What Are the Temperatures and Recommended Clothing in Taiwan in January? A Must-Read for Those Who Don’t Want to Make a Mistake! A Comprehensive Guide Covering Travel Costs, Sightseeing, and Lunar New Year Events
What is the weather like in Taiwan in January?
Let's learn the basics of climate
The climate in Taiwan in January is completely different between the north and the south.
While the northern regions, such as Taipei, experience many cloudy and rainy days with a chilly, wintry climate, the southern regions, such as Kaohsiung, have many sunny days, and during the dayYou can get by in short sleevesIt's quite warm.
If you familiarize yourself with the climate in each area before your trip, it will make it much easier to plan your wardrobe and itinerary.
◆ For those who want to know about the differences in climate between regions such as Taipei and Kaohsiung
◆ For those considering a trip to Taiwan during the Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) period
◆ For those looking for information on travel costs and tourist attractions in Taiwan in January
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Temperatures in Taiwan in January and
Check the weather by region
Because Taiwan is a long, narrow island stretching from north to south, January temperatures vary considerably from region to region.
Make sure to pack appropriately for your destination.
⬇︎ Learn more about Taiwan's annual weather
January Temperatures and Weather in Taipei
The average temperature in Taipei in January isHigh of about 16°C, low of about 12°CBefore and after.
It often feels even colder than it actually is, with a chill in the air reminiscent of early spring in Japan.
With many rainy and cloudy days and high humidity, you may feel a damp chill in the air. A light jacket that you can quickly throw on while sightseeing is a must.
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January Temperatures and Weather in Kaohsiung
The average temperature in Kaohsiung in January isHigh of about 24°C, low of about 16°CAs a result, southern Taiwan remains warm even in January.
There are many sunny days, and it can even get warm enough to break a sweat during the day.
It gets a little chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket, but you generally won’t need the kind of heavy winter gear you’d wear in Japan.
January Temperatures and Weather in Taichung and Tainan
The average temperature in Taichung in January is about 20°C during the day and about 13°C at night, while in Tainan it isHigh of about 22°C, low of about 14°Cor so.
It’s generally warmer than Taipei and a bit cooler than Kaohsiung. While Taichung can have its share of cloudy and rainy days, Tainan tends to be relatively sunny, making it a great area for sightseeing.
January Temperatures and Weather in Taitung and Hualien
Taitung and Hualien are located in eastern Taiwan, where the average January temperatures range from a high of about 21°C to a low of about 14°C.
With the mountains nearby,When the wind blows, it feels colderThat happens sometimes. With plenty of sunny days, it’s a charming area where you can enjoy the natural scenery even in winter.
What should I wear in Taiwan in January?
Packing List for Japan
What to wear in Taiwan in January varies greatly depending on the area you visit. Since the north and south require completely different preparations, be sure to check carefully based on your itinerary.
Recommended Attire for Taipei and the Northern Region
In Taipei, wear a long-sleeved top with a cardigan or fleece, andLayering lightweight outerwearWe recommend this style.
Since it rains a lot, it’s handy to have a folding umbrella and a waterproof jacket. Temperatures can drop below 10°C on some days, so it’s a good idea to bring a scarf and gloves.
Clothing Guidelines for Kaohsiung and the Southern Region
In southern regions such as Kaohsiung, during the dayA T-shirt is all you needThere are days like that.
However, be sure to pack a light jacket or a long-sleeved shirt in case it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings. Since some days can be quite sunny, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen as well.
Essential Items to Bring
We’ve put together a list of items you’ll want to have on hand whether you’re in the north or the south.folding umbrellaIt's a must-have, especially in Taipei.
Taiwan has plenty of food stalls and markets, so you’ll be doing a lot of walking—making comfortable sneakers a must-have.
Also, since you can find all the daily necessities you need at convenience stores and drugstores in Taiwan, we recommend packing light.
Taiwan's Lunar New Year Events and Travel Information for January
In Taiwan,Lunar New Year (Spring Festival)is the biggest event.
From late January through February, lively festivals and events are held all over the country, so if you time your trip right, you can enjoy a truly special experience.
When is the Lunar New Year in 2027? Key points to note
The Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) in 2027 isSaturday, February 6It is.
A seven-day holiday period is expected from Friday, February 5, through Thursday, February 11, and the entire island of Taiwan will be filled with a festive atmosphere as families gather together.
However, since many restaurants and shops will be closed, you should exercise caution when dining or shopping during your trip. It’s a good idea to check their operating hours in advance.
How much does a trip to Taiwan cost in January?
Estimated Costs for Airfare, Hotels, and Meals
Taiwan is popular as a travel destination that’s close to Japan and offers great value for money, but travel costs can vary depending on the time of year, as January coincides with the Lunar New Year season.
Be sure to research current market prices and set a budget in advance.
Enjoy sightseeing in Taipei!
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Average Airfare Prices and Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
If you fly with a low-cost carrier, flights between Japan and TaiwanAbout 20,000 to 40,000 yen round-tripYou might find it there.
However, demand tends to rise around the Lunar New Year, which often leads to higher prices. Since booking early helps keep costs down, we recommend securing your tickets two to three months before your trip.
Estimated Hotel and Accommodation Costs
Business hotels in Taipei CityApproximately 5,000 to 10,000 yen per nightis a rough guide.
Prices tend to rise during the Lunar New Year holiday period, so it’s important to book early.
You can find guesthouses and hostels starting at around 2,000 to 4,000 yen per night, making them ideal for budget travelers.
Estimated costs for food, transportation, and souvenirs
Food is inexpensive in Taiwan, and if you eat at street stalls or local eateries,About 200 to 400 yen per mealThat's more than enough to fill you up.
Getting around the city is cheap and convenient by MRT (subway) or bus, and you can expect to spend about 500 to 1,000 yen a day on transportation.
Popular souvenirs include pineapple cakes and Taiwanese tea, and you can easily pick up a selection for between 3,000 and 5,000 yen.
Frequently Asked Questions and Things to Keep in Mind for a January Trip to Taiwan
We’ve compiled a list of key points for first-time visitors to Taiwan in January. Checking these details in advance can help you avoid any issues during your trip.
Does it rain a lot in Taiwan in January? Do I need an umbrella?
The northern regions, including Taipei, have many rainy days in January,The number of days with precipitation in a month is 10 or moreIt’s not uncommon for this to happen.
Be sure to bring a folding umbrella. On the other hand, in the southern regions, such as Kaohsiung, there are many sunny days, so you won’t need an umbrella very often. It’s a good idea to plan your rain gear based on the area you’ll be visiting.
Business Hours and Important Notes During the Lunar New Year Holiday
During the Lunar New Year holiday, many local restaurants and shopsClosed for a few daysI will do so.
While shops, large chains, and convenience stores near tourist attractions are often open, it’s a good idea to check the operating hours of the specific shops you want to visit in advance.
Also, since domestic transportation tends to get crowded around the Lunar New Year, be sure to book your long-distance travel well in advance.
Our staff who love Taiwan
Reasons to Visit Taiwan in January
Many people wonder, “What’s Taiwan like in winter?” but among our staff who love Taiwan,Taiwan Is Especially Fun in JanuaryMany people have mentioned that this is the case.
In addition to the Lunar New Year events, there are plenty of other attractions unique to winter.
Here are the “favorite spots in Taiwan in January” as chosen by our staff, who have visited Taiwan many times.
The winter-exclusive, heartwarming dishes are absolutely delicious
The first thing our staff mentions is something you really want to enjoy during the cold seasonWinter Delicacies in TaiwanIt is.
Duck with ginger (Jiangmu Ya), which is packed with ginger, slow-simmered lamb hot pot (Yangrou Lu), and hearty hot pots packed with ingredients will warm your chilled body right down to the core.
Step inside a winter hot pot restaurant bustling with locals, and you’ll get a real taste of “what a Taiwanese winter is all about!”
The perfect season for visiting hot springs
In chilly January in Taipei,The best season for hot springs...as well.
The Beitou Hot Springs, accessible by MRT from downtown Taipei, and the Wulai Hot Springs, located along a river valley, are appealing because you can easily stop by them between sightseeing activities.
Since you can enjoy it even on rainy days, it's a good idea to include it in your itinerary for the northern region, where the weather can be unpredictable.
If you go to the southern part of the country, you can forget all about the cold in Japan.
Even in January, the height of winter in Japan, in southern regions such as Kaohsiung and Tainan,Sightseeing in the Warm, Sunny WeatherYou can enjoy the
The sense of freedom that comes from taking off your heavy coat and strolling through the city unencumbered is so great that even our staff say it’s “the best part of visiting Taiwan in winter.”
Winter cuisine and hot springs in Taipei, warm sunshine in the south… Being able to experience two seasons in a single trip is something unique to Taiwan in January!
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January Temperatures in Taiwan: Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This depends on the area you're visiting. In northern regions like Taipei, we recommend layering long-sleeved tops with a cardigan and a light jacket; it's also a good idea to bring a scarf and a compact umbrella. In southern regions like Kaohsiung, it's warm enough to get by in just a T-shirt during the day, so a light jacket is usually all you need.
The Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) is a special time when you can enjoy lantern festivals and traditional events across the country, but many restaurants and shops close for a few days, and public transportation gets crowded. While it’s a great time to enjoy the festivities, it’s important to plan your meals and travel well in advance.
If you fly with a low-cost carrier (LCC), round-trip airfare typically costs between 20,000 and 40,000 yen. Accommodation at a business hotel in Taipei costs around 5,000 to 10,000 yen per night, and meals at street stalls or local eateries are very affordable, ranging from 200 to 400 yen per meal. For a 3-night, 4-day trip, you should plan on a total budget of approximately 70,000 to 150,000 yen.
summary
In January, the climate and recommended clothing in northern and southern Taiwan are completely different.
In TaipeiWays to Stay Warm and DryWith everything taken care of, you can enjoy sightseeing in Kaohsiung comfortably in light clothing.
While the Lunar New Year season is filled with special events, you should be aware of store closures and crowds.
Get a sense of the typical travel costs, book your flights and hotel early, and enjoy a wonderful trip to Taiwan!
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