Frequently Asked Questions About Taiwan

General FAQs for Taiwan

Which is the capital city of Taiwan?

The capital of Taiwan is Taipei. Located in the northern part of the island, Taipei is a bustling and vibrant city and is home to more than 2.6 million people. It has some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, including the iconic Taipei 101, as well as historical sites like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Taipei is also a great place to explore the unique food culture of Taiwan, as its streets are lined with night markets and restaurants serving up traditional Taiwanese dishes like xiaolongbao and bubble tea.

What currency is used in Taiwan?

The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 50, while notes are available in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000. The exchange rate for the New Taiwan Dollar is constantly fluctuating so it’s a good idea to check the latest rate before you travel to Taiwan. Major credit cards are widely accepted in the larger stores and hotels, but it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand as many street vendors may not accept cards. Taipei also has plenty of ATMs available where you can withdraw New Taiwan Dollars from your home bank account.

What are most spoken languages in Taiwan?

The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese, which is also the language most commonly used in everyday life. Other languages spoken in Taiwan include Taiwanese (Hoklo), Hakka, and the indigenous languages of Amis, Atayal, and Bunun. Although English is not an official language in Taiwan, it’s becoming increasingly popular among the younger generations and is widely spoken in cities like Taipei. Many signs and menus are written in both Chinese characters and English, making it easier to communicate with locals if you don’t speak Mandarin.

Which time of the year is best to visit Taiwan?

The best time to visit Taiwan is during the spring and autumn months of March-May and September-November. During this period, temperatures are mild with minimal rainfall, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring Taipei’s night markets. It’s also a good time to experience traditional festivals such as the Lantern Festival in March and the Mid-Autumn Festival in September.


If you’re looking for warmer temperatures, then summer is a good option (June-August) when it rarely rains. However, be aware that it can get quite humid during this time.

How many days are required for traveling in Taiwan?

How many days you need for a trip to Taiwan depends on your interest and time. Generally speaking, most visitors spend between 7-10 days in the country. This gives enough time to explore all of the major attractions in Taipei as well as take day trips to nearby cities such as Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, then 10-14 days is recommended so that you can explore the island’s stunning mountainous regions and national parks.

Which are the emergency numbers in Taiwan?

In an emergency, the two main numbers to call in Taiwan are 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance services. There is also a 24-hour hotline available from any phone (both landline and mobile) that connects you with English-speaking medical staff at Taipei’s International SOS clinic (+886 2 8773 8825). For any other general inquiries and tourist information, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau can be reached at +886 2 2717 3737. It is also a good idea to keep a copy of your passport details and emergency contacts with you at all times when travelling in Taiwan.

Places FAQs For Taiwan

What are the best places to visit in Taiwan?

– Taipei 101: One of the city’s top attractions, this iconic skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world.

 

– Sun Moon Lake: A picturesque mountain lake surrounded by lush greenery and centuries-old temples.

 

– Taroko National Park: An area of stunning natural beauty with towering marble gorges and cascading waterfalls.

 

– Kaohsiung: This bustling port city is known for its vibrant night markets and delicious seafood dishes.

 

– Yushan National Park: Home to Taiwan’s tallest peak – Yushan Mountain, this area is perfect for trekking and camping.

How do tourist get around in Taiwan?

The best way to get around in Taiwan is by public transportation. The country has an extensive rail network that covers most of the major cities and towns. There are also plenty of buses that connect different regions, as well as city buses in Taipei and Kaohsiung. Taxi services are available, although they can be expensive. If you’re looking for a quicker, more convenient option, then renting a car is recommended. Just make sure to keep your license and insurance documents with you at all times. There are also numerous bike rental services in Taipei that provide an affordable and eco-friendly way of getting around the city.

Budget FAQs For Taiwan

How much will the trip to Taiwan cost?

The cost of travelling to Taiwan will vary depending on your itinerary, accommodation budget. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay approximately US$40-50 per day for accommodation and food, plus additional costs such as transport, activities and souvenirs. For a 10-day trip covering the major cities of Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, you can expect to pay around US$400-500 for accommodation, food and transport. Of course, if you have a larger budget then there are plenty of luxurious options available too.

What is the cost of average meal in Taiwan?

The cost of a meal in Taiwan will vary depending on the type of restaurant you visit and the number of dishes you order. In general, you can expect to pay around US$5-15 for a basic meal at an average restaurant. For more upscale eateries, prices may be higher but are still relatively affordable. If you are looking for a cheap and quick option, then street food is a great way to go. You can find tasty dishes such as dumplings, noodles, and bubble tea for around US$2-5.

How much is the cost of stay in Taiwan?

The cost of accommodation in Taiwan will depend on the type of place you are looking for and your budget. For basic hostels and guesthouses, prices can range from US$15-35 per night. Mid-range hotels typically cost around US$50-70 per night. Luxury hotels may charge upwards of US$100 per night. It is also possible to find Airbnb listings for less than US$30, although availability may be limited.

What is the cheapest time to visit Taiwan?

The cheapest time to visit Taiwan is generally from October to April, when temperatures are cooler and there are fewer tourists. This period also coincides with the low season for accommodation prices, so you can expect to find deals on hotels and hostels. It’s worth noting that February is a particularly busy month due to the Lantern Festival, so prices may be higher during this time. In general, if you book in advance and plan your itinerary carefully then you can find great deals on accommodation and travel throughout the year.

Culture FAQs For Taiwan

How are the people in Taiwan?

The people of Taiwan are generally friendly, hospitable and welcoming to visitors from abroad. They appreciate respect and politeness, so it is important to observe local customs when interacting with locals. Taiwanese culture has been greatly influenced by both Chinese and Japanese traditions, so the people often exhibit a mix of both cultures. In general, you will find that the people of Taiwan are warm and willing to help if you need assistance. Taiwan is an exciting destination to visit and its people will surely make your trip even more enjoyable.

Popular dishes in Taiwan include:


– Beef noodle soup


– Oyster omelets


– Braised pork rice (lu rou fan)


– Stinky tofu


– Bubble tea


– Danzai noodles


– Gua bao (Taiwanese hamburger steamed bun)


– Shaved ice desserts


– Gong bao chicken


– Oyster vermicelli


– Taiwanese fried chicken. Most of these dishes are widely available in restaurants, night markets, and street stalls throughout Taiwan.

Sports are very popular in Taiwan, with a number of different sports being played and watched by locals. The most popular sport is baseball, which is seen as the national pastime. Other popular sports include basketball, badminton, cycling, swimming and golf. Taiwan also has an active martial arts scene with traditional disciplines such as t’ai chi and kung fu. There is also a wide array of water sports available, including surfing, sailing and windsurfing. Taiwan has much to offer in terms of outdoor activities and sport, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a more active vacation.
The most common religions in Taiwan are Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Other religious faiths such as Christianity and Islam also have a presence in Taiwan, though on a much smaller scale. A majority of the population follows some combination of Buddhist, Taoist and/or Confucian beliefs, with many families participating in ancestor worship rituals. In recent years, there has been an increase in spiritual practices such as yoga and meditation. Regardless of faith, there is a great respect for religious diversity in Taiwan.

Popular festivals celebrated in Taiwan include:


– Chinese New Year (January or February)


– Double Ten Day (October 10th)


– Dragon Boat Festival (May or June 5th)


– Mid-Autumn Festival (August 15th)


– Lantern Festival (February or March 15th)


– Ghost Festival (July or August 15th)


– Qing Ming Festival (April 5th).


These festivals are celebrated throughout the island, and some of them have become international events as well. They usually involve traditional activities such as dragon boat racing, lantern making, temple visits and more.

What souvenirs to buy from Taiwan?

When visiting Taiwan, be sure to pick up some of these popular souvenirs:


– Tea leaves (oolong tea is a local favorite)


– Handcrafted ceramics


– Artisanal snacks and treats


– Traditional handicrafts such as bamboo baskets or wooden carvings


– Calligraphy brushes


– Traditional clothing made from silk or cotton.


These items make great gifts and are a great way to bring home a piece of Taiwan with you! 
No matter what souvenirs you choose, they will be sure to bring back fond memories of your time in this beautiful island nation.