Must-Try Foods In Xitou Nature Education Area (Nantou) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Xitou Nature Education Area, Nantou, Taiwan

The Xitou Nature Education Area is nestled within the mountainous region of Nantou County, Taiwan, known for its lush forests and serene environment. The food history in this area is heavily influenced by the local indigenous culture, as well as the settlers from various parts of Taiwan and China. Traditionally, the cuisine includes local vegetables, mountainous herbs, and an array of proteins, excluding beef, following the traditional dietary restrictions of certain Taiwanese communities. Agriculture in the area focuses on high-quality produce, with an emphasis on organic farming and sustainability, resulting in fresh and nutritious ingredients used in local dishes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Xitou Nature Education Area, Nantou, Taiwan

1. Bamboo Shoots - Local bamboo shoots are a common ingredient, known for their crisp texture and sweet flavor. They are often prepared in stir-fries or soups. (Veg)
2. Wild Mushroom Hot Pot - A hot pot featuring a variety of local wild mushrooms, this dish showcases the biodiversity of Xitou's forests. (Veg)
3. Mountain Vegetable Delicacies - Assorted dishes made from foraged greens and vegetables that are unique to the area. (Veg)
4. Sticky Rice in Bamboo - Glutinous rice mixed with ingredients such as mushrooms or peanuts and steamed in bamboo tubes. (Veg)
5. Tea Cuisine - With the proximity to Taiwan's tea-growing regions, dishes infused with tea flavors are a delicacy. (Veg)
6. Aboriginal BBQ Fish - Local river fish marinated and grilled with indigenous seasoning methods. (Non-veg)
7. Smoked Chicken - Chicken seasoned with local spices and smoked to perfection using traditional methods. (Non-veg)
8. Tofu Pudding - Silky soft tofu served with sweet syrup, often garnished with peanuts or beans. (Veg)
9. Preserved Eggs - A traditional delicacy, these eggs are cured in a mixture of clay, ash, and quicklime for several weeks. (Non-veg)
10. Sweet Potato Balls - Deep-fried snacks made from sweet potato paste, crispy outside and chewy inside. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Xitou Nature Education Area, Nantou, Taiwan

Below is the list of some top famous restaurants in Xitou and nearby areas, along with their addresses and some of their famous dishes:

• Luming Restaurant
  Address: No. 9, Xitou, Lugu Township, Nantou County
  Famous Dish: Wild Mushroom Hot Pot (Veg)
• Sun-Link-Sea Hotel Restaurant
  Address: No. 6-1, Xishan Road, Zhushan Township, Nantou County
  Famous Dish: Aboriginal BBQ Fish (Non-veg)
• Leader Hotel Chi-Tou
  Address: No. 5, Xitou Road, Lugu Township, Nantou County
  Famous Dish: Smoked Chicken (Non-veg)
• Alishan House
  Address: No. 16, Wun Chang Street, Alishan Township, Chiayi County
  Famous Dish: Bamboo Shoot Stir-fry (Veg)
• Yu's Almond Tofu
  Address: No. 10-3, Xitoudao, Lugu Township, Nantou County
  Famous Dish: Almond Tofu Pudding (Veg)