Caotun Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and culture of Caotun, Taiwan with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay, plus tips for safety and transportation.


Introduction to Caotun

Caotun is a small town located in Nantou County, in Central Taiwan. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers breathtaking views of the landscapes. Its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Caotun

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Caotun Folk Village is a must-visit destination for those who want to learn more about the local culture and customs. The village offers various hands-on activities, such as making traditional handicrafts and experiencing a puppet show.
  • Caotun Tianhou Temple is a historical temple in the center of the town that dates back to the Qing Dynasty. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Mazu, who is the protector of the fishermen and seafarers.
  • The Lishan Scenic Area is a picturesque spot with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a cable car to reach the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the area.

Natural Attractions of Caotun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Caotun Mountain Trail offers hiking and biking opportunities with scenic views of the mountains and valleys.
  • Sun Moon Lake is a popular destination near Caotun, famed for its stunning sunsets and natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake or hike the trails around it.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Caotun

Caotun Mountain Trail is a popular hiking and biking route in the town. It offers various terrains and levels of intensity, making it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced hikers and bikers.

Best Things to Do in Caotun: Activities and Tours

  • Experience a traditional puppet show at the Caotun Folk Village.
  • Take a cable car to the top of Lishan Mountain and soak in the stunning views of the area.
  • Go hiking or biking on the Caotun Mountain Trail.

Week-Long Itinerary for Caotun

Day 1-2: Explore the Caotun Folk Village and the town’s historical landmarks Day 3: Take a day trip to Sun Moon Lake Day 4-5: Go hiking or biking on the Caotun Mountain Trail Day 6: Visit the Lishan Scenic Area Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and local products to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Caotun

Must-Try Dishes

  • Homestyle stinky tofu
  • Oyster vermicelli
  • Bamboo rice

Local Beverages

  • Tea
  • Local beer and spirits

Where to Stay in Caotun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Xi Tou Nature Education Area
  • Fuli Hot Spring Resort
  • Cheng Lin Farm
  • Plum Blossom Motel

What to Buy in Caotun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional handicrafts
  • Tea
  • Local snacks and treats

Local Culture and Customs of Caotun

Caotun has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its people’s beliefs and customs. The town is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery and weaving, which are passed down from generation to generation.

Best Time to Visit Caotun

The best time to visit Caotun is from September to November when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak. Another good time to visit is from April to June when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Caotun

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Learn a few Mandarin phrases to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Take photos without permission.
  • Litter or damage the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Caotun

Caotun is a safe destination, but visitors should take usual precautions, such as keeping their valuables in a safe place and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Caotun

Tap water in Caotun is safe to drink, but visitors should avoid eating street food.

Getting to Caotun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Caotun

The closest airport to Caotun is Taichung International Airport, which is approximately 45 minutes away by car or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Caotun

The Nantou Bus Station is the main bus station in the town and provides connections to other destinations in the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or scooter to explore the area at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Caotun

The town is small enough to walk around, but visitors can also use taxis, buses, and rental cars to get around.

Where to Go Next from Caotun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sun Moon Lake
  • Mount Hehuan
  • Nantou City

Conclusion

Caotun is a hidden gem in Taiwan, with its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the town’s historical landmarks to hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails. With this comprehensive guide, travelers can make the most of their stay in Caotun and discover all that the town has to offer.

Taiwan Times Village front facade. Taiwan Times Village front facade.