TAIWAN
Taiwan is a dramatic island off the southeastern coast of China, where steep mountains rise from misty coasts and tea plantations cling to rolling hillsides. This compact land packs stunning variety: subtropical beaches in the south, misty forests in the central highlands, and volcanic cliffs overlooking the Pacific. Taiwan sits on a tectonic fault, giving rise to hot springs, marble gorges, and a spine of peaks—over 200 of which rise above 10,000 feet (3,000 m).
For millennia, Taiwan was home to Indigenous Austronesian peoples who lived along its coasts and forested interiors. Dutch and Spanish colonists arrived in the 17th century, followed by Han Chinese settlers fleeing turmoil on the mainland. The island’s strategic location drew Qing dynasty forces, Japanese imperialists, and, eventually, the Nationalist government after China’s civil war. Today, Taiwan blends ancient temples and traditional markets with a high-tech, democratic society. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the tribal villages of Taitung, Taiwan’s layered history and spectacular geography invite slow discovery and spirited exploration.
Why Visit Taiwan?
Stunning Natural Landscapes: From the marble canyons of Taroko Gorge to the alpine beauty of Alishan, Taiwan is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and photographers.
Night Markets & Street Food: Explore the dazzling chaos of Shilin, Liuhe, or Fengjia markets for beef noodles, stinky tofu, and bubble tea.
Cultural Depth: Visit serene Taoist temples, centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, and lively Indigenous festivals.
Efficient and Scenic Transport: Ride high-speed trains along the coast or local trains through rice paddies and tea farms.
Hot Springs and Wellness: Soak in Beitou’s public baths or upscale resorts in Jiaoxi and Guanziling.
Friendly Locals: Taiwanese hospitality is warm and genuine—even strangers will go out of their way to help.
Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights
Key Advantages:
- Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are generally at their absolute lowest, outside of the Lunar New Year period.
- Fewer Crowds: Major attractions, night markets, and cities are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate experience.
- Authentic Local Vibe: Experience Taiwan like a local, with more opportunities to interact with residents and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
- Hot Spring Haven: Winter is the perfect time to enjoy Taiwan’s abundant hot springs, with various options from luxurious resorts to public baths.
- Mild Southern Winters: While the north can be chilly, southern Taiwan (e.g., Kaohsiung, Kenting) often enjoys mild and pleasant winter temperatures.
Main Drawbacks:
- Cooler Temperatures (North): Northern Taiwan (Taipei, mountainous areas) can be cool, damp, and sometimes rainy.
- Shorter Days: Daylight hours are shorter, limiting sightseeing time.
- Limited Outdoor Activities (Mountains): Some higher-elevation hiking trails might be less accessible or more challenging due to cooler temperatures and potential for mist/rain.
- Lunar New Year Surge: Be aware that the Lunar New Year holiday (which typically falls in late January or February) is a major domestic travel period, leading to higher prices and extreme crowds. Avoid this specific week if seeking off-season benefits.
Regions:
- Taipei: The capital city is vibrant even in winter. Explore the bustling night markets with fewer tourists, enjoy a warm bowl of beef noodles, visit museums, and soak in hot springs in Beitou. The city lights are particularly charming in the shorter days.
- Southern Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, Kenting): These regions offer milder, often sunny, winter weather. Kaohsiung’s urban attractions, Tainan’s historical sites and food scene, and Kenting’s coastal beauty can be enjoyed comfortably without the summer heat and crowds.
- Hot Spring Areas (Beitou, Wulai, Jiaoxi): Winter is the absolute best time to indulge in Taiwan’s rich hot spring culture. These areas are easily accessible and offer a relaxing escape.
- Alishan (for sunrises): While cold, a winter visit to Alishan can offer incredibly clear skies for spectacular sunrises over the “sea of clouds,” with fewer visitors compared to peak seasons.
Key Advantages:
- Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, without the extreme heat and humidity of summer.
- Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in peak summer, but attractions are fully open and vibrant.
- Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in summer, though slightly higher than deep winter.
- Festivals & Events: Many vibrant local festivals and cultural events take place, such as the Lantern Festival (early spring) and various temple festivals.
- Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn): Enjoy the natural beauty of Taiwan’s diverse landscapes, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn.
Main Drawbacks:
- Typhoon Season (Late Summer/Early Autumn): While less frequent than mid-summer, the tail end of typhoon season can extend into September, potentially causing travel disruptions.
- Unpredictable Weather (Spring): Early spring can still have some cooler, rainy days, especially in the north.
- Increased Humidity (Late Spring/Early Autumn): Humidity levels can start to rise in late spring and remain high into early autumn.
Regions:
- Taipei & Northern Taiwan: Perfect weather for exploring the city, hiking in Yangmingshan National Park (spring blossoms), and enjoying coastal areas like Yehliu and Jiufen without the intense summer heat or winter chill.
- Central Taiwan (Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge): These regions are fantastic in shoulder seasons. Enjoy cycling around Sun Moon Lake, exploring Taichung’s vibrant arts scene, and hiking in the stunning Taroko Gorge with comfortable temperatures.
- East Coast (Hualien, Taitung): The scenic East Coast offers beautiful coastal drives, aboriginal culture, and stunning national parks like Taroko Gorge, all best enjoyed in the pleasant shoulder season weather.
- Penghu Islands (Spring/Early Autumn): These beautiful islands are ideal for a visit in spring or early autumn, offering pleasant beach weather and water activities before the peak summer crowds and intense heat.
Mid-Summer (June-August): This is Taiwan’s peak tourist season, coinciding with school holidays and warmer weather. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular attractions, especially in cities and coastal areas, will be crowded. This period is also characterized by high humidity and the highest risk of typhoons. While the weather is generally good for beach activities, the value for money is significantly lower, and the heat can be intense.
Lunar New Year Holiday Period: While festive, this period (typically late January or February) sees a massive surge in prices and crowds, especially for domestic travel. Many businesses may also be closed for several days. If you’re seeking off-season benefits, it’s best to avoid travel during this specific holiday week.
Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
Taiwan has flexible visa policies for many nationalities.
Citizens of 60+ countries (including the U.S., EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) can enter visa-free for 30–90 days.
eVisas are available for select nationalities; others must apply through a Taiwanese embassy.
Passport must be valid for at least six months from arrival.
Entry may require proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds.
Check official requirements here.
Currency
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$).
Bills: NT$100–2,000. Coins: NT$1–50.
Exchange rate: ~US$1 = NT$32 (subject to change).
Best Ways to Handle Currency
Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount at home.
During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (Mega Bank, CTBC, HSBC); credit cards widely accepted in cities.
Carry NT$500–1,000 for markets, taxis, night markets.
Avoid airport exchange counters (poor rates); decline “dynamic currency conversion.”
Price Level
Taiwan is moderate to affordable, especially outside Taipei.
Accommodation
Budget: Hostels, guesthouses (US$20–50/night)
Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$60–100/night)
Luxury: 4–5 star hotels (US$150+/night)
Food
Street food/night markets: US$3–8
Local restaurants: US$8–20/person
Upscale dining: US$40+/person
Drinks
Beer: US$2–4 (stores), US$5–8 (bars)
Bubble tea: US$1.50–3
Cocktails: US$8–12
Transportation
Metro/bus (Taipei/Kaohsiung): US$0.50–2.50/ride
High-speed rail (HSR): US$30–50 (city to city)
Scooter rentals: US$10–25/day
Taxi: US$5–15 (short trips)
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at night markets for full meals under US$5.
Get an EasyCard or iPASS for discounted metro/bus fares.
Use public hot springs or scenic trains for cheap adventures.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is official.
Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, and Indigenous languages are also spoken.
English is limited but growing, especially in Taipei and tourist areas.
Helpful phrases:
“Ni hao” (Hello)
“Xie xie” (Thank you)
“Duo shao qian?” (How much is it?)
“Zai na li?” (Where is…?)
Safety & Security
Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia.
Low violent crime, but petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Women can safely travel solo.
Emergency number: 110 (police), 119 (medical/fire).
Health & Insurance
No vaccinations required.
Healthcare is excellent; travel insurance is still recommended.
Pharmacies are widespread; many over-the-counter meds available.
Tap water is technically safe, but most locals drink boiled or bottled.
Transportation
Metro (MRT) in Taipei and Kaohsiung: clean, punctual, signage in English.
Buses cover urban and rural areas, but schedules can be tricky in English.
TRA trains serve scenic routes; HSR links west coast cities at 185 mph.
Scooters are popular, but require caution (international license advised).
Taxis/Uber available in major cities (metered, affordable).
Explore Taiwan
Planning Your Trip
Best Time To Visit
Taiwan has a subtropical to tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons depending on the region.
- North (Taipei, Keelung):
Best: October–December – Cooler, less rain, clear skies (68–79°F / 20–26°C).
Avoid: May–September – Typhoon season and high humidity (77–91°F / 25–33°C).
- South (Kaohsiung, Kenting):
Best: November–April – Sunny and warm, perfect for beaches (73–86°F / 23–30°C).
Avoid: July–September – Hot, humid, and risk of typhoons.
- Central & Mountains (Alishan, Sun Moon Lake):
Year-round: Cool and misty, especially in higher altitudes (50–72°F / 10–22°C).
Tip: March–April is cherry blossom season in mountain regions.
Bold Recommendation: Visit between October and December for ideal weather across the country, or March–April for blossoms and fewer tourists.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Greetings: A polite nod or slight bow is common.
Shoes: Remove shoes when entering homes or some accommodations.
Tipping: Not customary; some upscale hotels/restaurants may include service charge.
Lines: Taiwanese are orderly – always queue.
Temples: Dress modestly, avoid loud conversation, and no flash photography.
Gifts: A small souvenir when staying with locals is appreciated.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels (US$25–60), hotels (US$100–250), luxury (US$300+).
Food: Street food/snacks (US$2–6), casual meals (US$10–20), fine dining (US$50+).
Transport: Metro/day pass (US$4–6), HSR intercity (~US$30–50).
Activities: National parks (free–US$5), Taroko tours (US$30–60), hot springs (US$10–25).
Daily Budget:
Budget: US$60–90 (hostels, street food, public transport).
Mid-range: US$130–200 (hotels, mixed meals, intercity train).
Luxury: US$300+ (5-star stays, fine dining, private tours).
Internet & Mobile
Free Wi-Fi: Common in MRT stations, cafes, libraries, and convenience stores.
SIM Cards: Available at airports; Chunghwa, Taiwan Mobile – US$25–40 for 15 days/15GB.
eSIMs: Supported via Airalo, Holafly, or local providers.
Tip: Most public transport and attractions support QR-based entry with internet-connected devices.
Travel Insurance
Recommended for: Medical care, typhoon-related delays, and adventure activities.
Healthcare: Excellent system but not free – ensure emergency coverage.
Adventure Sports: Check coverage for activities like paragliding, hiking in Taroko Gorge, or scuba diving in Kenting.
Accomodation Options
Taiwan offers a diverse range of stays for every budget and traveler type.
- Luxury:
Taipei: Regent Taipei, W Taipei (US$300–500+).
Nature escapes: Silks Place Taroko (Taroko Gorge).
- Mid-range:
Boutique hotels: Hotel Proverbs (Taipei), Kindness Hotel (Kaohsiung).
Hot spring resorts: Fleur de Chine (Sun Moon Lake), Jiaoxi area.
- Budget:
Guesthouses: US$25–60/night in Jiufen, Tainan.
Hostels: Meander Taipei, Fuqi Hostel (Tainan).
- Unique Stays:
Capsule hotels: UZ Hostel (Taoyuan).
Farm stays: Organic tea farms in Alishan.
Tip: Book hot spring resorts and mountain stays early, especially on weekends and holidays.
Getting Around
Taiwan’s transport is efficient and affordable. High-speed trains and buses make travel easy.
- High-Speed Rail (HSR):
Connects Taipei to Kaohsiung in under 2 hours.
Fares: ~US$30–50. Book online or at stations.
Tip: Use HSR for long north-south travel.
- Trains (TRA):
Slower but scenic, especially on the east coast (e.g., Hualien to Taitung).
Reserved and non-reserved cars available.
- Metro/Subway:
In Taipei, Kaohsiung – clean, safe, and punctual.
One-day pass: ~US$4–6.
- Buses:
Long-distance buses: Comfortable, with AC and Wi-Fi (~US$5–20).
City buses: Affordable and frequent. Use EasyCard for convenience.
- Scooter Rentals:
Popular in rural/coastal areas (e.g., Taitung, Green Island). US$10–20/day.
International license required.
- Taxis & Ride Apps:
Taxis are metered (~US$5–15 short trips).
Apps: LINE Taxi, Uber (limited to major cities).
Bold Recommendation: Use HSR for speed and EasyCard for seamless travel on metro, buses, and trains.
Handy Tips
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$). Bills come in NT$100, 500, and 1,000 denominations; coins include NT$1, 5, 10, and 50.
Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport counters; use local banks or major convenience stores like 7-Eleven, which often have ATM services with fair rates.
Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants. Carry cash for night markets, taxis, and rural areas.
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not customary in Taiwan and can even be refused.
Restaurants/Bars: No tip expected; some high-end restaurants may add a 10% service charge.
Taxis/Rideshares: No tip required, but rounding up is appreciated.
Hotel Staff: Not expected, but NT$50–100 (US$1.50–3) for porters is polite in upscale hotels.
Tour Guides: NT$100–200 (US$3–6) per day for group tours is appreciated.
Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Many young people speak some English, especially in Taipei.
Helpful phrases:
“Qǐng wèn, zhè lǐ yǒu jǐn zhàng de dìtiě zhàn?” (Where’s the nearest metro station?)
“Zhège duōshǎo qián?” (How much is this?)
“Wǒ kěyǐ yào fāpiào ma?” (Can I get a receipt?)
Street signs are bilingual (Chinese/English).
Pro Tip: Use Google Translate’s camera function for menus and signs—very helpful at night markets!
Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia. Petty theft is rare, but stay cautious in crowded areas like night markets and train stations.
- Emergency Contacts:
110: Police
119: Fire & ambulance
0800-024-111: 24/7 tourist info hotline (English available)
Your Embassy: Most are located in Taipei’s Zhongshan or Da’an districts.
Taiwan uses 110V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs (same as the U.S.).
No voltage converter needed for most U.S. electronics, but double-check device compatibility.
Tap water is safe for brushing teeth, but not recommended for drinking unless boiled or filtered.
Restaurants typically serve boiled or filtered water for free.
Bottled water is inexpensive (around US$0.30 for 500ml) and widely available.
Taiwan has a mix of Western and traditional holidays—expect closures or crowds during these periods:
1 Jan: New Year’s Day
Late Jan–Feb: Lunar New Year (largest holiday; weeklong closures)
28 Feb: Peace Memorial Day
4 Apr: Children’s Day & Tomb-Sweeping Day
Early May: Labor Day (select sectors)
Jun: Dragon Boat Festival
Mid-Sep: Mid-Autumn Festival (mooncakes!)
10 Oct: National Day
Note: Trains and buses sell out fast before major holidays—book early.
Department Stores: 11:00–22:00
Convenience Stores: 24/7 (7-Eleven, FamilyMart are everywhere—even in the mountains!)
Night Markets: 17:00–00:00 (e.g., Shilin, Raohe in Taipei; Liuhe in Kaohsiung)
Beef Noodle Soup: A rich and hearty soup made with tender beef, fresh noodles, and flavorful broth (try Lin’s Beef Noodle Soup in Taipei).
Stinky Tofu: Fermented tofu with a unique smell, deep-fried to crispy perfection (sold at night markets like Shilin Night Market).
Oyster Omelette: A savory pancake-like dish with fresh oysters, egg, and a sweet-spicy sauce (try Tainan’s famous oyster omelettes).
Bubble Tea: Taiwan’s famous drink, a sweet tea with chewy tapioca pearls (find it at Tiger Sugar or One Zo).
Lu Rou Fan: Minced pork braised in soy sauce and served over rice, a Taiwanese comfort food (try Jiaxing Lu Rou Fan in Taipei).
Taiwanese Pineapple Cake: A sweet pastry filled with pineapple jam, a popular souvenir (check out Chia Te Bakery).
Pineapple Rice: A fragrant rice dish cooked with pineapple and a variety of savory ingredients (served in Kenting).
Xiao Long Bao: Dumplings filled with juicy broth, perfect for a snack or light meal (Din Tai Fung is world-famous).
Mango Shaved Ice: A refreshing dessert made of shaved ice topped with fresh mango, condensed milk, and chewy toppings (try Ice Monster).
Milkfish: Taiwan’s specialty fish, often served grilled or in soups (taste it at Taipei’s traditional fish markets).
Alcoholic:
Kaoliang Liquor: A traditional, strong liquor made from sorghum, commonly consumed during festivals and celebrations.
Taiwan Beer: A popular lager brewed in Taiwan, light and refreshing, ideal for a hot summer day.
Plum Wine: A sweet, tart wine made from plums, a favorite for relaxation after a busy day.
Shaoxing Wine: A traditional Chinese rice wine, often used in Taiwanese cooking and enjoyed during meals.
Taiwan Whisky: Taiwan’s emerging whisky industry has gained global recognition, with brands like Kavalan earning awards.
Non-Alcoholic:
Bubble Milk Tea: Taiwan’s iconic drink, a tea-based beverage served with chewy tapioca pearls (widely available in Taipei).
Soy Milk: Fresh, unsweetened soy milk served hot or cold, often enjoyed with breakfast.
Winter Melon Tea: A sweet, refreshing drink made from winter melon and tea, often found at local markets.
Taiwanese Lemonade: A refreshing, tangy lemonade made from freshly squeezed lemons and sugar (perfect for hot days).
Sugarcane Juice: A sweet, naturally refreshing drink made from sugarcane, commonly sold at night markets.
Temples: Longshan (Taipei), Lukang Tianhou, Confucius Temple (Tainan).
Taiwanese Opera & Puppet Theater: Traditional performances in temples and museums.
Aboriginal Villages: Learn about indigenous culture in Wulai or Taroko area.
National Palace Museum: Ancient Chinese treasures (jade cabbage, calligraphy).
Martyrs’ Shrine: Changing of the guard ceremony—military precision.
Historic Tainan: Fort Zeelandia, Chihkan Tower—Dutch colonial history.
Hakka Culture: Explore Meinong (Kaohsiung) for paper umbrellas and Lei Cha (tea).
Presidential Office Building: Japanese-era architecture—guided tours available.
Lantern Festival (Feb): Massive displays in different cities—great for families.
Hidden Gem: Dihua Street (Taipei)—Qing Dynasty-era buildings, tea shops, fabric markets.
Night Markets: Raohe, Shilin, Fengjia (Taichung)—bustling scenes of food and games.
Hot Springs: Beitou (Taipei) or Jiaoxi (Yilan)—soak in steamy volcanic baths.
Teahouses in Jiufen: Misty mountain village that inspired Spirited Away.
Biking Sun Moon Lake: Stunning lakeside trails and boat rides.
Taipei 101: Observatory views from one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers.
Karaoke (KTV): Popular local pastime—try PartyWorld or Holiday KTV.
Pingxi Lantern Festival: Release sky lanterns with wishes (Feb).
Riverfront Parks: Great for cycling/picnics along Tamsui River.
Ximending Youth District: Street performers, pop culture shops, anime cafes.
Theme Parks: Leofoo Village (Safari+Amusement Park), Janfusun Fancyworld.
The Owl Bar (Taipei): A sophisticated cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and cozy atmosphere.
Elephant Room (Taipei): A hidden gem that serves craft cocktails in a speakeasy-style bar.
On Tap (Kaohsiung): A trendy bar offering a wide selection of local beers and cocktails in a relaxed setting.
SIP Lounge (Taipei): A chic rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, perfect for sunset cocktails.
Bar 88 (Taipei): Located at the W Hotel, offering stylish cocktails and an upscale atmosphere.
Karaoke Bars: Popular in Taiwan, where locals enjoy singing with friends late into the night.
Wu’s Bar (Taipei): A popular hangout for expats, offering a great selection of beers and cocktails.
Brew Dog (Taipei): An international craft beer chain with a great selection of local and international brews.
The Brass Monkey (Taipei): A popular pub that offers a wide variety of beers, sports, and delicious food.
VVG Something (Taipei): A charming café-turned-bar, perfect for casual drinks and socializing with locals.