Nantou is the second largest county of Taiwan by area. Located in the central part of the island, and containing its geographic center, it is the only non-coastal county in Taiwan. Its landscape is mountainous, with the east containing parts of the Central Mountain Range, including Taiwan's highest mountain, Yu Shan. The diverse landscape supports rare species such as the Taiwanese pangolin and leopard cat, and the county remains home to some of the Taiwanese Indigenous peoples.
What is now Nantou supported a number of indigenous groups that retained autonomy from central government during Qing rule of the island. Settlement was initially banned, but in the late 19th century it was encouraged. Many Hoklo and Hakka people moved in during this period. Under Japanese rule, the area was brought fully under government control, a sometimes violent process that shaped local ethnic identities. The region began to industralize, while also seeing increased agricultural production. Following the retrocession of Taiwan, Nantou County was separated from Taichung County. In the late 20th century, the area saw an increase in tourism, which has become a prominent part of the local economy. Famous sites include Sun Moon Lake, the largest lake in Taiwan.
The county is home to the Thao people, who live around Sun Moon Lake. Other indigenous groups with communities in the area include the Atayal, Bunun, Seediq, Tsou, and various Plains Indigenous peoples. Two of the county's townships are classified as indigenous townships. The total population of the county is around 470,000.
The county is led by a magistrate, who heads the Nantou County Government. The economy still includes extensive agricultural components in addition to tourism, and the region produces hydroelectric power. In modern times, the indigenous people are reflected in the education system, and retain their own cultural practices.
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