Nantou County is located in the central part of Taiwan and is the only inland county in the Republic of China (Taiwan). It borders Taichung City to the north, Changhua County and Yunlin County to the west, Hualien County to the east, and Chiayi County and Kaohsiung City to the south. The county seat is Nantou City. The county is administratively divided into one city, four towns, and eight townships, including two mountain townships.
Geography and Natural Environment
Nantou County boasts Taiwan’s most magnificent natural landscapes, including the island’s highest peak, Yushan (Jade Mountain); the largest semi-natural lake, Sun Moon Lake; the source of the island’s longest river, Zhuoshui River; and Taiwan’s geographical center point. Due to its predominantly mountainous terrain, the county acts as a natural barrier against monsoon moisture from the Pacific Ocean, making it a crucial watershed area that nurtures two of central Taiwan’s four major river systems: the Zhuoshui River system and the Wu River system.
Although Nantou County is the only county in Taiwan that does not border the sea, Lalu Island in Sun Moon Lake is its only island, adding a unique feature to the region.
Ethnic Groups and Culture
Nantou County is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including several indigenous communities. The main indigenous groups are the Seediq, Bunun, Atayal, and Thao people. The Thao people, in particular, reside around Sun Moon Lake and have a deep cultural connection to the region.
Industries and Specialties
Thanks to its rich natural resources and favorable geography, Nantou County has developed a variety of agricultural and artisanal specialties, including green plums, bananas, sugarcane, Dong Ding Oolong tea, Shaoxing wine, bamboo crafts, Nantou ceramics, and flowers.
Living Areas and Regional Divisions
Nantou County can be broadly divided into four major living areas:
Nantou Area
Includes Nantou City, Caotun Township, Zhongliao Township, and Mingjian Township.
- Key towns: Nantou City and Caotun Township, with Caotun being the largest urban area in the county.
- Connections: Close economic and cultural ties with Fenyuan Township in Changhua County.
- Population: Approximately 249,000 people.
Puli Area
Includes Puli Township, Guoxing Township, Yuchi Township, and Ren’ai Township.
- Key town: Puli Township, serving as the gateway to Sun Moon Lake, Cingjing Farm, and other tourist destinations.
- Post-921 Earthquake: Increased interaction with the Lishan region after the devastating 1999 earthquake.
- Population: Approximately 129,000 people.
Zhushan Area
Includes Zhushan Township and Lugu Township.
- Key town: Zhushan Township, an essential transit hub for Tai Chi Canyon, Xitou, and Shanlinxi.
- Connections: Close ties with Douliu City in Yunlin County, forming a shared educational district. Yunlin County's name is derived from "Yunlinping," a historical reference to Zhushan Township.
- Population: Approximately 71,000 people.
Shuili Area
Includes Shuili Township, Jiji Township, and Xinyi Township.
- Key town: Shuili Township, with its living area extending into Qingshuigou in Lugu Township.
- Population: Approximately 43,000 people.
Nantou County blends breathtaking natural scenery, rich agricultural products, and diverse ethnic cultures, making it not only Taiwan’s geographical center but also an important county where tourism and daily life coexist. Whether it’s the grandeur of Yushan, the serenity of Sun Moon Lake, or the distinctive mountain town landscapes, Nantou County is a land worth exploring.
