January is the middle of winter in Taiwan, and the weather can vary considerably between the northern and southern parts of the island. Taiwan has a subtropical climate, which means winters are generally mild in most areas, but temperatures can drop considerably, especially in the north. January is typically cool and dry in Taiwan, especially in the lowland areas, but some areas may experience cold fronts and light rainfall.
Average Temperatures in January
In January, Taiwan experiences mild to cool temperatures, with the northern and central parts of the island being colder than the south. The country’s diverse topography, including coastal plains, mountains, and valleys, contributes to different climate conditions across regions.
Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan)
Northern Taiwan, which includes the capital city of Taipei, experiences the coldest weather in January. Daytime temperatures in Taipei range from 15°C to 20°C, while nighttime lows can dip to around 10°C to 12°C. The weather in Taipei tends to be cooler and more humid, and the possibility of light rain is common due to the nearby coastal mountains and Taiwan’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Keelung, located to the north of Taipei, is typically colder and receives more rainfall due to its proximity to the ocean. Average temperatures in Keelung range from 14°C to 18°C during the day, and nighttime lows can be around 10°C. There may also be foggy or cloudy days, especially in the early mornings.
Central Taiwan (Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli)
Central Taiwan experiences more mild temperatures in January compared to the north. In Taichung, the average daytime temperature is between 18°C and 23°C, with lows ranging from 11°C to 14°C at night. While it is generally sunny, cooler air masses may bring occasional cold fronts, leading to brief periods of chillier weather. The inland areas like Nantou and Miaoli, which are located at higher elevations, can experience temperatures that are slightly cooler, with daytime highs reaching 16°C to 18°C and nighttime lows dipping to around 10°C.
Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, Pingtung)
Southern Taiwan is the warmest region on the island during January. Cities like Kaohsiung and Tainan experience daytime highs of 22°C to 26°C, with nighttime lows ranging from 15°C to 18°C. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making this region ideal for outdoor activities during the winter months. Pingtung, located further south, can experience slightly warmer temperatures, with highs reaching up to 28°C on sunny days.
Mountainous Regions (Alishan, Hehuanshan)
Taiwan’s mountainous regions, such as Alishan and Hehuanshan, can be much colder in January, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C during the day and dropping well below freezing at night. These areas can experience snow, especially at higher elevations, making them popular for winter visitors seeking cooler temperatures and snow-capped landscapes. The winter weather in these mountainous regions can be quite dramatic, with temperature changes occurring rapidly due to elevation.
Summary of Average Temperatures
| Region | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan) | 15°C to 20°C | 10°C to 12°C |
| Central Taiwan (Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli) | 18°C to 23°C | 11°C to 14°C |
| Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, Pingtung) | 22°C to 26°C | 15°C to 18°C |
| Mountainous Regions (Alishan, Hehuanshan) | 5°C to 12°C | -5°C to 0°C |
Precipitation Levels in January
January in Taiwan is part of the dry season, but some regions still experience light rainfall, especially in the northern and central areas. The amount of precipitation varies depending on location, as the central and southern regions generally experience drier conditions.
Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan)
Northern Taiwan, particularly Taipei and Keelung, experiences moderate rainfall in January. On average, precipitation levels in Taipei range from 60 mm to 110 mm, with rain typically falling as short, light showers or drizzle. Keelung is one of the wettest cities on the island, with rainfall levels ranging from 100 mm to 150 mm in January. Due to its location near the ocean, the weather is also more likely to be cloudy or foggy.
Central Taiwan (Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli)
In central Taiwan, the weather is generally drier in January, especially in cities like Taichung. Precipitation levels range from 30 mm to 70 mm during this month. Rainfall is less frequent, with clear skies and relatively mild temperatures dominating the region. The mountainous areas like Nantou may experience brief periods of rain due to the terrain, but the overall precipitation is lower than in the north.
Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, Pingtung)
Southern Taiwan experiences the least amount of rainfall in January. Precipitation levels in cities like Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Pingtung average between 30 mm and 50 mm, making it the ideal region for outdoor activities during this time. The southern part of the island is generally dry and sunny, with fewer rain showers than in the north.
Mountainous Regions (Alishan, Hehuanshan)
In Taiwan’s mountainous regions, such as Alishan and Hehuanshan, precipitation levels can vary. These areas may experience rainfall due to their elevation, but January generally sees precipitation levels ranging from 50 mm to 80 mm. The higher elevations may also see snow, making these regions popular for winter tourism.
Summary of Precipitation
| Region | Average Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|
| Northern Taiwan (Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan) | 60 mm to 110 mm |
| Central Taiwan (Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli) | 30 mm to 70 mm |
| Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, Pingtung) | 30 mm to 50 mm |
| Mountainous Regions (Alishan, Hehuanshan) | 50 mm to 80 mm |
Wind Patterns and Atmospheric Pressure
Wind patterns in Taiwan during January are generally mild, but the island can experience strong winds, especially in the northern and central regions due to cold fronts coming from mainland China.
Wind Speeds
In the northern regions of Taiwan, especially in Taipei and Keelung, wind speeds are moderate, ranging from 15 km/h to 25 km/h. The wind in these areas is often accompanied by the occasional rainstorm, which may cause gusts to reach 30 km/h or higher. Keelung, with its coastal location, can experience stronger winds, especially during winter months, as cold air from the northeast pushes through the region.
In central and southern Taiwan, wind speeds are generally milder, ranging from 5 km/h to 15 km/h. The winds in these areas are influenced by the terrain and are typically not as strong as in the north. However, coastal regions like Kaohsiung can still experience occasional gusts, particularly near the port or in the wake of a passing weather system.
In the mountainous regions of Taiwan, such as Alishan, wind speeds can be higher, especially during the winter months. Winds can reach 30 km/h to 40 km/h, particularly at higher elevations where the terrain is exposed to strong gusts from the surrounding areas.
Atmospheric Pressure
In January, Taiwan generally experiences stable atmospheric pressure, with values ranging between 1010 hPa and 1015 hPa. The dry conditions associated with the northeastern monsoon lead to high pressure in most parts of the island, contributing to the relatively cool and dry weather during this month. However, as cold fronts move across the island, there may be fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, particularly in the northern and central regions.
Considerations for Travelers in January
While Taiwan’s weather in January is relatively mild, there are several factors that travelers should consider when planning a trip during this month.
1. Cold Temperatures in the North
The northern regions of Taiwan, including Taipei and Keelung, can be quite cold during January, especially at night. Visitors should pack warm clothing, including jackets, scarves, and gloves. In particular, the wind chill can make the temperatures feel even colder.
2. Milder Weather in the South
For those who prefer milder weather, southern Taiwan, including cities like Kaohsiung and Tainan, offers more comfortable temperatures. The daytime highs are generally in the low 20s°C, with cool evenings. While temperatures in the south are more pleasant, travelers should still bring layers for cooler nights.
3. Rain in the North
January is typically a wet month in northern Taiwan, and visitors should be prepared for the possibility of rain. An umbrella or rain jacket is advisable, particularly in cities like Taipei and Keelung, where rainfall is more frequent. The rain is generally light, but it can affect outdoor activities.
4. Snow in the Mountains
For travelers planning to visit Taiwan’s mountainous areas like Alishan, it’s important to prepare for cold weather and possible snow. The higher elevations can experience snow in January, so be sure to pack appropriately for winter conditions, including warm clothing and sturdy footwear.
5. Shorter Daylight Hours
In January, Taiwan experiences shorter days, with sunset occurring as early as 5:30 PM. This means that travelers should plan their sightseeing and outdoor activities accordingly to make the most of the daylight hours.
Things to Do in Taiwan in January
Despite the cooler temperatures, January is a great time to explore Taiwan’s unique culture, landscapes, and attractions.
1. Visit Taipei’s Cultural Landmarks
Taipei offers many cultural and historical attractions, such as the National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and Longshan Temple. The cooler temperatures in January make it a good time to explore these sites without the summer crowds.
2. Explore Alishan
Alishan is famous for its scenic beauty, and January offers the opportunity to see snow-capped mountains and frozen landscapes. Visitors can hike through the forested paths, visit the Alishan Railway, or enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in one of the local tea houses.
3. Enjoy the Beaches of Kenting
For those visiting southern Taiwan, Kenting National Park is a popular destination with its beaches, hiking trails, and beautiful coastal scenery. January’s mild weather makes it an excellent time for walking along the beach, even though it may be too chilly for swimming.
4. Hot Springs in Beitou
In the cooler months, Taiwan’s hot springs are especially inviting. Beitou, located in the north of Taipei, is a well-known hot spring destination. Visitors can enjoy relaxing in the natural hot springs while taking in the mountainous surroundings.
5. Visit the Taroko Gorge
Taroko Gorge, located in eastern Taiwan, is one of the island’s most spectacular natural wonders. January offers cooler weather for hiking, with stunning views of the marble cliffs and crystal-clear rivers. The lack of crowds during this time makes it an ideal time to explore.
6. Taipei 101 and Night Markets
For city lovers, Taipei offers shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visit Taipei 101 for panoramic views of the city and enjoy the vibrant night markets, such as Shilin Night Market, where you can sample Taiwanese street food. The cooler temperatures in January make walking around the city more pleasant.