Christmas in Taiwan 2025: A Detailed Travel Experience

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If you love Taiwan and are planning to experience Christmas there, the end of the year is the perfect time to consider. The Christmas spirit fills the cities with decorative lights, Christmas markets, and plenty of entertainment for visitors. This iVISA article will help you understand the highlights of Taiwan during Christmas and how to prepare for your trip.

What makes Christmas in Taiwan special?

In Taiwan, Christmas is not as major as in Western countries, but the festive atmosphere is lively and well-organized. From decorations to events and light shows, Christmas in Taiwan is on par with nearby Asian countries like Japan and South Korea, and even stands out compared to Vietnam.

Why is Christmas so lively in Taiwan despite not being a major holiday?

Christmas in Taiwan is not an official holiday and is not strongly tied to most people’s religious practices. Yet, every year, Taiwan transforms into a vibrant, festive hub.

The main reason is that Taiwan views Christmas as a cultural festival. Local governments and shopping centers actively use the year-end season to boost tourism and create public entertainment spaces. From mid-November to early January, light festivals, Christmas markets, and New Year countdown events continuously draw crowds, turning Christmas into an engaging urban experience beyond its religious significance.

How does the Christmas atmosphere differ in Taipei, New Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung?

Planning to celebrate Christmas in Taiwan but not sure which city to choose? Each region has its own festive style, reflecting the city’s lifestyle and character.

Taipei is ideal for those who enjoy a lively, modern Christmas atmosphere, with illuminated streets and popular check-in spots like Taipei 101 and Xinyi district.
New Taipei City offers a bustling experience with Christmasland and outdoor activities, perfect for families and first-time visitors.
Taichung is slower-paced, combining Christmas decorations with nature, ideal for a relaxed celebration.
Kaohsiung is suitable for those who dislike cold weather or are traveling with children, offering warm temperatures and accessible festival activities.

Weather in Taiwan during Christmas

Taiwan’s weather during Christmas is generally mild. Winter lasts from late November to early February, with December temperatures averaging 13-25°C depending on the region. Days are cool, nights slightly chilly, especially in the north. Rainfall is minimal, sometimes light in early morning or late evening.

Thanks to this temperate climate, visitors can comfortably walk around, sightsee, and enjoy evening light shows. Compared to Europe or Northeast Asia, Christmas in Taiwan is milder, without heavy snow or freezing temperatures. However, in high mountain areas like Alishan, temperatures can drop below 10°C with occasional frost or light snow when cold winds blow.

Taipei and New Taipei: 12-20°C, light rain possible.
Taichung: 14-22°C, warmer.
Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan): 15-24°C, very comfortable.

Visitors should bring jackets, layered clothing, and comfortable shoes to move easily throughout their journey.

Best places to celebrate Christmas in Taiwan

Choosing the right area is crucial to fully experience Christmas in Taiwan. Each region-north, central, south-has its unique festive flavor suitable for different travel styles.

Taipei & New Taipei: A paradise for Instagram lovers and lively Christmas festivals

For those planning to travel to Taiwan in December and want a vibrant Christmas spirit with easy exploration, Taipei and New Taipei are perfect, especially for first-time visitors in Taiwan.

The highlight is Christmasland in New Taipei City, a festival organized by the city government, lasting about 45 days from mid-November to late December. The festival features large-scale light shows, outdoor stages, and bustling Christmas markets, offering visitors insight into urban life and festive culture in Taiwan.

Taipei 101 – Xinyi area becomes the central check-in spot each Christmas season with bright LED lights and a giant Christmas tree in the square. Shopping centers like ATT 4 FUN and Breeze provide both shopping convenience and a chance to enjoy Taiwanese cuisine in a festive atmosphere.

Taichung – Sun Moon Lake: A calm Christmas blended with nature

For those who prefer a slower, more relaxed Christmas experience, Taichung is a great choice. Unlike the bustling north, the festive atmosphere is gentle and pleasant. Christmas decorations are found in central squares and major malls, but the crowd density is moderate.

Combining this with a visit to Sun Moon Lake makes a December trip even more enjoyable. The serene lake and fresh air create an ideal environment for walking, photography, and relaxation-perfect for families, couples, or self-guided travelers seeking a peaceful yet festive experience.

Southern Taiwan: Warm Christmas in Kaohsiung and Tainan

For visitors not accustomed to cold weather or traveling with children, southern Taiwan, particularly Kaohsiung and Tainan, offers a mild, comfortable Christmas.

During this season, central squares and major shopping malls are decorated with lights, mini-markets, and medium-scale events. The festive atmosphere is not overly crowded, making it suitable for those looking for a relaxing experience. Families or travelers wanting a mix of leisure, food, and city strolls will find southern Taiwan an easy and safe option.

What to eat during Christmas in Taiwan

The cool winter air makes brightly lit streets and malls feel cozy. The aroma of warm street food fills the air, keeping you warm and enhancing the festive spirit.

Must-try winter foods in Taiwan

When visiting Taiwan during Christmas, do not miss its special winter cuisine. Hot dishes are perfect for warming up while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Must-try foods include:

Tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls in hot soup)
Rich braised beef noodles
Night market shumai
Grilled tofu
Taiwanese-style Christmas pastries
Hot milk tea or hot chocolate

Recommended food spots in Taiwan

For Gen Z travelers active on TikTok or Facebook, Xinyi in Taipei, near Taipei 101 and Xinyi Plaza, is a chic dining area with European-Asian restaurants. Spacious and beautifully decorated, it’s perfect for social media photos while enjoying food. For vibrant street food, Ximending in Wanhua District is a must-visit with colorful snacks, milk tea, fried street food, shumai, and pastries-a hotspot for Instagram-worthy Christmas shots.

FAQs about visiting Taiwan during Christmas

How to prepare for cold, rain, or mountain snow in Taiwan?

In December, northern Taiwan can be chilly, and high mountains like Alishan may have light snow. Bring warm jackets, layered clothes, gloves, scarves, non-slip shoes, moisturizer, and lip balm to stay comfortable while enjoying Christmas.

How to stay safe and avoid losing items in crowded areas like Christmas markets?

Keep bags small and in front of your body, avoid carrying valuables, and use anti-theft bags or waist straps. Agree on meeting points and times with your group, and use phones or location apps to avoid getting separated.

Read more: Important Notes for Traveling to Taiwan

Is travel insurance necessary when visiting Taiwan at the end of the year?

Yes. Travel insurance is important for medical costs, minor accidents, or lost items. It also provides peace of mind during outdoor activities or mountain trips, making self-guided travel safer and worry-free.

Do Vietnamese visitors need a visa to travel to Taiwan for Christmas?

Yes. Vietnamese citizens must obtain a tourist visa to enter Taiwan. Prepare personal documents, a detailed itinerary, financial proof, and hotel reservations. To save time and increase approval chances, contact iVISA for full-service Taiwan visa support.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in Taiwan’s sparkling, lively Christmas atmosphere? Let iVISA assist you with end-to-end travel visa support so you can pack your bags and fully enjoy the festive season in Taiwan today!

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