In Taiwan, funerals and death rituals are very different that funerals in the west. Taiwan's funeral rites are influenced by Buddhism, Taoism, ancestor worship, and folk religion. In this blog, we will explore the different funeral rituals and rites, and let you know what you can expect at a Taiwanese funeral.
Foreword: Please note this blog and FAQ section are written from the perspective of a long-term American expat married to a Taiwanese spouse. Part of the facts for this blog have been taken from personal experience attending multiple funerals in Taiwan, and also from research such as Chinese anthropology classes and other research.
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Papago International Resort in Taitung County
Booking a hotel in Taiwan can be difficult and frustrating, especially if you are unfamiliar with the landscape and do not have any previous booking experience. In this blog we will give you a basic overview of the hotel atmosphere in Taiwan as well as provide you with some basic tips to find the best hotel for you.
Disclaimer: The following FAQ is only based on our opinion after years of booking accommodation in Taiwan, and should not be considered absolute fact. What is the best website for hotel booking in Taiwan? My own personal preference is Agoda. However, Kayak is also a great platform to find the cheapest hotel across multiple sites. From my own experience, Agoda is the cheapest, provide the best quality listings, and have incredible customer service. They have given me my money back for a hostel on multiple occasions (which did not have free cancellation) just because there was an earthquake or because someone in my family got sick. Also, they once gave my money back on a room that had a shared bathroom because it wasn’t obvious from the listing. Overall in my opinion they have the best service and the best quality for the money. Usually they even have cheaper listings than other sites and offer greater discounts than other websites. What are the best websites for hotel booking in Taiwan? Ranked in order: 1. Agoda Website: https://www.agoda.com/ Relatively cheap: Yes Comparative number of listings: A lot of listings in Taiwan Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent From my own experience, Agoda is the cheapest, provide the best quality listings, and have incredible customer service. They have given me my money back for a hostel on multiple occasions (which did not have free cancellation) just because there was an earthquake or because someone in my family got sick. Also, they once gave my money back on a room that had a shared bathroom because it wasn’t obvious from the listing. Overall in my opinion they have the best service and the best quality for the money. 2. Kayak Website: https://www.kayak.com Relatively cheap: Yes Comparative number of listings: The most listings in Taiwan, because it combines and compares listings from multiple websites Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent Also a great platform to find the cheapest hotel across multiple sites. Why not compare all the sites at once? If you are looking for the absolute most cost effective hotels, this is the place to go. 3. Hotels.com Website: https://hotels.com/ Relatively cheap: No, but if you book ten rooms you get a free night. Comparative number of listings: Not the most listings in Taiwan, but there is a decent amount even in remote areas. Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent Hotels.com offers some different options other than Booking and Agoda. Also, if you book ten rooms with them, they give you one night free. However I have noticed that there are not as many rooms available in some areas, and the price is a bit more expensive than Agoda or Booking. 4. Booking.com Website: https://www.booking.com/ Relatively cheap: Yes Comparative number of listings: A lot of listings in Taiwan Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent This platform is pretty much the same as Agoda. They are owned by the same company and the listings overlap. 5. Klook Website: https://klook.com/ Relatively cheap: No, but you can sometimes combine rooms with transportation, tours, and activities. Comparative number of listings: Not the most listings in Taiwan, but there is a decent amount even in remote areas. Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent Klook offers many hotel options in Taiwan as well as the most tours activities, tours, and tickets. The number of hotel listings is not very high though, and often more expensive than other sites. 6. KKday Website: https://www.kkday.com/ Relatively cheap: No, but you can sometimes combine rooms with transportation, tours, and activities. Comparative number of listings: Not the most listings in Taiwan, but there is a decent amount even in remote areas. Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent KKday offers many hotel options in Taiwan as well as tours activities, tours, and tickets. The number of hotel listings is not very high though, and often more expensive than other sites. 7. Expedia Website: https://expedia.com/ Relatively cheap: No Comparative number of listings: Not the most listings in Taiwan, but there is a decent amount even in remote areas. Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent This platform is pretty much the same as Hotels.com. They are owned by the same company and the listings overlap. 8. Trip.com Website: https://www.trip.com/ Relatively cheap: No Comparative number of listings: Not the most listings in Taiwan, but there is a decent amount even in remote areas. Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent A decent platform with lots of listings, but does not offer as many options as Hotels.com or Agoda. 9. Trivago Website: https://www.trivago.com/ Relatively cheap: No Comparative number of listings: Not the most listings in Taiwan, but there is a decent amount even in remote areas. Quality of rooms: Excellent Service: Excellent A decent platform with lots of listings, but does not offer as many options as Hotels.com or Agoda. 10. AirBnb Website: https://www.airbnb.com/ Relatively cheap: Yes Comparative number of listings: There are a lot of listings, and it may be the only option in some remote areas and outer islands. Quality of rooms: It depends, some are really bad while others are good. There is no quality guarantee. Service: It really depends on the landlord in charge. I do not recommend AirBnb. The App works and there are many listings that are cheap. However sometimes the cleaning and booking fees can be ridiculous, and if you are bringing multiple people there can be unreasonable charges. Be careful when booking with AirBnb! I have stayed in some very nice Airbnb’s, but the quality with AirBnb in Taiwan is very hit and miss, as many of them (especially the cheap ones) have no standards at all. I’m speaking from experience here; some of the cheap house rentals I have gone to have been a terrible experience. Cockroaches, spiders, mosquitos, no water to drink, unwashed bedding, the list goes on and on. However, some have been nice. But you never know. In general, you will be ensured a quality experience from booking a normal hotel instead. What are your recommendations for hotels in Taiwan? Our recommendations for hotels in Taiwan (that we have stayed at personally) are as follows: Taipei 台北: Central Taipei: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). The Northern Coast: We recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). We have stayed at and recommend Gold Mountain Ranch, which is a horse ranch and glamping destination in Jinshan. You can book a night at Gold Mountain Ranch on Klook here. You can also check out our full blog on the ranch here. We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Wulai: There are many hot spring hotels in Wulai that have a hot spring tub right in the room. We have stayed at and recommend Wulai SungLyu Hot Spring Resort, which is a hot spring resort with great views just above Wulai Old Street. You can book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, Hotels.com here, TripAdvisor here, Trip.com here, Klook here, Kayak here, or Expedia here. Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Yilan 宜蘭: We have stayed at and recommend Ying Shih Guest House, a resort in Datong Township near Taipingshan and Fan Fan Hot Spring (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here), and Jiaosi Hotspring Hotel, a hotel with hot springs in each room (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, or Trip.com here). We have also stayed at Toucheng Leisure Farm, a recreational farm and experience center in Toucheng (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, on Klook here, or on Trip.com here). Hualien 花蓮: The best hostel I’ve ever stayed at is “When Happiness Knock Your Door” “幸福來敲門” in Hualien. The hostess will go out of her way to make you comfortable and her rooms are kept extremely nice. Also it was one of the few hostels I’ve ever been to that has an elevator. Her price is well below the quality you will enjoy. She has almost a perfect rating on Booking.com and Agoda. You can book When Happiness Knock Your Door on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, Kayak here, TripAdvisor here, or Klook here. We have also stayed at and recommend Dream Taiwan Homestay (Agoda / Booking.com / Expedia / Hotels.com), a high quality hostel for the money in downtown Hualien, Farglory Hotel (Agoda / Booking.com / Expedia / Hotels.com), right next to Farglory Ocean Park with amazing views of Hualien, and Goldenflower B&B (Agoda / Booking.com) in Yuli right next to Sixty Stone Mountain. Taitung 台東: We have stayed at and recommend the Papago International Resort in Chishang (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), which is a five star hotel with private villas with pools for each room, and Mountain and Ocean B & B in Taimali (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), which is a quiet and affordable B&B right next to the beach. Kenting 墾丁: I have stayed at many hostels and hotels in Kenting, and even almost bought a house here. Some places that I have stayed at and can recommend are Nanwan Kiki (book on Agoda here, Booking.com here), a B&B next to Nanwan Bay, Kenting's most popular Beach. There are also a few decent hotels near Kenting Street Night Market like Kenting Star Inn 888 (book on Agoda here, Klook here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, or Booking.com here), or Kenting Dajianshan Hotel (book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here). You will notice that none of these hotels are five star resorts (I do not come to Kenting to waste my time at a resort, but you can still search Agoda, Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Expedia for those) but they are in my opinion the above have the best value for the money. Kaohsiung 高雄: We have stayed at and recommend Chao She Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here) IHI Sanduo Travel Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), and Mingli Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Klook here, or Hotels.com here) which are three inexpensive and high quality choices in downtown Kaohsiung. I also have stayed at and recommend Kaohsiung Meinong Rabbit Paul Homestay B&B (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, or Trip.com here), a quiet B&B in rural Meinong, and Chengching Lakeside Resort (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com or Trip.com here)and the Grand Hotel Kaohsiung (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here) which both offer breakfast buffet and free entrance into Chenqing Lake Park. I have also stayed at the 85 sky tower which offers great views of the city; you can search for rooms in the 85 sky tower on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, or Trip.com here). Tainan 臺南: We have stayed at and recommend Liho Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, or Hotels.com here), a quality hotel right next to Chikan Tower, and Famouse Hotel (you can book on Agoda here or Klook here), which is another great hotel also within walking distance of Chikan Tower in old Tainan. Chiayi 嘉義 We have stayed at and recommend Chiayi Crown Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), Shin Kao Hotel (you can book on Agoda here or Trip.com here), and YesHotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), which are all quality hotels for a reasonable price near Chiayi Station. We also recommend Shianghu Botique Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), with excellent quality for the money just our of Chiayi City center. Finally we have stayed at and recommend Fenchihu Street Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), which is within walking distance of Fenqihu Old Street, Fenqihu Station, and many amazing hikes in the area. Nantou 南投 We have stayed at and recommend Jenq Yang Hotspring Hotel (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Trip.com here, or Klook here), a hot spring hotel near the mystical Lushan hot spring, and Maple Leaf Holiday Villa (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia.com here, Trip.com here, or Klook here), a lodge with a great view and within walking distance of Cingjing Farm. I also have stayed at and recommend Kirin Villa (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here), a mountain resort in Puli near Sun Moon Lake. Looking for a hotel? Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation on the islands. Miaoli 苗栗 We have stayed at and recommend Beautiful Landscape Resort, a fish farm and resort near Nanzhuang Old Street (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here), and Yuan Motel, a high class car motel which includes a great breakfast buffet (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, or Expedia here). We also recommend Flying Cow Ranch which includes cabins and camping right on the tourist ranch; you can book a room on Agoda here, Booking.com here, or Trip.com here. Hsinchu 新竹 We have stayed at and recommend the Golden Motel a high quality motel near Green Grass Lake (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, or Trip.com here), and CD Motel, another high quality motel in downtown Hsinchu (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, or Trip.com here). Unfortunately I cannot recommend any further hotels that I have stayed at in Hsinchu because usually we stay at my wife's uncle's house. You can find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Xiaoliuqiu Island 小琉球 Some places we have stayed at that I recommend are Yujing 6.8, which is a four story house near Dafu Harbor (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here), Boliu B&B (柏琉民宿) which is also a nice newly renovated hostel right on the main street near lots of restaurants (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here), Haichan Hostel which is a traditional three-sided Taiwanese mansion near the beach (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here), and Baisha Bay B&B which is a great place near the main harbor that is only one story so there are no stairs (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here). All of the owners of these places were very helpful, and even helped me to move my luggage and rent scooters. Some hostels require that you pay for my room in advance via bank wire transfer (this may not be an option if you are a foreign traveler, so make sure they accept credit cards if you do not have a Taiwan bank account), but you should not have to do this if you book through Agoda or another hotel booking site. Green Island 綠島 We stayed at and can recommend Fire Island Guesthouse, which is a high quality B&B on right on the east coast of the island. Penghu 澎湖 We have stayed at and recommend Han's Hostel, which had great service and is right next to Shanshui Beach, the best beach in Penghu. Matsu 馬祖 We have stayed at and recommend Fu Hwa Homestay on Nangan (you can book on Agoda here, Booking,com here, or Trip.com here), and B&B of Blueshine on Beigan (you can book on Agoda here, Booking,com here, or Trip.com here). Both places were excellent, and provided us a car ride to and from the airport for free. Kinmen 金門 We stayed at and can recommend Sihai Hostel, which is a quality hostel with spacious and clean rooms. They also arranged transport to and from the hostel for free. You can book Sihai Hostel on Agoda here, Klook here, or Trip.com here. What is the average price of a hotel in Taiwan? According to Hikersbay.com, the average price is 891 TWD (28 USD) for a hostel, 2,400 TWD for a 3 star hotel (74 USD), and 8,300 TWD (257 USD) per night for a luxury hotel. According to the Taipei Times, in 2023 the average daily rate of licensed tourist hotels in Taiwan was 4,618 TWD (145 USD). In our experience, a fair price for a hotel in Taiwan that I like to stick to is around 1,500 TWD (about 45 USD) for a standard double room. What is the average price range for a standard double hotel room in Taiwan? The following prices are from personal experience booking over tens of hotels in Taiwan over 5 years (Please note 1000 NT is roughly equal to 31 USD): Typically, the cheapest of the cheap hotels will go from 700-1000 NT Lower range Hotels will go from 1000-1700 NT Mid Range Hotels will go from 1500-2500 NT High Class Hotels will go from 2500-5000 NT Super Fancy Hotels will go from 5000-30,000+ NT per night! Please note these prices also vary by location. 
Obtaining a driver's license in Taiwan can be the key to freedom, and let you see more of Taiwan faster than ever. Some countries have international agreements to recognize driver's licenses from other countries, but if your license has expired or if your country has no agreement with Taiwan, it probably means you need to take the driver's license test.
In this blog, I will show you how it is possible to pass the test for both cars and scooters without expensive and ineffective driver's education courses. 
Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park(慈湖紀念雕塑公園), the mausoleum where Taiwan's former dictator Chiang Kai Shek was buried, and also a park for his unwanted statues.
Taiwan's politics can be complicated and confusing for many foreigners that are unfamiliar with the country's history. Here we will provide an overview of Taiwan's politics and governmental system.
Timeline: To answer most questions concerning politics in Taiwan, please see the following brief history of Taiwan: 1912: The Republic of China (ROC, current government of Taiwan), led by the KMT party (Kuomintang) took control of all of mainland China after the Qing dynasty fell. 1945: Japan returned the island of Taiwan to the ROC. 1949: The ROC was defeated by the communist party in mainland China (PRC), and retreated to the island of Taiwan. The ROC protected the islands of Kinmen and Matsu (part of Fujian province) from communist invasion. The ROC was considered the true ruler of China by the UN. 1971: The ROC (Taiwan) was removed from the UN in favor of the PRC. Most nations broke diplomatic relations with Taiwan at this time. 1987: Martial law was lifted in Taiwan, paving the way for free democracy and elections. 2008: The first opposition part president (from the DPP) was elected. 2017: The ROC (and KMT party) still claim mainland China as its territory, but the current ruling DPP party recognizes Taiwan and surrounding islands as an independent nation separate from China. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of questions. This is meant to only give a basic overview of Taiwan politics to those who are learning about this topic for the first time. Is Taiwan a country? Yes! Taiwan is not a province of Communist China, it is its own country economically, politically, democratically, and in substance. What country does Taiwan belong to?/ Is Taiwan its own country? Taiwan is its own country (including surrounding islands such as Kinmen and Matsu), it is also known as the Republic of China. Is Taiwan a province of China (PRC)? No! Is Taiwan Communist? No. Why is Taiwan not a member of the UN? Taiwan is not recognized in the UN because of conflict with China (China and Taiwan governments both claim to be the rightful government of all China, so the UN could only choose one China). For more information, read here for Taiwan’s history with the UN. Taiwan is the largest country by population and economy to not be a member of the UN. Which countries recognize Taiwan (Since When)? Belize (1989) Guatemala (1960) Haiti (1956) Marshall Islands (1998) Nauru (1980–2002, 2005) Palau (1999) Paraguay (1957) Saint Kitts and Nevis (1983) Saint Lucia (1984–1997, 2007) Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (1981) Swaziland (1968) Tuvalu (1979) Vatican City (The Holy See) (1942) Taken from Wikipedia. Why is Taiwan the ROC? Taiwan originally belonged to Japan. After WW2 in 1945, it was given back to the Republic of China (ROC), the ruling government of China at the time, which they still control to this day, even though they have lost the mainland to China (PRC). Is Taiwan part of China?/Does Taiwan belong to China? No and No. The Republic of China is the official government of Taiwan, whose capital is Taipei, not PRC controlled Beijing. The Republic of China lost mainland China to the communist PRC government during the Chinese Civil War, and now only controls Taiwan and the surrounding islands. Why should Taiwan be a part of China? It should not be a part of China, unless China becomes a true democratic nation that allows free elections. How does Taiwan feel about China? An imposing neighbor, but also integral to their economy. The current ruling party, the DPP, supports Taiwan independence and a Southbound policy to rely more economically on Southeast Asian neighbors rather than China. Why does Taiwan hate China? Some Taiwanese people hate China, but would say most people do not. China and Taiwan’s governments fought a civil war in which the Republic of China (ROC) lost the mainland and retreated to the island of Taiwan. Taiwanese nowadays are more are afraid of Chinese investment and threats to their democracy. What are Wumao? Who are Wumao (50 cent party)? The Wumao is a term for online Chinese communist activists or trolls that relentlessly deny Taiwan’s independent and free democratic status. They are believed to receive payment from the communist party for every post they make (50 cents or Wumao 五毛). For instance, they constantly attack the Twitter posts of president Tsai Ing-wen, even though Twitter is officially banned in China. Why does Taiwan want independence?/Why does Taiwan want to separate from the mainland?/ Why does Taiwan want to separate from China? Taiwan is separate and independent from the mainland, but it wants to be recognized as a separate country by the rest of the world. Taiwan is not recognized by the international community such as the UN. Such recognition would be beneficial for Taiwan’s political and economic ties with other countries. Who is the government of Taiwan? The Republic of China (ROC), whose capital is in Taipei. Not PRC controlled by Beijing. Why does Taiwan consider itself the real China? The Taiwan government (ROC) once controlled mainland China, and considers the ruling PRC in China rebels who have wrongfully taken the mainland. Why does Taiwan claim Tibet and Mongolia? Taiwan (officially the Republic of China) controlled all of mainland China before 1949, and claims that Mongolia and Tibet were part of China at the time, and that both were also ruled by the Qing dynasty. Taiwan no longer claims Mongolia, but they did not recognize Mongolian independence until 2002. The Taiwan government still claims Tibet. Why does Taiwan hate Korea? Taiwan does not hare Korea. However, some bitter feelings may exist after Korea suddenly broke diplomatic ties with the ROC in 1992 in favor of the PRC, among other things such as business competition and sports rivalries. What kind of country is Taiwan? Wonderful, fun, delicious, beautiful, and friendly. What type of government does Taiwan have?/Is Taiwan a democracy? Yes, Taiwan is a democratic republic. They elect their president and legislative representatives through free elections. How does Taiwan elect their executive? Democratically. Executives and local self-governing bodies are elected at four year intervals. What are the major political parties in Taiwan? The KMT (Kuomintang) and DPP (Democratic Progressive Party). What are the policies of the major political parties in Taiwan? The KMT favors eventual reunification with China, and supports the “One China Policy” which according to the 1992 consensus stipulates that there is one China with differing interpretations. Currently the KMT endorses the maintaining the status quo, and the three no policy: “No independence, no unification, and no use of force.” The DPP supports human rights, anti communism, and Taiwan identity. It believes that Taiwan independence is a current fact, making a declaration of independence redundant. The DPP does not support the “One China Policy” and does not recognize the 1992 consensus. It supports the "Southbound Policy,” trying to build economic ties with Southeast Asia rather than China. How does the Taiwan government work? The central government is a democratic republic with a presidency and 5 Yuans (a Yuan is a branch of government), the legislative, judicial, executive, control, and examination Yuans. Who is president of Taiwan? Tsai Ing-wen 蔡英文, of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Where does the Taiwan president live? The Taiwan president Tasi Ing-wen lives in the Presidential Office Building, a red brick structure originally constructed by the Japanese. Why does Taiwan matter? It is an important thriving democracy in direct opposition to communist China. It proves that free democracy is possible despite the PRCs efforts to suppress democracy and free speech throughout greater China (including Hong Kong). Who is Chinese Taipei?/ What is Chinese Taipei? It is the name of Taiwan used in sporting events such as the Olympics as to not upset its bully neighbor the PRC (China). Who is the mayor of Taipei? Jonny Chiang 蔣萬安 Why is Taipei the best city? Taipei is the best city because it has a modern infrastructure and transportation systems, world class talent, a safe environment, low cost of living, and friendly people. It is not the best city because of its weather; many cities in Taiwan have a more tolerable climate than Taipei. Does Taiwan have nuclear weapons? No. But it tried to obtain them in the past. However, due to pressure from the U.S., it abandoned such plans. Where does Taiwan get its energy? As of 2014, 48% came from oil, 29.2% came from coal, 12.2% came from natural gas, 8.8% from nuclear, 1.2% from biomass and waste, and .5% from other renewable energy resources. Basic Taiwan Travel Tips:
Hotels in Taiwan: Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Taiwan: There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out Tripadvisor here, KKday here or Klook here, which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. Here are some of the most popular tours of Taiwan on TripAdvisor:
What is the best way to get around Taiwan? I personally think the best way to get around is by Scooter, but bicycle and public transport are also very good. Travelling by car is difficult because there are narrow streets, many scooters, and limited parking. You have a few options: For more information, please visit our travel/transportation FAQ. Taiwan's transportation system is convenient and safe. There are many options you can consider to get around in Taipei below: By Train: Gets you to the city center of all major cities in Taiwan. It is about 800NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Roughly half the price of the HSR. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By HSR: (High-Speed Rail) – Gets you quickly from north to south. Besides Taipei and Kaohsiung, most of the stations are far from city centers. It costs about 1500NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. You can book tickets to the high-speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. By MRT: (Mass Rapid Transit, Metro train, subway) – Easily gets you around Taipei and Kaohsiung. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bus: Buses can be tricky. Long-range buses such as Ubus and King Bus are easier to understand and cheaper than the local train. They can take you to the city center of every city throughout Taiwan and to remote tourist destinations such as sun moon lake. A long-range bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 500 NT. You can also book tickets to travel to Shifen via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Taxi: You can take short rides for about 150 NT, or hire a Taxi for a day for around 150 USD. By Car: If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Have any more questions about politics in Taiwan? Please leave them in the comments below, and we might just add them to the list! Please like, follow, and share to help everyone know that Taiwan is a free independent country! 
(Please note that the following questions and answers are for reference only and are not a comprehensive list of regulations. Local laws and regulations are constantly changing, and different cities, counties, and private property owners have differing droning rules. Please double check with Taiwan's Civil Aviation Bureau, local authorities, national parks, or property owners if you have any doubts about flying your drone in a certain area.
Flying a drone (quadcopter, RC helicopter, remote UAV etc.) in Taiwan can be fun, safe, and positively impact the community if you do it right. For some of our own drone videos in Taiwan, check out the video below, as well as my drone playlist on Youtube, and don't forget to subscribe to our Youtube Channel here. 
For such a small island, Taiwan's geography is varied and complex. From lowland plains to alpine peaks, to badlands, volcanoes, tropical rainforests, and more, there are some amazing landscapes here to explore.
Basic Taiwan Travel Tips:
Hotels in Taiwan: Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Taiwan: There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out Tripadvisor here, KKday here or Klook here, which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. Here are some of the most popular tours of Taiwan on TripAdvisor:
What is the best way to get around Taiwan? I personally think the best way to get around is by Scooter, but bicycle and public transport are also very good. Travelling by car is difficult because there are narrow streets, many scooters, and limited parking. You have a few options: For more information, please visit our travel/transportation FAQ. Taiwan's transportation system is convenient and safe. There are many options you can consider to get around in Taipei below: By Train: Gets you to the city center of all major cities in Taiwan. It is about 800NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Roughly half the price of the HSR. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By HSR: (High-Speed Rail) – Gets you quickly from north to south. Besides Taipei and Kaohsiung, most of the stations are far from city centers. It costs about 1500NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. You can book tickets to the high-speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. By MRT: (Mass Rapid Transit, Metro train, subway) – Easily gets you around Taipei and Kaohsiung. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bus: Buses can be tricky. Long-range buses such as Ubus and King Bus are easier to understand and cheaper than the local train. They can take you to the city center of every city throughout Taiwan and to remote tourist destinations such as sun moon lake. A long-range bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 500 NT. You can also book tickets to travel to Shifen via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Taxi: You can take short rides for about 150 NT, or hire a Taxi for a day for around 150 USD. By Car: If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. How many seasons does Taiwan have? Four. They are most pronounced up north and lees distinguishable in the south. Is Taiwan in Asia? Yes. In fact, Taiwan is the heart of Asia! Where is Taiwan on a map? Taiwan is in the heart of Asia!
Why is Taiwan the heart of Asia?
From a purely geographical perspective, Taiwan lies in a central location in East Asia, between China, Kong Kong, Macau, Japan, Korea, and is also close to the Philipines, and other southeat Asian countries, making it a prime spot for an Asian hub. Taiwan also is highly influenced culturally by other East Asian nations, such as China, Japan, and Korea. When does Taiwan change time? It does not. There is no daylight savings time in Taiwan as of now. What is the capital of Taiwan? Taipei. What time Zone is Taiwan in? China Standard Time (CST) or UTC+08:00. What time is it in Taipei? Check this link. What year does Taiwan use? The official years are counted from the founding of the government of Taiwan, the Republic of China (ROC). For 2018, this will be year 107, 107 years from the start of the ROC in 1911. However, the western calendar is used for almost all non-government dates and is acceptable. How do you write the date in Taiwan? Year, month, day. Use the ROC year if you are writing a government form or document. What is the population of Taipei? 2,704,974 as of 2016. Why does Taiwan have a high population density? Taiwan has a population of more than 23 million people, while the flat land in Taiwan only accounts for 1/3 of the island mainly on the west side, meaning that most people live in cities on the west coast. This means that Taiwan’s cities are very densely populated. Why does Taiwan have the lowest birth rate? Taiwan has had the lowest birth rate, and one of the lowest birth rates every year due to a number of factors, one being high cost of raising a child vs. low average incomes. Many couples in Taiwan both work, so raising a child means extra fees like nannies, daycare, and cram school. Also, there is cultural pressure for couples to be financially stable before they get married, such as owning a house, which put the age for marriage and childbearing later and later. Why does Taiwan have the lowest poverty rate? This is due mainly to the Taiwan government’s social welfare and subsidies for low income families. For more information, click here. How Many Islands does Taiwan have? 45! We counted. But there are many other offshore rocks, as well as disputed territory claimed by the ROC but controlled by other countries. If you don' count the islands in the South China Sea, Taiwan only has only 41 islands. If you don't count Matsu, Kinmen, and the South China Sea, then Taiwan only has 23 islands. For more information, click here. How many cities does Taiwan have? 23. For a full list of cities, click here. What is the highest point in Taiwan? The highest mountain in Taiwan is Mt. Jade or Yushan (玉山), which is 3952 meters high (12,966 feet), making Taiwan the 4th highest island in the world and highest point in East Asia. Click here for our blog of our summit of this mountain. Are there elephants in Taiwan? Not in the wild, just at the zoo. Are there monkeys in Taiwan? Yes. The only monkeys native to Taiwan are the Formosan Rock Macaque. You can find them in most mountainous areas in Taiwan, but please do not feed them for your safety as well as for the monkey’s well being. Are there tigers in Taiwan? Not in the wild, just at the zoo. The Formosan clouded leopard is also believed to be extinct. Are there sharks in Taiwan? Yes. But in the past 118 years, there has only been 6 shark attacks, and only 2 of those were fatal, so you should feel safe from sharks when your are swimming and surfing at the beach. However, there are still other dangers at the beach, such as sharp rocks, rip tides, and bad weather. Are there pandas in Taiwan? Not in the wild, just at the zoo. Are there crocodiles in Taiwan? Not in the wild, just at the zoo. Click here to see saltwater crocodile distribution. Are there beaches in Taiwan? Yes. Taiwan has 1,239.5756 km (770.2366 mi) of coastline and countless beaches. Click here for the best beaches in New Taipei. Are there volcanoes in Taiwan? Yes. There are 9 volcanoes in Taiwan. Are volcanoes in Taiwan dangerous? There is a very very small chance that they are dangerous. The Tatun volcano group which lay 15km northwest of Taipei are active, although the chance of an eruption any time soon is very low. Are there Typhoons in Taiwan? Yes. When is Typhoon Season in Taiwan? Typhoon Season is roughly from July to October. Are Typhoons in Taiwan dangerous? No. Usually casualties come from people being outside or from rock slides and flooding. Most all buildings in Taiwan are Typhoon-proof, so as long as you stay indoors during a typhoon you should be safe. Where was the earthquake in Taiwan? The 921 earthquake was centered in Jiji, Nantou on September 21st, 1999, killing 2,415 people. It was the worst earthquake in Taiwan in recent history. For more recent earthquakes, check here. Why does Taiwan have earthquakes? This is because of collisions between the Eurasian plate and the Philippian Sea Plate. Taiwan also lies on the Pacific ring of fire. For more information, click here. How often does Taiwan have earthquakes? Daily. However, major earthquakes are rare. For more recent earthquakes, check here. What is the weather like in Taiwan? Please see our Taiwan weather FAQ here. What is New Taipei City? New Taipei city is the area surrounding Taipei city, and was formerly known as Taipei county. Where is Taipei on a Map? Taipei City is located in northern Taiwan, laying in the middle of the Taipei Basin surrounded by New Taipei City. Please refer to the map below:
Where is New Taipei City? New Taipei City (formerly Taipei County), is located in northern Taiwan, surrounding Taipei City. Please refer to the map below:
Where is Yilan in Taiwan? Yilan lies on the Northeast Coast of Taiwan. Please refer to the map below:
Where is Alishan in Taiwan? Alishan lies in the mountains of South-Central Taiwan. The quickest way to get there is through Chiayi City. Where is Jiufen in Taiwan? Jiufen is a city that sits on a hill in northern New Taipei City. It can be reached by bus from Taipei. Where is Hualien in Taiwan? Hualien lies on Taiwan’s east central coast. It is the gateway to Taroko national park. Where is Kenting in Taiwan? Kenting lies on the southern tip of Taiwan. It has some of the warmest weather and best beaches in Taiwan. Where is Jade Mountain (Yushan) in Taiwan? Jade Mountain lies in the mountains of South-Central Taiwan. The only way to get there is by bus or by your own vehicle. Click here for our blog of our summit of this mountain. Please refer to the map below: Attractions in Taiwan: There are many attractions that you can enjoy in Taipei such as Taipei 101 Observatory, Taipei 101 460 Skyline Observatory, Taipei Children's Amusement Park, Maokong Gondola, National Palace Museum, Yehliu Ocean World, Yehliu Geopark, National Museum of Marine Science and Biology, i-ride 5D cinema, Astronomical Museum, Miniatures Museum of Taiwan, Double Decker Sightseeing Bus, Miramar Ferris Wheel Ticket, Taipei Zoo, Heping Island Park, Ju Ming Museum, Yuanshan Hotel Secret Road, National Taiwan Museum, New Taipei Gold Museum, Futian Leisure Farm, Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence, Chi Po-lin Museaum, Beitou Museum, Tsao Wonderland, Railway Museum, Fort San Domingo, 13 Levels Archaeology Museum, Austin Land, Museum of World Religions, Formosan Aboriginies Museum, ASE Parent-child Park, teamLab Future Park, Yukids Island, VR Experience, Bat Cave, Neidong Waterfall, Candlestick Islet, Jurassic Snow Park, Zhonghe High5 Amusement Park, Longshan Temple, Xingtian Temple, Ningxia Night Market, Yansan Night Market, Meteor Garden, Yingge Old Street, and many more attractions on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Activities in Taiwan: Don't forget that there are many activities available in Taipei such as Indoor Skiing, Rock Climbing, Hiking, Wakeboarding, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking, River Tracing / Canyoneering, ATVing, Horse Riding, Cooking Class, Archery, Ice Skating, Roller Skating, Tree Climbing, Urban Camping, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Dragon Boat Racing, Escape Room, Shen'ao Rail Bike, Laser Gun Experience, Batting Cages, Bowling, Paintball, Flight Simulation Experience, Taipei Tram Driving Experience, Rail Simulation Experience, Taipei 101 Observation Deck activity, Strawberry Picking, Professional Photo Shoot, Body Relaxation SPA, Night Tour, Calligraphy Workshop, and more on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Have any more questions about the geography of Taiwan? Please leave them in the comments below, and we might just add them to the list! Please like, follow, and share to help everyone know that Taiwan is a great place to vacation year round! You can also check out our full travel guide to Taiwan here. 
Many people lately have been complaining about being cut off while riding a bike or dealing with pedestrians in bike lanes. But what are the laws currently for bicycles in Taipei? What should you know about getting in a bicycle accident in Taiwan? One can search, but the most crucial info is in Chinese. Below we have provided our personal experience, a summary Taiwan bicycle laws, as well as an appendix of the fully translated Taipei/Taiwan bicycle laws for you.
Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. My Experience riding a bicycle in Taipei First I would like to share my experiences with all of you. I have been riding a bicycle in Taipei for over six years now, and I have seen my fair share of accidents. I have collided with people opening their car doors, I have collided with other cyclists, had near misses with busses, and I have collided with bushes, the road, and pedestrians. A few weeks ago, I collided with a woman as we were both trying to cross the street during the green light for a pedestrian crosswalk. She walked out from behind a bus and I did not have enough time to react. My shoulder caught her arm, and she spun around and fell to the ground, while I continued forward. We both were at fault. I crossed the street from the main road, and she was not walking on the crosswalk. In the end, the police came, made a police report, and she was taken to the hospital for a fractured elbow. I tried to offer money for her medical costs, but she refused. She could have sued me for more money but she didn't because she is a nice person. But things could have gone much, much worse. From this experience, I have some basic advice for foreigners riding in Taiwan, especially if you plan on riding in Taiwan long term: Words of advice:
Looking for a hotel? Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotels in Taiwan here. 
A sailing class going on off Tainan's Yuguang Island.
With over 100 islands and a coastline of over 1500 KM on the main Island, warm tropical weather, and constant winds, Taiwan is known as a world-class sailing location. Sailing in Taiwan can be an exhilarating experience that provides a unique perspective on the island’s stunning coastline and surrounding waters. With its rich history and culture, Taiwan has become a popular destination for adventure seekers and travelers looking to explore its natural beauty via sailboat.
Brief Historical Background of Sailing in Taiwan: Even though Taiwan has thousands of islands and hundreds of kilometers of coastline, it still does not have a strong sailing culture as compared to other countries. The recreational boating industry in Taiwan only really began in 2009, when the Fisheries Agency began making floating docks for more recreational craft. Those docks are now filled to capacity, so prices are on the rise and demand is high. Boat owners are hopeful that Taiwan's authorities can further expand recreational marinas in Taiwan soon. Non-powered sailing in Taiwan is regulated by the coast guard, but all you have to do is send your itinerary to the coast guard via a smartphone app. Where to Sail in Taiwan: 
CTCB Bank office building in Nangang, Taipei
Taiwan's working environment can be confusing to those who are learning about this topic for the first time. There is a different work culture here than in other countries, and expectations in the workplace are not the same. In this blog, we will answer some frequently asked questions about working in Taiwan.
Foreword: Please note that in the following blog I will share my personal views. As you can tell, I am biased and I prefer American work culture. Overall, I think Taiwan's work culture is stuck in the past, is based on a manufacturing economy, and needs to improve to accommodate modern office work. My views are based on my experience of working in very traditional Taiwanese work cultures over ten years in Taiwan. Not every Taiwanese company has these problems and some foreigners in Taiwan are lucky to work for companies with more western oriented work culture, but according to my experience with others working in Taiwan as normal employees (not on secondment assignments) the following will be true. How are communication styles different between Taiwan and the West? Taiwanese communication style is more indirect, formal, and hierarchical, while American communication style is more direct and informal. In Taiwan, it is customary to show respect to authority figures and senior colleagues by using formal titles and deferential language. Direct confrontation is also avoided, and criticism is often delivered in an indirect manner. In contrast, Americans tend to be more direct in their communication style, often speaking their mind freely and openly expressing their opinions. Hierarchy is another area where Taiwanese and American work cultures diverge. In Taiwan, hierarchy is deeply ingrained in the culture, with respect and deference paid to those in positions of authority. As an American, I have learned this the hard way. You will not last long in a traditional Taiwanese company if you are always speaking your mind freely and talking back to superiors; in Taiwan, this can be seen as insubordination and having a bad work attitude. It is better to try to address problems indirectly, such as through another coworker or superior, and avoid direct confrontation if at all possible. The only exception to this is bosses or supervisors who can be very curt and direct to their subordinates, but their subordinates are not allowed to talk directly back. Alternatively, Taiwanese working in America can be criticized for not speaking up or contributing their thoughts to the team. How are management styles different between Taiwan and the West? In terms of power distance, Taiwan has a high power distance work culture, while America has a low power distance work culture. This means that in Taiwan, decision-making is centralized, there is a strong command structure and set hierarchy, formal communication is required, and employees have little say regarding the management of the company. This is reflected in workplace structures, where managers are often seen as authoritative figures who are not to be questioned. In the United States, however, the culture is more informal, with less emphasis on hierarchy and more on teamwork and collaboration. There are also differences in the way that tasks are approached in each culture. In Taiwan, there is a tendency to be meticulous and precise, with a focus on getting every detail right. This reflects the culture's values of hard work and attention to detail. In contrast, Americans tend to be more results-oriented, with a focus on achieving objectives quickly and efficiently. Part of the reason that employees in Taiwan are so submissive to their leaders has a lot to do with Chinese culture, where respect for elders is paramount. In addition, Taiwanese schools and the education system, in general, teaches children to listen to what the teacher has to say and not ask questions; asking questions or sharing one's own opinion can be a sign of contempt for the teacher or a lack of understanding. Contrastingly, in America there is more decentralization of power, status, and formality are not as important, employees are encouraged to share their thoughts and opinions freely, and it is easy to approach and communicate openly with company leaders. This can also be linked to America's school system. America's school system in contrast teaches students freedom of expression, thinking outside of the box, and asking thought-provoking questions. Respect for authority is not emphasized, but rather it is expected that teachers earn the respect of their students. It doesn't help that most businesses in Taiwan are family-run and owned, and management stays rigidly in the family. This means that many times in Taiwan management is passed on to younger family members even if there are more skilled and experienced employees that can manage the company. How are professionalism and formality different between Taiwan and the West? Taiwanese culture places a high value on professionalism, with a focus on etiquette, manners, and proper conduct, while American culture is more casual and informal. In Taiwan, looks are very important. It is important to management and coworkers to always look and act professionally, even if you are not completing work effectively or in a timely manner. As an American working in Taiwan, I also had to learn this lesson the hard way. I have learned that the attitude I portray and paying attention to minor details is actually more important than the work results I put out in the eyes of my superiors. How are details and goals different between Taiwan and the West? Taiwanese workers tend to be meticulous and precise, with a focus on getting every detail right, while American workers tend to be more results-oriented. This also means that Taiwanese people focus more on details and correct form, instead of the overall objective. Contrastingly, American work culture places more emphasis on substance and results, and employees are more casual in the workplace. How is time orientation different between Taiwan and the West? Taiwanese culture values long-term planning and prioritizes future outcomes, while American culture tends to prioritize present-oriented goals. The overall mindset for Taiwanese workers is often to work in the same company for life, while American workers might be interested in a certain position for a shorter time and switch to another opportunity or career path once a project or goal is finished. How is teamwork different between Taiwan and the West? Taiwanese culture emphasizes teamwork and harmony, while American culture emphasizes individual achievement and competition. In the USA, individualism is a core value that influences the way people approach work and life. Individualism emphasizes personal freedom, autonomy, and self-reliance. People are encouraged to take responsibility for their own lives and to pursue their own goals and dreams. This individualistic approach to life is also reflected in the workplace. American businesses tend to focus on individual achievement and performance, and employees are often evaluated based on their individual contributions to the organization. Teamwork is highly valued in Taiwan. Taiwan is a collectivist culture where people prioritize the needs of the group over their individual desires. This collectivist approach to life is reflected in the workplace, where teamwork is emphasized and collaboration is encouraged. In Taiwanese companies, employees are often evaluated based on their ability to work well with others and contribute to the team’s success. One of the reasons for this difference in values is the role that Confucianism has played in Taiwanese culture. Confucianism emphasizes the importance of family, community, and social order, and this has influenced the way Taiwanese people approach work and relationships. In the US, on the other hand, the Protestant work ethic has played a significant role in shaping the culture. This work ethic emphasizes individual responsibility and hard work as a means to achieve success. How is overtime different between Taiwan and the West? In Taiwan, it is common to work overtime without additional pay, while American labor laws typically require that employees be paid overtime for work beyond a certain number of hours. Before coming to Taiwan, I had the expectation that I would be paid for any overtime I worked. However, I quickly learned that I was expected to work overtime for free every day, if only for a few minutes. Clocking out at exactly 5:30 was considered as having a bad attitude and showing a lack of effort. In addition, I also soon found that it was my boss's expectation of me wanting me to check and reply to emails at night, on weekends, and on holidays and business trips. For instance, he would send me emails during the vacation to tell me to complete a task during the vacation. Americans understand that long hours do not mean more effective work, but in the eyes of Taiwanese bosses, longer hours means more dedication and a more professional attitude. Taiwan has some of the highest working hours in the world, ranking in the top 3, behind Mexico and Singapore and it’s getting worse. However, Singapore has an advanced economy and workers are getting compensation 90,000 NT per month for new employees. Starting salaries in Shanghai and Shenzhen have also risen above Taiwan’s. Most Taiwanese workers cannot join unions and voice their rights as workers. In Taiwan, a company needs 30 or more employees before it can make a workers union, which is only 3% of the total companies in Taiwan. For most other Asian countries, this number is less than 7. If more Taiwanese people were able to form their own unions, perhaps we wouldn’t have such backward labor laws. How are holidays and vacations different between Taiwan and the West? The number of public holidays in Taiwan is around 12 per year, while the number of public holidays in the US is about 10 (and can vary according to state). However in the US, sick leave can be taken at will and is paid in full. In Taiwan, sick leave can only be taken when you can get a doctor's notice, which can be annoying especially when you are sick and do not want to leave the door. In addition, according to a survey by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average number of paid vacation days for employees in private industry and state and local government in 2020 was about 10 days per year for employees with one year of service, and 15 days per year for employees with five years of service. However in Taiwan, most companies go by the Labor Standards Act, which gives employees that have worked one year or less only three paid vacation days. After one year, the employee earns seven vacation days, and after two years 10 vacation days. In addition, Taiwan implements the work/school makeup day system, which means that employees are forced to work on Saturdays many times throughout the year. There are six makeup days in 2023! This longer workweek in Taiwan is partly a reflection of the culture's strong work ethic, which places a high value on hard work and productivity. How is work-life balance different between Taiwan and the West? Taiwanese culture tends to prioritize work over leisure and personal life, while American culture places a greater emphasis on work-life balance and personal time. In my personal experience, I think the economic development in Taiwan happened too fast, so the older generation doesn’t know what to do with their leisure time because they spent all their free time working while they were young. It seems older Taiwanese people don’t have hobbies but earn money just to earn money, not because they need money or they want to do something or achieve a life goal, but just because they like to work and earn money. However, the younger generation likes leisure time more and knows how to enjoy themselves even with much smaller salaries. This gap between older and younger generations is getting worse because no one in Taiwanese companies want to retire. The older generation seems to live to work, while the younger generations work to live. Also, you can forget about remote or hybrid working. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan never really went under lockdown, and office workers could always come to the office to work, therefore sadly hybrid and remote working never became a thing. Most traditional Taiwanese companies will not have this kind of option. How are life goals and success measured different between Taiwan and the West? In Taiwan, there is a strong emphasis on academic achievement and career success, with many people valuing a stable job and financial security. In the United States, success is often defined more broadly, with people valuing personal achievements and experiences in addition to career success. In Taiwan, life goals and success are defined by working in the same company for your whole life and then finally retiring. There is also strong pressure from family to marry and produce children, especially for men. In America, people tend to have more varied life goals such as accomplishing a certain project, learning skills, or advancing the corporate ladder. Success is also defined more in terms of single accomplishments over the span of a career. Do you have any advice for westerners thinking about working in Taiwan?
The above advice for Americans in Taiwan is not good advice for being a productive worker. However, if you want to survive long-term in a traditional Taiwanese corporate work environment, you should do all of the above. If you do, you will be able to keep your job and earn the affection of your boss. If not, something will eventually go wrong for you. Again, the above is heartfelt and sincere advice for anyone that wants to survive long-term in a traditional Taiwanese work culture. Taiwan needs to give its workers back their rest days and their weekends. It also needs to lower the limit for labor unions, so that workers can fight for their rights and continue to lobby to improve the law. When this happens, Taiwan workers will be happier, more productive, and willing to stay. Otherwise, the brain drain will continue, and foreign professionals will not want to work here. In summary, the differences between Taiwanese and American work cultures are significant and can be attributed to the unique values and beliefs of each culture. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone hoping to work effectively in either culture, as it allows them to navigate the workplace more successfully and build positive relationships with colleagues. I hope this information is helpful to others, especially westerners who want to come work in Taiwan professionally for the long term. Why work in Taiwan? Taiwan has a great living environment and is very friendly to foreigners. Many Taiwanese people want to improve their English and are interested in foreign culture. It is also a great place to learn Chinese. Taiwan is a clean, safe, modern, convenient, and free country with a thriving democratic government. Also, Taiwan has many great places to see and explore, eat, and the cost of living is relatively cheap. How do I find work in Taiwan? The best way to find work is to ask your existing connections, but there are also many websites that can help. What are the best work finding websites in Taiwan? 104: https://www.104.com.tw/ This most popular work finding website in Taiwan, although the interface is only in Chinese (sorry), although some job postings are in English. Its worth checking out, even if you can’t read Chinese. Perhaps you can have a Chinese friend help you out. 1111: https://www.1111.com.tw/ This is probably the second most popular work finding site in Taiwan, this website's interface is also only in Chinese, although some job postings are in English. Tealit: http://www.tealit.com/ This is a great English based website for English Teaching jobs in Taiwan. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com Linkedin has a few job opportunities that are most in English. Other than these, search Google. Who knows what you’ll find! Why Teach English in Taiwan? Teaching English can be a fun way to make a living if that’s what you’re into. The working hours are short and pay is relatively high in Taiwan (at least 48,000 NT per month, for about 30 hours a week). These jobs are only available for those with passports from English speaking nations. However, if singing songs and disciplining children is not your thing, then you probably won’t last long. Also, beware of bosses that will take advantage of you, giving you no time off and no overtime pay (you are allowed overtime pay and time off by law, as well as labor and health insurance). Which bank should I use in Taiwan? Most banks will let foreigners set up an account. Some handy accounts to have when shopping are with Cathay Pacific, which has the only Costco accepted credit card, CTCB which partners with PX Mart, and Yushan Bank which is aligned with Carrefour. How do I open a Taiwan bank account? Typically you can walk in to any bank, and open an account if you bring your passport and/or ARC. If you do not have an ARC, then you will need to apply for a Taiwan uniform ID number at the immigration office first. If you are from a list of countries that is high risk because of money laundering it may be harder to open an account. Also, if you are American you will have to sign a W9 or similar form because of FACTA. What are the work regulations in Taiwan? Please see our article on Taiwan’s Labor Standards Act. These regulations change regularly, so look at our latest blog on the topic. Do I get pension as a foreigner in Taiwan? Foreigners not married to a Taiwanese spouse are entitled to theold pension scheme, you must work for the same employer for 25 years or work for the same employer for 15 years and be at least 55 years old. Reaching this requirement is near impossible for most foreigners. However, if you are married to a Taiwanese national, you are eligible for the new pension scheme, which is not based on your work tenure, and 6% of your salary paid by your employer, which can be redeemed at age 60. Do I get labor insurance as a foreigner? Yes. Do I get health insurance for me and my family in Taiwan? Yes, if you have a job, but dependent family members have to wait6 months to join as of now. Newborn foreign babies born in Taiwan are eligible immediately. Do I have to pay taxes in Taiwan as a foreigner? Yes, if you work in Taiwan. If you stay in Taiwan less than 183 days, you will be subject to 18% tax. For tax advise, please contact Grant Thornton Taiwan. What are the tax rates in Taiwan? You can check out our full Taiwan tax guide here. Where can I get tax advise in Taiwan? You can visit the Taiwan tax office. What is the Taiwanese working environment/culture like? This depends on where you work. For a typical Taiwanese company, the boss is very powerful and employees are more passive. It is typical for everyone to wait for the boss to leave before they get off work. So, as you can image, Taiwanese people work lots of overtime. In addition, Taiwanese people like to have working connections, and give gifts to improve a relationship. If you take a gift such as chocolate from a coworker, or are treated to lunch, you are expected to eventually give back similar gift in return to keep the relationship going. What is the average salary for foreigners in Taiwan? The starting salary for a white collar foreigner is about 48000 NT per month, average salary for English teachers is 60,000-80,000 NT per month. However, foreign blue collar workers make about 20,000 NT per month or less. Foreign executives working in Taiwan make foreign salaries (typical US salaries), which are much higher than the average Taiwanese salary. Can foreigners start a business in Taiwan? Yes. Please read our blog on the subject. Why live in Taiwan? Taiwan is one of the best countries in the world with one of the best qualities of life. Taiwan boasts delicious food, great weather year round, amazing tourist sites, friendly people, cheap cost of living, and economic opportunity. How is the water in Taiwan? Filter or boil water in Taiwan, or buy bottled water. It is not safe to drink from the tap. Taipei has the cleanest water (meaning it requires the least filtration), while more rural areas are hit and miss. Are there foreign schools for my children in Taiwan? Yes, there are a number of American and European schools in Taiwan. Please clickhere for a full list. What is it like to buy a house as a foreigner in Taiwan? Check out our guide to buying a house in Taiwan here. What is it like to rent an apartment as a foreigner in Taiwan? Check out our guide to renting an apartment in Taiwan here. What is it like working as an English teacher at a Cram School in Taiwan? See our experience teaching at a cram school in Taiwan here. Why are there work and school make up days in Taiwan? Check out our guide to Taiwan's work and school make up days here. What are the difference is work culture between Taiwan and the USA? Check out our full blog on this topic here. Is Taiwan safe? Yes, Taiwan is one of the safest countries in the world according to Prescavve. This is mainly due to low crime and high economic freedom and devolopment. Have any more questions about work in Taiwan? Please leave them in the comments below, and we might just add them to the list! Please like, follow, and share to help everyone know that Taiwan is a great place to work! 
Life in Taiwan as a foreigner is amazing. Taiwan is one of the best places in the world for foreigners to live. Life is convenient, there is a high standard of living, and the people are friendly. Here we will dive into the detailed aspects of living in Taiwan.
Foreword: Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of questions. This is meant to only give a basic overview of Taiwan's daily life situation to those who have never been there. Basic Taiwan Travel Tips:
Hotels in Taiwan: Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Taiwan: There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out Tripadvisor here, KKday here or Klook here, which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. Here are some of the most popular tours of Taiwan on TripAdvisor:
What is the best way to get around Taiwan? I personally think the best way to get around is by Scooter, but bicycle and public transport are also very good. Travelling by car is difficult because there are narrow streets, many scooters, and limited parking. You have a few options: For more information, please visit our travel/transportation FAQ. Taiwan's transportation system is convenient and safe. There are many options you can consider to get around in Taipei below: By Train: Gets you to the city center of all major cities in Taiwan. It is about 800NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Roughly half the price of the HSR. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By HSR: (High-Speed Rail) – Gets you quickly from north to south. Besides Taipei and Kaohsiung, most of the stations are far from city centers. It costs about 1500NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. You can book tickets to the high-speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. By MRT: (Mass Rapid Transit, Metro train, subway) – Easily gets you around Taipei and Kaohsiung. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bus: Buses can be tricky. Long-range buses such as Ubus and King Bus are easier to understand and cheaper than the local train. They can take you to the city center of every city throughout Taiwan and to remote tourist destinations such as sun moon lake. A long-range bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 500 NT. You can also book tickets to travel to Shifen via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Taxi: You can take short rides for about 150 NT, or hire a Taxi for a day for around 150 USD. By Car: If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. What do Taiwanese people eat for breakfast? So many things. Super traditional Taiwanese breakfast consists of some type of rice porridge and pork. But, soymilk and baked/steamed buns are also very popular. Also hamburgers, onion pancakes, sandwiches and a ton of other stuff. For more information, check out this blog, or just come to Taiwan and try some yourself! What do Taiwanese people eat for lunch? A typical lunch would be a Biandang orlunchbox, which includes a meat patty, rice, and vegetables. Noodles are also a popular lunch choice. What do Taiwanese people eat for dinner? Similar to lunch, locals eat biandang and noodles, but also hot pot and red bean soup during winter, along with western foods. What are table manners in Taiwan? I would say table manners are somewhat similar as America. If you follow American rules, you will not offend anyone; but be sure to not stick your chopsticks upright in your bowl as this is a symbol of death. Burping and other bodily noises such as slurping are somewhat as long as it is not overtly loud. Holding your rice bowl and using chopsticks is common practice. What gestures are rude in Taiwan?/ What is impolite in Taiwan? Showing the bottom of your feet. Throwing things Giving things with only one hand Sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl Giving someone a clock as a gift Not looking someone in the eye For more, check out this blog: Is Fengshui important in Taiwan? Yes. But it also depends of the person; many people are more superstitious than others, and some people don’t care. But in general it is an important principle. Are Taiwanese people friendly? Yes, they are some of the most friendly people in the world, especially to foreigners! What is the hotline for foreigners in Taiwan? Hotline for foreigners in Taiwan: 0800-024-111. Is the water safe in Taiwan? Filter or boil water in Taiwan, or buy bottled water. It is not safe to drink from the tap. Taipei has the cleanest water (meaning it requires the least filtration), while more rural areas are hit and miss. How is the air quality in Taiwan? Not very good, but better than mainland China. Taiwan has the worst pollution of the four Asian tigers. Taipei’s pollution is particularly bad because it lies in a basin, enclosed on all sides. Power plants and motorcycles give the most pollution. Pollution from China gives tons of pollution to Taiwan during winter. Due to this and lack of rain, winter has the worst air quality during the year. Is Taiwan safe? Yes, Taiwan is one of the safest countries in the world according to Prescavve. This is due to low crime and high economic freedom and development. Is Taiwan pet friendly? Yes. On theTaipei MRT, “Animals brought into stations or trains should be keep in pet boxes, pet strollers, small cages, or small containers which do not exceed 55cm in length, 45cm in width, and 40cm in height (size limits for pet strollers refer to the pet cabin only, the frame and wheels are excluded).” This is probably good advice whenever you bring your pet into an indoor location. Are there wild dogs in Taiwan? Yes. Be careful going to rural places or exploring. If a dog starts chasing you, turn sideways and don’t run away. Pull out a backpack or umbrella and yell; the dog should back away. You may also consider bringing pepper spray if the above fails. Is Taiwan a good place for cycling/biking? Yes, Taiwan is a cycler’s paradise! Many people circle the island by bike as a life achievement. All police stations have bike pumps, and there are more than 10,000 convenience stores in Taiwan, making it easy to take a break and get a fresh meal along the way. Is Taiwan a good place for hiking? Yes, 2/3 of Taiwan is covered in mountains. There are hiking trails almost everywhere, but higher mountains require hiking permits. For more information, visit this blog. Is Taiwan a good place for jogging? Yes, but in the summer it can get hot, so you should drink plenty of water. Also in the winter air quality can get bad, so you might consider wearing a mask. Are there gyms in Taiwan? Yes. Are there swimming pools in Taiwan? Yes, everywhere. Is swimming allowed at Taiwan beaches? Most public beaches will allow only allow this in a designated swimming area. There are usually signs that say no swimming for your safety, but usually swimmers will not give a fine. This is because most Taiwanese people cannot swim. At most a lifeguard will come and whistle blow you. Be careful to not swim too far into the ocean, due to rip tide. Where can I go river tracing in Taiwan? Everywhere there is a river! Taiwan is a river tracer’s paradise. The best river tracing is in the mountains up steep gorges. You will likely find less people on the east coast. Are there churches in Taiwan? Yes. Christians make up 4.5% of Taiwan’s population. For more information, check here: Where can I buy groceries in Taiwan? Carrefour, PX mart, Wellcome, Jason’s, and Costco should have all the groceries you need. There are also a few expat stores in Taipei, especially in the Tianmu area. Where can I buy furniture in Taiwan? Ikea. And tons of other places. Where should I buy clothes in Taiwan? Pretty much everywhere. Cheap clothes can be found at night markets, Net, Uniclo, and Carrefour. If you want more expensive brands, go to an outlet or mall. Where should I buy electronics in Taiwan? Online (PC Home and Shoppee), at a night market, at Carrefour, Cankun, or Guanghua Digital Plaza in Taipei. Attractions in Taiwan: There are many attractions that you can enjoy in Taipei such as Taipei 101 Observatory, Taipei 101 460 Skyline Observatory, Taipei Children's Amusement Park, Maokong Gondola, National Palace Museum, Yehliu Ocean World, Yehliu Geopark, National Museum of Marine Science and Biology, i-ride 5D cinema, Astronomical Museum, Miniatures Museum of Taiwan, Double Decker Sightseeing Bus, Miramar Ferris Wheel Ticket, Taipei Zoo, Heping Island Park, Ju Ming Museum, Yuanshan Hotel Secret Road, National Taiwan Museum, New Taipei Gold Museum, Futian Leisure Farm, Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence, Chi Po-lin Museaum, Beitou Museum, Tsao Wonderland, Railway Museum, Fort San Domingo, 13 Levels Archaeology Museum, Austin Land, Museum of World Religions, Formosan Aboriginies Museum, ASE Parent-child Park, teamLab Future Park, Yukids Island, VR Experience, Bat Cave, Neidong Waterfall, Candlestick Islet, Jurassic Snow Park, Zhonghe High5 Amusement Park, Longshan Temple, Xingtian Temple, Ningxia Night Market, Yansan Night Market, Meteor Garden, Yingge Old Street, and many more attractions on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Activities in Taiwan: Don't forget that there are many activities available in Taipei such as Indoor Skiing, Rock Climbing, Hiking, Wakeboarding, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking, River Tracing / Canyoneering, ATVing, Horse Riding, Cooking Class, Archery, Ice Skating, Roller Skating, Tree Climbing, Urban Camping, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Dragon Boat Racing, Escape Room, Shen'ao Rail Bike, Laser Gun Experience, Batting Cages, Bowling, Paintball, Flight Simulation Experience, Taipei Tram Driving Experience, Rail Simulation Experience, Taipei 101 Observation Deck activity, Strawberry Picking, Professional Photo Shoot, Body Relaxation SPA, Night Tour, Calligraphy Workshop, and more on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Have any more questions about daily life in Taiwan? Please leave them in the comments below, and we might just add them to the list! You can also search Facebook for foreigner groups in Taiwan and ask your questions there. Please like, follow, and share to help everyone know that Taiwan is a friendly and inviting place for foreigners! You can also check out our full travel guide to Taiwan here. 
In an effort to treat foreign residents equally, Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior responded to complaints of foreign residents by changing the ARC Uniform ID numbering system to match the format used by Taiwan citizens. Because of this, every foreigner must change their ARC number the next time they change or update their ARC card starting Jan. 1 2021. So what do you need to do after your ARC number has changed?
Taiwan has one of the most convenient and advanced transportation systems in the world. From light rail, mass rapid transit, busses, high speed rail, highways, freeways, bike sharing systems, and more, Taiwan is a great place to travel.
Foreword: Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of questions. This is meant to only give a basic overview of Taiwan's transportation to those who have never been there. Basic Taiwan Travel Tips:
"Scooter Waterfall" on the Taipei Bridge bridge between Sanchong and Taipei City.
Whether you are coming to Taiwan for three days or for three years, it can be hard getting used to a new country, and new culture, and a new way of living. To help you out, we have prepared this guide to help you survive and thrive in this amazing country.
Taiwan is a tropical country that straddles the tropic of cancer. In northern Taiwan, the winters can be cold and wet, and it can also get very gold and even snow sometimes in the mountains. In the south of Taiwan, it is usually warm year round. There are also tropical cyclones and monsoon rains in the summer. Over, the weather in Taiwan is varied and you should come prepared depending on the time of year you are visiting.
Foreword: Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of questions. This is meant to only give a basic overview of Taiwan's weather to those who have never been there. Basic Taiwan Travel Tips:
What type of climate does Taiwan have? The Tropic of Cancer lies across the middle of Taiwan, giving Taiwan a humid subtropical climate in the north, and a tropical monsoon climate in the south. Temperatures in the north vary from 14-20 °C (57-68 °F) in the winter and 26-34 °C (78-93 °F) in the summer, while in the south temperatures vary from 16-24 °C (60-75 °F) in the winter and 26-32 °C (78-89 °F) in the summer on average. The most rain falls in the summer time across Taiwan, with Typhoons bringing torrential rains during that time. Average humidity is around 75% throughout the year. What is the weather in Taiwan?/How is the weather in Taiwan? For the current weather in Taiwan as well as forecasts, you can look at the Central Weather Bureau’s Website, CWB radar, and Accuweather (which has the most reliable weather forecasts for Taiwan in my opinion) What is the temperature in Taiwan? For current temperatures, click on the links for the question above. On average, temperatures in the north vary from 14-20 °C (57-68 °F) in the winter and 26-34 °C (78-93 °F) in the summer, while in the south temperatures vary from 16-24 °C (60-75 °F) in the winter and 26-32 °C (78-89 °F) in the summer. When should I visit Taiwan? This depends on what kind of weather you prefer. If you do not mind hot and humid weather, then the summer might be best for you. If you prefer mild or chilly temperatures, then you should come between October and March. The most rain falls in the summer (and typhoons might delay your flights), but typically you will see more sunny days in Northern and Eastern Taiwan during that time. When should you go to Taipei? In my opinion, the best weather in Taipei is from March-May, and October - November, when the temperatures stay around 26 degrees Celsius and there is not as much rain. Summers are also nice, with the most sunny weather, but also hot and rainy. Winters can be cold (but not below freezing) and usually wet. Overall, there is no wrong answer as to what time of year you should visit Taipei. You will have a great time here at any time of year. Hotels in Taiwan: Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Taiwan: There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out Tripadvisor here, KKday here or Klook here, which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. Here are some of the most popular tours of Taiwan on TripAdvisor:
How to get around in Taiwan: Taiwan's transportation system is convenient and safe. There are many options you can consider to get around in Taipei below: By Train: Gets you to the city center of all major cities in Taiwan. It is about 800NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Roughly half the price of the HSR. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By HSR: (High-Speed Rail) – Gets you quickly from north to south. Besides Taipei and Kaohsiung, most of the stations are far from city centers. It costs about 1500NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. You can book tickets to the high-speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. By MRT: (Mass Rapid Transit, Metro train, subway) – Easily gets you around Taipei and Kaohsiung. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bus: Buses can be tricky. Long-range buses such as Ubus and King Bus are easier to understand and cheaper than the local train. They can take you to the city center of every city throughout Taiwan and to remote tourist destinations such as sun moon lake. A long-range bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 500 NT. You can also book tickets to travel to Shifen via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Taxi: You can take short rides for about 150 NT, or hire a Taxi for a day for around 150 USD. By Car: If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. When do Cherry blossoms bloom in Taiwan? Most bloom fromEarly February to Early March. There may be a few weeks of variation based on current temperatures. Also be aware that Cherry blossoms only last about two weeks. If you are not careful, they’ll be gone before you get there. When is the butterfly migration in Taiwan?/ Where is the butterfly migration in Taiwan? This migration takes place from December to March in Southern Taiwan. Millions of butterflies cross the Taiwan Strait to winter in the foothills near the border of Pingtung and Kaohsiung. Maolin National Scenic Area is famous for this butterfly migration, but other valleys nearby also are known to hold thousands of the migrating insects. Why is there no snow in Taiwan?/ Does Taiwan have snow?/Is there snow in Taiwan? There is Snow in Taiwan! Just in high elevations during winter. In major cities where most people live, the elevation is too low for snow to fall, and the temperature almost never gets below freezing. When does Taiwan have Snow? Taiwan has snow at high mountain elevations from December to March. On rare occasions, the snow level can reach down to 500 meters. What kind of clothes should I wear in winter? In winter, temperatures range from 14-26 °C (57-78 °F), which with nearly 100% humidity can be quite chilly. If you are going to be in the outdoors, we suggest wearing wind-proof clothing, as the humid wind might still go straight through a wool sweater. Also note that there is rarely any central heating in Taiwan, so be prepared to dress in layers even while indoors. The weather will be cooler in the North, and warmer in the south. What kind of clothes should I wear in spring? In spring temperatures usually vary from 19-29 °C (66-84 °F). We suggest bringing a jacket for cold days, but you should mostly prepare for warmer days. Wind-proof clothing is not entirely necessary at this time unless you are riding a scooter. Spring and fall usually have the most comfortable weather, so you shouldn’t worry too much about proper clothing. What kind of clothes should I wear in summer? In summer temperatures usually vary from 26-34 °C (78-93 °F). There will also be high humidity. We suggest wearing shorts, t-shirts, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. I would recommend polyester instead of cotton, as it dries out faster (you will be sweating). Be sure to wear sunscreen if you will be outdoors, and to drink a lot of water. It will be really hot, so be prepared to hide inside convenience stores to get some brief air conditioning before going back into the blazing heat. What kind of clothes should I wear in fall? In autumn, temperatures vary on average from 19-30 °C (66-86 °F). Spring and fall usually have the most comfortable weather, so you shouldn’t worry too much about proper clothing. We would suggest wearing whatever you feel comfortable in at room temperature. Beware though that September and October may have some summer-like heat, so be sure to pack some short sleeved clothes just in case you run into a heat wave. How is the weather in Taipei in November? Record high 34.3 °C (93.7 °F) Average high 24.2 °C (75.6 °F) Daily Mean 21.5 °C (70.7 °F) Average low: 19.3 °C (66.7 °F) Record low: 1.1 °C (34 °F) Avg rainfall, 83.1 cm (3.2 inches) Avg rainy days, 12.4 Avg. Relative humidity: 75% Mean sunshine hours: 99.4 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taipei#Climate How is the weather in Taipei in December? Record high 31.5 °C (88.7 °F) Average high 20.7 °C (69.3 °F) Daily Mean 17.9 °C (64.2 °F) Average low: 15.6 °C (60.1 °F) Record low: 1.8 °C (35.2 °F) Avg rainfall, 73.3 cm (2.8 inches) Avg rainy days, 11.7 Avg. Relative humidity: 75% Mean sunshine hours: 90.7 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taipei#Climate What is the weather like in Taipei? Taipei has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are long, hot and humid, and have heavy rainstorms including Typhoons between June and October. Temperatures range from 26-34 °C (78-93 °F). Winters are short and warm with relatively less rain, but have less sunshine. Temperatures range from 14-20 °C (57-68 °F). Why does it rain so much in Taipei?/Why does it always rain in Taipei? Rainstorms are typical in the summer in Taipei due to monsoon weather and Typhoons. Most of the rain falls in the summer, but other months also see rain daily. There are typically between 11-15 rainy days in any given month in Taipei, so it does not always rain in Taipei. How cold does Taipei get? The average low temperature during winter in Taipei is 14 °C (57 °F), but can often get to as low as 10 °C (50 °F), but rarely any lower. The record low temperature in Taipei was recoded in February at -.02 °C (31.9 °F). Also note that it can be very windy on the coast. How cold does Taiwan get? Typically most populated places in Taiwan never get below 10 °C (50 °F). The coldest it has ever gotten on Taiwan’s highest mountain, Jade Mountain, was around -11 °C (13 °F). There are also strong winds on the coasts of Taiwan during winter, especially along the Taiwan Strait. How is the air pollution in Taiwan? Air pollution is usually the worst during winter when the air is stagnant. Often times air pollution can get to unhealthy levels, especially in the larger cities. For the current air pollution index, clickhere. Can I ride a scooter in shorts and flip flops during the winter in Taiwan? You can, and many Taiwanese people do the same. However, it will be really, really cold, so we recommend wearing clothes that are wind proof. Also be aware that wearing flip flops while riding a scooter is technically illegal in Taiwan although I have never heard of this being enforced. How many seasons does Taiwan have? Four, although the temperature variation is less and less pronounced the farther south you go in Taiwan. Are there typhoons in Taiwan? Yes. When is typhoon Season in Taiwan? Typhoon Season is roughly from June to October. What do I do if I am caught in a typhoon? If you are caught in a Typhoon be sure to stay indoors, as flying debris and flooding can kill you. Most Taiwanese buildings are typhoon-proof, and fatalities are usually minimal. Stay indoors, stay high, and you will stay safe. Typhoons may also cause cancelled or delayed flights, so be aware if you are planning to fly from June to October. What is the best time of year to visit Taiwan? In our opinion summer is the best time to visit Taiwan, because that is when there is the most sunshine and the cold winds coming off the Taiwan Strait subside. However, many people cannot stand the Taiwan heat, which can reach 39 °C °F and 100% humidity. Also, if you want to do outdoor activities, river tracing is safest in the winter when there is less rain, but wind surfing is best in the winter when the winds are strong. Whatever you plan to do in Taiwan, the weather is usually bearable and there should be a time of year that suits everyone’s fancy. Attractions in Taiwan: There are many attractions that you can enjoy in Taipei such as Taipei 101 Observatory, Taipei 101 460 Skyline Observatory, Taipei Children's Amusement Park, Maokong Gondola, National Palace Museum, Yehliu Ocean World, Yehliu Geopark, National Museum of Marine Science and Biology, i-ride 5D cinema, Astronomical Museum, Miniatures Museum of Taiwan, Double Decker Sightseeing Bus, Miramar Ferris Wheel Ticket, Taipei Zoo, Heping Island Park, Ju Ming Museum, Yuanshan Hotel Secret Road, National Taiwan Museum, New Taipei Gold Museum, Futian Leisure Farm, Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence, Chi Po-lin Museaum, Beitou Museum, Tsao Wonderland, Railway Museum, Fort San Domingo, 13 Levels Archaeology Museum, Austin Land, Museum of World Religions, Formosan Aboriginies Museum, ASE Parent-child Park, teamLab Future Park, Yukids Island, VR Experience, Bat Cave, Neidong Waterfall, Candlestick Islet, Jurassic Snow Park, Zhonghe High5 Amusement Park, Longshan Temple, Xingtian Temple, Ningxia Night Market, Yansan Night Market, Meteor Garden, Yingge Old Street, and many more attractions on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Activities in Taiwan: Don't forget that there are many activities available in Taipei such as Indoor Skiing, Rock Climbing, Hiking, Wakeboarding, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking, River Tracing / Canyoneering, ATVing, Horse Riding, Cooking Class, Archery, Ice Skating, Roller Skating, Tree Climbing, Urban Camping, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Dragon Boat Racing, Escape Room, Shen'ao Rail Bike, Laser Gun Experience, Batting Cages, Bowling, Paintball, Flight Simulation Experience, Taipei Tram Driving Experience, Rail Simulation Experience, Taipei 101 Observation Deck activity, Strawberry Picking, Professional Photo Shoot, Body Relaxation SPA, Night Tour, Calligraphy Workshop, and more on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Have any more questions about the weather in Taiwan? Please leave them in the comments below, and we might just add them to the list! Please like, follow, and share to help everyone know that Taiwan is a great place to vacation year round! You can also check out our full travel guide to Taiwan here. 
Taipei is Taiwan's capital, as well as its most advanced and vibrant city. It is usually the first stop for most international visitors. In this guide, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this amazing city.
Foreword: Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of questions. This is meant to only give a basic overview of Taipei to those who have never been there. Brief Historical Background of Taipei: The land on which Taipei now stands on what was once part of Basay tribal land. The Basay people had lived on the land for thousands of years before the first Chinese settlers ever came. Chinese settlers from Fujian began living here during the Dutch rule in the 1600s. The first Chinese settlers came to the area in the mid-1800's during the Qing Dynasty. They created a public area for drying rice and grain, called Dadaocheng (大稻埕) which also became the central market in the area. The earliest trading shops were built in 1851, mainly selling rice, sugar, camphor, and tea. Dihua Street (迪化街) was created around this time, making it the oldest street in Taipei. Most of the buildings were one story and made of red brick in Fujian style, and later western style houses were built. The walls and gates of Taipei were completed in 1884. In 1891, the first train connecting Keelung and Taipei was completed. During the Japanese era, in 1904 the walls of Taipei were destroyed after less than 30 years, and Taipei was re-planned into the capital of Taiwan. After the ROC took control of Taiwan, Taipei continued as the capital city, as well as the financial hub of Taiwan. During the Taiwan miracle, many rural families moved from southern Taiwan to factories and offices in Taipei, making Taipei the most populous urban area in Taiwan. Currently, Taipei is the most advanced and affluent city in Taiwan. It also has Taiwan's most advanced public transportation system, making it easy for millions of commuters to live outside the city where rents are cheaper. Now, most of Taiwan's economic activity is based in this city. Basic Taipei Travel Tips:
When should you go to Taipei? In my opinion, the best weather in Taipei is from March-May, and October - November, when the temperatures stay around 26 degrees Celsius and there is not as much rain. Summers are also nice, with the most sunny weather, but also hot and rainy. Winters can be cold (but not below freezing) and usually wet. Overall, there is no wrong answer as to what time of year you should visit Taipei. You will have a great time here at any time of year. Hotels in Taipei: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Grand Hyatt (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), Marriot (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), Sheraton (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), Shangri-la (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), and Regent (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), which are all very high quality hotels in the middle of Taipei City. We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Taipei: There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out Tripadvisor here, KKday here or Klook here, which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. Here are some of the most popular tours of Taipei on TripAdvisor:
Attractions in Taipei: There are many attractions that you can enjoy in Taipei such as Taipei 101 Observatory, Taipei 101 460 Skyline Observatory, Taipei Children's Amusement Park, Maokong Gondola, National Palace Museum, Yehliu Ocean World, Yehliu Geopark, National Museum of Marine Science and Biology, i-ride 5D cinema, Astronomical Museum, Miniatures Museum of Taiwan, Double Decker Sightseeing Bus, Miramar Ferris Wheel Ticket, Taipei Zoo, Heping Island Park, Ju Ming Museum, Yuanshan Hotel Secret Road, National Taiwan Museum, New Taipei Gold Museum, Futian Leisure Farm, Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence, Chi Po-lin Museaum, Beitou Museum, Tsao Wonderland, Railway Museum, Fort San Domingo, 13 Levels Archaeology Museum, Austin Land, Museum of World Religions, Formosan Aboriginies Museum, ASE Parent-child Park, teamLab Future Park, Yukids Island, VR Experience, Bat Cave, Neidong Waterfall, Candlestick Islet, Jurassic Snow Park, Zhonghe High5 Amusement Park, Longshan Temple, Xingtian Temple, Ningxia Night Market, Yansan Night Market, Meteor Garden, Yingge Old Street, and many more attractions on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Activities in Taipei: Don't forget that there are many activities available in Taipei such as Indoor Skiing, Rock Climbing, Hiking, Wakeboarding, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking, River Tracing / Canyoneering, ATVing, Horse Riding, Cooking Class, Archery, Ice Skating, Roller Skating, Tree Climbing, Urban Camping, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Dragon Boat Racing, Escape Room, Shen'ao Rail Bike, Laser Gun Experience, Batting Cages, Bowling, Paintball, Flight Simulation Experience, Taipei Tram Driving Experience, Rail Simulation Experience, Taipei 101 Observation Deck activity, Strawberry Picking, Professional Photo Shoot, Body Relaxation SPA, Night Tour, Calligraphy Workshop, and more on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. Just to let you know, if you book using the links above, we get some commission at no cost to you, and you can help support our blog. Some of the Klook links may not work if you are using an Ad blocker. You can click here to receive $5 USD on your first Klook purchase. How to get there: The only way to get to Taiwan is via airplane. Planes leave daily from Taipei's Songshan and Toayuan Airport. Taoyuan Airport: Taoyuan is Taiwan's largest airport and typically has cheaper flights and more flight times to choose from. It's about an hour's journey from Taoyuan Airport to the center of Taipei. You can travel via MRT, HSR, bus, or taxi to get to Taipei. You can get 30% off the Taoyuan Airport VIP lounge on KKday here. Songshan Airport: Songshan is a small airport in Taipei's city center, and can be a convenient option for people traveling within Asia. The airport is right on the Taipei MRT brown line. You can book cheap flights to Taiwan on KKday here, Trip.com here, CheapO Air here, or Kiwi here. How to get around in Taipei: Taipei's transportation system is convenient and safe. There are many options you can consider to get around in Taipei below: By Train: Gets you to the city center of all major cities in Taiwan. It is about 800NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Roughly half the price of the HSR. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By HSR: (High-Speed Rail) – Gets you quickly from north to south. Besides Taipei and Kaohsiung, most of the stations are far from city centers. It costs about 1500NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. You can book tickets to the high-speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. By MRT: (Mass Rapid Transit, Metro train, subway) – Easily gets you around Taipei and Kaohsiung. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bus: Buses can be tricky. Long-range buses such as Ubus and King Bus are easier to understand and cheaper than the local train. They can take you to the city center of every city throughout Taiwan and to remote tourist destinations such as sun moon lake. A long-range bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 500 NT. You can also book tickets to travel to Shifen via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Taxi: You can take short rides for about 150 NT, or hire a Taxi for a day for around 150 USD. By Car: If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Frequently Asked Questions: How do you pronounce Taipei? Tie Pay. Where is Taipei on a Map?/Where is Taipei in Taiwan? Taipei City is located in northern Taiwan, laying in the middle of the Taipei Basin surrounded by New Taipei City. Please refer to the map below: 
I have had many friends ask me if I know where they can stay in Taiwan that rents month to month, or for only a few weeks at a time. Whether it be for a short time contract, short term work, a business trip, or a short time study, it can often be hard to find suitable accommodation that will not cost you a fortune. Therefore we have created this frequently asked question guide to help foreigner travelers find short term hotels that have what they need.
Your decision between an extended stay hotel and a regular hotel depends on your preferences and what amenities you anticipate needing. You can, however, enjoy more benefits with extended-stay hotels in terms of features, flexibility in booking, and prices. Basic Taiwan Travel Tips:
Hotels in Taiwan: Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Taiwan: There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out Tripadvisor here, KKday here or Klook here, which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. Here are some of the most popular tours of Taiwan on TripAdvisor:
How to get around in Taiwan: Taiwan's transportation system is convenient and safe. There are many options you can consider to get around in Taipei below: By Train: Gets you to the city center of all major cities in Taiwan. It is about 800NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Roughly half the price of the HSR. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By HSR: (High-Speed Rail) – Gets you quickly from north to south. Besides Taipei and Kaohsiung, most of the stations are far from city centers. It costs about 1500NT to get from Taipei to Kaohsiung. You can book tickets to the high-speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. By MRT: (Mass Rapid Transit, Metro train, subway) – Easily gets you around Taipei and Kaohsiung. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bus: Buses can be tricky. Long-range buses such as Ubus and King Bus are easier to understand and cheaper than the local train. They can take you to the city center of every city throughout Taiwan and to remote tourist destinations such as sun moon lake. A long-range bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 500 NT. You can also book tickets to travel to Shifen via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Taxi: You can take short rides for about 150 NT, or hire a Taxi for a day for around 150 USD. By Car: If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Scooter: Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 
Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with any camp ground or camping products in Taiwan. The following FAQ is only based on our opinion after years of camping in Taiwan, and should not be considered absolute fact. If in doubt, make sure you check with the local police station or other government office to make sure you are following local regulations while camping in Taiwan.
With two thirds of the island covered in mountains, Taiwan has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Taiwan is via camping. Below is a very basic level FAQ on camping in Taiwan for foreigners that have never experienced it.
How do I book a campsite in Taiwan? Please be sure to check out camping options in Taiwan on Klook here or KKday here. 
Are you looking for a cheap foreign country to retire in? Look no further than Taiwan. Taiwan has been named as the number one best place for expats to live for multiple years. The local people are very friendly to foreigners in general, especially rich expats from western countries. Taiwan also has a low cost of living, one of the best healthcare systems in the world, a safe environment, convenient transportation, and a free democratic society. You will not regret spending your retirement in Taiwan.
Taiwan is a place that should be explored not just with public transportation (as convenient as it is). If you only take public transportation everywhere you go, you are missing out on a huge part of Taiwan. You could take taxis everywhere to see these sights, like a rich Chinese person, or you can take the cheaper option and rent a vehicle. Many of the scenic and rural sights of Taiwan can’t be experienced except by hiring your own vehicle.
Renting a Vehicle in Taiwan: Taiwan is the scooter capital of the world, so driving a car can be dangerous here because you need to be more aware of your surroundings. However, if you are looking to get around the island faster, are travelling with multiple people, have lots of luggage, or you are afraid that scooters are dangerous, I would suggest renting a car. Do you have any recommendations? We recommend using Qeeq here, Klook here, KKday here, or Kayak here to rent or charter cars in Taiwan. Car Rental Fast Facts: Where? Car rental places can be found next to most airports and in all major cities. But don’t expect them right next to every small train station. Pricing? Cheap would be 1000-1500 NTD a day (30-45 USD), average would be $2000+ a day (60 USD), and expensive would be $3,000+ a day (100+ USD). Discounts are often given for multiple day rentals and for weekdays. Do I need a local license? No. However, you should get an international driver’s permit. If you don’t have an international driver’s permit there is no guarantee that you can rent a car. Check with the rental agency beforehand and make necessary preparations. How do I get a local Taiwanese license? Check out our guide on getting a driver's license in Taiwan here. You can also check out our guide to getting an International Driver's Permit here. Does Taiwan have Uber? Yes but its just as expensive as a Taxi. Uber was banned and fined multiple times because their business model was deemed illegal. Uber drivers were required to have a professional driver’s license. Now they work with local rental car companies to keep the app going in Taiwan. What side of the road does Taiwan drive on? The Right side. How much is the price of gas? As of July, 2023 it is around 30 NT (1 USD) per liter for 95 octane gas. You can also book Wifi and SIM cards for Taiwan on Gigago here. Anything else I should be aware of when driving in Taiwan? Yes!
We recommend using Qeeq here, Klook here, KKday here, or Kayak here to rent or charter cars in Taiwan. Summation of Rental Car Companies in Taiwan: (please note this is not a complete list. Other discounts and offers can be found on each company's website) Qeeq website: https://www.qeeq.com/
KKday website: https://www.kkday.com/
Klook website: https://www.klook.com/
Kayak website: https://kayak.com/
Expedia website: https://expedia.com/
Trip.com website: https://trip.com/
Just to let you know, if you book using the links above, we get some commission at no cost to you, and you can help support our blog. Good Cars website: https://www.goodcars.com.tw/
Avis Taiwan 安維斯租車 website: https://www.avis-taiwan.com/us/
HLC 和運租車 website: https://www.easyrent.com.tw/
Jinfeng Car Rental 進豐租車 website: http://www.1car-rent.com.tw/service.php
Budget website: https://www.budget.com/en/locations/tb
CarPlus 格上租車 website: https://www.car-plus.com.tw/EN/ugC_AboutUs.asp
Renting a Scooter? Check out our blog about scooter rental in Taiwan here, or our scooter buying guide here. Or you can check out Klook here or Kday here to search for options. Want to buy a car instead? Please see our car buying guide here. Looking for a hotel? Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotels through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Check out our blog index for ideas of where to visit in Taiwan. You can also find more tours of Taipei on Klook here or KKday here. Feel free to contact us with any specific questions about car or scooter rental in Taiwan, and please like, comment, and share! -FiTW 
Taiwan has recently received a lot of press for its great response to the Covid-19 outbreak. But Taiwan has had a world class universal healthcare system for decades, known as National Health Insurance (NHI). People have long been coming to Taiwan for "medical tourism," due to Taiwan's low cost and high quality medical care. In this article we will answer common questions about Taiwan's healthcare system and why it is perhaps the best in the world.
Please note that some of the answers below are anecdotal based on personal experience using National Health Insurance in Taiwan, and are for reference only. 
Tax season is here. In Taiwan, taxes must be filed before May 31st. As a foreigner, you might be wondering how to file a tax return and what the regulations are. Luckily Taiwan has made it easy by creating an online tax filing system that you can complete from your computer, although you do still have to physically send some forms to the tax office. Let us answer some common questions about tax filing that might come up:
Forward: The following is Q+A for tax year 2022 only, based on information provided on Taiwan's Ministry of Finance website for your reference only. Personal income tax can be a complicated issue; for specific answers regarding your tax situation please contact the Taiwan tax office: +886-2-2311-3711. Press 7 for English service. The ultimate decision for tax payable is up to the discretion of the Taiwan tax office. Q: When should I file Taxes? A: Between May 1st to May 31st after the tax year (tax year is same as calendar year). If you are leaving the country and do not plan to return to Taiwan, you must file an early tax return within 10 days before you leave. We recommend going to the tax office in person for an early filing. Q: When are Taiwan tax payments due? A: Tax payments are due by May 31st, after which there will be penalties for late payments. Q: What makes me eligible for paying Taiwan taxes (or what makes me a tax resident)? A: You become a Taiwan tax resident if you stay in Taiwan longer than 183 days, or if you are a Taiwan national and have household registration (戶籍) in Taiwan and visit for at least one day. The address in your ARC is not household registration, it's a registration process from the local administrative office (戶政事務所）. If you stay less than 90 days in Taiwan, in general, you do not have to file taxes, and VAT or sales taxes are reimbursable. If you worked in Taiwan and stayed over 90 days but less than 183 days, you need to pay taxes on your Taiwan-based salary even if your income came from overseas, and you will pay a fixed rate of 6% or 18% income tax (your company may have deducted this from your salary already). If you have Taiwanese dual citizenship and Taiwanese house registration, then you need to pay taxes if you have stayed in Taiwan for over 31 days. Days are cumulative in a tax year, and it doesn't matter what you came for during these days. Q: How do I count the days I stayed in Taiwan? A: Please note that the day you come to Taiwan doesn't count, but the day you leave does. It's a good idea to keep track of the number of days you have been in Taiwan via the stamps on your passport. Q: What is the income tax rate?/ How much is Taiwan tax? A: The income tax rate for non-residents who earn at least 1.5 the minimum wage per month (39,600 NT as of 2023) is 18% (you can get a tax refund if you pay 18% taxes and then become a tax resident). 18% usually is applicable to white-collar foreign workers. For non-residents who earn less than 1.5 the minimum wage per month (39,600 NT as of 2023), the income tax rate is 6% (you can get a tax refund if you pay 6% taxes and then become a tax resident). 6% is usually applicable to most blue-collar foreign workers. The 2022 tax rate for residents (staying over 183 days in Taiwan) is as follows (source: Taiwan Ministry of Finance): 
The nursery or "infant room 嬰兒室 Yīng'ér shì," where the baby will stay for three days after birth.
Taiwan is a safe, inexpensive, and convenient place to give birth. Taiwan has a world class healthcare system, capable doctors, and top of the line medical facilities. If you are hesitant about whether or not you want to give birth in Taiwan, let me tell you now that there is nothing to worry about, and having a baby in Taiwan will be fine. I have created this brief guide here for you so that you can understand a little more about what it is like to give birth in Taiwan.
Forward: Please note that I am writing this blog and FAQ section from the perspective of an American father, married to a Taiwan National, covered by Taiwan's National Health Insurance. I have recently gone through the birth of two children in Taiwan, born in 2017 and 2020. One was born in a private local clinic and the other was born in a public city hospital.
This blog will begin with my experience, and at the end there is a frequently asked question (FAQ) section.
Renting an apartment in Taiwan can be confusing and frustrating. As a long term rental tenant and expat in Taiwan I have lived in over ten apartments and have dealt with all kinds of problems, from bad landlords to noise to bugs. I feel like my experience can help other expats searching for apartments in Taiwan, so I have created this guide and FAQ to help people avoid the mistakes that I have made in the past, and have a pleasant rental experience in Taiwan.
The photo sample above was taken from the National Development Council website.
On February 8th, 2018, Taiwan rolled out the Act for the Recruitment of Foreign Professionals, which included the employment gold card four-in-one visa to entice foreign special professionals to come and seek work opportunities in Taiwan. Details and common questions about this new type of visa/work permit can be answered below.
In October 2021, the gold card benefits were also extended and expanded. Please note that this blog not a comprehensive guide but only gives basic information about the gold card based on the information on the National Development Council website. They also have an FAQ sectionhere. Q: What is the Taiwan employment gold card? A: The employment gold card is a four-in-one visa, work permit, alien resident certificate, and re-entry permit. It also provides other benefits to foreigners as mentioned below. If you need help obtaining an initial visitor visa to Taiwan, you can use Ivisa.com. You can also check out our immigration FAQ here. Q: What benefits does Taiwan's employment gold card have? A: The benefits associated with the employment gold card or special professional work permit are as follows:
Need travel insurance? Compare prices on Insubuy here. Q: Who can apply for and obtain Taiwan’s employment gold card? A: Foreigners that are specialists in their field. This includes ROC dual citizens and citizens of Macau and Hong Kong, but not ROC citizens with household registration. Q: Who can qualify for the tax benefits under the employment gold card? A: Foreign nationals or dual citizens that have stayed over 183 days in Taiwan in a calendar year for the first time in 2018 or later. Q: What are the requirements for the employment gold card? A: The full requirements for foreign special professionals can be found here. The exact requirements vary by industry. However, the requirements generally require that an applicant show that they are a special professional or senior professional that has made special contributions to their field of work or received national recognition in one of the following 8 accepted professional industries: 1. Science and technology 2. Economy 3. Finance 4. Education 5. Culture and Arts 6. Sports 7. Law 8. Architectural Design 9. National Defense 10. Digital 11. Special Cases Recognized by the NDC Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Q: Does the exemption from tax on overseas income (alternative minimum tax, or AMT) for the Taiwan gold card only last for the first five years? A: Yes, this tax benefit only lasts for five years, the same as the tax benefit for 50% of income above 3 million. Q: How is the five years calculated for tax benefits for AMT and 50% of income above 3 million? A: The five years start from the first tax year in which the foreign professional becomes a tax resident (stays for 183 days or more in a calendar year). However, if the foreign professional does not meet the qualifications for tax resident, they can defer this tax benefit to the following year, but no longer than five years after the work permit or gold card was first issued. Q: How is the 50% of income above 3 million NT calculated if I am filing jointly with my spouse? A: In this case the 50% of taxable income above 3 million NT only applies to your income. You cannot use this tax benefit for your spouse unless he/she also has a gold card. Q: If I apply for a gold card but I am not a tax resident, when will the five years expire? A: As explained above, you can defer the 5 year tax benefits to future years, but no longer that five years after the work permit or gold card was first issued. Q: If I meet the 160,000 NT per month salary requirement, can I get a gold card? A: Not necessarily. You also need to prove that you are a special professional in your field. In general this means proving your past work experience and awards to the government. Q: Can I still get a Taiwan employment gold card without meeting the 160,000 NT salary per month requirement? A: You can bypass the 160,000 NT per month requirement if you meet other requirements proving you are a special professional in your field. Q: How will my dependents get visas? A: As long as you have first been approved for your gold card or special professional visa, your dependents will be able to receive their dependent visas. If they enter Taiwan using the visa free program, they will need to come on the same flight as you, otherwise they will have to leave Taiwan and receive their dependent visas at the Taiwan office overseas, or receive them before they leave if you are coming on different flights. Q: If I switch from a normal ARC to an employment gold card, will my dependent's visas be affected? A: No, there will be no changes to your dependent's visas. Q: How many year of experience do I need for the employment gold card? A: Typically at least 5. Q: How long does it take for the government to approve a gold card application? A: After the application is submitted, it will take about 30 working days to receive an approval or rejection. Please also note that there is a government fee associated with each application. Q: What is the difference between an employment gold card and a work permit for a foreign special professional applied by a Taiwan company? A: They are basically the same, both have the same tax benefits, but the differences are as follows: 
Typical interior of a Taiwan local bank.
Banking in Taiwan as a foreigner can be a frustrating experience, especially with a language barrier and cultural gaps. Banking still is a major pain even for long-time residents. However, we have made this guide to help make banking in Taiwan a little easier, more efficient, and more beneficial, especially for expats new to Taiwan.
Foreword: The following Q+A is based on personal experience and is for reference only. this is not an exhaustive analysis of Taiwan's banking sector. Each bank has different policies, and the employees in the banks may not even know their own policies for foreigners. My Overall Experience Banking as a Foreigner in Taiwan 外國人在台灣使用銀行的個人心得: My experience banking in Taiwan has been a mixed bag. Besides lots of wait times and loads of paperwork, I have noticed that many banking functions are not available for foreigners, such as buying stocks and bonds, buying gold, and buying mutual funds. It took me an entire month to buy mutual funds for my kids. First I went to the bank to ask how to do it. Then they gave me forms to fill out. I filled them out and brought them back to the bank. They said the forms were filled out wrong. I corrected them and went back to the bank. They said because it was Saturday they could not process the account (post office bank) so I had to go back on a weekday. I went back on a weekday. Later, they said that some documents were still not okay. I went back and fixed the documents again. After that, I waited for the mutual fund account to open. Then I had to go back and transfer money into the accounts. In the end, simply buying mutual funds took me three weeks and six(!!!) trips to the bank, wasting countless hours of my time. I cannot think of a more inefficient process that I have ever been a part of. All of this being said, banking in Taiwan still gets the job done most of the time, and foreigners are able to move their money freely because Taiwan does not have foreign exchange controls. |
Author 作家We are US Expats that have extensive experience living, working, and travelling in Taiwan. In our day, we had to learn many things about Taiwan the hard way. But we have come to learn that Taiwan is one of the best places in the world for Foreigners to live. Our blog does not represent the opinions of every foreigner in Taiwan. We are just trying to help others learn more about this beautiful country. Archives 檔案
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