Things To Do
in Taiwan
Taiwan is an island nation located off the southeastern coast of China, known for its vibrant economy and advanced technology industry. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending traditional Chinese customs with influences from Japanese and Western cultures. The landscape features lush mountains, scenic coastlines, and bustling cities such as Taipei, home to iconic landmarks like Taipei 101.
Taiwan also has a vibrant democratic society with a strong emphasis on education, innovation, and environmental conservation.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Dui bu qi" - Sorry
- " Qing wen" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit Taipei 101 and enjoy the city skyline from the observatory. Explore nearby shopping districts like Xinyi and Taipei Main Station.
Have lunch at a local night market such as Shilin Night Market. Walk around the area and sample various street foods.
Watch the sunset from Elephant Mountain for a panoramic view of Taipei. Relax at a cozy cafe or bar nearby.
Travel to Taroko National Park and start with the Shakadang Trail for an easy hike. Enjoy the scenic marble landscapes.
Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine and hike further into the gorge if desired. Have lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
Return to Hualien City and explore the local night market. Rest early for the next day's adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Robust economy and technological innovation
- Beautiful natural landscapes and vibrant cities
- Free and democratic political system
- Strong education and healthcare systems
- Ongoing political tensions with China
- Limited international recognition and diplomatic relations
- Vulnerable to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes
- High cost of living in major cities
- Security concerns related to regional geopolitics
Best Activities in Taiwan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking marble cliffs and lush greenery of Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan's most famous natural attractions.
Enjoy scenic bike rides around Taiwan's largest lake, offering stunning views and a peaceful environment.
Catch the waves at Fulong Beach, popular among surfers for its consistent conditions and sandy shores.
Experience farming activities like strawberry picking in the fertile grounds of Changhua County.
Visit Alishan for bird watching, especially during migration seasons, amidst beautiful forested landscapes.
Explore the coastal waters and islands of Penghu by kayak, ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Set up a camp and enjoy outdoor nights in Taiwan's highest mountain range with stunning vistas.
While mainly known for cultural exploration, the surrounding mountains offer trails and scenic views perfect for outdoor activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Taiwan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Taiwan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Taipei city and beyond from one of the tallest buildings in the world.
Famous for its breathtaking sunrise views over the mountains, especially from the Alishan Forest Recreation Area.
Spectacular sea cliffs along the Suhua Highway, perfect for breathtaking ocean and cliff photography.
A picturesque lake with beautiful reflections, surrounded by lush mountains, ideal for scenic photos.
Marble-walled canyon with towering cliffs and waterfalls, offering incredible landscape photography opportunities.
Popular for cityscape photography of Taipei, especially at sunset or night.
Unique rock formations along the coast, great for capturing natural geological wonders.
Historic streets and traditional architecture that provide charming photo opportunities.
Food in Taiwan
Taiwan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting bowl of tender beef, flavorful broth, and chewy noodles, often garnished with pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. Best enjoyed at Yong Kang Beef Noodles in Taipei.
Must-Try!
Steaming, delicate dumplings filled with pork and savory soup, a must-try at Din Tai Fung or local street stalls in Taipei.
A savory dish made with fresh oysters, eggs, and tapioca starch, typically served with a sweet and spicy sauce, popular in night markets like Raohe Street Night Market.
Rich, caramelized pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and spices. Commonly found in traditional Taiwanese restaurants.
Fermented tofu with a strong aroma, deep-fried or stewed, available at night markets like Shilin Night Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Taiwan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Taiwan's largest night market in Taipei famous for its extensive street food offerings, including fried chicken, bubble tea, and stinky tofu.
Located in Kaohsiung, known for seafood dishes, papaya milk, and traditional Taiwanese snacks.
Famous for snake soup, frog dishes, and local snacks, offering a traditional night market experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show reverence to elders by using polite language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting and addressing elders with appropriate titles.
When offering gifts, especially during visits or special occasions, present them with both hands as a sign of respect and avoid overly expensive or lavish presents to prevent discomfort.
Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as it resembles a ritual associated with funerals. Maintain a polite and considerate attitude during meals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Taiwan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Taiwan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Taiwan, tipping is generally not a customary practice. Service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels, and leaving an additional tip is usually not expected. However, in high-end restaurants or for exceptional service, some patrons may choose to tip voluntarily. Tipping in taxis is uncommon, and drivers typically do not expect tips.
Payment practices in Taiwan primarily involve cash, credit/debit cards, and electronic payment systems. Many establishments accept mobile payment platforms such as Line Pay, Apple Pay, and local apps like Taiwan Pay. Cash remains widely used, especially in small businesses and rural areas. It is customary to pay bills promptly, and tipping is generally not included unless explicitly indicated.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Taiwan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Taiwan with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, and you can enjoy the iconic Cherry Blossom festivals, especially around March. It's a great season for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Taiwan is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This season brings monsoon rains and typhoons, especially in July and August. It's advisable to be prepared for heavy rain and plan indoor or water-related activities. Summer is also a vibrant time for festivals and night markets.
Autumn offers cooler, more comfortable weather and clear skies, making it one of the best times to visit. The temperatures are moderate, and the humidity drops. This season is excellent for exploring the mountains, hiking, and enjoying the harvest festivals.
Winter is generally mild, especially along the coast, though it can be cooler in the central and northern mountainous regions. Expect temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F). It's an ideal time for hot springs, cultural visits, and enjoying a less crowded travel experience. Snow is rare but possible in higher altitudes.
Taiwan at Night
Hiking in Taiwan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Taiwan's highest peak offering stunning sunrise views and challenging trails for experienced hikers.
Famous for its scenic sunrise, sea of clouds, and ancient trees, with multiple hiking trails.
Popular for its mountain views, cool climate, and accessible hiking routes.
National park known for marble marble cliffs, waterfalls, and lush trails like the Shakadang and Baiyang Waterfall Trail.
A popular and manageable hike offering panoramic views of Taipei city skyline.
Historical trail area perfect for exploring local history combined with scenic hiking paths.
Located in New Taipei City, offering lush forests and mountain views suitable for all levels.
Known for its multiple hiking trails and waterfalls close to Taichung.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Taiwan through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Taiwan by plane.
The largest international airport in Taiwan, serving Taipei and surrounding areas.
A major international airport located in southern Taiwan, near Kaohsiung.
Primarily serving domestic flights and some international routes to nearby countries, located in Taipei.
A major international gateway near Taiwan, connecting flights to Taiwan over the South China Sea.
Located in Guam, serving as a regional hub for flights between Taiwan and other Pacific destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Taiwan, making up approximately 97% of the population.
Various Austronesian ethnic groups, constituting about 2.3% of the population, including groups like the Amis, Atayal, and Paiwan.
Includes people of Japanese, South East Asian, and other origins, making up a small percentage of the population.
The Soul of Taiwan
Discover the essence of Taiwan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Taiwan, with a large following and numerous local leagues.
Baseball has a strong presence in Taiwan, with professional leagues and international success for Taiwanese teams.
Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that is widely practiced in Taiwan for health and wellness.
Soccer is increasingly popular, with local clubs and a passionate fanbase supporting the sport.
Badminton enjoys popularity in Taiwan, with many players excelling in international competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available, including vegetable-based noodles, rice dishes, and night market stalls offering vegetarian snacks. Always specify 'buru' (vegetarian) to vendors.
Vegan options are increasing, with many cafes offering plant-based dishes. Look for 'shousi' (素食) menus or vegan labels in restaurants.
Gluten-free options exist but can be limited. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly; consider carrying some snacks or using translation cards to explain allergies, as soy sauce and wheat-based ingredients are common.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Taiwan with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taiwan.