Qingjing Farm Loses to Xitou! Nantou's Top Attraction Draws 1.13 Million Visitors, Tourists Praise: Breathtaking Scenery, Delicious Food, and Fun Activities — CNN-Certified Among World's Most Beautiful

As domestic tourism continues to thrive, Nantou County—renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes and rich ecological resources—has consistently drawn large numbers of domestic and international tourists. According to the latest statistics from Taiwan’s Tourism Administration, the top three tourist attractions in Nantou County from January to May 2026 were the internationally acclaimed Sun Moon Lake环潭Area, the culturally vibrant Bagua Mountain Scenic Area (Nantou region), and Xitou Nature Education Park, a forest sanctuary known for its healing atmosphere.

Nantou County’s Top 10 Tourist Attractions (Jan–May 2026)

1. Sun Moon Lake环潭Area — 1,130,194 visitors 2. Bagua Mountain Scenic Area (Nantou region) — 827,558 visitors 3. Xitou Nature Education Park — 746,865 visitors 4. Checheng — 326,658 visitors 5. Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village — 325,708 visitors 6. Taomi Area — 321,177 visitors 7. Qingjing Farm — 263,571 visitors 8. Sallingi Forest Eco-Resort — 259,446 visitors 9. Jiujufeng Animal Park — 219,233 visitors 10. Tataka Recreation Area — 204,124 visitors

Top Recommendation 1: Sun Moon Lake环潭Area

Sun Moon Lake is an internationally recognized alpine lake, celebrated for its breathtaking lakeside scenery and integration of indigenous cultural creativity. Its lakeside cycling path has been named one of the world’s most beautiful by CNN, and visitors can enjoy land, water, and aerial experiences via bicycles, cruise boats, and cable cars.

Google reviews highlight: "A perfect first-time destination representing Taiwan," "The boat tour has a smooth flow, and each pier has its own unique character," "The scenery changes dramatically between rain and sunshine—after rainfall, the misty mountains along the road from Shuili to Sun Moon Lake create a dreamy atmosphere," and "No matter how many times you visit, it always feels fresh."

Additional feedback includes: "The环潭bike path is well-planned and comfortable for cycling or walking," "Nearby attractions like Wunwu Temple, Xiangshan Visitor Center, and Ita Thao Old Street can be combined into a one- to two-day itinerary," "The cable car ride from Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village offers stunning views," and "The bald cypress trees in season are incredibly beautiful."

Top Recommendation 2: Bagua Mountain Scenic Area (Nantou Region)

Once famous for its giant Buddha statue, the Bagua Mountain Scenic Area has regained popularity due to recent improvements in surrounding facilities. Encompassing the birthplace of Weiru Shanqiu, the Sky Bridge, and expansive tea plantation trails, it seamlessly blends natural beauty with rural cultural creativity.

Google reviews state: "The last time I visited was decades ago—now the area is incredibly well-developed," "The view from the Buddha overlooks all of Changhua City—expansive and refreshing," "The庄严Buddha and the breathtaking views from the Sky Bridge are unforgettable," and "Walking the Sky Bridge at sunset, with sunlight filtering through the trees, is romantic and perfect for photos."

Other comments include: "The Bagua Mountain Buddha is one of Taiwan’s eight scenic wonders and a must-see," "Parking is convenient, and there’s a children’s playground nearby," "The lantern festival adds a whimsical charm," "The凤凰trees in May are in full bloom and stunning," and "After renovation, the area feels brand new and worth revisiting."

Top Recommendation 3: Xitou Nature Education Park

Located in the Phoenix Valley University Experimental Forest, surrounded by mountains on three sides, Xitou Nature Education Park is famed for its iconic University Pond, treetop canopy walkway, and towering Chinese fir forests. With a network of forest trails, rich biodiversity, and fresh air, it is a classic healing destination ideal for escaping the heat and enjoying forest bathing year-round.

Google reviews praise: "A national treasure—despite the many tour buses, the park is vast enough to feel uncrowded," "Walking among towering firs, cypresses, red cedars, ginkgos, and moso bamboo feels like entering a living, breathing natural classroom," "The air is cool and pure—every deep breath feels like a forest bath," and "Perfect at any time of year if you avoid the rainy season."

Visitors also note: "I spent five hours and still didn’t see everything," "The forest trails with benches along the way allow for peaceful chats, birdwatching, and squirrel spotting," and "Morning sunlight filtering through the trees creates a bright, beautiful atmosphere."

If you plan to visit, consider arriving early in the morning to hike and fully experience the fresh air and natural beauty.