Taiwan
Taiwan means everything to me.
Not just because of my Taiwanese roots, but because I once lived in Kaohsiung for two years to study Chinese — and my family still has deep ties to Taipei.
Even though Taiwan is a small island, it offers a huge variety of experiences. One day you could be devouring mouthwatering street food at a night market, and the next, hiking misty mountain trails or discovering Japanese-era architecture in a quiet town.
Museums, art, temples, tea houses, cities on the west coast, peaceful mountains, and stunning seas on the east — it’s all here.
Taiwan blends rich cultural history with the ease of modern travel. It’s one of the few places where you can hop on a high-speed train, explore coastal villages, and still be back in the city by dinnertime.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll show you what makes Taiwan so special — from city-by-city breakdowns to transportation tips, itinerary ideas, and personal recommendations from my own travels as a Taiwanese-American. Whether you’re planning your very first trip or coming back for more, you’ll find everything you need to explore Taiwan deeply and meaningfully.
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City guides
Hover a dot to explore
Weather in Taiwan 台灣天氣
Know before you go 出發前須知
Time zone
UTC +8
No daylight saving, so the time never changes.
Language
Mandarin
The official language, plus Taiwanese (台語), Hakka (客家話), and Japanese among older generations. English is common in cities, rarer in rural areas.
Currency
NT Dollar
New Taiwan Dollar (NT / NTD / TWD), and prices include all taxes. You can bring up to NTD 100,000 (~USD 3,000) in cash without declaring it. Learn more
Tipping
Not expected
Fine dining may add a 10–15% service charge. Hotel cleaners love a little extra.
Driving
Drive on the right
Bring your passport, home license, and an International Driving Permit. US travelers can get one through AAA.
Plan your trip 計劃你的旅程
Safety
Very safe, even solo
Just keep an eye on your things like you would anywhere else.
SIM cards + WiFi
Getting connected is easy
- eSIM: grab one through Airalo before you fly. It works the moment you land.
- Physical SIM: Chunghwa, Taiwan Mobile, or FarEasTone counters at Taoyuan Airport (TPE).
- Free WiFi: cafés, malls, MRT stations, and convenience stores.
- Your plan: check roaming first. AT&T charges $12/day.
Plugs
Type A + B · 110V
Same as the US, so leave the adapter at home.
The latest posts
【臺北市】Taipei City Guide
Skip the tourist traps and dive into the real Taipei! From busy night markets to hidden cafés, this guide has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. 🚲🏮🍜
【台北 中正紀念堂】Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei
Discover the brilliance of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. From its majestic archway to its historical significance, this iconic landmark offers a peaceful retreat with a deep cultural legacy.
Best Places to Stay in Taipei
Searching for the best hotels in Taipei? Whether you want skyline views, boutique stays, or eco-friendly getaways near the MRT, this guide breaks down where to stay — from luxury hotels in Xinyi to small businesses locals love.
【台北 寧夏夜市】Ningxia Night Market in Taipei
From sizzling snacks to nostalgic games, here’s everything you need for the perfect night out. 🍢🎯
【台北 國立故宮博物院】National Palace Museum in Taipei
Where 8,000 years of Chinese history come alive. From the famous Jadeite Cabbage to hidden treasures you’ll only catch during rotating exhibits, here’s how to make your visit unforgettable (and skip the lines while you’re at it).
【台北植物園】Taipei Botanical Garden
Lose yourself in lush greenery, explore ancient history, and find peace in the Japanese zen garden at Taipei Botanical Garden.
【台北 迪化街】 Dihua Street in Taipei
Wandering through Dihua Street feels like stepping into Taipei’s past — with historic shop houses, traditional medicine stores, street snacks, and hidden cafés all in one place.
【台北 圓山大飯店】Grand Hotel in Taipei
A red palace on a hill, a hidden speakeasy, and a secret tunnel built for Chiang Kai-Shek — Taipei's Grand Hotel is stranger (and frankly, cooler) than it looks from the outside.
【台北 士林夜市】Shilin Night Market in Taipei
Visiting Shilin Night Market in Taipei for the first time? This lively night market is packed with famous Taiwanese street food, claw machine games, and hidden stalls worth discovering.