Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Known for its bustling night markets, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality, Taiwan offers something for every traveler. From the towering Taipei 101 to the serene Sun Moon Lake, and from the vibrant street food scene to the lush Taroko Gorge, Taiwan is a destination that surprises and delights.
Its rich history, influenced by indigenous cultures, Chinese heritage, and Japanese colonial past, is reflected in its temples, festivals, and cuisine. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or tranquil countryside, Taiwan promises an unforgettable experience.
Time Zone: UTC+8
Climate Preference
Taiwan’s climate is subtropical, with distinct seasonal variations that make it a year-round destination depending on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of Taiwan’s climate to help you plan your trip:
Spring (March to May)
Temperature: 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
Weather: Mild and pleasant, with occasional rain.
Spring is ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and exploring Taiwan’s lush landscapes. The cherry blossoms in places like Alishan and Yangmingshan are a highlight.
Summer (June to August)
Temperature: 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F), with high humidity.
Weather: Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the possibility of typhoons.
Summer is perfect for beach destinations like Kenting or exploring Taiwan’s mountainous regions to escape the heat. Be prepared for sudden rain and check typhoon forecasts.
Autumn (September to November)
Temperature: 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
Weather: Cooler and less humid, with clear skies.
Autumn is one of the best times to visit Taiwan. The weather is comfortable for sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying outdoor festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Winter (December to February)
Temperature: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in most areas, but colder in the mountains.
Weather: Cool and dry, with occasional rain in the north.
Winter is great for exploring cities like Taipei and enjoying hot springs in Beitou or Wulai. The mountains, such as Hehuanshan, sometimes see snow, making it a rare opportunity for snow activities in Taiwan.
Typhoons: Taiwan is prone to typhoons, especially from June to October. Monitor weather forecasts and follow local advice during storms.
Earthquakes: Taiwan is located in an earthquake-prone zone. While most quakes are minor, it’s good to know basic safety measures, such as taking cover under sturdy furniture during tremors.
Best Time to Visit
Overall: Autumn (September to November) is the most comfortable and scenic time to visit.
For Hiking and Nature: Spring and autumn are ideal.
For Beaches: Summer is best, but watch for typhoons.
For Festivals: Plan around major events like the Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival, or Mid-Autumn Festival.
Taiwan’s diverse climate ensures there’s always something to enjoy, no matter when you visit!
Visas
Citizens of the United States and most European countries (including EU member states) can enter Taiwan visa-free for short stays. Americans can stay for up to 90 days without a visa, while Europeans typically enjoy a 90-day visa-free period as well. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. For longer stays or other purposes (e.g., work or study), you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa at a Taiwanese consulate or embassy.
Online Visa Application Form
https://visawebapp.boca.gov.tw/BOCA_EVISA/home.do
Immigration Meat Policy
Taiwan has strict regulations on bringing meat products into the country to prevent the spread of diseases like African swine fever. Travelers are prohibited from carrying pork or other meat products from regions affected by outbreaks. Violations can result in hefty fines (up to USD 32,000). Always declare any food items upon arrival and check the latest guidelines from Taiwan’s Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine (BAPHIQ) before traveling.
Power Plugs / Sockets
Power Plugs / Sockets: Power voltage in Taiwan is Type A 110V/50HZ.
SIM Card & Transportation card:
Taiwan 5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Package | 1-30 Days
4G SIM Card for Taiwan (Airport / Senao Telecom Pick Up)
eSIM Taiwan with high-speed and stable Internet connection | 3 – 30 Days
EasyCard
EasyCard is Taiwan’s contactless smart card, first launched in 2002 and quickly gained popularity, becoming one of Taiwan’s main electronic payment tools. In addition to public transportation, EasyCard can also be used in convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants, parking lots, and other places, making daily life more convenient.
For tourists, a “tourist passport card” can be used. Not only can this card be used throughout Taiwan, but it also incorporates tourism elements such as Taiwanese landmarks or cultural motifs. The tourist passport card is not only a practical means of transportation but also a souvenir worth collecting. In addition, the tourist passport card also has some special travel discounts, allowing tourists to better experience the beautiful scenery of Taiwan.
EasyCard has a wide range of applications, covering the public transportation systems in major cities in Taiwan. In addition, to Taiwan’s YouBike public bicycle system, some taxis and ferries also support EasyCard payments. In addition to transportation, EasyCard can also be used in major convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, and other retail locations in Taiwan, which is very convenient.
Taiwan EasyCard
Collect at Taoyuan International Airport
Cash / Money Exchange
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD or TWD). Here’s a comprehensive guide to money exchange, cash usage, and payment systems in Taiwan to help you manage your finances during your trip.
Cash is King: While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments like hotels, department stores, and chain restaurants, cash is still the preferred payment method in many places, especially at night markets, small shops, and local eateries.
ATMs: ATMs are widely available and accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). Look for ATMs at banks, convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart), and MRT stations.
Convenience Stores: Many convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, FamilyMart) allow you to withdraw cash from ATMs and even pay bills or purchase tickets.
Exchange at the Airport
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Currency exchange counters are available in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Rates may not be the best, but it’s convenient for immediate cash needs.
Other Airports: Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) and Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) also have currency exchange services.
Withdraw Cash from ATMs
Using your international debit or credit card at ATMs is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to get cash. Look for ATMs with the Plus or Cirrus logos.
Exchange at Banks
Banks in Taiwan offer competitive exchange rates. Major banks like Bank of Taiwan, Mega Bank, and CTBC Bank provide currency exchange services.
Requirements: Bring your passport for identification.
Exchange at Hotels
Some hotels offer currency exchange services, but the rates are often less favorable than banks or airports.
Credit Cards and Digital Payments
Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and JCB are widely accepted in larger establishments. American Express is less commonly accepted.
EasyCard: A rechargeable smart card used for public transportation, convenience stores, and some retail outlets.
Line Pay and Apple Pay: Gaining popularity in urban areas.
Street Vendors and Night Markets: Cash is still the primary payment method.
Taiwan’s cash-based system is easy to navigate, and with ATMs and exchange services widely available, you’ll have no trouble accessing New Taiwan Dollars during your trip. Enjoy your time exploring Taiwan!
Applications
Windy
Taiwan is often affected by typhoons, and strong winds and heavy rains make travel and outdoor activities difficult. Windy provides accurate and real-time typhoon path, wind speed, and rainfall forecasts, allowing you to keep abreast of weather changes and arrange activities conveniently and safely.
TEXpress
Taiwan High-Speed Rail’s official ticket purchasing app allows you to easily purchase tickets on your mobile phone anytime and anywhere. This APP provides 24-hour uninterrupted ticket purchasing services. You can check timetables and fares even offline, and easily complete booking, payment, modification, or cancellation of tickets. Choose from a variety of payment methods, manage all orders, and set payment and boarding reminders to ensure you don’t miss any high-speed trains.
LINE
LINE is the most popular communication app in Taiwan. It provides free voice and video calls, instant messages, and fun stickers. It is the best tool to contact hotels, and drivers, or meet new friends. In Taiwan, LINE is much more popular than WhatsApp or Messenger, almost everyone is using it!
LINE Pay
LINE Pay allows you to easily pay for various consumption. Due to its wide acceptance, LINE Pay has become an essential payment tool for Taiwanese people. In addition, LINE Pay provides a fee-free transfer function between friends and often launches various promotions, allowing you to easily enjoy rewards while spending.
Safety
Taiwan is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in the world, making it an excellent choice for travelers. Taiwan has very low crime rates, including violent crime and petty theft. It’s safe to walk around cities, even at night.
Taiwanese people are known for their hospitality and willingness to help tourists. English may not be widely spoken, but locals often go out of their way to assist. Taiwan has an excellent healthcare system, and hospitals are well-equipped. Pharmacies are widely available, and many pharmacists speak English.
Tap water is generally safe to drink, though most locals and travelers prefer bottled water. Street food is safe to eat, and hygiene standards are high. Overall, Taiwan is an incredibly safe destination for travelers. With its low crime rates, friendly locals, and excellent infrastructure, you can explore the island with peace of mind. Enjoy your trip!
Simple Chinese for traveling
Hello = 你好Nǐ hǎo
Thank you = 谢谢Xiè xiè
My name is ___ = 我叫___ Wǒ jiao___
Good / Great / Okay = 好 Hào
Delicious / Yummy = 好吃 Hào chī
How much is it = 多少钱 Duō shǎo qián
How to go to this place = 怎么去 Zěn me qù (Better pronounce zen “mer” qu)
Tax Refund
Some stores offer instant tax refunds at the point of sale. You’ll need to show your passport and fill out a refund form. The refund will be deducted from your total payment, and you’ll receive cash or a credit to your card. If the store doesn’t offer instant refunds, you can claim your refund at the airport before departure. Here’s how:
Step 1: Ask the store for a Tax Refund Application Form and keep your receipts.
Step 2: At the airport, present your purchases, receipts, and passport at the Tax Refund Counter (located in the departure hall before immigration).
Step 3: After your documents are verified, you’ll receive your refund in cash (NTD) or via credit card.
Goods Must Be Unused: The items you purchase must be unused and in their original packaging when you present them at the airport.
Time Limit: You must apply for the refund within 90 days of purchase.
Refund Options: Refunds are typically issued in New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) or credited back to your credit card.
Airport Process: Allow extra time at the airport for the refund process, especially during peak travel seasons.
Tax Refund Counters at Major Airports
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Located in Terminals 1 and 2.
Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH): Located in the international departure area.
Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA): Available for international flights.
Tips for a Smooth Tax Refund Experience
Always carry your passport when shopping.
Keep all receipts and tax refund forms organized.
Pack your purchases in your carry-on luggage if you plan to claim the refund at the airport.
Check the TRS logo before making purchases to ensure the store participates in the program.
Taiwan’s tax refund policy is straightforward and traveler-friendly, making it easy to save money while shopping. Enjoy your retail therapy in Taiwan!
Emergency Number
Police: 110
Fire and Ambulance services: 119
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