New Taipei City Weather in February

February weather

February feels cool, damp and often grey in New Taipei City. Days reach about 19°C, but frequent rain and high humidity can make the air feel chilly. Expect wet spells on many days and little sunshine, so keep outdoor plans flexible.

It's still a good month for indoor stops, including the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology in nearby Keelung, or tea houses in Jiufen. Avoid making a long coastal walk your only plan; mist and rain can spoil the views. If you hate crowds, visit Jiufen on a weekday rather than during a holiday.

Lunar New Year and lanterns

Lunar New Year sometimes falls in February, though its date changes each year. It's a major holiday in Taiwan: local shops may close, transport gets busy, and popular sights fill with families. Check the holiday dates for your trip, since this can change the feel of the city.

The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is another February possibility, but it can also fall in March. It draws large crowds to the mountain town of Pingxi, where visitors release lanterns. If you're going, take the train from Ruifang and allow extra time for queues.

Crowds and local tips

Outside Lunar New Year, February is generally quieter than the summer holiday period. It's within New Taipei's cooler travel season, from November to March, and can feel less pressured than peak summer. Holiday weeks are the exception, when rooms and transport may cost more.

For a rainy-day outing, head to Tamsui Old Street and try a-gei, tofu stuffed with noodles. The riverside can be grey and windy, but the food stalls and old lanes still make a worthwhile visit.