Taipei offers something unique in every season, but weather really can make or break your trip. The best time to visit Taipei is during spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November), when temperatures stay mild and rainfall drops. These months give you comfortable conditions for exploring night markets, hiking trails, and cultural landmarks without the extremes of summer heat or winter chill.
Taipei’s subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers with some risk of typhoons. Winters stay cool and damp, but rarely get harsh. If you know how these patterns shift through the year, you can plan with more confidence. Maybe you want cherry blossoms in spring, festivals in autumn, or the wild energy of summer events.
When you get a feel for the city’s seasonal weather, you can match your visit to the experiences you care about most. If you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural celebrations, or just comfortable sightseeing, the timing of your trip really shapes how much you enjoy Taipei.
Overview of Taipei’s Climate and Weather Patterns
Taipei has a humid subtropical climate. Summers get hot and wet, while winters stay mild and damp.
Rain falls often, and humidity makes temperatures feel warmer. Seasonal shifts bring real changes in comfort, rainfall, and how easy it is to travel.
Taipei’s Subtropical Climate
Taipei sits in northern Taiwan, right in the subtropical zone. This gives the city long, humid summers and short, cool winters.
Unlike southern Taiwan, Taipei sees more variation in temperature through the year.
Humidity often sits above 70%. That makes summer heat feel heavier and winter chill feel damper. Rain is common in every season, but it’s heaviest during the summer monsoon and typhoon season.
Taipei gets about 2,400 mm of annual rainfall, most of it falling between May and September. Typhoons sometimes hit from July through October, bringing heavy downpours and strong winds. You probably won’t see extreme cold, but you should expect a lot of cloudy skies and drizzle in winter.
Four Distinct Seasons
Spring (March–May) brings mild temperatures. Averages rise from 18°C (64°F) in March to 24°C (75°F) in May.
Rain picks up as the wet season approaches, so it’s smart to carry an umbrella.
Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, with highs often reaching 33°C (91°F). Rainfall peaks during this period, and typhoons sometimes hit. Outdoor activities can feel uncomfortable with all that heat and moisture.
Autumn (September–November) feels more comfortable. Temperatures sit between 21°C (70°F) and 27°C (81°F). Rain drops after September. This is often one of the best times to explore the city.
Winter (December–February) is cooler but not really cold. Average highs stay around 18–20°C (64–68°F). Rain falls less, but skies stay cloudy and the air feels damp.
Monthly Temperature and Rainfall Trends
Taipei’s weather shifts month by month. Here’s a quick look at the pattern:
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 16 | 70 | Cool, driest period |
| Apr | 22 | 130 | Mild, wetter spring |
| Jul | 30 | 190 | Hottest, typhoon risk |
| Sep | 27 | 270 | Wettest month |
| Nov | 21 | 80 | Comfortable, drier |
| Dec | 18 | 60 | Cool, cloudy |
Rain falls the most from May through September, when the monsoon hits. Temperatures peak in July and August. January and February are the coolest months. These patterns really shape when travel feels most comfortable and when weather might get in your way.
Spring in Taipei: March to May
Spring brings mild temperatures, cherry blossoms, and comfortable conditions for exploring the city’s parks and hiking trails.
You can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. It’s a good season for both sightseeing and outdoor adventure.
Weather Conditions and Temperatures
From March to May, daytime temperatures usually range between 18°C (64°F) and 28°C (82°F). March starts out cooler, but May can feel much warmer as summer creeps in.
Humidity averages around 70–76%. That can make the air feel damp. Rainfall is moderate, about 100–150 mm per month, so it’s smart to bring a light umbrella or raincoat.
You get 5–6 hours of sunlight per day, which is plenty for sightseeing. The weather rarely gets extreme, so you can walk through night markets or visit cultural sites without much discomfort.
Light layers and breathable clothes work best for this season.
Cherry Blossom Season
Spring is cherry blossom season in Taipei. The most popular bloom period runs from late February through early April, but the timing shifts a bit each year depending on the weather.
Yangmingshan National Park is the go-to spot for cherry trees in full bloom. The higher elevation there means blossoms might appear earlier than in the city.
Other good places include Taipei Expo Park, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall gardens, and Pingjing Street near Yangmingshan. These areas are easy to reach and often less crowded.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on weekdays or early in the morning. Blossoms last just a couple of weeks, so check local bloom forecasts before your trip if you want to catch them at their best.
Outdoor Activities and Hiking
Spring’s mild weather makes hiking in and around Taipei a real treat. Popular trails include Elephant Mountain (great for quick climbs and Taipei 101 views) and Yangmingshan, where you’ll find volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and flower fields.
With lower humidity than summer, you can hike longer without getting too tired. Trails are well-marked, but always bring water and sun protection.
Other outdoor activities? You might cycle along the Tamsui River paths, wander Daan Forest Park, or take a day trip to Pingxi for lantern releases. Spring weather lets you mix city exploration with outdoor adventure pretty easily.
Summer in Taipei: June to August
From June through August, Taipei gets its hottest and wettest weather. You’ll deal with high temperatures, heavy humidity, and frequent downpours. Typhoons and monsoon rains sometimes disrupt travel.
Still, summer brings lively festivals, busy night markets, and quick trips to beaches if you want to cool off.
Heat, Humidity, and Rainfall
During summer, daily highs often reach 30–33°C (86–91°F). Nights don’t cool off much, with lows around 24–26°C (75–79°F).
The heat and humidity (often above 80%) make the air feel heavy and sticky.
Rain falls often, with monthly averages between 160–230 mm. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms are common, so always carry a compact umbrella or a light waterproof jacket.
Because of the humidity, stick to breathable clothing. Cotton shirts, shorts, and sandals help a lot. Air-conditioned malls, underground walkways, and the metro system give you a break when the heat gets to be too much.
Typhoon and Monsoon Season
Summer lines up with both the East Asian monsoon and the main typhoon season. July and August bring the highest risk of tropical storms.
Not every storm hits Taipei directly, but even distant systems can cause heavy rain and delays.
Flights and ferries sometimes get canceled during bad weather, so keep your schedule flexible. Hotels in Taipei handle storms well, but trips to the coast or mountains might not be safe during warnings.
Monsoon rains mean sudden downpours that last for hours. Streets can flood quickly, especially in low areas. Planning for indoor activities—like museums or tea houses—gives you options when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Festivals and Night Markets
Even with the weather challenges, summer is one of Taipei’s busiest cultural seasons. The Dragon Boat Festival, usually in June, fills rivers with colorful races and draws big crowds. You can also try traditional sticky rice dumplings called zongzi.
Night markets really come alive in the evenings when the heat backs off. You can sample shaved ice, grilled seafood, and bubble tea while browsing the stalls. Favorites include Shilin Night Market and Raohe Street Night Market.
If you want to get out of the city, beaches in northern Taiwan like Fulong offer swimming and surfing. Go earlier in the day to dodge afternoon storms, and bring both sun protection and an umbrella.
Autumn in Taipei: September to November
In autumn, Taipei shifts from summer’s heavy rain and heat to cooler, drier, and more comfortable weather. This season brings mild temperatures, clearer skies, and a good mix of outdoor landscapes and cultural events.
Ideal Weather and Lower Humidity
From September through November, temperatures usually sit between 21°C (70°F) and 27°C (81°F). Humidity drops, making the air feel way more comfortable for walking, hiking, and sightseeing.
September is still the wettest month, with lots of showers and a lingering typhoon risk. By October, the rain drops off sharply, and November is one of the driest months in Taipei.
These changes make outdoor activities easier. Hiking trails like Elephant Mountain and Yangmingshan National Park become more pleasant, with less chance of sudden downpours. You can also explore the city’s night markets without the sticky summer heat.
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rainfall Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 75°F | Heaviest rain, typhoon risk |
| October | 26°C / 79°F | 22°C / 72°F | Noticeable drop in rain |
| November | 23°C / 73°F | 19°C / 66°F | One of the driest months |
Foliage and Scenic Views
Autumn brings some color to the mountains around Taipei. The city itself doesn’t see dramatic leaf changes, but nearby highlands like Yangmingshan and Maokong show off more foliage.
In late October and November, you’ll spot warm tones of red and gold in higher elevations. These places are popular for day hikes, tea plantations, and scenic views over the city.
If you travel further into northern Taiwan’s mountains, the fall colors really pop. Spots like Wuling Farm and Alishan (though a longer trip from Taipei) are famous for autumn leaves, but even short trips from the city give you a nice seasonal vibe.
Pairing a half-day hike with a visit to a tea house on the hillside lets you enjoy both the scenery and local culture.
Mid-Autumn Festival and Events
Autumn also brings the Mid-Autumn Festival, usually in September or early October. Families gather, eat mooncakes, and have evening barbecues. As a visitor, you can enjoy festive decorations, lantern displays, and special foods across the city.
Public parks and riversides host group barbecues, and you’ll probably see locals grilling outdoors during the holiday week. Night markets feature snacks tied to the season.
October and November are quieter for tourism, so you’ll find fewer crowds at top spots like the National Palace Museum or Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The balance of cultural events and calmer travel conditions makes autumn a practical time to explore Taipei without the intensity of peak summer or winter holidays.
Winter in Taipei: December to February
Winter in Taipei brings cooler temperatures, lighter rainfall compared to other seasons, and a slower pace of tourism.
You can expect mild daytime weather, cozy indoor activities, and lively cultural events that make this season distinct.
Cool Temperatures and Rainfall
From December through February, daytime highs usually hit between 16°C and 20°C (61°F–68°F). Nights can drop to 13°C–15°C (55°F–59°F), so you’ll probably want a light or medium-weight coat after sunset.
Winter here feels much milder than in a lot of other places, but don’t underestimate the chill once the sun goes down.
You’ll notice rainfall drops compared to spring and summer. December tends to be the driest, with about 60–80 mm of precipitation.
Rain still pops up, but it’s nothing like the heavy downpours you get during the wet season.
Humidity sticks around, so it’s best to dress in layers. A light sweater or jacket during the day works, and you’ll want a waterproof layer handy in case of sudden showers.
Walking around Taipei feels more comfortable in winter, especially if you remember how sticky the summers get. Exploring the city and its outdoor spots is just easier.
Hot Springs and Indoor Activities
Cooler weather makes hot springs way more appealing. Beitou Hot Spring, just north of Taipei, is the top choice for most people.
You’ll find public baths, private pools, and hotels that offer in-room hot spring tubs. The mineral-rich waters feel especially soothing when the air is crisp.
If you’d rather stay downtown, you can book a hotel with a private hot spring bath. It’s a good option if you don’t feel like heading out of the city.
Winter is also a great time for indoor attractions. Taipei’s National Palace Museum is always interesting, and places like Ximending or the underground malls connected to the MRT give you plenty to do if you want to stay warm and dry.
Chilly evenings are perfect for wandering Taipei’s night markets, and the lower humidity makes it way more pleasant than in summer.
Festivals and Fireworks
Winter brings out some big cultural celebrations. Around late December, Christmas decorations start popping up all over shopping streets and department stores, even though it’s not an official holiday here.
New Year’s Eve is a huge event in Taipei. The Taipei 101 fireworks show draws a massive crowd, with music and light displays to ring in the new year.
If you want a good view, you’ll need to arrive early—people really show up for this one.
Between late January and early February, Chinese New Year takes over the city. Families gather, lots of shops close for a few days, and festive markets spring up near temples.
Right after that, the Lantern Festival lights up Taipei with colorful displays, which adds a pretty magical vibe to your visit.
Tips for Choosing the Best Time to Visit Taipei
How much you enjoy Taipei really depends on how you handle heat, humidity, and rain. The weather can flip quickly between dry and mild or hot and wet, so plan around what makes you comfortable and what you actually want to do.
Weather Preferences and Travel Styles
If you like cooler, drier days, late autumn and winter are honestly the best. Temperatures usually stick between 14°C and 20°C, and there’s less rain, so it’s much easier to get outside, hike, or just wander around places like Elephant Mountain.
Spring brings mild warmth and cherry blossoms, but you’ll notice more rain as May gets closer.
Summer? It’s hot, humid, and often above 30°C, with frequent downpours and the occasional typhoon. If you don’t love sticky weather, this season might feel a bit much, though you can always escape to indoor spots like Taipei 101.
Think about your travel style. If you like hiking or long walks through night markets, stick to the cooler months. If festivals are your thing and you don’t mind crowds, spring and summer offer more events, but you’ll need to be patient with the weather.
Packing Essentials for Each Season
Packing right makes all the difference in Taipei’s unpredictable climate. In spring, bring layers, a light jacket, and a compact umbrella.
Rain is pretty common, so a waterproof bag comes in handy.
For summer, go for breathable clothing like cotton shirts and shorts. A lightweight rain jacket and an umbrella are musts since storms can hit out of nowhere.
Stay hydrated and don’t forget sun protection if you’re outside a lot.
In autumn, you can still wear light clothes, but pack a sweater or light coat for the evenings. A small umbrella is smart too, since showers are still possible.
Winter calls for warmer layers and an all-season coat. It rarely gets freezing, but evenings can be chilly.
Rain isn’t as frequent, but tossing a travel umbrella in your bag is always a good idea.
Popular Attractions by Season
In spring, you’ll find cherry blossoms at Yangmingshan National Park and Tianyuan Temple. The weather feels mild, so city walks are pretty enjoyable, but keep an umbrella handy—rain pops up now and then.
Summer? It’s honestly better to stick to indoor spots like Taipei 101, museums, or those endless underground malls. Night markets buzz with energy, though the heat can be a lot to handle.
When autumn rolls in, hiking trails like Elephant Mountain and the Maokong tea fields feel way more comfortable. The skies usually clear up, and you get much better views of the city.
Winter draws fewer crowds to outdoor attractions, so it’s perfect for soaking in hot springs around Beitou. Lantern festivals and holiday events bring a fun, cultural vibe to the cooler months.