Travel Essentials In Taiwan

Part of our Taiwan guide.

Taiwan’s travel essentials come down to a few practicalities: getting an entry permit, moving between cities, and knowing where to eat and what to see. This page gathers nine guides that cover those basics, from permit rules to quirky side trips.

How To Obtain A Taiwan Entry Permit

To enter Taiwan legally, you need a valid entry permit. The permit is required for most foreign visitors, though visa-exempt countries have different rules depending on length of stay. For short visits, many nationalities can enter without a visa for up to 90 days, but you must check the current list of eligible countries before booking. If you’re from a non-exempt country, you’ll need to apply for a visitor visa or an entry permit through a Taiwan embassy or the Bureau of Consular Affairs. The application typically requires a passport valid for at least six months, a completed form, a recent photo, and proof of onward travel. Processing times vary, so apply at least a few weeks ahead. Once approved, the permit allows you to stay for the duration specified, usually 14 to 60 days for tourists. Overstaying that period can lead to fines and a ban, so keep track of your departure date. For longer stays, such as for study or work, you’ll need a different residence permit.

Travel Guide - Best Places To Visit In Taiwan + Tips

Taiwan packs a lot into a small island: modern Taipei, historic Tainan, and dramatic Taroko Gorge are just the start. The high-speed rail (HSR) connects the west coast from Taipei to Kaohsiung, making day trips easy. For nature, head to Taroko National Park for marble cliffs and hiking trails, or take a slow train to the east coast for quieter beaches. In Taipei, don’t miss the Taipei 101 observation deck, the night markets like Shilin, and the historic Longshan Temple. For a deeper cultural fix, visit the National Palace Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese artifacts. A practical tip: buy an EasyCard for public transport—it works on the MRT, buses, and even convenience stores. For a break from the crowds, consider a trip to Sun Moon Lake or Alishan for sunrise views over the mountains. If you’re short on time, focus on one region rather than rushing across the island.

BEST Things You Can Possibly Do In Tainan, Taiwan

Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, is a laid-back alternative to Taipei’s pace. It’s known as the ancient capital, and its narrow lanes are packed with temples, old houses, and street food. To get there from Taipei, take the HSR—it takes about 1 hour 40 minutes and costs around NT$1,500 one-way. Alternatively, a regular train takes about 3.5 hours and is cheaper. Once in Tainan, visit Fort Zeelandia (Anping Fort), a Dutch-era stronghold, and the Chihkan Tower, which dates back to the 1600s. For food, try the local specialty, danzai noodles, and coffin bread (stuffed toast). Rent a bike to explore the city’s flat streets, and don’t miss the night market at Garden or Wushang. Tainan’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to spend two full days wandering without rushing.

Millet Wine With The Aborigines Of Taiwan

Millet wine is a traditional drink among Taiwan’s indigenous communities, with a history that goes back centuries. It’s used in rituals, harvest festivals, and to honor ancestors. The wine is made from fermented millet, giving it a sweet, slightly sour taste. To try it authentically, visit an indigenous village in places like Hualien or Taitung, where you can join a tasting and learn about the brewing process. Many tours are run by the communities themselves, offering a direct cultural exchange. The wine is often served in a shared cup, symbolizing unity and respect. If you’re interested in the cultural side, ask about the legends tied to millet wine—each tribe has its own stories. Just be aware that the alcohol content can vary, so drink slowly if you’re not used to it.

8 Real-Life Places That Sparked Studio Ghibli's Magic

Studio Ghibli’s films draw from real locations, and Taiwan has a few that fans might recognize. While the article lists eight places globally, Taiwan’s connection is indirect—no official Ghibli location exists here, but the island’s lush forests and old streets echo the films’ atmosphere. For a Ghibli-like experience, walk through the Alishan forest railway, which feels like a scene from “Spirited Away” with its misty trees and narrow tracks. Similarly, the old streets of Jiufen, with their red lanterns and teahouses, are often cited as inspiration for the same film, though Studio Ghibli has never confirmed it. If you’re a fan, combine a visit to Jiufen with a stop at the nearby gold mine museum. The magic is more about mood than exact replication, so keep your expectations open.

Solo Travel In Taiwan: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

Solo travel in Taiwan is easy thanks to its safe cities, efficient public transport, and English signage on major routes. The island is a hidden gem for independent travelers, with a mix of modern comforts and traditional sights. You can set your own pace, whether that means spending a day in a Taipei teahouse or hiking the trails in Taroko Gorge. For accommodation, hostels and budget hotels are common in cities, and many offer single rooms. To meet locals, join a food tour or a cooking class—both are popular in Taipei and Tainan. The main challenge is getting around rural areas, where buses are less frequent; rent a scooter or hire a driver for a day if you want flexibility. Overall, solo travel here feels safe, with low crime rates and helpful locals who often speak some English.

Traveler's Guide To Quirky Taiwan

Taiwan’s quirks are part of its charm, from themed restaurants to bizarre souvenir shops. Beyond the usual attractions, you’ll find things like a toilet-themed restaurant in Taipei, where you eat from mini-toilet bowls, or a Hello Kitty-shaped train on the HSR. For a weirder experience, visit the Ghost Festival in July, where you’ll see elaborate paper offerings and street performances. In Kaohsiung, check out the Pier-2 Art Center, a converted warehouse district with giant public art. If you’re into odd museums, try the Taipei Puppet Museum or the Miniatures Museum of Taiwan. The key is to embrace the unexpected—Taiwan’s quirky side is often what travelers remember most. For a quieter oddity, visit the abandoned theme park in Sanzhi, which has a spooky, post-apocalyptic feel, though it’s not officially open to the public.

Xiaolongbao Next To CKS Memorial Hall

For xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) near Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, you’re in luck—the area has several solid options. The most famous is Din Tai Fung, a chain that started in Taipei and is now global, but the original shop is still a reliable choice. Just steps from the memorial hall, you’ll find branches on Xinyi Road and in the nearby Dongmen district. The dumplings are made fresh, with a thin wrapper and hot broth inside; order the pork or crab roe variety. For a local alternative, try Jin Feng Lu, a smaller shop known for its juicy dumplings and braised pork rice. After eating, walk off your meal in the memorial hall’s grounds, which are free to enter and offer a peaceful break from the city. The area is also close to the National Theater and Concert Hall, so you can make a day of it.

Asia Super Team 2019: Enterprise Stars In Taiwan

The Asia Super Team 2019 event brought together professionals from across Asia for team-building and networking in Taiwan. Organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), it aimed to boost economic ties between Taiwan and its neighbors. The event included workshops, challenges, and cultural exchange activities, all held in Taipei. While the 2019 edition is over, TAITRA still runs similar programs—check their website for upcoming dates. If you’re a business traveler, these events are a good way to meet local partners and learn about Taiwan’s trade environment. For regular tourists, the event isn’t open to the public, but you can still visit TAITRA’s trade shows, which are held several times a year and showcase Taiwanese products.