Photo: Dinesh Valke / CC BY-SA 2.0
Puli is a charming town in Nantou County, central Taiwan, nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountains. Known for its pure water, it has a relaxed, small-town vibe with a strong artisan culture, particularly in papermaking and winemaking. This is a great stop for travellers exploring central Taiwan, offering a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Highlights & What to See
- Puli Brewery – Taiwan's oldest whiskey distillery (Omar Whisky), offering tastings and a glimpse into the craft of whisky-making.
- Chung Tai World Museum – A stunning Buddhist museum with impressive architecture and extensive art collections, including jade and ivory carvings.
- Paper Dome – A unique paper church built after the 1999 earthquake, symbolising community resilience and creativity.
- Shaoshing Rice Wine Workshop – Learn about traditional rice wine production and sample local varieties.
- Puli Old Street – A lively market area perfect for trying local snacks and shopping for handmade goods like paper umbrellas.
- Sun Moon Lake – Just a short drive away, this stunning lake offers cycling trails, boat rides, and temple visits.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for a half-day to a full day in Puli itself, which is enough to visit the distillery, museum, and old street. If you want to combine it with Sun Moon Lake, allow at least two days to enjoy both at a relaxed pace. Many travellers use Puli as a base for exploring central Taiwan, as it's well-located for day trips to Cingjing Farm and Hehuan Mountain.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Sun Moon Lake – Taiwan's most famous lake, with cycling, boat tours, and the Wenwu Temple.
- Cingjing Farm – A high-altitude farm with sheep, flower gardens, and mountain views.
- Hehuan Mountain – A popular hiking destination with sunrise views and alpine scenery.
- Xitou Nature Education Area – A lush forest reserve with walking trails and a giant tree.
- Shuili – A quiet town known for its river activities and hot springs.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Sun Moon Lake — EUMETSAT / Attribution
- Shuili — United States Central Intelligence Agency / Public domain