hualien
Day 10: Hualien → Taipei
Begin your journey in Taipei. Explore iconic sites like Longshan Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and the National Palace Museum. Day trips to Jiufen, Shifen, or Yehliu Geopark offer scenic escapes just beyond the city.
From Taipei, head south to Sun Moon Lake. May is ideal for cycling around the lake, enjoying a boat ride, and staying overnight in the peaceful lakeside surroundings. Continue on to Alishan, where you can stroll through misty cedar forests, sip fresh high-mountain tea.
The next stop is Kaohsiung, a colorful harbor city known for its relaxed vibes, art districts, and street snacks. Then, drive along the southern route to reach Taitung, where rice fields meet the Pacific and the pace slows down.
Continue north along the East Coast, one of Taiwan’s most spectacular routes. The journey from Taitung to Hualien takes you through sea-facing cliffs, small villages, and quiet beaches.
Finally, wrap up your loop by returning to Taipei, where you can unwind with a good meal, a relaxing soak in a hot spring, or some last-minute shopping before departure.
Trace Taiwan with Your Local Guide - Asia Odyssey Travel
Ready to see the best of Taiwan, from north to south? Asia Odyssey Travel is here to guide your journey around the island. With expert local partners and well-planned routes, we make your Taiwan trip smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.
We offer carefully designed tour packages and in-depth travel guides, including:
✔ Popular Tour Packages: Taiwan Group Tours, Taiwan Tours, Taiwan Family Tours, Taiwan Food Tours
✔ Useful Travel Guide: Taiwan Night Markets, Taiwan Temples, Taiwan Beaches, Taiwan Mountain, Taiwan Food, Taiwan Transportation
✔ Various Destinations: Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Kaohsiung
✔ Classic Itineraries: Taiwan Itinerary, Taipei Itinerary, Taichung Itinerary, Kaohsiung Itinerary
Data in submission...
