Things To Do
in Taiwan
Taiwan is an East Asian island nation known for its vibrant culture, bustling cities, and lush landscapes, including towering mountains and tranquil beaches. It is a major player in the global economy, particularly in the technology sector, showcasing a remarkable blend of traditional Chinese heritage and modern innovation.
Despite its contentious political status, with the People's Republic of China claiming sovereignty over it, Taiwan maintains a distinct identity and has developed its own democratic political system, contributing significantly to the international community in various aspects.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Taipei 101. Grab breakfast at a nearby café and enjoy the morning view from the observation deck.
Head to the National Palace Museum to explore its vast collection of Chinese art. Have lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Taiwanese dishes.
Conclude your day at Raohe Night Market, indulging in street food and local snacks. Experience the vibrant nightlife and shop for souvenirs.
Travel to Taroko National Park and enjoy the breathtaking views of marble cliffs. Start with a hike on the Shakadang Trail for stunning scenery.
Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine and take in the picturesque landscape. Enjoy a packed lunch while surrounded by nature.
Drive back to Hualien and relax at the beach. Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Robust economy with a strong technology sector
- High standard of living and quality healthcare system
- Democratic government with active civic engagement
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions
- Scenic landscapes and a variety of tourist attractions
- Geopolitical tension with mainland China
- Natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes
- Limited international recognition and diplomatic isolation
- High population density in urban areas leading to congestion
- Struggles with aging population and labor shortages
Best Activities in Taiwan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Taiwan offers a variety of beautiful hiking trails, including the famous Taroko Gorge and Yangmingshan National Park.
Exploring Taiwan's scenic landscapes by cycling along dedicated bike paths and coastal roads is a popular outdoor activity.
The east coast of Taiwan, particularly Kenting and Dulan, is known for its great surfing spots and perfect waves.
The crystal-clear waters around Green Island, Xiao Liuqiu, and Orchid Island are ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Tours
Uncover the best of Taiwan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Taiwan
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking marble canyon in the east of Taiwan, offering incredible views and hiking opportunities.
A picturesque lake surrounded by lush forests and mountains, providing stunning photographic opportunities.
Famous for its sunrise views over a sea of clouds, making it a popular spot for capturing beautiful scenery.
A renowned skyscraper with an observation deck offering panoramic views of Taipei City and its surroundings.
Food in Taiwan
Taiwan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty and flavorful noodle soup with tender beef, often served with pickled mustard greens. Visit Lin Dong Fang in Taipei for an excellent version of this iconic dish.
Must-Try!
A fragrant noodle soup with fresh oysters and a savory broth. Try Ah Zong Mian Xian in Taipei's Ximending district for a popular rendition of this dish.
Fermented tofu with a strong aroma, deep-fried to crispy perfection. Sample the best Stinky Tofu at Shilin Night Market in Taipei.
A beloved Taiwanese invention featuring chewy tapioca pearls in a sweet milk tea base. Chun Shui Tang in Taichung is credited with concocting the original bubble tea.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Taiwan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Taiwan's most famous night markets, offering a plethora of street food options including stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and grilled squid.
A vibrant night market known for its diverse array of street food, such as pepper buns, medicinal herb-infused pork ribs, and mochi.
A bustling night market featuring a wide variety of local snacks, from coffin bread to flame-grilled beef cubes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to address people using their titles and honorifics as a sign of respect, particularly for older individuals and those in positions of authority.
Taiwanese culture places importance on hierarchy and age, so it is important to show respect to elders and those in senior positions, and to be mindful of one's place in the social order.
When visiting someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as fruit or pastries. Gifts are typically presented and received with both hands as a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Taiwan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Taiwan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taiwan and is generally not expected, especially in local eateries and small businesses. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10% service charge may be automatically added to the bill.
In Taiwan, cash is still widely used for transactions, especially in local markets and small shops. However, credit cards are accepted in larger establishments and tourist areas. Mobile payments are also becoming increasingly popular, with apps like Apple Pay and Line Pay being widely used.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Taiwan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, pleasant weather, and outdoor activities.
Expect hot and humid weather, typhoons, and vibrant summer festivals.
Great for hiking and enjoying the beautiful fall foliage.
Cool and mild weather, ideal for hot springs and enjoying festive celebrations.
Taiwan at Night
Hiking in Taiwan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its marble cliffs, deep gorges, and scenic hiking trails, including the famous Zhuilu Old Trail.
The highest peak in Yangmingshan National Park, offering panoramic views of Taipei and a variety of trails with rich flora and fauna.
Famous for its picturesque sunrise views, Alishan has a network of hiking trails through ancient forests, tea plantations, and cherry blossoms.
Known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, Hehuanshan features several hiking routes suitable for both day hikes and overnight treks.
The highest mountain in Taiwan, Yushan offers challenging hikes for adventurous trekkers, with stunning alpine scenery and unique ecosystems.
A popular spot in Taipei for both locals and tourists, offering a short hike to a viewpoint with spectacular views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline.
Located in the east of Taiwan, it is known for its lush vegetation and the Shennong trail, which is perfect for trekking enthusiasts.
A scenic area showcasing a range of hiking trails amidst beautiful landscapes, especially famous for cherry blossoms in spring.
This trail offers a pleasant walk along the Tamsui River, providing views of the river and easy access to various cultural spots.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Taiwan through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Taiwan by plane.
The largest and busiest international airport in Taiwan, located in Taoyuan City, serving as the primary gateway for international flights.
The second largest airport in Taiwan located in Kaohsiung, mainly serving southern Taiwan and offering international flights.
An international airport located in Taichung, serving the central region of Taiwan with both domestic and international flights.
A regional airport in Tainan that offers some international flights, primarily linking to neighboring regions.
An international airport located in Hualien, primarily facilitating flights to and from nearby regions and some international destinations.
An airport located on Kinmen Island, offering limited international flights, especially to Mainland China.
An airport serving the Matsu Islands, providing essential air links to Taiwan and limited international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Taiwan, which includes various subgroups such as Holo, Hakka, and Mainlanders.
The original inhabitants of Taiwan, who belong to various tribes and have their own distinct languages and cultures.
A significant population including laborers from Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
Includes smaller populations of residents such as American, Japanese, and other expatriates living in Taiwan.
The Soul of Taiwan
Discover the essence of Taiwan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is often considered the national sport of Taiwan, with a strong following and a rich history, including successful professional teams and national teams competing internationally.
Basketball is widely popular among the youth in Taiwan, with many schools participating in leagues and community games, as well as a growing presence in professional leagues.
Soccer is steadily gaining popularity, with various local leagues and increasing interest in international competitions, especially following Taiwan's participation in events.
Badminton is a popular recreational sport in Taiwan, with many players at both amateur and professional levels, and the country has produced internationally ranked players.
T'ai Chi is a traditional martial art practiced widely across Taiwan, focusing on slow, controlled movements and is popular among all age groups for its health benefits.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in both indoor and beach formats, with many competitions held at various levels, from schools to professional leagues.
Cycling has become increasingly popular in Taiwan, thanks to the country's scenic landscapes and the establishment of numerous cycling paths, making it a favored recreational activity.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Taiwan is very accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many eateries offering dedicated plant-based menus. Notable vegetarian restaurants include Herban Kitchen & Bar in Taipei and Sufood in multiple locations.
Gluten-free options can be found in Taiwan, particularly at health-conscious establishments and international cuisine restaurants. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly and inquire about ingredients when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Taiwan with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taiwan.