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Planning a trip to Taiwan? Whether you're a first-time traveler or just curious about what to expect, this guide answers the most frequently asked questions about visiting this beautiful island nation. From navigating cities to staying safe, here’s everything you need to know before you go.



1. What is the Language Used in Taiwan? Is English Spoken? What About Signages?

Mandarin Chinese is the official language in Taiwan. While English isn’t widely spoken among the general population, especially in rural areas or with older locals, you’ll find that most younger people, hotel staff, and service personnel in touristy areas can communicate in basic English.

Signages in Taiwan

The good news is that signages in transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and main city areas are bilingual, with both Chinese and English. This makes it easier to get around even if you don’t speak Mandarin.

You can also use translation apps to help you communicate with the locals.

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2. What Currency is Used in Taiwan, and Where Can I Withdraw Cash?

Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). It’s best to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling outside big cities.

We opted to withdraw NT$ 10,000 for the 3-day trip in Taiwan

You can withdraw money from ATMs at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, as well as from major banks like E.SUN Bank, Bank of Taiwan, and CTBC Bank. Most machines accept international Visa and MasterCard debit/credit cards.

Currency exchange is also available at international airports and select banks in major cities.




3. Should I Use Cash or Cashless Payments?

Taiwan is still primarily a cash-based society, especially in night markets, traditional shops, and rural areas. However, major establishments like department stores, hotels, and chain restaurants accept credit and debit cards.

Locals often use mobile payment apps like LINE Pay, JKOPay, or Taiwan Pay, but these are not usually accessible to tourists. Foreign e-wallets (like GCash or AlipayHK) are currently not supported.

My EasyCard I ordered from Klook app

If you're looking for convenience, you can buy a reloadable EasyCard or iPASS to pay for MRT rides, buses, and even some convenience store items.




4. How Do I Navigate Around Taiwan? What Apps Should I Use?

Taiwan has a well-developed public transportation system, especially in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung. Signages are in both Chinese and English.

Us on Taoyuan Airport MRT

Helpful apps include:

  • Google Maps – for walking, buses, MRT

  • Taipei Metro App – for MRT navigation

  • Bus+ or Bus Tracker Taiwan – real-time bus info

  • Uber – available in major cities

  • Taiwan Railways and HSR official apps – for booking intercity train tickets



5. What Are Public Bathrooms Like in Taiwan?

Taiwan has clean and well-maintained public restrooms, even in MRT stations and tourist areas. However, squat toilets are still common, especially in older facilities and rural areas.

Toilet in Yehliu Geopark

Many restrooms also don’t provide toilet paper, so it’s smart to bring your own tissue and hand sanitizer when you go out. Some squat toilets are found in Taipei 101 and Yehliu Geopark.


6. What’s the Best Way to Travel Around Taiwan?

In cities, the MRT is your best friend. It’s safe, cheap, clean, and punctual. Buses, YouBike rentals, and taxis are also widely available.

For intercity travel, you can take:

  • Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) – Fast and comfortable, perfect for travel on the west coast.

  • Taiwan Railways (TRA) – Covers both urban and rural regions with scenic views.

In rural areas, public transport is less frequent. Renting a scooter or car is often the best way to explore.


7. Are Convenience Stores Really That Common in Taiwan?

Absolutely! 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, and OK Mart are found on almost every street corner, including small towns and scenic areas.

A 7-Eleven store at Taoyuan Airport basement

They’re not just for snacks—they offer ATM services, mobile top-ups, bill payments, seating areas, and sometimes even laundry or parcel pick-up. You can easily live off convenience store food if you're traveling on a budget.



8. What Emergency Numbers Should I Know in Taiwan?

In case of an emergency, here are the important numbers to remember:

  • Police: 110

  • Fire/Ambulance: 119

  • Tourist 24/7 Hotline (English): 0800-011-765

  • Foreign Affairs Police: 0800-024-111

These hotlines are available 24/7 and are friendly to foreign travelers.

Ximending Shopping Area

9. Is Taiwan Safe for Travelers?

Taiwan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Asia. Violent crimes are rare, and locals are generally honest and helpful. Petty theft is uncommon, even in crowded night markets or MRT stations.

Still, basic precautions apply: avoid leaving valuables unattended, and stay alert in less populated areas at night.


10. Is There a Philippine Embassy in Taiwan?

While the Philippines and Taiwan do not have formal diplomatic relations due to the Philippines' One-China Policy, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) serves as the Philippines' representative office in Taiwan.

MECO functions as a de facto embassy, performing consular services and protecting the interests of Filipinos in Taiwan. It handles matters such as:

  • Issuance and renewal of passports
  • Visa applications for Taiwanese nationals visiting the Philippines
  • Assistance to Filipino workers and residents
  • Promotion of trade, investment, and cultural exchanges

MECO has its main office in Taipei and also maintains extension offices in Kaohsiung and Taichung to better serve the Filipino community across Taiwan. See the List of MECO Offices to learn more.

Its counterpart in the Philippines is the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), located in Makati City.


11. What Are the Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Taiwan?

Taiwan offers a mix of nature, history, culture, and modern attractions. Here are some top picks:

  • Taipei: Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Ximending

  • New Taipei: Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, Yehliu Geopark

  • Taichung: Rainbow Village, Gaomei Wetlands

  • Tainan: Historic temples and ancient fortresses

  • Kaohsiung: Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center

  • Hualien: Taroko Gorge

  • Nantou: Sun Moon Lake, Qingjing Farm

  • Alishan: Alishan Forest Railway and sunrise views

  • Taitung: East Rift Valley and Pacific coastline

  • Wulai: Hot springs and indigenous culture


Final Thoughts

Taiwan is a fantastic destination that balances tradition with modern convenience. It’s safe, welcoming, and full of unforgettable experiences—from night markets and natural wonders to historical towns and cultural festivals. With this FAQ guide, you’re now ready to explore Taiwan with confidence!



10 Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Taiwan (2026 Guide)


Planning a trip to Taiwan? Whether you're a first-time traveler or just curious about what to expect, this guide answers the most frequently asked questions about visiting this beautiful island nation. From navigating cities to staying safe, here’s everything you need to know before you go.



1. What is the Language Used in Taiwan? Is English Spoken? What About Signages?

Mandarin Chinese is the official language in Taiwan. While English isn’t widely spoken among the general population, especially in rural areas or with older locals, you’ll find that most younger people, hotel staff, and service personnel in touristy areas can communicate in basic English.

Signages in Taiwan

The good news is that signages in transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and main city areas are bilingual, with both Chinese and English. This makes it easier to get around even if you don’t speak Mandarin.

You can also use translation apps to help you communicate with the locals.

Loading...

2. What Currency is Used in Taiwan, and Where Can I Withdraw Cash?

Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). It’s best to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling outside big cities.

We opted to withdraw NT$ 10,000 for the 3-day trip in Taiwan

You can withdraw money from ATMs at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, as well as from major banks like E.SUN Bank, Bank of Taiwan, and CTBC Bank. Most machines accept international Visa and MasterCard debit/credit cards.

Currency exchange is also available at international airports and select banks in major cities.




3. Should I Use Cash or Cashless Payments?

Taiwan is still primarily a cash-based society, especially in night markets, traditional shops, and rural areas. However, major establishments like department stores, hotels, and chain restaurants accept credit and debit cards.

Locals often use mobile payment apps like LINE Pay, JKOPay, or Taiwan Pay, but these are not usually accessible to tourists. Foreign e-wallets (like GCash or AlipayHK) are currently not supported.

My EasyCard I ordered from Klook app

If you're looking for convenience, you can buy a reloadable EasyCard or iPASS to pay for MRT rides, buses, and even some convenience store items.




4. How Do I Navigate Around Taiwan? What Apps Should I Use?

Taiwan has a well-developed public transportation system, especially in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung. Signages are in both Chinese and English.

Us on Taoyuan Airport MRT

Helpful apps include:

  • Google Maps – for walking, buses, MRT

  • Taipei Metro App – for MRT navigation

  • Bus+ or Bus Tracker Taiwan – real-time bus info

  • Uber – available in major cities

  • Taiwan Railways and HSR official apps – for booking intercity train tickets



5. What Are Public Bathrooms Like in Taiwan?

Taiwan has clean and well-maintained public restrooms, even in MRT stations and tourist areas. However, squat toilets are still common, especially in older facilities and rural areas.

Toilet in Yehliu Geopark

Many restrooms also don’t provide toilet paper, so it’s smart to bring your own tissue and hand sanitizer when you go out. Some squat toilets are found in Taipei 101 and Yehliu Geopark.


6. What’s the Best Way to Travel Around Taiwan?

In cities, the MRT is your best friend. It’s safe, cheap, clean, and punctual. Buses, YouBike rentals, and taxis are also widely available.

For intercity travel, you can take:

  • Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) – Fast and comfortable, perfect for travel on the west coast.

  • Taiwan Railways (TRA) – Covers both urban and rural regions with scenic views.

In rural areas, public transport is less frequent. Renting a scooter or car is often the best way to explore.


7. Are Convenience Stores Really That Common in Taiwan?

Absolutely! 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, and OK Mart are found on almost every street corner, including small towns and scenic areas.

A 7-Eleven store at Taoyuan Airport basement

They’re not just for snacks—they offer ATM services, mobile top-ups, bill payments, seating areas, and sometimes even laundry or parcel pick-up. You can easily live off convenience store food if you're traveling on a budget.



8. What Emergency Numbers Should I Know in Taiwan?

In case of an emergency, here are the important numbers to remember:

  • Police: 110

  • Fire/Ambulance: 119

  • Tourist 24/7 Hotline (English): 0800-011-765

  • Foreign Affairs Police: 0800-024-111

These hotlines are available 24/7 and are friendly to foreign travelers.

Ximending Shopping Area

9. Is Taiwan Safe for Travelers?

Taiwan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Asia. Violent crimes are rare, and locals are generally honest and helpful. Petty theft is uncommon, even in crowded night markets or MRT stations.

Still, basic precautions apply: avoid leaving valuables unattended, and stay alert in less populated areas at night.


10. Is There a Philippine Embassy in Taiwan?

While the Philippines and Taiwan do not have formal diplomatic relations due to the Philippines' One-China Policy, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) serves as the Philippines' representative office in Taiwan.

MECO functions as a de facto embassy, performing consular services and protecting the interests of Filipinos in Taiwan. It handles matters such as:

  • Issuance and renewal of passports
  • Visa applications for Taiwanese nationals visiting the Philippines
  • Assistance to Filipino workers and residents
  • Promotion of trade, investment, and cultural exchanges

MECO has its main office in Taipei and also maintains extension offices in Kaohsiung and Taichung to better serve the Filipino community across Taiwan. See the List of MECO Offices to learn more.

Its counterpart in the Philippines is the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), located in Makati City.


11. What Are the Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Taiwan?

Taiwan offers a mix of nature, history, culture, and modern attractions. Here are some top picks:

  • Taipei: Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Ximending

  • New Taipei: Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, Yehliu Geopark

  • Taichung: Rainbow Village, Gaomei Wetlands

  • Tainan: Historic temples and ancient fortresses

  • Kaohsiung: Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center

  • Hualien: Taroko Gorge

  • Nantou: Sun Moon Lake, Qingjing Farm

  • Alishan: Alishan Forest Railway and sunrise views

  • Taitung: East Rift Valley and Pacific coastline

  • Wulai: Hot springs and indigenous culture


Final Thoughts

Taiwan is a fantastic destination that balances tradition with modern convenience. It’s safe, welcoming, and full of unforgettable experiences—from night markets and natural wonders to historical towns and cultural festivals. With this FAQ guide, you’re now ready to explore Taiwan with confidence!



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