Category: Intro to Taiwan

Photo by James Hunt via Unsplash Taipei is an exciting city with a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an attractive place to live for expats, students, and young professionals. However, renting an apartment in Taipei can be challenging, especially if you don’t speak Chinese. This guide will walk you through the best […]

Camping in Taiwan offers a unique way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from lush mountains to coastal retreats. However, before setting up camp, it’s important to understand the rules and customs that apply to different areas. 1. Camping Culture in Taiwan Camping culture in Taiwan leans towards comfort, with many families opting for car […]

Taiwan, often referred to as the “hidden gem” of East Asia, is becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for those looking for a new adventure or a place to settle long-term. With its unique blend of modernity and tradition, high quality of life, relatively affordable cost of living, and the friendliness of its people, […]

The landscape of Taiwan is an imaginative place. It calls to one's creative eye and is ripe with a sense of poetic and mythic possibility in the ways

Check out our post about Koxinga, Taiwan's "Pirate King" and Ming Dynasty folk hero.

In the woods of Nangang Park lies a secret stone circle...

We have been thinking about loftier pursuits... For a long time we have wanted to try our hand at paragliding.

Think of it as your broad brush survival guide to the wonderful world of Taipei weather. It's a Groundhog Day, a "Practically-Destitute Richard's" predictive masterpiece, and we are very excited to be your forecasters.

Mark your calendars with the events and all that you cannot miss in Taiwan in 2024.

We believe the secret to Taipei is that it is a city patiently helping and waiting for you to fall in love.

We are here to help you develop your Formosa-savoir faire, and, similar to the importance of identifying shiny leaves of three, it is good to know how to navigate the landscape.

"Come guess me this riddle, what beats pipes and fiddle What's hotter than mustard and milder than cream What best wets your whistle, what's clearer than crystal What's sweeter than honey and stronger than steam."

Let's siphon from these holy waters and begin to distill or divine your choice of bubble tea.

Taiwan could become a mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts, and, in some ways, it is already being discovered.

Where did famous Taiwanese foods get their beginnings? How did they arrive in Taiwan and in the process transform into a piece and flavor of cultural identity?

There's just that sort of X-files vibe, Twilight crossed with Twilight Zone ambiance you know?

Grab your crackerjacks folks, it's time to catch a baseball game...

We would like to submit taro for your consideration, especially in its form as ice cream.

And I found myself wondering, “Is euphoria discovered in steaming pools of naked old men?” We’ve written about hot springs before (check out our post about visiting the Bayan Wild Hot Springs), but it is soaking season in Taiwan and it seemed like a shame to let the opportunity for this post to pass us by. We recently took a pilgrimage to the town of Jiaoxi, for some bone level warmth and much needed TLC. It had been a long time since our last visit and we had forgotten both the…

It started with a string of woven bracelets purchased at a night market. It started with with the exhibition at the National Palace Museum entitled, "Wrapping Cultures: Asian Textiles from the National Palace Museum Collection" which showcases some of the finest historical examples of textiles and patterns from around China and other parts of Asia. It started with learning that during their period of Colonial Rule the Japanese banned indigenous weaving along with the practice of head hunting, facial tattoos, and the speaking of any language other than Japanese in public.…

It’s the time of year when curling up with a warm cup of tea and a good movie can be one of the nicest ways to treat yourself on a day off or rainy afternoon. Around the holidays, and in search of home and the familiar, many expats can turn to the Hallmark formulas that splash across major viewing platforms. We certainly get it and have watched our fair share, however, we also enjoy exploring the incredible shows and films that the Taiwanese film industry has to offer. Turn on your…

"Because it is there;" "because it is calling and we must go;" "because we have always seen further from the shoulders of giants;" "because the eye is called to ever further horizons;" "because it is an adventure;" "because it is a challenge;" "because to stand upon a ridge line and to see the rise of deeper unexplored mountain ranges stirs something in the soul;" "because there will always be more mountains to climb." Whatever your reasons for venturing to Yu Shan (玉山) or Jade Mountain, we get it. It's not Everest,…

Pyrotechnics around the world rejoice! One of our favorite times of year is upon us, New Year’s Eve and the concussive displays of fireworks that chase midnight across the world like a wave rising around a sports stadium.

A cold snap descended on Taiwan this week, resulting in weather advisories for the northern end of the Island. For those of us who call Ilha Formosa home, it was a signal to pull out our long underwear and heavy blankets, and transition fully into our winter routines. For those of you who are new to Taiwan or who have not spent a lot of time in Southeast Asian in the winter months, we decided to write this post for you. Welcome, it can definitely get chilly here.

The rules, written and unwritten, of traffic and pedestrian laws and etiquette are tricky to decipher especially in new country. In India you just walk, in Japan you must wait, certain countries in Central America, you should run. For foreigners new to Taiwan, we’re here for you, and we’re still learning some of these conventions ourselves. Here are some of the things we have found.

If you enjoy fresh fruit and are new to Taiwan, get ready to have your world rocked. Taiwan is famous for its fruit. In fact, the Island has been nicknamed “the kingdom of fruit” on account of the quality and different varieties of fruit that is grown throughout the year. In our opinion (and we are only slightly biased) Taiwan has some of the best fruit on the planet -- especially if your baseline for good fruit up until this point has been a European or American grocery store half a…

It feels like the answer to a Zen koan asking how to find contentment in this turbulent world. It certainly is the answer to how to stave off the chill on a rainy afternoon in a winter in Taiwan. The Bayan Wild Hot Springs are located in the heart of Yangmingshan, about an hour and a half north of Taipei and are an incredible way to soak away your worries for an afternoon. Watch our video for a better sense of the experience. 

In this segment of the blog we dive into the world of soul mates and how they are perceived in Taiwan, China, Japan, and other countries within Asia. Known broadly as “the red string of fate,” the story has a number of permutations and has been inspiration for many different books, tv shows, movies, and cultural references. In Taiwan there are even temples set up to Yue Lao (月老) the Old Man under the Moon who is rumored to tie the strings between two people. Join us as we take a…

Living in abroad for an extended period of time, it can be easy to fall into what we like to call "the apathy trap." It's that sense that you've seen it all already, you've developed your routines, you know how to navigate fairly easily for the day to day, and you have already expended so much energy to just get to where you are functioning (fairly well) abroad. You really don't need or want to deal with the mafan 麻烦 of something like visiting a temple on the other side of…

Entering Songjiang Road Fortunetelling Street is feels a little like stepping into Diagon Alley, or descending into a subtle realm. It sits in a tunnel underneath the busy intersection of Mingquan East and Songjiang roads in the Zhongshan district of Taipei where passersby and those from all over the city come to visit.  Location: Location: […]

Ever wonder where to get the best coffee in the city? We've been wondering too so we recently reviewed 6 different coffee chains in Taipei. Here are our thoughts.

Read about a day trip to one of Taiwan's hidden gems, towns and hiking trails on the eastern edge of Alishan National Park.

Welcome to the strange, the mysterious, spiritual, and occult world of Taiwan. While by no means authoritative or comprehensive, this post hopes to offer small insights into the Taiwan’s relationship with the supernatural as well as a few of the Island’s more remarkable ghost traditions. Welcome to "Ghost Island."

Flapjack lovers beware, we are laying down the gauntlet: Asia, and specifically Taiwan, has the best pancakes in the world. Don't believe us? Leave your bottle of syrup at home and get ready to meet your new, favorite, and infinitely expanded, food group.

In one of our previous posts "Language in Taiwan," we touched briefly on the Formosan tribes who are the first inhabitants of the Island. We wanted to circle back to the topic in another post here to provide our readers with a better understanding of Taiwan's indigenous peoples and the human history and culture that stretches back well over six thousand years. Before starting, however, we want to note that while this post will be informative, it is by no means complete or comprehensive. Treat it as a starting point, a…

There are a wealth of stories out there about foreigner purchasing faux pas in foreign countries. It is almost a tale as old as time. However, with a little bit of help and knowing where to look, sometimes things can go a little easier. In this edition of our blog we have collected a list of grocery stores in Taipei that supply foreign foods and ingredients. If you are looking for a taste of the familiar but don’t know where to begin check out our list below. 

In this blog post we explore the primary languages are spoken in Taiwan as well as a few of the benefits to studying Mandarin on the Island. 

In this post we cover the history of Matsu, the patron goddess of Taiwan and the Dajia Mazu pilgrimage that is held yearly in her honor. Join us as we explore one of the most important deities and cultural religious events in Taiwan.

Perhaps you’ve seen them in action, perhaps you’ve used them yourself, perhaps you’ve only heard the echoey clack of the red curved tiles the way one might hear the wingbeats of a butterfly sending a hurricane towards a continent a world away. In this edition of our blog we are bringing you back to the realms of religion and the different methods of divination that are commonly practiced in Taiwan. 

It can be a great joy to find your place and your stride living and teaching in Taiwan. But in order to make sure you succeed, let's talk brass tacks. In the post below we will seek to answer the big question that most first time teachers or those new to the Island have: How do I save money while teaching in Taiwan?

Traveling in Taiwan is convenient and a great deal of fun, especially if you are using the right resources! Here is a list of the essential apps you will need when visiting or planning to live on the Island. 

If you are in Taipei, November 15th - 18th, 2024 and are looking for a fun activity or event to attend, the Taiwan International Tea Expo is the place for you! This annual exhibition brings together tea producers and companies from around Taiwan and allows visitors the opportunity to sample a wide range of teas while interacting with some of the most knowledgeable people in the industry.

Here are some ideas and resources to get you started on your workout journey in Taipei.

If you are visiting Taiwan, or if you are new to Taiwan, you have most likely heard of Hualian and Taroko National Park. It is an iconic destination, no less visually striking than Big Sur, Cape Breton, or the Coast of Brava and it is one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan. There are an incredible number of blogs, websites, and resources out there to help you plan your visit, but we wanted to create a post with a few of our favorite things in Hualian and Taroko that you…

We have created a short list of some of our favorite temples in and around Taipei. Some are fairly well known while others are well off the beaten tourist path. Walk with us as we wander through some of the coolest spaces that this city has to offer. 

Overview When first arriving in Taiwan, foreigners are oftentimes surprised by the number of temples they encounter as well as the wide range of religions that are practiced here. More than one visitor has noted: “it is so interesting to explore the different temples… to see the different gods and alters, to study the architecture, […]

Living in Taiwan and need to get in contact with your country of origin? We can point you in the right direction. Check out our list of embassies and consulates in Taiwan.

You've wandered through a night market (yèshì, 夜市), you've tried stinky tofu (chòu dòufu, 臭豆腐) and pineapple cake (fènglísū, 鳳梨酥), you've been up The 101 (yī líng yī, 一零一), seen the evening crowds in Ximending (西門町), and consumed more bubble tea than you ever thought possible -- welcome to the wonderful world of the Ilha Formosa. You might have even hiked Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan, 象山) or watched an exercise dance class in a local park. Now it is time to visit the National Palace Museum!

Arriving in a new place can be nerve-racking even for the most seasoned traveler. This post is here to help alleviate the stress and smooth your entry into Taipei, Taiwan from Taoyuan International Airport. You can focus on keeping track of your passport, and we will work on giving you the knowhow to get from the airport into the city. Welcome to the Ilhha Formosa.

“Why choose Taiwan’s SIM Cards options as a foreigner ?”- you might say. You’ll need the Internet in Taiwan : localization applications (e.g. Mapps), searching for addresses (you can find ideas with this PopRoom’s article : https://pop-rooms.com/discover-incredible-daan-district-taipei-in-4-steps/), finding institutes or embassies in case of regulatory issues, using translation tools (e.g. Deepl), and keeping in touch […]

You’re thinking of opening a bank account in Taiwan (all the steps are explained in this Poprooms article : https://pop-rooms.com/getting-a-bank-account-in-taiwan-for-foreigners/); but you don’t know which bank to choose ? This article analyzes your interest in opening a bank account as a foreigner in Taiwan; and suggests the 5 best ones to make your decision easier. […]

The process of opening a bank account can be complex and time-consuming for foreigners in Taiwan. However, Taiwan is looking to welcome more and more foreign talent into their businesses. With this in mind, and your desire to integrate the Taiwanese banking system, this article will inform you of the procedures required for foreigners in […]

Taipei Guting MRT is conveniently located near many of the best language schools in Taipei. It certainly has a lot to offer, including great nightlife, Shida night market and more – but one of the biggest reasons why it’s so popular with students is it’s proximity to so many top Chinese language schools. Below we […]

Not only is Taipei a big and living city, just on the outskirts of the city are plenty of mountains to be found where you can spend time in the incredible nature that Taiwan has to offer. So if you’re just considering in hiking for 1 day or don’t have the time to go to […]

Being only 1,5 hours away from Taipei city with public transportation makes the Yilan county the best getaway from the city for a daytrip or overnight trip. Filled with things to do, in Yilan you will find whatever that suits your needs! From hiking in the nature, relaxing on the beach or getting lost in […]

If you’re looking for some of the best museums in Taipei, you came to the right place! In this article we will be going over some of the best and most famous museums in Taipei. The museums in Taipei this article : The museum of contemporary art Even though this is a small museum, it […]

Beitou District is in the far north of Taipei City, and is famous for it’s many hot springs. It’s been a holiday destination since early 1900s. Many people love Beitou for it’s fresh air, mysterious hills – and it’s most famous asset, ‘white sulfur’ hot springs! Beitou is in fact one of the most hot […]

The Beitou district is the most mountainous, highest and is also the northernmost located district of Taipei city. The Beitou district is known for its beautiful natural and green surroundings. Furthermore is it also known for its natural hotsprings and thermal valley, which is a must visit when you’re in Taipei. In this article we […]

For a daytrip to Jiufen or a overnight trip during the weekends, Jiufen is the perfect getaway from the city and enjoy this little cozy old goldmining town that has been build during the colonisation from the Japanese. With a stunning view to the sea and mountains from the town this is a must visit […]

Once known as the “Black Town” due to it’s former large settlement of all kind of industries, producing emissions of thick, black smoke, luckily has changed a lot since back then. Nowadays it’s known for it’s agriculture and is the hub for humanities and technology. Even education recognized that, letting the Chinese University of Science […]

Being one of the oldest districts and even having the oldest roadway in whole Taipei, the iconic Dihua street, the district is one of the cultural hot spots of the city. In this article I’ll work through some of the best places of this amazing district to give you an idea what to expect if […]

Wenshan District is the most southern District of Taipei and is famous for its beautiful nature. Most foreigners like to live there because of its natural beauty and calm small-town vibe not far away from the big city life style In this article I”ll work through some of the best places of this amazing district […]

As the center of the city’s tourist industry and one of the centers of international business it’s easy to say that this district has its general and administrative importance. It’s covered with large hotels and international restaurants and is one of the main centers of art and culture. You can say it’s an area of […]

This district is well known as a major financial and cultural center of Taipei. You can find numerous headquarters from relevant banks and airlines. Plus, there are a lot of museums and Songshan is the uprising district, meaning it’s gaining more and more popularity. In this article I”ll work through some of the best places […]

The popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets has been steadily increasing, with more people opting for plant-based meals due to changing attitudes towards health and ethical philosophies. In Taipei City, there are numerous vegetarian and vegan restaurants that cater to this growing demand. Read on to  explore popular vegetarian and vegan hotspots in Taipei City! […]

The Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival in Taiwan is a one of a kind cultural event that attracts travelers and thrill seekers from all over the world. Read on to learn about this century old festival and why you do not want to miss out this February! A Fiery Festival Like No Other  Not for the […]

Culture, food, nightlife, and now a burgeoning thrifting scene, the neighborhoods of Taipei are glittered with gems that would make even the most jaded thrifter jump with joy. Read on to find out which areas of this city in the Pacific has to offer the vintage consumer. Wanhua District Beyond the delicious food stalls and […]

If you are thinking of turning your time in Taiwan into something a little less temporary and a little more long term , obtaining an  Alien Resident Certificate, or ARC, may be the next step to transition from  tourist to resident.  What is an ARC? An Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is a government issued identification […]

Here we present the best of Taiwan food . Taiwan really is a country of incredible food, everywhere you look. The problem, however, is that finding the food you want can be difficult, often resulting in having to rely on trial and error.  But worry not! Here we present a series of articles that not […]

Here we present the absolute best Taiwan food. The problem, however, is that finding the food you want can be difficult, often resulting in having to rely on trial and error.  But worry not! Here we present a series of articles that not only include the what and why of the best Taiwan food, but […]

From Yushan, the biggest mountain on the island that rise up to almost 4000 meters, to the beautiful gorges in Taroko, Taiwan has it all. If you're in Taiwan you don't want to miss out on these natural wonders, thats why we will be discussing some of the best national parks Taiwan has to offer!