Taiwan user manual

The article aims to provide only the most essential information and to increase your confidence and efficiency in navigating and experiencing this country. Unlike most travel blogs these days, this article does not contain any affiliate links (read: no advertisements).

If you wish to learn about other, related aspects such as food, environments, customs, and legal matters, check out the Wikivoyage article. My article covers a lot of bits and pieces that are not covered by Wikitravel. Enjoy reading and please share with your friends if they visit Taiwan.

Mobile apps

Here is a list of mobile apps that are essential to make your stay in Taiwan efficient and convenient.

At minimum, the first 8 apps on this list are must-haves, seriously recommended.

Websites

Official websites

This table lists up only such official websites that you might want to visit on a regular basis, or that might otherwise enhance one’s user experience. Some of these websites will be referenced again later in the article, but they are listed here first as an index.

Inofficial websites

Non-government websites that offer quality and up-to-date content on upcoming events or other, real-time resources.

If you know any websites that I should put up on these lists, please contact me!

See also:

• News sources
• Blogs and travel guides

Bring cash

With cash

Taiwan remains a cash-based society, and foreign credit cards often do not work due to Taiwan’s isolated banking system. While larger hotels and international businesses may accept international Visa and MasterCard, most restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and supermarkets only accept local Taiwanese credit cards, if any.

The local currency is TWD (Taiwan Dollar); but in Taiwan usually written as NTD (New Taiwan Dollar) or NT$.

When going to Taiwan, the best strategy is to bring Euros, Dollars, or whatever your local currency is, and exchange some of it upon arrival at the airport. You can further exchange at offices of the local post office bank network, without needing an account there (source).

Without cash

For those without cash, certain bank ATMs allow international credit card withdrawals into local currency, but this won’t be possible with your average convenience store ATM. Instead, you’ll need to find ATMs inside proper bank branches. If your card does not work in the first one, try another bank. These banks are easy to find in cities but might be hard or impossible to find in villages or on islands.

Once you have cash, you can also load money onto an EasyCard (see below), reducing the need to carry actual cash for daily expenses.

For those who prefer digital transactions, many mid-sized businesses now accept LinePay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, even when linked to foreign credit cards. Some supermarket chains, such as PX Mart, offer their own payment app (PX Pay), which can be useful for regular grocery shopping. That said, reliance on private, sometimes multinational payment systems varies by personal preference, and Taiwan’s EasyCard remains the closest alternative to a proper public/national cashless payment system, as EasyCard Corp. is co-owned by the public sector (to at least 38%, consolidated) and various Taiwan-owned industries.

Transportation

EasyCard

The EasyCard is a prepaid NFC chip card that simplifies transportation and payments across Taiwan. It can be topped up with cash at convenience stores, subway stations, and vending machines without needing a bank account. EasyCard is accepted virtually everywhere for bicycle rentals, MRT rides, most trains, all buses, and even purchases at convenience stores and supermarkets.

Please note: riding bus, train and subway with EasyCard is cheaper than buying single-use tickets, because putting mass-produced NFC readers everywhere is cheaper than maintaining single-use cash payment infrastructure. At the same time, EasyCard does not carry any subscriptions or obligations. It really couldn’t be better.

You can buy an EasyCard directly at the airport (information kiosk or convenience store) and use it directly for the Airport Express MRT to Taipei. The card itself costs NT$100 (~3 Euros) and needs to be topped up after purchase. Alternatively, if you’re being picked up from the airport by a local, ask them in advance if they can provide you a spare card for your trip.

EasyCards come in a variety of seasonal or themed designs, making them great souvenirs. Selection at the airport might be limited, so your mileage may vary.

Tips and Tricks

• Top up cash easily at convenience stores, train or MRT stations.
• Use EasyCard for discounted fares on public transportation.
• Purchase one at the airport for convenience from the start.
• Find yourself a truly unique EasyCard as a cute souvenir.
• Ask your host if they have a spare card to avoid buying a new one.

Bonus Tip: If you spend a whole month in North Taiwan (Taoyuan, Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung) and plan to ride MRT, bus or train almost every day, you can also put a TPASS monthly ticket onto your EasyCard to save money. But for tourists it’s going to be unlikely that you’ll spend that much time in the north.

YouBike system

The YouBike bike-sharing network is a reliable and convenient way to explore Taiwan’s cities, towns and riverside parks. Bikes are securely docked in stations scattered densely across most of the country (exception: no YouBike on the sparsely populated east coast of Taiwan). The official app provides live updates on bike and dock availability. Besides leisure exploration, YouBike is also perfect to bridge the last mile between your home and the next MRT station.

YouBike bicycles are usually very well maintained. They have 3 gears which you can shift even while standing (shift to gear 1 when approaching a red light, shift up to gear 2 and 3 while accelerating). The seat height can be easily adjusted by pulling a lever under the seat. If you encounter a bike with mechanical problems, dock it again, push the seat all the way down and then turn it by 180°. Such a rotated seat will indicate to users and maintenance staff that this bike needs repair.

To rent a bike, there are two major avenues:

• The local way: Use the app to link an EasyCard to a YouBike account with a Taiwanese residence ID and phone number. Simply ask your local friend to add your EasyCard number to their account. The card number is printed on the back of each card. Each personal account can hold up to 5 different cards. Assigning a new card to an existing account takes less than 10 seconds in the YouBike app.
• The foreigner way: If you have a Taiwanese phone number (i.e. if you got a local sim card for your stay), you can create a YouBike account and link it to that phone number and your foreign credit card. There is also an option for one-time rental without phone number – this would require you to use the app every time you want to take a bike. See documentation here: YouBike rental info for one-time users (in English, official YouBike website).

I have personally never used that foreigner-friendly way, and I always added my visiting friends to my own local account. Due to lack of personal experience with the ins and outs of the foreign-friendly way, and due to the simplicity of the local way, I would really encourage you to just ask your host, or friend, or make some new friends, and let them add your card to their account (no need to share any credit card information, see also: Privacy by design).

Once your EasyCard is assigned, press the green button on any docked bike to boot-up it up, hold your card against the NFC scanning area, enjoy your ride, then swipe again after docking.

The scanning area is just below the LCD screen. When holding your EasyCard against the bike, don’t cover the bike’s LCD screen with your card. You will want to see the screen, because it will tell you when you can remove the card: You can remove it as soon as it shows you your current cash balance. This may take a few seconds.

The charge depends on the length of your commute and may also depend on the city and day of the week (see: pricing). Even if you forgot swiping after docking: no problem. The system already knows when you docked, the second swipe is only for the purpose of deducting the final charge from your card. If you forgot it, it just will be deducted next time you use a bike.

Common sense disclaimers: bicycle lanes are clearly marked. Riding on sidewalks is not appreciated (actually, technically prohibited), unless there is a bicycle lane on the sidewalk. Riding on the road with traffic is encouraged – use the 3 gears and ride fast to keep up. You are a fully respected traffic participant – this comes with privileges and responsibilities. Use arm gestures to signal turns. Be mindful of scooters, cars, pedestrians, traffic lights, and standard right-of-way rules.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the YouBike app to find available bikes or docks.
• Link your EasyCard to a friend’s account if you lack a Taiwanese ID.
• Scan your card on the scanning area, not on the LCD screen.
• Combine YouBike with MRT rides for seamless commutes.
• Use the 3 gears to your advantage.
• Defunct bikes are marked by the seat in backwards position.

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)

Taiwan’s MRT systems, particularly in Taipei, are clean, efficient, and well-organized. Trains run frequently, with intervals less than five minutes during peak hours and services extending past midnight. As explained above, EasyCard payments are cheaper than buying one-time tickets.

All stations (really, all station) have clean restrooms, and platforms are designed with clear queuing lines for efficient boarding. The official MRT app is great for checking how long a commute is going to take, including transfer times. The time estimates are much more accurate than Google Maps, especially if you take into consideration that you can use YouBike for the last mile.

Eating, drinking, and loud phone use are disallowed to maintain order, cleanliness and comfort. See also: Metro Etiquette. During peak hours, trains can be packed, but still comfortable thanks to clear and reasonable rules and well-organized station pathways. If you’re by yourself without much luggage, never take a taxi if you can also take an MRT to any given destination in Taipei or Kaohsiung.

Tips and Tricks

• Use EasyCard for cheaper MRT fares.
• Plan your route with the official MRT app.
• Respect local etiquette: no eating, drinking, or loud phone use.
• Clean restrooms are available in all MRT stations.

TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration)

Overview

TRA trains connect cities, towns, and rural areas, forming the backbone of Taiwan’s overland transport network. The following picture shows the whole TRA train network (every single train station) in Taiwan:

The TRA network circles Taiwan’s coastline – you can take them either clockwise or counterclockwise. Crossing the central mountain range from west to east cost (or vice versa) is not possible by train. On the wider, flat west coast, trains follow either the coastline or an inland mountain route.

Services range from slow commuter trains to faster express trains. The local and semi-express trains accept EasyCard, the proper express trains (“Taroko”, “Puyuma” and the more recently launched “3000” line) do not.

You can use the official TRA website or official TRA app to check available connections, including real-time delay information.

• TRA: Train schedule inquiry
• See also: Mobile apps

The website and app will also show you if the connection accepts EasyCard.

Example below: Taipei to Hualien. Search result “2” (T.C. Ltd. Exp. 212) is available with EasyCard and takes 45 minutes longer than options “1” and “3”.

If the train does not accept EasyCard, buy your ticket at a ticket vending machine at the station of departure. The machines are multilingual and easy to navigate. The vending machines allow payment in cash or payment with EasyCard.

Express and semi-express trains have cars for reserved and cars for unreserved seats. EasyCard travellers don’t have seat reservation. Unreserved seats are first-come, first-served – but you can also try your luck in a reserved seats car, if the train is not fully booked.

Don’t try to buy tickets online or in the app. It often shows you “no available seats” for long distance connections – but that only revers to the reserved seating option. Prices stay flat – there is no advantage in booking early. Just go to the station and get your ticket just-in-time. There are either plenty of unreserved seats or you may stand for a while during your commute.

TRA trains generally do not have on-board Wi-Fi. You can eat and drink on TRA trains, but speaker phone usage and overtly loud conversations are discouraged.

Tips and Tricks

• Use the TRA app or station machines to check train schedules.
• Be aware that not all trains accept EasyCard – check the app.
• Arrive a bit earlier at the station to purchase tickets for faster trains.
• Maintain etiquette for the comfort of others.

Reminder: TRA is currently being renamed to TRC. Aside from potentially inconsistent public signage, customer experience is unaffected by this change.

Visual guide: which trains can you use with EasyCard?

The following is a list of common TRA train types, built with the wonderful pictograms of train enthusiast Kashiwa. The train designs should become recognizable to you once you start using the TRA system, and there is a clear hierarchy between local trains, semi-express and full-express trains in terms of color scheme and design. The spelling of the train types (e.g. “T.C. Ltd. Exp.”) is derived from how the trains are spelled in the official TRA mobile app (compare with screenshot above).

Usage:

• Scroll down to learn which trains can be taken with EasyCard.
• Click on the link in the headline of each train category to read about scope and history of this segment on Wikipedia.
• Click on any train picture to learn more about specifications, exterior and interior of that particular model. The links behind the pictograms will direct you to pages on Kashiwa’s website.

---

Local ← EasyCard ✅

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C.K. Ltd. Exp. ← EasyCard ✅

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T.C. Ltd. Exp. ← EasyCard ✅

---

T.C. Ltd. Exp.(3000) × no EasyCard ⛔

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Taroko Exp. × no EasyCard ⛔

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Puyuma Exp. × no EasyCard ⛔

Pictograms by Kashiwa.

Now, let’s talk about an entirely different kind of train:

HSR (High-Speed Rail)

The High-Speed Rail (HSR) is the fastest way to travel along Taiwan’s west coast, connecting Taipei and Kaohsiung in under 90 minutes. Operating on dedicated elevated tracks (viaducts), HSR trains avoid delays caused by other rail traffic. Tickets can be purchased just in time through vending machines, station counters, or online, as EasyCard is not accepted onboard.

• HSR: Timetable and Fare Search
• See also: Mobile apps

HSR trains run frequently, with both reserved and unreserved seating options. Just like with TRA, if an online booking system shows no availability, unreserved seats are usually still accessible directly at the station.

HSR trains have Wi-Fi which is usually pretty good. Otherwise, the same etiquette rules like on TRA applies.

Some HSR stations are in city centers, some are a bit outside of the city. Each city only has one single station (except Taipei, which has three: Banqiao, Taipei and Nangang). If you plan to only hop one or two cities across and you want to end up in the city center, it might be faster to take a slightly slower TRA train instead of taking HSR and then commuting to the center. Use Google Maps to get an idea of the distances and bus travel times involved.

Tips and Tricks

• Purchase tickets just-in-time at vending machines.
• Use unreserved seating for flexibility during peak times.
• Arrive early to ensure seat availability.
• Dedicated HSR tracks guarantee fast, uninterrupted travel.
• Be mindful of the location of the HSR station – it might be a bit off from the city it is name after.

Buses

Introduction and navigation

Taiwan’s buses are extensive and versatile, covering urban centers, rural towns, and tourist destinations. Payments are made with EasyCard, and passengers must swipe upon entry and exit. Buses only stop when waved down at designated stops.

Google Maps is pretty good to plan bus journeys. The bus numbers, designated stops and routes are accurate, and they often have live tracking of departure times. However, the estimated commute times can vary, depending on traffics – Google Maps has a tendency to exaggerate the travel time, so don’t let that discourage you.

Some bus routes in Taipei are identified by road names instead of numbers, both on Google Maps and on the bus itself. Overland and long-distance buses connect areas not served by trains, such as express routes from HSR stations to ferry terminals (harbours). No matter what kind of bus it is, if it runs on a fixed schedule or if it has a number, you can pay with EasyCard when boarding.

Verification and real-time tracking

After you mapped your bus journey with Google Maps, verify the departure time with the Bus+ app to get a second opinion. The live tracking on the official app is usually a bit more accurate – it shows you the GPS positions of all the buses on your chosen line, giving you a clear indicating of whether the estimated arrival is merely based on theory or if the buses are actually approaching.

The following screenshot shows you Taipei Bus No. 18 as an example: blue dots are bus stops, teal arrows are live locations of buses in the given “To MRT Linguang Sta.” direction. If you switch the view to “To Wanhua”, you’ll see the buses that go the other way. The bottom half of the app contains the full list of stops on this route with ETAs. The list can be expanded and scrolled up and down. It also shows you the license plate number of each bus that is currently moving on that route in that direction (the license plate numbers are also printed in large friendly letters on the sides of each bus).

Click on the “i” icon (ⓘ – Route info) in the app to see static information about this bus line such as first and last departure. In the expanded view of the station list, the icon is located behind a typical three-dotted menu button in the top-right corner:

The “Route info” page for each bus number sometimes also includes a link to the colorful, printable map and timetable, such as this one (Bus 965 to Jiufen):

Tips and Tricks

• Use Google Maps to get a general idea of possible commute options.
• The Bus+ app then tracks bus positions once you know which number you need.
• Hold out your hand towards buses to signal them to stop.
• Swipe your EasyCard when mounting and unmounting.
• Combine buses with trains or MRT for seamless travel.
• Express buses connect HSR stations to key tourist spots.

Bicycles (and bicycles on trains)

Taiwan is an excellent destination for cycling, whether for short urban rides or long-distance touring. Cities are built relatively bike-friendly: Taipei has plenty of uninterrupted river side parks and riding in traffic feels safe enough, because car drivers always have to be on the watch for scooters anyway.

Besides the YouBike system, there are plenty of options for renting a proper road bike. The classic challenge for cycling enthusiasts is the round-the-island ride, which can be done clockwise or counterclockwise and typically takes about a week for well-exercised riders.

For a more relaxed experience, just riding down the east coast is a great choice, avoiding most of the population centers. The primary cycling route follows the coastal highway, which has a well-marked bicycle lane. While these roads are shared with motor vehicles, traffic is generally manageable, and cyclists can easily take detours into smaller towns and villages. The most challenging segment of a round-the-island tour is the southern tip, where crossing from the East Coast to the West Coast requires tackling some serious mountain climbs.

Use OpenCycleMap to plan your trip, then keep using Gaia GPS (see above) for the navigation on your phone.

Given Taiwan’s hot and humid climate, hydration is crucial. While the ride can be demanding, frequent convenience stores along the way ensure that cyclists have easy access to refreshments. Police stations along major cycling routes often provide free air pumps and water refills, and many hostels cater specifically to cyclists.

Taking bikes on trains is no problem, but certain urban TRA stations, especially Taipei Main Station, do not allow the boarding or disembarking of bikes due to their narrow platforms and busy crowds. A more convenient alternative is boarding at Banqiao Station or another bike-friendly station, as listed in this link:

• Bicycle-friendly TRA railway stations in Taiwan

The page is only available in Chinese. Or rather: if you switch the page to English, you see completely different content. Use Google Translate and scroll down to the bike-friendly station list.

When bringing a bike on a train, you’ll need to purchase an additional bicycle ticket, priced similarly to a child’s fare. You can do that on any of the many TRA ticket vending machines. The number of bike spaces per train is limited, but availability is usually not an issue. Bikes are typically placed in the first or last car, and your ticket will specify the assigned car “front” or “rear”. It helps to orient yourself in regard to the direction your train is going to travel in, so you can push your bike either to the front or rear of the platform while you wait for the train to arrive.

Coin lockers

Taipei is highly convenient for storing luggage in coin lockers, which are available in about half of all MRT stations. These lockers can be paid for using EasyCard, and their availability can be checked in real time via this website, including their exact location within each station, including whether they are inside or outside the ticket gates:

• Taipei Metro: Lockers

The coin lockers are affordable and available in various sizes, with larger ones big enough to accommodate suitcases. This service is especially useful for travellers checking out of a hotel and wanting to explore Taipei unencumbered.

When booking an unoccupied locker using the simple touchscreen interface and EasyCard payment system, you get a printout of a password or choose your own password to unlock the locker. Lockers must be emptied before shortly after midnight, as overnight storage is not allowed. If left beyond the allowed period, belongings will be removed and can later be retrieved from station authorities.

Besides the MRT system, coin lockers can also be found at TRA train stations. If you can’t find them right away, simply ask at the station’s information desk.

Taking taxis vs. Uber

Taiwan has affordable taxis, making them a practical option, particularly at night when the MRT stops running a bit after midnight. Most taxi drivers speak little to no English, and a few may only speak Taiwanese rather than Mandarin. The traditional approach to solve this is to take a business card from your hotel’s front desk and show it to the driver to show him or her the address.

On a phone, you can also use a neat function in Google Maps to show any given address in large Chinese letters, including a text-to-speech feature.

Still, many expats and younger locals default to Uber, for the in-app convenience, perceived anonymity and “cooler” unmarked car experience.

Still, I very much recommended using the FindTaxi app (Android | iOS) instead of Uber. This Taiwan-made app offers a similar level of convenience to Uber, allowing you to input pickup location and destination (including integrated Google Maps search) to avoid any potential miscommunication with the driver. Using FindTaxi (or any other yellow cab hailing system) keeps the money inside the country, instead of paying large dividends to the platform service operator. Taxi drivers do not have to pay a penny to the FindTaxi app providers.

The app provides driver ratings and allows users to select their driver, unlike Uber, which assigns a random one. Once confirmed, you’ll see your driver’s GPS location, license plate, and car model. Payment is normally done in cash, ensuring that all fare money goes directly to the driver without platform fees. Most drivers will also offer EasyCard payment, but it might not be guaranteed.

FindTaxi is especially useful for reaching places that are off-grid or less accessible by public transport, such as remote hiking trailheads.

I’d also say yellow cab drivers who use the FindTaxi app are typically slightly more professional than your average driver, since they are tech-savvy enough to use the system. Some drivers play cool music (such as Enka music) and you can ask to connect your phone via Bluetooth. There is also the Karaoke Taxi… (click on “Popular”).

English signage and multilingual support

Taiwan is very English-friendly, with English being offered in websites, apps and vending machines, and bilingual signage in all major public areas, including transportation hubs, government buildings, and museums.

Besides being named in Traditional Chinese characters, street names and places are transcribed into Latin characters, though romanization systems vary, leading to inconsistent spellings between Google Maps, bus stops, station signage, and so on.

For example, one location might be spelled “Zhongsan” on one map and “Chungshan” on another. Despite the visual differences, both spellings attempt to capture the same pronunciation (中山). Travellers should be aware of these discrepancies when looking up directions.

While staff at transportation hubs, hospitals, and government offices generally speak good English, casual conversations will be difficult with most locals. However, many Taiwanese do understand basic English, just lacking practice. People working in international business will be much more fluent and so will be much of the contemporary nightlife.

Scooter / motorcycle

Long story. Please read my other article: Complete guide to get a motor scooter licence in Taiwan.

Things to do

Hiking for life

Taiwan offers a vast variety of hiking trails, from lush, forested mountains around Taipei to the central mountain range’s towering 3,500-meter peaks. Many trails have historical roots as paths for mining or hunting and are now maintained by local hiking associations. These groups mark trails with ropes, guardrails, and signs, ensuring they’re safe and easy to follow.

The island’s volcanic geology creates rocky, stable paths that resist erosion, even after rain. However, strong typhoons or earthquakes may sometimes leave trails temporarily blocked by fallen trees or debris, especially in the south. All the trails are discoverable with GPS in OpenStreetMap, in apps such as Gaia GPS.

Rest areas along trails often include benches, tables, and occasionally water stations, though it’s safest to bring your own water. Hiking in Taiwan is an activity for all ages. You might encounter friendly groups of seniors singing karaoke or sharing tea. You may also encounter groups with heavy gear – they might be practicing for more turbulent times (see also: rucking).

Beginners exploring Taipei’s trails can simply type “hiking” into Google Maps to discover curated paths and trailheads, especially in Taipei which is practically surrounded by easily accessible mountains. This method is a practical starting point for those unfamiliar with the area.

Wildlife poses little threat to hikers. While snakes exist, they are rare and tend to avoid humans. In some areas, domesticated water buffaloes roam freely—observe them from a distance and respect any warning signs. One less predictable danger is posed by hornets during their breeding season in late summer and august in more remote areas. At a minimum, wearing long sleeves is advised.

Tips and Tricks

• Wear sturdy shoes for rocky and uneven terrain.
• Pack light and bring enough water; Taiwan’s climate is hot and humid.
• Use Gaia GPS for navigation and planning trails.
• Put your phone on Flight Mode to safe battery.
• Avoid hiking after typhoons, as trails may have fallen trees or other obstacles.
• Stay somewhat clear of water buffaloes and very clear of hornets.
• Typing “hiking” into Google Maps is a great way to find trails, especially around Taipei.
• Stick to popular trails if you’re inexperienced, as less-used paths may become overgrown quickly.

Bonus Tip: If you want to see the darker side of hiking (e.g. overambitious hikers who get lost and require rescue), I can recommend the YouTube channel Beast Runners. You’ll gather a lot of safety advice and see some much more remote sides of the island.

Music, events, meetups

Taipei has a vibrant social scene with plenty of nightlife and regular meetups for expats. The Facebook Events search engine is a good resource to begin finding social activities and local nightlife.

For classical concerts, Chinese (Taiwanese) opera, contemporary dance and theatre performances, Taiwan’s main event ticketing platform is OpenTix. While it functions as a commercial ticket merchant, it also serves as a useful directory for cultural events. You can filter by date and location to find upcoming performances.

Taipei offers the most variety in nightlife, but Kaohsiung also has a strong international community, largely due to its universities attracting students from around the world. Music festivals, including trance, techno and other electronic music might be in or around cities, but can also be in remote, rural or mountainous locations.

If you’re looking to meet up with other foreign students, expats and other travellers, you’ll find nationals from most corners of the world in Taiwan. For example, there’s a monthly Austro-German-Taiwanese meetup in a Bavarian restaurant and a very active German Facebook group, and other nationalities have similar organisations and events.

Religious observances

Religious events in Taiwan offer a glimpse into local traditions, with temples hosting festivals, deity birthdays, and processions throughout the year. Many follow the lunar calendar, such as Mazu’s birthday, celebrated with parades and boat races, or the Ghost Festival, marked by ancestor rituals. Smaller events, like Earth God celebrations, can be stumbled upon almost daily just by browsing around city and country.

These observances provide insight into Taiwan’s folk beliefs and daily life. To explore temple events and plan visits, check out this page:

• Taiwan Religious Culture Map-Time Map

The interface of this website might be a little awkward, and it only lists a fraction of possible religious festivals and parades, but it’s a good place to start with. Click on the months at the bottom of the page to browse further. See also: Tourism Administration, a website that includes a calendar for mainstream events, and an overview of traditional, religious and cultural festivals and activities.

Advanced hiking and permits

For more advanced hiking beyond day trips, certain national parks and high-altitude areas require a permit. The process is relatively simple: permits can be requested via official park websites, where you submit your name, passport number, group size, and intended date. Example:

• Getting permits for Yangminshan National Park

If the website for a particular area is only available in Chinese, use Google Translate to navigate. Some of the hiker registration is also handled by local police stations.

The permits are partially for your safety and to keep ecological impact to a minimum. These restricted zones tend to have pristine biodiversity and less foot traffic.

Some highly popular parks operate a lottery system, with foreigners often given priority due to their limited time in Taiwan. In most parks, outside from peak seasons such as Chinese New Year, you won’t have trouble getting permit slots. This includes relatively small, specific areas in the large, popular, and well-developed Yangmingshan National Park north of Taipei.

For multi-day treks, hikers may need to reserve lodging in mountain huts, which provide shelter but usually require hikers to bring their own sleeping bag. These lodges typically have basic facilities such as toilets and running water. Reservations are usually handled via online booking, and spaces along popular high-altitude trails will fill up quickly, so it’s best to plan such adventures in advance.

Language, etiquette, and life

Phrases

You’ll find plenty of online resources for everyday Mandarin that you can use in Taiwan, such as this one:

• My Top 70+ Practical Chinese Phrases for Your Taiwan Trip

Please note that some phrases might be different between Taiwan and Mainland China.

In addition, I have a list of useful phrases for communicating about minor everyday public nuisances (e.g., loud phone speaker usage):

• A short list of Mandarin phrases for dealing with public nuisances in Taiwan [reddit.com]

Use at your discretion.

Health care

Essential knowledge

Taiwan has a very well regarded, national healthcare system, accessible to citizens and long-term residents. While tourists aren’t eligible for this coverage, they still benefit from an extensive network of hospitals and small clinics. The overall quality of care is high (even if facilities and appliances sometimes look old-fashioned) and costs for routine treatments tend to be extremely affordable by international standards.

In many cases, minor consultations (including basic lab work, like a blood test) can be surprisingly inexpensive, and staff are often accommodating even if you’re not enrolled in the national insurance. For example, a simple walk-in consultation at a local clinic might cost between NT$500 and NT$1,000 (roughly USD 15–30), including medication. Public hospitals and clinics typically have English-speaking personnel or volunteer translators on hand, so you will absolutely no problem getting help.

That said, if you need serious medical interventions (e.g., surgeries or hospital stays), the costs would probably escalate without insurance. For peace of mind, a basic travel insurance from your home country is recommended – especially if you’re concerned about accidents, chronic conditions, or any complications that might require advanced care.

But honestly, if you’re visiting for a short time and generally confident in your health, I could imagine worse places than Taiwan to be in, even if you end up finding yourself in a bit of a pinch.

Medication, pre-existing conditions and disabilities

For travelers with chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, Taiwan has high-quality medical facilities, but planning ahead is crucial. Dialysis centers are available in major cities, though booking in advance is recommended. Essential medications like insulin are widely available, but travelers should verify local availability and consider bringing a sufficient supply.

Taiwan’s accessibility for travelers with disabilities is improving, particularly in Taipei, where MRT stations and public spaces are wheelchair-friendly. However, older areas and traditional markets may still pose challenges.

Food allergies

Food allergies can be a challenge, as ingredient labeling in restaurants is practically non-existent. Unlike with EU regulation and US law, there is no legal mandate in Taiwan for restaurants to disclose allergenic ingredients in menus. Those with allergies should learn key phrases in Chinese, carry allergy translation cards, or use translation apps. Many restaurants will be able to accommodate dietary restrictions, but it will require proactive communication from the prospective customer’s end.

Bonus info

All clinics displaying Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) logo employ doctors trained in Western medicine. However, you can also look up and find clinics with practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Due to the regulation of NHI, those doctors are guaranteed to be licensed in both Western and traditional Chinese medicine. This unique system allows both modern and traditional treatments to coexist within the same medical framework, rather than one being marginalized over the other.

As a result, you can safely experiment with TCM for non-urgent issues like stress, sleep, or digestion, knowing that even alternative treatments are provided by qualified, regulated professionals, without having to enter a world of unregulated or questionable practices. The system that regulates the quality and purity of TCM herbal medicine was reformed in the early 2000’s to break free from contamination scandals of earlier eras. See these links for more information: [1] [2].

Coffee / tea

Both things are true: Taiwan is a tea paradise; Taiwan is a coffee nation. Indiginous tribes in the southern mountain grow their own coffee (for example in Wutai).

Tips & Tricks

• Convenience stores give you a small discount if you bring your own mug or beverage container.
• Chain coffee stores like Louisa, Dreamers Coffee and Starbucks will not ask you if you want your drink for inside or outside. They will just give you a disposable paper cup by default. If you want to sit inside, ask for a ceramic mug right away when ordering (馬克杯 – mǎkèbēi). They have these mugs in different sizes, they just don’t offer them proactively. Ask!
• “Americano” is normal coffee. Check the menu for “Single Origin” or “Speciality Americano” to get something good.
• When ordering tea (bubble tea, any other tea) from street vendors and shops, make sure to specify the amount of suger and ice you want. Recommendation: no sugar, no ice (to better appreciate the natural flavors of the tea). Otherwise the suger and ice level might be very high by default. Taiwan used to be a sugarcane export colony.

Drugs

Taiwan has relatively strict drug laws, and travelers should be very cautious about what they bring into the country. Any THC- or CBD-containing products and medications are classified as controlled substances and are strictly prohibited. Infractions may impose severe legal consequences – especially for importers, producers and distributors (dealers).

Hostel etiquette

Hostel etiquette in Taiwan may require proactive communication, as locals often prefer to keep to themselves. If you’d like to turn off lights in a shared dorm or adjust air conditioning, politely asking other guests goes a long way. These small gestures help create a comfortable environment for everyone. Public spaces in hostels are generally relaxed, with shared kitchens, coffee areas, and sometimes even organized events or shared meals.

Scan code to save paper

When making a purchase at any shop, restaurant or merchant (no matter what kind), the clerk or seller will print out and hand over a receipt from the cash register with a unique code on it. This code is part of Taiwan’s Uniform Invoice lottery, a government initiative designed to encourage tax compliance by linking every purchase receipt to a national lottery, drawn every two months. Example:

Rejecting this paper receipt is not an option – clerks and sellers are legally mandated to hand it over to you. Discarding the paper is against etiquette, as it would be a sign of wasteful behavior (the right ticket could be worth a lot to someone).

To save paper waste and declutter your pocket, the whole process can be transferred to the digital realm – with minimum effort! Simply ask your host or a local friend to share a screenshot of their receipt lottery mobile barcode, also known as zài jù (載具), then store this screenshot on your phone.

I placed the screenshot on the second page of my phone’s home screen with a little photo widget app (Example: Android | iOS).

Before paying for any purchase, show the barcode to the cashier. They will immediately understand and attempt to scan the code. Once scanned, the cash register will link the purchase to your host or friend’s account, including the lottery ticket. Your friend or host will then automatically be informed if they won anything at the end of the bi-monthly period.

Be aware: depending on the shop, and with some delay, your host or friend will also see location and list of items your purchased – so this method involves a bit of trust between you and your local friend. If you buy sensitive, privacy-related items, perhaps take the one-off paper receipt instead.

Exceptions:

Destinations

Overview

Taiwan’s unique geography, shaped by its position on the tectonic plate fault line, offers a stunning mix of urban areas, dramatic coastlines, towering mountains, and culturally rich islands. The island’s central mountain range divides the east and west coasts, creating distinct landscapes and travel experiences.

While the west coast is urbanized with extensive transportation options, the east coast is far more narrow, offering a string of small towns and villages along one single coastal highway – or rather two highways, as the land splits up between the coast line and a long, stretched valley between Hualien and Taitung.

Travellers can explore the main island clockwise or counterclockwise, beginning from Taipei, and include nearby smaller islands to get further away from urban centers and closer to Taiwan’s natural history.

North

• Taipei: The capital city is surrounded by lush mountains and offers attractions like Taipei 101, night markets, historical temples, national museums, international exhibitions, and a vibrant underground music scene. It’s an excellent base for day trips to nearby hiking trails and hot springs.
• Keelung: A coastal city known for its night market and harbour, as well as scenic spots like Yehliu Geopark, famous for unique rock formations.

West coast

• Taichung: A cultural hub with attractions like the National Taichung Theater, Rainbow Village, and Fengjia Night Market.
• Hsinchu: Known as Taiwan’s Silicon Valley, featuring the historic East Gate, 18 Peaks Mountain Park, and the bustling Chenghuang Temple Night Market.
• Chiayi: Home to the picturesque Alishan National Scenic Area, famous for its sunrise views, mountain railways, and high-altitude tea plantations.
• Miaoli: A rural county known for its Hakka culture, featuring attractions like the Sanyi Wood Sculpture Museum, Nanzhuang Old Street, and the scenic Shei-Pa National Park.
• Changhua: Notable for the giant Buddha statue at Baguashan, the historic Lukang Old Street, and the picturesque Tianwei Flower Fields.
• Lukang: A charming historical town with well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, intricate temples like Longshan Temple, and the narrow, winding Nine Turns Lane.
• Tainan: Taiwan’s oldest city, rich in history with temples, forts, and local cuisine such as beef soup and oyster omelettes.
• Kaohsiung: A vibrant and industrious port and university city with the Pier-2 Art Center, Lotus Pond, and the superb Fo Guang Shan Monastery and Buddha Museum. Offers ferry access to Lambai Island.

Southern tip

• Kenting: Located at Taiwan’s southernmost point, this beach paradise offers beautiful coastlines, water activities, and bustling night markets. It’s very easy to rent small electrical motorcycles (scooters) here, even without driver’s license.

East coast

• Yilan: Close to Taipei, offering hot springs, local food markets, and scenic coastal views. A bus ride from Taipei to Yilan may only take one hour thanks to a convenient autobahn tunnel shortcut – a train ride to Yilan around the coast may take longer.
• Hualien: Home to Taroko Gorge (currently mostly closed since a heavy 2024 earthquake), a stunning marble canyon with hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery. Even without Taroko, still worth a visit for hiking trails and local culture.
• Chishang: Famous for its picturesque rice fields and cycling routes through rural landscapes.
• Chenggong: A coastal town with a significant Ami aboriginal population, known for its fish market auctions and surfing spots like Palm Point.
• Donghe: Emerging as a popular destination for surfing, sunbathing, and outdoor activities, it’s becoming a hotspot on Taiwan’s East Coast.
• Taitung: Known for its laid-back atmosphere, indigenous culture, music festivals, and attractions like the East Rift Valley and hot air balloon festivals. Offers ferry access to Green Island and Orchid Island.
• Dawu: the most remote eastern town, in that it is the southernmost train station on the east coast, before the train tracks cut through the mountains to connect with the west coast. Dawu is home to the Paiwan indigenous culture and offers access to the high-altitude, mostly untouched Dawu Mountain Nature Reserve.

Taiwan islands

• Xiaoliuqiu (Lambai Island): A short ferry ride from Kaohsiung, this cozy island is known for its beaches, snorkelling, and sea turtle spotting.
• Green Island (Lüdao): Accessible by ferry or plane from Taitung, featuring dramatic coastal cliffs, hot springs, and vibrant coral reefs.
• Orchid Island (Lanyu): Remote and culturally significant, Lanyu is home to the indigenous Tao people and known for its pristine nature. Accessible via ferry or small plane, though services depend on weather conditions.
• Penghu Islands: A stunning archipelago with beaches, basalt formations, and traditional fishing villages. Reachable by flights from Chiayi.
• Kinmen Islands: Located near the Chinese mainland, these islands are steeped in history, showcasing well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture and museums.
• Matsu Islands: Another remote island group near China, offering scenic views and unique cultural heritage.

Nearby Japanese islands

• Okinawa: Accessible via flights, this Japanese island combines tropical beauty with rich cultural heritage. Closer to Taiwan are smaller Japanese islands, offering a taste of Japan without venturing far.

Practical considerations

Traveling across Taiwan is straightforward thanks to its extensive public transportation network and traveller-friendly accommodations. While the High-Speed Rail (HSR) provides rapid connections along the west coast, the TRA services both coasts, with more planning required for journeys on the east. Hostels, often family-owned, offer cozy, social spaces that make for unique travel experiences. On weekdays, these hostels are often sparsely occupied, as Taiwan’s low tourist volume creates a quieter atmosphere. Dormitory guests may even find themselves alone or sharing with only one or two others, adding a layer of privacy.

Motorcycles are a popular choice for exploring rural areas, especially on the east coast, offering flexibility to reach remote destinations and hidden gems that public transport might not cover effectively.

Tips and Tricks

• Combine train and bus travel to access more remote or unique destinations.
• Use the HSR for quick and convenient travel along the west coast.
• Hostels are often quiet on weekdays; expect sparsely occupied dormitories.
• Engage politely with fellow guests to ensure shared dorm comfort.
• Take advantage of hostel amenities like kitchens and lounges for a social experience.
• Consider renting a motorcycle for greater flexibility in rural areas.

News and blogs

Do you want to know more? No problem!

News sources

A curated list of English-language outlets along with their descriptions and ownership details:

Please also check out my related article on how to track multiple news sources with one simple interface:

• RSS News Feeds instead of Social Media

Blogs and travel guides

Here is a curated list of blogs and travel guides about Taiwan. I only picked blogs that provide genuine, original content (no or little sponsor inserts, no SEO content farming).

If you know or own a blog that should be on this list, please contact me.

This concludes the segment about language, etiquette and life. Now, for a bit of geography: