Taiwan – Travel Guide
Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia, enchants visitors with its diverse attractions, including modern cities, lush mountains, and scenic coastlines. Taipei, the vibrant capital, is known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling night markets, and cultural landmarks like Taipei 101. Taroko Gorge National Park showcases breathtaking marble cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Sun Moon Lake, nestled amidst misty mountains, offers tranquility and outdoor activities like boating and cycling. Taiwan`s rich culinary scene, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural experiences.
All about Taiwan
Taiwan FAQ
What airports service the city of Taipei?
The main airport servicing the city of Taipei is the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Chiang Kai Shek International Airport) located about 19 miles away from the city center. The airport features MRT trains, shuttle buses, taxis and rental cars.
Songshan Airport is a smaller airport located in central Taipei at the northern end of Dunhua North Road, which is a domestic airport with a few international routes to regional destinations.
What types of transportation can I find at the airport?
The Taoyuan Airport MRT line is a rail line connecting to the city providing a fast and convenient way to transport passengers. The trains run every 15 minutes, operating hours are from 6:00 am until 11:00 pm and the journey takes around 37 minutes on the Express train and 45 minutes on the Commuter train. The express train departs from both terminals at the airport and travels to the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, New Taipei Industrial Park and Taipei Main Station and the commuter train links from the airport to downtown stopping at 21 stations along the way. Tickets cost approximately NT$160 for a single one-way journey which can be purchased at kiosks at the airport terminal on the underground level.
Express buses are available at the airport with bus stops found outside each terminal. Buses run every 15 – 20 minutes and the cost is approximately NT$120 – NT$150 for a single one-way ticket. Bus #1819 takes passengers from the airport to Taipei`s Main Station and the journey takes around an hour, this bus operates 24 hours a day. Bus #5201 transports passengers to Taipei City and operates from 6:15 am until 12:30 am, the journey takes around 50 minutes. The ticket counters at the airport provide route maps, schedules, and tickets. Terminal 1 bus stop is found at B1 Arrivals and Terminal 2 bus stop is found at the northeast arcade on the 1st floor of the arrivals hall.
Taxis are available at the airport 24 hours a day, a one-way fare to the city center will cost around NT$1000 – NT$1,200. Fares are metered and subject to a 15% airport surcharge fee. The Taxi stands can be found outside the arrivals halls at both terminals.
Rental cars are available at the airport including international companies such as Avis. The rental car offices can be found outside the arrival halls of both terminals on the ground floor.
How do I get from the train station to my hotel?
The main train station in the city is the Taipei Main Station. Located in the Zhongzheng District of Taipei, it is the busiest station for the Taoyuan Airport MRT and offers several transportation options. The station is a popular gathering place for local students, tourists, and commuters with shops, restaurants and accommodations surrounding the station. Transportation found around the station includes the Taipei MRT, Taipei Double Decker Hop-on, Hop-off Bus, High-speed rail, local buses with multiple stops around the station and taxis.
How do I get around the city using public transportation?
The Taipei Metro or MRT is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around the city. There are several lines offered with stops at some of the popular attractions including Shilin Market, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and the Taipei Zoo, making it easy to get to the main sights in the city. Tickets cost approximately NT$20 – NT$65 for a single journey, day passes cost around NT$150 which provides unlimited trips. The trains run from 6:00 am until midnight daily and depart every 2 – 15 minutes depending on the time of day. Trains and stations provide information in English with ticket and information offices inside the stations. Visit https://english.gov.taipei/ for more information.
The city offers a cheap and convenient way to get around the city with over 300 bus routes covering every inch of the city. The buses are efficient, clean and comfortable, operating from 5:00 am until between 10:00 pm and midnight. Information is displayed in English making it easy for tourists to use and tickets cost NT$15 for a single journey. Pay close attention to the electronic sign above the driver, this indicates when to pay. If you see a character for `up` (ÉÏ) then you should pay when you get on the bus, if the `down` (ÏÂ) character is showing then you will need to pay again when getting off the bus. This is all due to different fare zones which are indicated on the route maps by small triangles.
THSR or Taipei High-Speed Rail travels along the west coast of Taiwan with 8 stations situated along 220 miles of tracks running from Taipei to Zuoying. This total journey can take up to 4 hours and covers major cities that are situated just a few hours apart with buses and shuttles available at the local city stations. Important: Tickets must be reserved 14 days in advance and can only be collected at the train stations or post office 2 days prior to traveling.
What is the EasyCard?
Visitors can benefit by purchasing an EasyCard to use for travel on the cities metro, buses, some taxis and bicycle rentals. A prepaid smartcard with a 20% discount on travel with an initial cost of the card is NT$500 with an NT$100 refundable deposit. The cards can be purchased and recharged at all metro stations and some convenience stores (7-Eleven and FamilyMart).
How do I call/hail a taxi in Taipei?
Taxis are available in the city and are easy to find with their bright yellow color and `Taxi` roof signs. Taxis are metered and a ride across Taipei City will cost around NT$250 and most companies will accept EasyCard for payment. Taxis are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street, found outside the stations, hotels and main tourist attractions or ordered by phone. A taxi will display a red light if they are vacant and available for hire. Most drivers do not speak English, be sure to have your destination written down in Mandarin. Call The Taipei Public Transportation Office service hotline to order by phone tel. 0800-055-850.
Can I ride a bicycle in Taipei?
Riding a bicycle in Taipei is a very easy and popular way to get around the city. There are several rental places across the city along with hundreds of YouBike share stations. Visitors can find a YouBike station, check out a bike for a period of time and return to any other station in the city (EasyCard can be used). The cost is approximately NT$10 for 30 minutes and stations can be found outside the stations, in the parks, and around other populated areas. Visit www.youbike.com.tw for more information.
There are dedicated bicycle lanes in the city and plenty of open space in the parks and along the rivers, for cyclists to use and up to 10 bike trails to explore. There are bike paths that will take you from Tamsui (north) all the way to Xindian (south).
Is Taipei a walking city?
Walking around Taipei is made easy with a relatively small compact city center. The city features beautiful large parks and stunning scenic surroundings which are all perfect to explore on foot. Visitors can explore the ancient narrow alleys and streets of the city where shopping, dining, and entertainment can be discovered. Exploring the city`s popular Night Street Markets is a must on foot, check out Shilin and Raohe Night Street Markets in the city, both filled with delicious, delectable street food and shopping stalls with a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere.
Taking a walk to the main attractions in the city is also easy, as many are situated close together and within walking distance of each other. There are metro stops all over the city, meaning it is just a few minutes` walk to anywhere from the stations. Take a hike up Elephant Mountain which is around a 30-minute trek with plenty to discover once at the top. Taking a leisurely stroll along the River`s is a great way to spend the afternoon or spend the day hiking and exploring the beautiful mountainous region of the Yangminghsan National Park.
Is Taipei a dangerous city, is there anything I should be aware of?
Taipei is a very safe city with very low crime. Visitors should use the same caution when visiting any large city in the world and practice safe street smarts. Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas especially in the Night Markets, keep your belongings secure at all times and don`t wander into unlit or unpopulated areas at night. Watch out for cars and speeding scooters when crossing the street and on streets without sidewalks.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
There are plenty of options for shopping in the city of Taipei including malls, department stores, and the ever popular Street Markets. Visit the Jianguo Holiday Jade Market which is connected to the Jianguo Holiday Flower Market, both vibrant markets are filled with street stalls where shoppers can buy flowers, plants, seeds, jewelry, teapots and other trinkets from over 200 vendors. Both markets operate from 9 am until 6 pm on the weekends and during holidays.
The city`s shopping districts are divided into East and West, both have their own unique characteristics. The Westside is the old city featuring narrow streets lined with small local shops and the area surrounding Taipei Main Station which is filled with a wide variety of stores including bookstores and restaurants. The Eastside boasts tree-lined boulevards, shopping malls, Taipei 101 and some of the city`s premier shopping destinations.
Miramar Entertainment Park is a shopping and entertainment district in the city with a giant Ferris Wheel perched on the Roof. There is an IMAX theatre and restaurants featured here.
The Shilin Night Market and the Raohe Night Street Market are some of the city`s most popular market destinations. Bustling Night Street Markets are a way of life in Taipei, filled with tasty street food and shopping stalls in a vibrant atmosphere.
What is the food like?
Taipei is a foodies haven, filled with delectable street snacks, quaint cafes, family-owned restaurants and western style eateries. The Taiwanese love their food and dining in the city is not hard to find, there are neighborhoods and districts packed with plenty of choices offering delicious local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy oriental food, Japanese sashimi, Italian food, German cuisine, American burgers and much more.
Some of the popular foods found in the city include a tasty breakfast treat known as `yougiao` which is a deep-fried dough with rice congee, baked sesame flatbread, and rice milk. A go-to for lunch is a fresh bowl of beef noodle soup which includes cubed beef and vegetables served in beef broth. A refreshing drink that is renowned in the country is `pearl milk tea` with freshly made pearls served in milk tea. Night Street Markets are a must when visiting Taipei, these vibrant bustling markets are filled with some of the best food in the city. Street snacks include fried squid, Pepper buns, ribs, sticky rice and stinky tofu, and bubble tea.
What is the nightlife like?
The nightlife is Taipei is said to be some of the best in Asia. The city features several districts where the streets are lined with pubs, bars, restaurants, and clubs. There are bustling night markets filled with food and shopping and theatres for an enjoyable evening of entertainment. The city has something to offer everyone and is an exciting place to be when the sun goes down.
Most of the city`s nightclubs are concentrated around the city center near Taipei 101 tower and different districts offer their own variety of nightlife in the city that stays open 24 hours a day. For example, the Taipei 101 tower includes a large shopping mall, restaurants, and entertainment. Head up to the observation deck and see the city lit up at nighttime. The area of Danshui is a popular seaside district well known as a spectacular sunset spot where the sun sinks down on the Taiwan Strait. The area features other attractions and dining for a fun evening out.
What are some festivals held in Taipei?
Taiwan`s capital city is the host of many festivals throughout the year. They follow the lunar calendar meaning the dates can vary and are not consistent with the solar calendar. Here are a few of the popular festivals to check out in Taipei:
New Year`s Eve: A huge celebration in the city of Taipei with stunning fireworks show that is launched from the landmark Taipei 101 tower in the heart of the city. There are concerts, parades and bustling nightlife in the Xinyi District on the countdown to the New Year.
The Lantern Festival: Celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month every year to mark the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and the beginning of spring. On the first full moon day of the year, people celebrate in the city with dining, events and a spectacular show of lanterns and lasers that light up the city for several days.
Dragon Boat Festival: On the 5th day of the 5th lunar month colorful dragon boats can be seen throughout the island and delicious food.
I don`t speak Taiwanese will there be many people who speak English?
The official language spoken in Taipei is Mandarin. The English language is taught in schools in Taipei and many Taiwanese people can speak some English, especially the younger generation and those working in the service industry. We suggest you get a good English-Chinese guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1 – 10.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of an emergency dial 110 for police and 119 for a fire or ambulance.
Hospitals:
Chung-shan Hospital tel. 886-2-2708-1166
MOHW Taipei Hospital tel. 886-2-2871-2121
National Taiwan University Hospital tel. 886-2-2312-3456
Mackay Memorial Hospital tel. 886-2-2543-3535
Best time to visit Taiwan
Taiwan offers visitors a subtropical monsoon climate, boasting warm weather year round as well as rain showers throughout the year. The summers can be hot and humid and the country is susceptible to Typhoons from June to September.
Generally, the best time to visit Taiwan is from October to April when the weather is warm and dry (for the most part) across the country. This is the time when the popular Cherry Blossom Season begins (typically in March) which is a fantastic sight to see in the mountain town of Alishan.
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Taiwan is divided into two climates, the `tropical` south and the `subtropical` north. The entire country experiences warm temperatures with humidity in the summer and both are affected by monsoons. The northeast monsoon season runs from October through March and generally affects the coastal city of Keelung as well as the northeast coast which includes Yilan and Hualien. The south-east monsoons occur from June to October and generally affects the southwest coast from Kenting to Taichung along with the central mountain ranges. Typhoons can bring along cloudy, wet and stormy weather.
The country`s capital Taipei situated in the north of the island is usually several degrees cooler than the south with average temperatures ranging between 86 – 91F with very mild and short winters when temperatures drop around 62 – 68 F. The warmer southern region of the island in the city of Kaohsiung experiences more hot and humid weather with average daily temperatures that range from 89 – 96 F in the summer and drop to around a comfortable 72F in the winter.
Overall Taiwan is an incredibly diverse country to visit offering traveler`s sun, sand, and surf at the beaches, hiking in the mountains and exploring popular attractions in the major cities. All of which boast beautiful warm weather making outdoor activities and water sports enjoyable.
The high travel season for tourists in Taiwan is July and August with high rates for travel and accommodation. This time of year also brings some of the highest temperatures and humidity and lots of crowded attractions. The Chinese New Year is also a very busy, crowded and expensive time of year to travel to Taiwan when accommodations sell out in advance.
March – May
Springtime is beautiful in Taiwan with pleasant warm weather, fewer crowds, and low accommodation prices. This time of year brings comfortable average temperatures between 65 – 86F with low rainfall. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular spring flowers blooming and scenic outdoors of the country`s national parks. The tropical south is warm at this time of year, allowing for great beach weather. The subtropical north is also warm, providing great weather to explore the museums and hot springs in comfortable temperatures. Daily thunderstorms and humidity start to pick up in May with the on-coming summer climate approaching fast.
Events and Festivals
– Mazu`s Birthday – (Lunar March 23) – In Taichung City, one of the largest folk festivals takes place over a four day period to celebrate the birthday of Mazu the goddess of the sea.
– Dragon Boat Festival – (Lunar May 5) – Celebrated nationwide. A vibrant festival, where colorful dragon boat races can be seen in major cities with waterways.- Taipei City of God Birthday – (Lunar May 13th) – A celebration including a lavish parade, fireworks, and dancing on the streets around Tapei`s City God Temple.
June – August
Summertime in Taiwan is hot and humid, especially in the sub-tropical south, with average temperatures in the high 80`s to 90`s with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. This time of year is also high season with lots of visitors, making accommodations and attractions crowded and expensive.
Typhoon season is in effect on the southeast coast so travelers should be sure to check the weather before traveling. The tropical north is more bearable this time of year and a better place to be if you are hit with a thunderstorm. The cities provide indoor attractions which are best enjoyed during the summer months. June is the wettest month of the year and July and August are the hottest months.
Events and Festivals
– Moon Festival – (Lunar Aug 15th) A mid-autumn festival celebrated with a barbecue.
September – November
The fall is a spectacular time of year to visit Taiwan with warm weather in the south and cooler temperatures in the north of the island. Fall is also typically the driest time to visit the country. Average temperatures range from 64 – 86 F with little to no rain making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors. Hiking in the Mountains and National Parks is spectacular during the fall season.
The bright colors of fall set in providing some of the most breathtaking scenery. The beaches in the south are still very popular in the fall where visitors can still bask in the sun and enjoy water sports and other activities. November is low tourist season which means fewer crowds and lower prices, making this one of the best months to explore Taiwan.
December – February
Wintertime brings the cooler weather to the country. Temperatures (typically) averaging between 58 – 68 degrees with December being the coldest month where evening temperatures can drop in the 40`s in the north. Winter is low season for accommodations and attractions.
Popular activities this time of year are the country`s Hot Springs, with over 150 springs offered throughout the country. The southern beaches still remain warm in the winter and the water is still comfortable enough to swim. Things start to get busy again during the Chinese New Year when accommodations sell out way in advance as the country prepares for its big end of year celebrations.
Events and Festivals
– Chinese New Year – (Lunar Jan 1 – 3) – The country`s most important festival marking the start of the Chinese New Year with lavish meals, parades, fairs, and fireworks.
– Lantern Festival – (Lunar Jan 15th) – The end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, this festival lasts often lasts several days in the big cities. A huge display of paper lanterns launched into the sky with a variety of other festivities to mark the end of the New Year.
Tipping in Taiwan
In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette which is ingrained in all trades, from the wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades.
Tipping in Taiwan can be confusing for tourists because unlike the US where tips are expected everywhere, tipping here is entirely voluntary so do not feel obligated to leave a gratuity. The questions `when?` and `how much?` that surround tipping can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter.
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Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis. Taiwan does not practice a tipping culture and tipping is generally not expected and even times not accepted. Tips Not Accepted or display it in their menus, and if this is the case, respect the establishment`s wishes and do not tip.
This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.
Currency: Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use New Taiwan Dollar?
The units of currency in Taiwan are the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). US Dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand and be prepared to exchange your dollars for New Taiwan Dollars upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport, local banks and hotels throughout the city along with ATMs.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?
Generally, at hotels in Taiwan, there is an automatic 10 – 15% service charge added to your bill. This charge in most cases will act as your tip and will normally be charged in high-end western restaurants and upscale dining establishments. It is not necessary to tip above the service charge, but if you feel the service was outstanding feel free to leave an additional tip for the wait staff. If your bill does not include a service charge then feel free to leave between 10 – 15% of your total bill for the staff.
Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?
Tipping in hotels is generally not expected in Taiwan. However leaving the bellman or porter around NT$100 ($3 USD) per bag will be more than appreciated. You can also leave the same amount for the housekeeping staff which will again be un-expected yet greatly appreciated.
Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?
Taxi drivers in Taiwan will not expect a tip and some may be confused by additional money. The general rule would be to round up your fare and leave them the change.
Tour Guides: Is a tip required?
Tipping your tour guide in Taiwan is a nice gesture; they generally will not expect a tip. Leaving your guide with 10% of the cost of your tour and 5% for the driver (if they are two different people) will be greatly appreciated.
Miscellaneous: Is there anyone I should tip that I would not normally?
If you are visiting a spa in Taiwan it is reasonable to tip your therapist around 10% of the cost of your service.
Final Thoughts:
Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. This is also true for hotel staff, however, if you should encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.
When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.
Top cities in Taiwan
What to expect while traveling
