TAIWAN is KNOWN for its BUSTLING NIGHT MARKETS, DEEP INDIGENOUS HERITAGE, ROBUST ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY and BEAUTIFUL NATURE WITH LAKES AND MOUNTAINS.
Sitting on the junction of the East and South China Seas, Taiwan is known for its diverse culture, temples, culinary delights, and natural landscapes. This East Asian country offers a blend of modernity and rural beauty.
What Is Taiwan Known For?
Taiwan is famous for Taipei 101, the bustling Taipei city, Chinese New Year festivities, and vibrant night markets filled with delicious food and energetic crowd. Economically, the country plays a strong role in industries such as electronics and metal products.
Taiwan is also known for its baseball success and having one of the most friendly locals in the Far East. As we explore this tourist gem, you will also get to know some interesting facts about Taiwan.
History, Culture, And Traditions Taiwan Is Famous For
Festivals
Festivals are an integral aspect of Taiwan’s culture, attracting visitors from all over the world. Highlights of these festivals include parades, fireworks, culinary exhibitions, and traditional performances.
One of Taiwan’s most recognized and celebrated events is the Chinese New Year, which marks the beginning of the new lunar month. The event features loud traditional Chinese music, dragon dancing, huge feasts, and the exchange of monetary gifts packaged in red envelopes.
Dragon Boat Festival is another fascinating festival that commemorates Qu Yuan, a renowned poet, and statesman. As the name implies, Dragon boat races in rivers and lakes are the main attraction of the festival. There are many other festivals with unique themes that will interest any kind of visitor.
Ultimately, festivals in Taiwan offer a glimpse into the soul of Taiwanese life and traditions.
Chinese Influence
Taiwan has a deep-rooted connection with China, which is reflected in the country’s blend of local customs with Chinese traditions.
Many of the things Taiwan is known for can be linked to the influence of its Chinese neighbor, from ancient temples adorned with intricate Chinese architecture to buzzing night markets and a similar official language. (although Taiwan uses traditional Chinese and China uses simplified Chinese).
The Chinese influence in Taiwan is vividly displayed through different aspects, with politics and governance being one of the most hotly debated topics.
Chinese culinary traditions are apparent in Taiwan’s cuisines, including tantalizing dishes like beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, and steamed dumplings.
Another strong connection between Taiwan and China is its historic sites like the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei, which pays tribute to the Chinese leader, and the Confucius Temple in Tainan, where visitors can explore Confucian philosophy.
Art Scene
Taiwan is famous for its captivating art scene, with elements from Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous traditions incorporated to showcase its impressive diversity.
The island is renowned for its galleries, art festivals, and a community of talented artists. The National Palace Museum in Taipei is home to a large collection of ancient Chinese paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and many other important items.
Modern art galleries and museums have also emerged in Taiwan. Visitors can explore contemporary works at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum and the Kaohsiung Museum, among others.
Taiwan also hosts cultural festivals, such as POW! WOW!, which attracts notable artists from around the world.
Religion
Religion is one of the most significant practices in Taiwan. The island is known for having a large number of Buddhism and Taoism adherents, as well as a smaller number of Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers.
Buddhism, with its emphasis on rituals, blessings, and enlightenment, is the predominant religion in Taiwan. It is followed by Taoism, which emphasizes harmony and the pursuit of immortality.
The religious practices in Taiwan have helped strengthen the country’s value system, shaping cultural practices and the collective consciousness of its people.
If you are not familiar with Asian cultures, it can be an eye-opening experience to explore the architecture of the country’s temples and witness traditional rituals.
Indigenous Heritage
Taiwan is famous for its indigenous diversity, with over sixteen indigenous tribes, each with unique customs and languages. The island’s indigenous heritage presents a rich aspect of the country’s cultural identity.
Through art, music, storytelling, and traditional rituals, the indigenous communities have passed down their unique heritage from generation to generation. The communities are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship in woodcarving, basketry, and weaving.
Visitors can learn about the indigenous heritage of Taiwan by exploring cultural villages and museums dedicated to preserving and showcasing their unique traditions.
Cities And Travel Destinations Taiwan Is Known For
Taipei
Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan, bustling with a vibrant blend of rich history, modern innovation, and cultural treasures. Home to some of the best tourist spots in Taiwan, travelers are promised a gratifying trip here.
Taipei has a stunning skyline that is dominated by Taipei 101, a 1,667 feet tall skyscraper that was once the tallest building in the world. Trendy boutiques and night markets located in Ximending and Xinyi districts offer a range of shopping opportunities.
Taipei’s culinary scene is a big draw for visitors seeking gastronomic adventures. Whether it is from street stalls or trendy restaurants, you can enjoy an array of Taiwanese cuisine.
Visitors can explore the National Palace Museum, which houses a collection of Chinese artifacts, including imperial treasures, ancient paintings, and calligraphy.
Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung is a vibrant metropolis located on the southwestern coast of Taiwan. It is the second-largest city in Taiwan, attracting people from all over the world with its modern skyline and rich cultural offerings. Some prominent landmarks in Taiwan are found here.
Love River, one of the city’s iconic landmarks, is a waterway that connects to the heart of Kaohsiung. Cafes and lively night markets line up along its banks, allowing visitors to take in the serene ambiance while also enjoying the buzzing experiences.
The city is a favorite Taiwan destination for artists and art enthusiasts who gather in open-air galleries to explore artworks or attend street performances.
Jiufen
Jiufen, a jewel located nestled in the hills of northern Taiwan, is one of the island’s historic places. The town is renowned for its winding streets, captivating vistas of the Pacific Ocean and traditional teahouses.
Jiufen was once a gold mining powerhouse in the early 20th century, and it has been able to preserve some of its unique features, like the Japanese-era buildings and lantern-lit alleyways.
Jiufen Old Street, the town’s most famous street, is a vibrant market packed with shops, delicacies, traditional crafts, and souvenirs.
One of the city’s best features is the Jiufen Viewing Deck, which offers a breathtaking view of the town’s roofs, mountains, and the ocean. Due to its proximity to Taipei, this is a popular day trip or side trip destination from the major city.
Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in the country and one of the best outdoor destinations Taiwan is famous for.
Known as the ‘Jewel of Taiwan,’ Sun Moon Lake earned its name from its unique shape, which appears like a combination of the sun and the crescent moon.
The lake offers an array of recreational activities, and visitors can also opt to leisurely cruise around. The scenic trails on the surrounding mountain range make for great hiking or cycling adventures.
The lake has a mystical sense of tranquility that can hardly be experienced anywhere else on the island. Hence, it draws relaxation-seeking travelers from around the world, especially after spending days in bustling Taipei City.
Landmarks And Architecture Taiwan Is Famous For
Taipei 101
Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is perhaps the most prominent landmark Taiwan is known for.
The architectural marvel, located in Taipei, stands at 508 meters, stunning visitors with its striking design and unique blend of tradition and modernity.
The building’s exterior features a tiered pagoda-style structure. Inside, a luxurious shopping mall, trendy boutiques, and upscale restaurants offer visitors amazing shopping and culinary experiences.
The observatory deck is a favorite feature in the building, which rewards visitors’ ascent to the 89th floor with panoramic views of the city, rolling mountains, and the stunning Taiwan Strait.
One of the biggest “hacks” here is the Starbucks on the 35th floor. If you want to enjoy city views without paying for a ticket to the observatory deck, you can grab a drink at Starbucks instead. Note that you might have to reserve a time slot in advance, and there’s a minimum spend + time limit.
Instructions and rules for access kind of change from time to time, so search for “Starbucks Taipei 101” to get the latest on it.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Situated in the heart of Taipei, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is dedicated to commemorating the life and legacy of one of Taiwan’s most influential figures, Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek.
A symbol of the island’s history and culture, the Memorial Hall is famous for its impressive architecture. It features a vast square adorned with manicured gardens, as well as light bulbs that bring the whole place alive at night.
Inside, visitors are welcomed by a gigantic bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek. Surrounding the statue are artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight key events in Chiang’s life and the transformative era he presided over.
The Memorial Hall also hosts cultural events throughout the year, providing visitors with more exciting experiences. The surrounding spacious complex is a local favorite hangout spot for chilling and exercising.
Bangka Longshan Temple
Bangka Longshan Temple is a historical and religious landmark in Taipei. Built in 1738 by Chinese settlers, the temple is a testament to Taiwan’s religious harmony and resilience.
What makes Lungshan a special temple is that it is not dedicated to just one deity or religion. It is open to people of Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian faiths.
The temple is a tourist hot spot, as visitors are allowed to explore the place and take beautiful photos. The locals are friendly and hospitable, making them feel at home.
Sports And Music Taiwan Is Known For
Baseball
Taiwan is famous for having various spectator sports, including baseball, basketball, and football. However, baseball is the most popular sport on the island.
Considered the national sport, baseball was introduced during Japanese rule, and it has developed and gained popularity in the country. The competitiveness in the top-tier baseball league is comparable to USA’s Major League Baseball(MLB).
The indigenous teams have gone on to establish dominance on the international stage, with the men’s and women’s national teams both occupying the top five spots on the WBSC rankings.
Baseball enthusiasts will be delighted to immerse themselves in the energetic atmosphere of a packed stadium as passionate fans chant and cheer their CPBL teams.
Mandopop
Mandarin popular music, or Mandopop, is arguably the most influential music in Taiwanese culture. Thanks to its melodies and heartfelt lyrics, it was quickly embraced by the Taiwanese when it was first introduced in the early 20th century.
Through the genre, Taiwan has produced various artists who have garnered acclaim both domestically and internationally. There are companies specializing in uncovering budding talents and providing creative platforms for them to showcase their skills.
Mandopop has become an ingrained aspect of Taiwan’s culture, so it is common to hear various Mandopop songs playing through the bustling streets of Taipei or wherever you find yourself on the island.
Food Taiwan Is Famous For
Beef Noodle Soup
One of the must-dos of your visit to the island is to have a taste of at least one Taiwanese food, and the favorite candidate to stun your tongue is a warming bowl of beef noodle soup.
This popular Taiwanese dish consists of beef, broth, noodles, and vegetables. The dish has Chinese origins and is common in many Asian countries. Here, you will find it has been adapted to Taiwanese taste. The noodles are flavorful and cooked to have a satisfying texture in the mouth.
You can find the dish at restaurants all over the island, so there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t indulge in this savory meal.
Xiao Long Bao
Xiao Long Bao is a rich bowl of dumplings that have found a special place in the hearts of the Taiwanese. The steamed dumplings are filled with a tasty combination of pork, crab, shrimp, and broth.
Just as the appearance, the flavorful dumpling hits delicate spots in your mouth with each bite. To make it more tasty, Xiao Long Bao is served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vine, and chili oil.
You can get yourself a handful of Xiao Long Bao from food trucks along the streets of Taipei, or you can be more adventurous by getting the ingredients from the market and preparing it yourself. Either way, make sure to ravish the experience.
Famous People From Taiwan
Hsieh Su-Wei
Hsieh Su-wei is a tennis player that competes in the Women’s Tennis Association(WTA). Her success in the sport, especially in the doubles event, makes her one of the most famous people from Taiwan.
Hsieh was born in Hsinchu and raised in Kaohsiung. She trained at a Taipei tennis school, where she developed her finesse and renowned shot-making skill. Her prestigious career includes three singles and 31 doubles titles in the year.
With a career-high singles ranking of No. 23 and No. 1 in doubles, Hsieh is the highest-ranked Taiwanese tennis player in history.
Jay Chou
Jay Chou is one of the most iconic personalities in Taiwan’s entertainment industry. Noted for his key role in reshaping the Mandopop landscape, Jay is widely considered the “King of Mandopop.”
Born and raised in Taipei, Jay gained an interest in music during childhood when he started capturing sounds and music with his tape recorder. His interest in the art further deepened with his love of piano and cello.
Jay’s breakthrough came in 2000 with the release of his debut album “Jay,” which is a captivating blend of pop, R&B, and hip-hop, combined with elements of traditional Chinese music.
Since then, he has grown in his art and diversified into other fields, altogether establishing the biggest global fanbase of any Taiwanese artist.
Jay’s enormous contributions to Taiwan’s music industry have cemented his iconic status, and he remains a big influence on upcoming artists.
Tsai Ing-wen
Tsai Ing-wen is the first female to hold the presidential role in Taiwan, making her mark as one of the most notable people in the country’s history.
She assumed the presidential office in 2016 and is known for her expertise in international trade and law. Tsai’s leadership has bolstered Taiwan’s presence on the international stage, with her diplomacy and relationship helping to strengthen Taiwan’s economy.
With her rise to the zenith of politics, President Tsai serves as an inspiration for many young women despite having her fair share of critics and challenges.
Ang Lee
Oscar-winning filmmaker Ang Lee is one of the most prominent Taiwanese in the international film scene. The producer and director, born in Pingtung, was educated in Taiwan before he moved to the US to further his knowledge in theatre.
Ang Lee soon established himself in Hollywood with the release of Sense and Sensibility in 1995. The following years saw him direct/produce and write great classic films, such as Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Brokeback Mountain, Hulk(2003), and the Life of Pi.
Lee has been recognized with numerous nominations and awards, including three Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.
Ang Lee’s powerful storytelling and wide range of genres have contributed to shaping cinema, making him one of the most celebrated people in Taiwan and the world.
Discovering More Things Taiwan Is Known For
Taiwan is known for its rich cultural tapestry, a blend of international influences and unique local traditions. From the irresistible flavors of its culinary delights to the soothing melodies of Mandopop, Taiwan continues to captivate the hearts of locals and tourists.
However, there are so many other things Taiwan is famous for, including the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival held every February in New Taipei. Another iconic thing Taiwan is the addictive Bubble Tea which has become an international phenom. Plus, the Taiwanese night markets are some of the liveliest places in the East.
As you explore the many wonders this beautiful country has to offer, you’ll undoubtedly uncover even more reasons to fall in love with Taiwan.
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