Taiwan brings together dramatic mountains, marble gorges, hot-spring towns and lively night markets—all within easy travelling distance of each other. This closeness is part of why Taiwan is called the “Heart of Asia.” With a little planning around the seasons and the stops you choose, you can explore different parts of the island comfortably and at your own pace.
Why Is Taiwan Called the Heart of Asia
Taiwan
- Location: Taiwan sits between Japan and the Philippines, with the Taiwan Strait to the west. This makes it a key point along regional air and sea routes.
- Culture: Chinese traditions, Japanese-era influences and Indigenous heritage shape daily life across the island.
- Landscape: High peaks, forested valleys, rugged coasts and natural hot springs all fit into a relatively small area.
Best Time to Visit Taiwan
September to November and March to May are considered the best time periods to visit Taiwan. This is how the year breaks down seasonally here:
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Season
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Months
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What to expect
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Best For
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Spring
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March to April
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Mild and relatively dry
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Cherry blossoms and city sightseeing
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Plum rain
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May to June
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Frequent rain, known locally as the Meiyu season
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Indoor sights such as museums and tea houses
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Summer
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July to September
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Hot, humid, and the main typhoon period
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Beaches and water activities
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Autumn
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October to November
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Cool and dry
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Hiking and mountain trips
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Winter
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December to February
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Cool and wet in the north, warmer in the south
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Hot springs and Southern Taiwan exploration
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Taiwan’s highlights range from modern viewing towers to quiet mountain villages, many only a short train ride apart. Travellers exploring the island may also consider international travel insurance depending on their itinerary and activities. Here are a few popular stops :
- Taipei 101: Take the lift to the 89th-floor indoor observation deck for views of Taipei and the surrounding hills.
- Taroko Gorge: Walk the Shakadang Trail beside a river that runs through marble canyon walls in Hualien.
- Alishan: Ride the forest railway to a sunrise viewpoint, then walk among old cypress trees in Chiayi.
- Jiufen and Pingxi: Climb Jiufen’s stepped lanes and stop at a tea house, then write a wish on a sky lantern and release it in Pingxi.
- Beitou: Soak in a public or private hot spring in Taipei’s thermal district.
- Night markets: Graze your way through stalls at Shilin Night Market in Taipei, where food, games, and shopping run well into the night.
Must-Try Taiwanese Delicacies
Taiwan’s food scene is dominated by a delicious blend of Chinese and Japanese flavours. Popular dishes here include:
- Beef noodle soup: Braised beef and wheat noodles in a long-simmered broth, often called the island’s unofficial national dish.
- Xiao long bao: Steamed dumplings filled with hot soup and pork.
- Oyster omelette: Eggs, oysters, and sweet potato starch topped with a sweet-savoury sauce, common at night markets.
- Bubble tea: Tea with tapioca pearls, an iconic Taiwanese drink invented in the 1980s.
- Gua Bao: A steamed bun stuffed with roasted or braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and ground peanuts.
- Lu Rou Fan: Hearty minced pork belly simmered in soy sauce and spices, served over warm white rice.
Conclusion
Taiwan is easier to enjoy when you time your trip well. Typhoons can keep you indoors or force you to cancel, so check the season before you book. Book early for holidays like Lunar New Year, since trains and hotels fill up fast. An international travel insurance policy can provide financial protection when travelling abroad, covering expenses such as trip cancellations, medical treatment and other emergencies, subject to the policy terms and conditions.
With these basics sorted, you can focus on enjoying your time in Taiwan.
FAQs
1. Is Taiwan safe for tourists?
Taiwan is a low-crime destination and is considered safe for visitors. Petty theft is uncommon, but you should still watch your belongings at crowded night markets.
2. What languages are spoken in Taiwan?
Mandarin Chinese is the main language in Taiwan, with Taiwanese Hokkien and Hakka also widely spoken. English signage is common in major cities and on transport networks.
3. What currency is used in Taiwan?
The New Taiwan dollar (TWD) is Taiwan’s official currency. It is written as NT$.
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