Winter in Taipei feels cool, damp, and often cloudy, but it rarely gets harsh.
Daytime temperatures usually hover around 19°C (66°F), and nights drop to about 14°C (57°F), so it’s honestly one of the mildest winters you’ll find in East Asia.
The air sticks with humidity, and rain falls pretty often, but you won’t see the heavy summer downpours. Usually, it’s more like light, lingering showers.
Snow doesn’t fall in the city, but the days grow shorter and sunshine gets limited, which really changes the mood compared to Taipei’s bright, sticky summers.
With daylight a bit over 10 hours and only a few hours of sun, the whole season just feels slower and more subdued.
This slower pace lets you experience Taipei in a more laid-back way.
Cooler air makes wandering night markets or exploring temples pretty comfortable, and honestly, the city’s hot springs and teahouses feel extra inviting.
Overview of Taipei’s Winter Climate
Winter brings cooler temperatures, lots of clouds, and steady humidity to Taipei.
Rain gets lighter than during the summer monsoon, but the city often stays gray and damp.
Temperature Ranges in Winter
Taipei’s winters feel mild compared to other cities at similar latitudes.
The average high sits between 19°C and 21°C (66°F to 70°F), with nighttime lows usually at 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F).
January tends to be the chilliest month.
Every so often, cold air from the north drops temperatures close to 10°C (50°F), but that’s about as cold as it gets.
Snow almost never happens in Taipei itself, but if you head to the mountains nearby, you might catch a glimpse.
Because Taipei’s in a humid subtropical climate zone, the dampness and clouds make things feel colder than the thermometer says.
You’ll probably want a light jacket or sweater most days, just to be comfortable.
Humidity and Cloud Cover
Humidity stays high in winter, usually between 70% and 80%.
Even if the numbers look mild, that much moisture in the air can make you feel a chill.
Clouds are a near constant companion.
Researchers found Taipei is overcast or mostly cloudy almost half the time during winter.
Sunshine averages just 2.5 to 3 hours per day, so don’t expect many bright days.
The combination of humidity and limited sunshine creates a cool, damp vibe.
You’ll probably notice condensation on windows and a persistent gray sky.
If you’re packing, go for layers and quick-drying clothes—they’ll serve you well.
Typical Weather Patterns
Winter brings fewer heavy rains than summer, but showers still happen a lot.
Monthly rainfall averages 70 to 90 mm (2.8 to 3.5 inches), with about 11 to 13 rainy days each month.
Most of these are light to moderate showers, not big storms.
Sometimes, cold fronts sweep in from mainland China and drop temperatures fast, making the wind feel sharper than you’d expect.
December has the shortest days, with about 10.6 to 11.3 hours of daylight.
Daylight slowly increases as you move toward February, but the limited sun keeps the winter mood subdued.
Rainfall and Precipitation in Winter
Taipei’s winter isn’t dry, even though it’s cooler.
Rain still falls often, just not in the heavy amounts you see in summer.
You’ll get light, steady rainfall spread over many days, rather than big downpours.
Monthly Rainfall Amounts
Rainfall in winter is moderate for Taipei.
December sees around 130–150 mm, January about 100–110 mm, and February gets 140–160 mm.
These totals are less than summer, but they’re still noticeable.
Rain usually comes as light showers or drizzle, not big storms, so the ground stays damp and skies stay cloudy.
If you’re visiting, this rain can mess with outdoor plans.
Carrying an umbrella or light rain jacket makes sense, since showers can sneak up anytime.
Number of Rainy Days
The total rainfall drops in winter, but the number of rainy days stays high.
On average, you’ll see:
- December: 18–19 days with measurable rain
- January: 18–19 days
- February: 17–18 days
So, more than half the days each month have some rain.
Luckily, most of it is light and doesn’t last long.
Instead of long storms, you’ll get passing showers.
This makes it possible to squeeze in activities between the rain.
Clouds stick around, so sunshine stays limited—some days barely see direct sun at all.
Comparison With Other Seasons
Winter rain is lighter than in other seasons, and you really notice the difference.
Summer, especially June through August, brings the heaviest rain thanks to the East Asian monsoon.
August alone can get over 280 mm of rain—way more than January.
Spring and autumn fall somewhere in the middle; spring gets wetter, autumn dries out before winter.
Winter stands out because it combines lower rain totals with a high number of rainy days.
So, even though it doesn’t pour as much, the steady drizzle and persistent clouds make the season feel damp.
For daily life, this constant light rain can be more annoying than the occasional summer deluge.
Sunshine, Daylight, and UV Levels
Winter brings shorter days, not much sunshine, and mild but still noticeable UV exposure.
These things really affect how much light you get outside and how you plan your days.
Average Sunshine Hours
Taipei gets 2.5 to 2.9 hours of sunshine per day on average in winter.
That’s the lowest all year.
Clouds hang around, so you don’t get much direct sun.
Even when it’s not raining, the sky often stays gray and overcast.
Outdoor spaces feel cooler than the thermometer says, just because of the lack of sun.
If you’re planning to spend time outside, expect lots of dim light and not many bright days.
A light jacket helps—not just for warmth, but for comfort in the damp air.
| Month | Avg. Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|
| December | ~2.6–2.9 hours |
| January | ~2.5 hours |
| February | ~2.6–2.9 hours |
Daylight Duration
Daylight in Taipei during winter runs from 10.6 to 11.3 hours per day.
December has the shortest days, and daylight slowly grows by late February.
Shorter days mean less time for sightseeing or outdoor adventures than in spring or summer.
If you want to make the most of your daylight, plan to get out earlier.
Parks, hiking trails, and night markets stay open, but the sun sets fast in late afternoon.
If you’re out after dark, a small flashlight or sticking to well-lit areas is a good idea.
UV Index in Winter
The UV index in Taipei during winter is usually low to moderate, often between 4 and 6 at midday.
That’s a lot lower than the summer highs of 11–12, but you still need to be a little careful.
You don’t need heavy sun protection, but a bit of sunscreen on your face won’t hurt on brighter days.
Clouds cut down on direct UV rays, but they don’t block them completely.
If your skin’s sensitive, sunglasses and a hat are still smart.
You won’t get blasted by UV like in summer, but after a few hours outside, you can still get mild effects.
Snow and Extreme Weather Events
Taipei’s winters are usually mild, but sometimes the city gets hit by rare extremes.
Snow almost never happens in the lowlands, but cold air outbreaks and damp air can make things feel harsher than the numbers show.
Likelihood of Snowfall
Snow in Taipei is extremely rare, thanks to its humid subtropical climate and low elevation—just 6–7 meters above sea level.
Winter temperatures usually bounce between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F), so it’s just not cold enough for snow.
Once in a while, a strong cold front drops things toward 5°C (41°F) or below, but even then, snow almost never shows up in the city.
You’re way more likely to get cold rain and overcast skies.
If you’re hoping for snow, you’ll need to head to the mountains.
Hehuanshan, Yushan, and Xueshan often get snow between November and February, since they’re high enough for it to stick.
So, Taipei itself offers a cool, damp winter, but the nearby mountains give you a shot at real snow if that’s what you’re after.
Unusual Cold Spells
Even though snow is rare, Taipei sometimes gets hit by sudden cold snaps when northeast monsoon winds bring chilly air from Siberia.
During these times, temperatures can dip below 8°C (46°F), and it feels even colder because of the humidity and wind.
Locals often say these spells are uncomfortable, since the damp air makes it tough to stay warm indoors.
Most buildings aren’t insulated or heated, so you might end up wearing layers at home.
Cold spells affect daily routines, too.
You’ll see more people using portable heaters, bundling up at night markets, and maybe even glimpsing frost or a light flurry on hills like Yangmingshan National Park.
These cold snaps don’t last long, but they stand out—especially if you expect Taipei to always be warm and humid.
Comparing Winter to Other Seasons in Taipei
Winter in Taipei feels cooler, cloudier, and less sunny than the rest of the year.
The big differences really show up in temperature, rainfall, and daylight, and they definitely shape your plans.
Differences With Summer
The biggest contrast is between winter and summer.
In winter, average highs stay near 19–20°C (66–68°F), while summer often hits 32–34°C (90–93°F).
Nights in winter can drop to 13–15°C (55–59°F), but in summer, they rarely fall below 26°C (79°F).
Rainfall is another huge difference—winter months see just 70–80 mm on average, while summer easily tops 300 mm, with lots of downpours and even typhoons.
Humidity stays high all year, but summer’s dampness feels heavier because of the heat.
Daylight and sunshine hours also change a lot.
Winter days shrink to about 10.6–11.3 hours with only 2–3 hours of sunshine.
Summer gives you 13.7 hours of daylight and up to 6 hours of sun.
Sightseeing is easier in summer, but you have to plan for the heat and sudden storms.
Spring and Autumn Weather Contrasts
Spring and autumn are kind of in-between Taipei’s cool winters and hot summers.
In spring, temperatures climb quickly from 19–22°C (66–72°F) in March to almost 30°C (86°F) by May.
Rain picks up fast, often doubling winter totals, and humidity rises.
You get a bit more sun, but showers are still common.
Autumn feels more comfortable.
September starts out hot and wet, like summer, but by November, highs drop to 24°C (75°F) and lows to 19°C (66°F).
Rain falls from over 300 mm in September to under 90 mm in November.
Both spring and autumn offer longer daylight (11–13 hours) and more sunshine compared to winter.
Travel Tips for Visiting Taipei in Winter
Taipei’s winter is mild compared to a lot of places, but you’ll still want to plan for cool evenings, damp conditions, and the occasional cold front.
The season brings a fun mix of cultural festivals, outdoor activities, and chances to explore beyond the city, though it’s not really beach weather.
What to Pack
Daytime temperatures usually sit between 15°C and 20°C (59°F–68°F), but nights can get a bit chilly, especially when the air turns damp. I’d recommend packing layers so you can swap things around as the weather changes.
A lightweight sweater, some long-sleeve shirts, and a medium-weight jacket should cover you for most situations.
Rain shows up often, so don’t forget a compact umbrella and a water-resistant jacket. Streets get pretty slick, so you’ll want comfortable walking shoes with good grip if you plan on wandering through markets or temples.
If you’re thinking about visiting hot springs, toss in a swimsuit and a quick-dry towel. For those evenings at night markets, a light scarf or hat comes in handy against chilly breezes.
Taipei apartments and hotels rarely have central heating, so warm indoor layers like sweatshirts or fleece tops really help you stay cozy.
Outdoor Activities and Events
Winter in Taipei usually stays mild enough for outdoor adventures. You can still hike trails like Elephant Mountain or Yangmingshan National Park, although the paths might be damp.
Just make sure to wear sturdy shoes and check the trail conditions before heading out.
Festivals really bring the city to life. The Lantern Festival in February lights up Taipei with all sorts of displays and performances.
During Chinese New Year, crowds fill the city and hotels book up fast, so it’s best to plan early.
Hot springs in Beitou or Wulai feel extra special when the air is crisp. There’s something about soaking in warm water while the world outside is cool—it’s just so relaxing.
Night markets get way more comfortable in winter since you don’t have to deal with the heavy summer humidity. You can wander around and enjoy street food like hot soups or grilled snacks without breaking a sweat.
Beach Holiday Considerations
Taipei’s winter just isn’t great for a beach holiday. The air feels cooler, and ocean temperatures usually sit around 18°C–20°C (64°F–68°F), which honestly makes swimming a bit uncomfortable.
Stronger winds can pick up, and the skies tend to be cloudier, so sunbathing doesn’t really work out most days.
If you’re after a coastal vibe, you might want to stick with scenic walks along the Tamsui River, or maybe try quick trips to northern coastal towns.
You’ll find plenty of seafood restaurants, some lovely harbor views, and a few cultural sites—no need to pack a swimsuit.
If you’re determined to find real beach weather, you’ll have to head south to places like Kenting. Down there, conditions stay warmer throughout the year.
Getting to Kenting from Taipei means taking the high-speed rail and then traveling a bit more, so you’ll want to think about whether that fits your plans.