General Information

The Handy Guide for Foreigners in Taiwan

Unit
International Community Service Hotline Information for Foreigners Website

Telephone/Website
0800-024111 http://iff.immigration.gov.tw 02-2343-2888 http://www.boca.gov.tw/mp?mp=2 http://english.www.gov.tw/ 03-522-9525 / 03-521-6121 ext. 564, 565 http://foreigner.hccg.gov.tw/en/ 06-298-1000 http://foreigner.tncg.gov.tw/

The Handy Guide for

Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Visa information) E-government Entry Portal Hsinchu Foreigner Assistance Center Tainan Foreigner Assistance Center

Foreigners in Taiwan

Travel and Tourism Unit

Tourist Information Hotline (24-hour toll-free tourist information, including Taiwan Tour Bus information, in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean)

Telephone/Website
0800-011765 English: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw Japanese: http://jp.taiwan.net.tw/ Korean: http://www.tourtaiwan.or.kr/ German: http://www.taiwantourismus.de/ French: http://www.taiwantourisme.com/ 03-398-2194 (Terminal I) 03-398-3341 (Terminal II) 0800-252550 / 07-805-7888

Taiwan is an island situated in the West Pacific, off the coast of East Asia at 120 to 122 east longitude and 22 to 25 north latitude. The territory of Taiwan includes the main island as well as Penghu, Kinmen, Matsu, and other islands, covering a total area of about 36,189 km2. To the west, the main island faces the Taiwan Strait, to the east, the Pacific Ocean, and its coastline stretches a total of 1,566 km. It is not only blessed with geographic landscapes and ecological environments, but also has a rich historical background and international cultural blending that have nurtured a unique human milieu and culinary culture. This book contains a store of information about visas and entry, transportation, travel, culture, cuisine, shopping, daily life, healthcare, banking, work, and education that will help ease your life on the island. Whether you are a tourist, business traveler, student or resident, the information will guarantee you a comfortable living, and a happy traveling experience in Taiwan! Information for Foreigners Website: http:// iff.immigration.gov.tw International Community Service Hotline: 0800-024111 ( 24-hour toll-free service in Chinese, English, and Japanese) . Tourist Information Hotline: 0800-011765 ( 24-hour toll-free service in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean) .

Taiwan Tourism Information Websites

2009

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Visitor Center, Tourism Bureau Kaohsiung International Airport Visitor Center, Tourism Bureau

Transportation Unit
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Office Kaohsiung International Airport Office Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. Taiwan Railways Administration Taipei English Taxi Drivers Association

Telephone/Website
03-398-2143 (Terminal I) 03-398-2050 (Emergencies) 0800-090108 / 07-805-7631 02-4066-3000 03-398-3274 (Terminal II) http://www.taoyuanairport.gov.tw/english/ http://www.kia.gov.tw/english/e_index.asp http://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/

RDEC, Executive Yuan

0800-765888 (Toll-free service) 02-2370-2727 (Cell phone calls) http://www.railway.gov.tw/en/index/index.aspx 02-2799-7997

VII--0010

Education Unit
Ministry of Education Study in Taiwan Website

Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive Yuan

Telephone/Website 02-7736-6051 http://english.moe.gov.tw

http://www.rdec.gov.tw

GPN1009802190

NT$100

http://www.studyintaiwan.org

Employment/Investment Unit
Invest in Taiwan Portal Work Permit Application Bureau of Employment and Vocational Training, CLA Labor Insurance Bureau of Labor Insurance, CLA

Telephone/Website
02-2382-0493 http://investintaiwan.nat.gov.tw/en/ http://www.evta.gov.tw/eng/home/index. asp 02-2396-1266 http://www.bli.gov.tw/en

Healthcare Unit Telephone/Website

02-2346-5255 / 0800-231497 http://www.doh.gov.tw/EN2006/ 02-2395-9825 Operator 1922 CDC Disease Reporting and Consulting Center http://www.cdc.gov.tw/mp.asp?mp=5 02-2706-5866 Operator 0800-030598 Health insurance enquiry http://www.nhi.gov.tw/english

Taiwan Map

Health Information Network Service Center, Department of Health

Taipei station Banciao station

Centers for Disease Control, Department of Health

Bureau of National Health Insurance

Taoyuan station

Living in Taiwan
Hsinchu station

Unit
Bank of Taiwan Central Weather Bureau Chunghwa Post Co. Chunghwa Telecom Co.
Chiayi station Zuoying station

Telephone/Website
0800-025168 http://www.bot.com.tw/English 02-2349-1234 Weather information 02-23491168 Earthquake information http://www.cwb.gov.tw/eng 0800-700365 / 04-354-2030 Cell phone use http://www.post.gov.tw/post/internet/u_english 0800-080123 General customer service http://www.cht.com.tw/CHTFinalE/Web/

Taichung station

Tainan station

Useful Telephone Numbers Unit

Fire and Ambulance Robbery Reporting Weather Bureau Highway Traffic Conditions

Telephone
119 110 166 168

Unit
Telephone Malfunction Time Reporting English Directory Assistance International Operator Assistance

Telephone
112 117 106 100

The Handy Guide for

Foreigners in Taiwan

Photo by Kaohsiung City Government

2009 World Games Main Stadium in Kaohsiung

Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive Yuan August 2009

Welcome to Taiwan!
Taiwans population of approximately 23 million represents a unique, richly diversified culture that is the result of different ethnic groups coming together over hundreds of years of development. On this compact island you can experience not only indigenous, Southern Fujianese, Hakka, traditional Chinese, and new immigrant cultures, but also historic sites that reflect cultural infusions. This profound historical background along with international cultural impacts have blended into a unique allure manifested in a multitude of aspects, from folk custom to fine cuisine. Most important, however, is the extraordinary friendliness of the people of Taiwan. Taiwan, once known as Formosa (Beautiful Island in Portuguese), is the largest green island on the Tropic of Cancer, with a subtropical climate that has nurtured special natural landscapes of mountains, hot springs, lakes, rivers and seas, with 150,000 species of butterflies, birds, and other flora and faunaa quarter of them are endemics, including the Formosan land-locked salmon, Formosan rock monkey, Formosan black bear, and Swinhoes pheasant. This makes Taiwan one of the worlds most important locations for endemic species conservation. Taiwan also possesses complete educational, social, medical care, and transportation systems; comprehensive infrastructure as well as advanced information technology and communications networks. Its electronics industry and related subcontracting industries are among the tops in the world. In general, Taiwan is highly modernized. The government is currently engaged in the promotion of six major industries biotechnology, green energy, tourism, medicine and health care, high-end agriculture, and culture and creationto bring Taiwan into a new era of development. To give Taiwan an even friendlier travel environment, the government has established a Travel Information Hotline (0800-011765) that provides free and immediate 24-hour consultation services in Chinese, English, Japanese and Korean. To further enhance its international service, the Information for Foreigners website (http://iff.immigration.gov.tw) provides a wide range of information for tourists, overseas students, foreign residents and their dependents. In addition, there is an International Community Service Hotline (0800-024111) that provides 24-hour, 365-day information in Chinese, English, and Japanese, with a three-way calling function to resolve emergencies. This handy guide contains ten topics on Visas, Transportation, Culture and Travel, Eating and Drinking, Shopping, Daily Life, Healthcare, Banking, Employment and Investment, and Educationwith important information on these various areas. It also tells you what you need to know to adapt to local life. We hope that each of you, whether you have come here for sightseeing, business, study, or work, will have a good living and easy traveling experience in Taiwan!
2 2

Contents

02

Welcome to Taiwan!

05 Visas & Services

Information for Foreigners Website Visitor Visas Resident Visas Visa-free Entry Landing Visas Overstay Visa Services 06 07 07 09 09 11 14 International Community Service Hotline 06

15 Transportation

International/Domestic Flight Routes 16 Taiwan High Speed Rail Round-the-island Railroad Long-distance Bus Service Taxis/Car Rental 18 18 20 21 22 23 24

Metropolitan Rapid Transit Systems 19

Drivers License and International Driving Permit

Bicycles Marine Transportation

25 Discover Taiwan

39 Eating & Drinking

26 27 29 30 32 33 34 Taiwans Rice-food Culture Taiwans Noodle Culture Taiwans Tea Culture Diversified Culinary Culture Night-market Snacks Special Local Delicacies 40 40 41 42 42 45

Tourist Information Services Taiwan Tour Bus/Digital Tour Buddy National Parks National Scenic Areas In-depth Touring Leisure Agritourism Arts and Culture

Food Safety Certification and Labeling 46

47 Shopping

57 Living Tips
48 50 50 54

Metropolitan Shopping Districts English Services Emblem Consumer Protection Information for Consumers

Renting a House Basic Public Services Postal Services Buying Daily Necessities Keeping a Pet Recycling

58 58 62 62 63 64

Tourist Shopping Assurance System 50

Telecommunications and Internet 60

65 Healthcare

National Health Insurance Bilingual Healthcare Service Hospital Gradation and Fees Chinese Medicine Drug Safety Medical Tourism

66 67 69 70 72 72

73 Banking Services

Currency and Money Exchange 74 Travelers Check Opening an Account Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) Credit Cards Internet Banking 76 77 78 78 78

79 Employment and Investment

Work Permits for Foreign Professionals

80

87 Studying

Courtesy Treatment for Foreign Professionals in Taiwan 81 Work Permits for Overseas Chinese and Foreign Students Working in Taiwan: Rights and Obligations Labor Protection Investing in Taiwan 83 83 85 86

Foreign Schools Taiwan Education Centers Study in Taiwan Scholarships in Taiwan Studying Chinese in Taiwan

88 90 91 92 93

74 76 77 78 78 78

Foreigners who come to Taiwan for the first time might encounter living and adjustment problems, but the Information for Foreigners Website and hotline is designed to help foreigners by providing all the information and emergency assistance. Visas in Taiwan are divided into four categories: Visitor Visas, good for short stays of up to 180 days; Resident Visas, long-term visas for staying for more than 180 days; and we also have Diplomatic Visas and Courtesy Visas. In addition, foreigners who meet certain criteria can enter Taiwan with Landing visas or visa-free.

Information for Foreigners Website International Community Service Hotline Visitor Visas Resident Visas Visa-free Entry Landing Visas Overstay Visa Services

Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://www.boca.gov.tw Visa Information Hotline: 02-2343-2888

National Immigration Agency:

http://www.immigration.gov.tw International Community Service Hotline: 0800-024111

Information for Foreigners Website

http://iff.immigration.gov.tw
The National Immigration Agency maintains the Information for Foreigners website (http://iff.immigration.gov.tw) to give tourists, businessmen, overseas students, long-term residents, and alien spouses access to the information they need for living in Taiwan. This information encompasses visas, taxation, medical care, entry and exit, tourism, residence, environmental protection, domestic violence, children and teenagers, education, work, residency and sojourn, transportation, safety, and public services, among other useful subjects. The website has both Chinese and English versions.
Information for Foreigners website: http://iff.immigration.gov.tw

International Community Service Hotline

0800-024111
Foreigners residing and working in Taiwan can hardly avoid certain difficulties of living and adjustment due to differences in language, culture, and custom. The International Community Service Hotline (0800-024-111) provides tollfree, immediate, and comprehensive enquiry services 24 hours a day in Chinese, English and Japanese. Besides information about visas, residence, work, education, taxation, health insurance, transportation and other matters, it can help with lost items, house rental, security, investment, business, religion, law, and family violence reporting. In addition, a three-way call function can assist with reporting to the fire department or other request. Help and information from Hotline personnel make life in Taiwan care-free and convenient.

4.indd 2

2009/7/23 5:51:17 PM

Visitor Visas
Visitor visas are used by foreigners who hold ordinary passports or other travel documents and plan to stay in Taiwan for no more than six months for transit, tourism, visiting relatives, study, business, or other purposes. Information about visitor visa application can be obtained from the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Resident Visas
Resident Visas are valid for three months and are used by foreigners who intend to stay in Taiwan for more than six months for visiting relatives, study, employment, investment, missionary work, or other purposes. A holder of a Resident Visa must, within 15 days of entry into Taiwan or within 15 days following the issuance of a Resident Visa to replace another type of visa, apply to the Bureau of Consular Affairs County/City Service Station at his or her place of residence for an Alien Resident Certificate and Re-entry Permit. The period of residence will be the period of validity notated on the Alien Resident Certificate. Application information can be obtained from the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Documents Needed for Resident Visa Application

Documents Needed
Passport with remaining validity of at least six months. One completed visa application form and two two-inch color bust photos taken within the past six months. Documents proving purpose of residence in Taiwan, or document of approval from the competent ROC authority. Other related documents. An ordinary resident visa is valid for three months. Foreigners entering Taiwan on a Resident Visa must apply for an Alien Resident Certificate and Re-entry Permit at the National Immigration Agency County/City Service Center at their place of residence within 15 days of entry.

Period of Visa Validity Period of Residence

Cost

The fee for a single-entry Resident Visa is NT$2,200 (US$66) and for a multiple-entry Resident Visa is NT$4,400 (US$132). (Applicable to the personnel of only some foreign missions in Taiwan). Corresponding handling fee: NT$4,323 (US$131; currently applied only to Americans). Applications submitted in Taiwan for change of Visitor Visa to Resident Visa are charged a fee of NT$800 (US$24). Visas are free of charge for citizens of countries having reciprocal cost-free visa privileges with Taiwan. Foreigners who apply for Resident Visas by reason of employment may apply to have their original Visitor Visas issued by overseas ROC office and changed to Resident Visas in Taiwan. This provision is not applicable to foreigners who enter Taiwan visa-free or with Landing Visas, or to foreign workers.

Notes

Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan). Website: http://www.boca.gov.tw/mp.asp Home Page >Visa >Statute Governing Issuance of ROC Visas in Foreign Passports Telephone: 02-2343-2888

Coming to Taiwan for Employment

Employers who wish to hire foreigners to work in Taiwan must apply to the Council of Labor Affairs of the Executive Yuan for work permits; after the work permits are received, the prospective employers must apply for Resident Visas for the employees. If the prospective foreign employees have entered Taiwan on ordinary Visitor Visas, they can go to the office of the Bureau of Consular Affairs in Taipei, Taichung, or Kaohsiung and apply to have their Visitor Visas changed to Resident Visas. If the prospective employees are not in Taiwan, they must go to the nearest overseas office of the ROC and apply for Resident Visas. Foreigners who have entered Taiwan visa-free or with Landing Visas must leave Taiwan and apply for Resident Visas overseas. To simplify procedures for foreigners coming to work in Taiwan, the Council of Labor Affairs has set up a One-stop Center for Work Permits Applications for Foreign Professionals. Companies intending to hire foreign professionals can handle all the work permits procedures at this single window.

One-stop Center for Work Permits Applications for Foreign Professionals: http://www2.evta.gov.tw/evta_wcf/index_eng.htm Bureau of Consular Affairs: http://www.boca.gov.tw Council of Labor Affairs: http://www.cla.gov.tw/cgi-bin/ National Immigration Agency: http://www.immigration.gov.tw/

Visa-free Entry
Visa-free entry and Landing Visas may be used by citizens of applicable countries and certain foreigners who meet specified criteria. Foreigners entering Taiwan visa-free must hold passports with a remaining validity of at least six months and a return or onward air (or boat) ticket and a valid visa for the next destination. The maximum period of stay in Taiwan for foreigners who enter visa-free is 30 or 90 days, upon the expiration of which period they must depart.

Countries Eligible for Visa-free Entry

A sia: Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore. North America: United States, Canada. Latin America: Costa Rica. E urope: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Holland, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia. Citizens of India, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia who hold valid visas for (or permanent residency in) the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, the European Union (Schengen), Australia, New Zealand.

Visa-free Entry for 30 Days

Visa-free Entry for 90 days

Japan, the United Kingdom, Ireland.

Landing Visas
Citizens of countries eligible for visa-free entry into Taiwan who hold emergency or temporary passports with a validity of at least six months, and U.S. citizens who hold passports with a validity of under six months, may, upon being found
9

by the inspection agency to have no adverse record, apply for Landing Visas. Landing Visas are most convenient for foreign nationals, especially tourists and others who intend to stay only a short time in Taiwan.

Landing Visa Information

Ports of Entry
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Kaohsiung International Airport.
Return or onward air tickets (with confirmed seats) and a valid visa to the next destination. Completed visa application, and one photograph. Visa fee. No adverse record found by airport inspection agency. Those who enter Taiwan at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport should proceed to the airport office of the Bureau of Consular Affairs. Those who enter Taiwan at Kaohsiung International Airport should first obtain a Temporary Entry Permit from the Kaohsiung International Airport 2nd Brigade of the National Immigration Agency and, within three days of entry, go to the Bureau of Consular Affairs or the Southern Taiwan Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and exchange the Temporary Entry Permit for an official visa. Those who fail to make the exchange within the required three days will be subject to punishment under the Administrative Execution Law.

Required Items

Processing Procedure

10

Maximum Period of Stay

30 days starting from the date of entry. Not extendable or convertible to Visitor or Resident Visa. However, those who are unable to depart within the 30-day maximum because of serious acute disease, natural disaster, or other events beyond control, and white-collar professionals who obtain work permits during their period of stay, together with their spouses and children under 20 years of age who entered Taiwan at the same time, may apply for conversion to Visitors Visas at the Bureau of Consular Affairs or the Central Taiwan Office, Southern Taiwan Office, or Eastern Taiwan Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Website: http://www.boca.gov.tw/mp.asp Home Page > Visa > Statute Governing Issuance of ROC Visas in Foreign Passports Telephone: 02-2343-2888

Overstay
To Avoid PunishmentApply for Extension 15~30 Days Prior to Expiration
Foreigners who hold ROC visas should keep track of the period of validity of their visas and Alien Resident Certificates (ARCs) to avoid being fined. Those who need to stay longer than the validity of their Visitor Visas should apply for an extension 15 days prior to expiration of their original periods of stay. Foreigners who hold ARCs for the purpose of living with relatives should apply for extensions 30 days prior to expiration, and those who hold ARCs for other purposes should apply to the National Immigration Agency for an extension 15 days before expiration. Those who overstay for no more than 30 days may, if their original reason for ARC application (such as employment or living with relatives) continues to exist may reapply for an ARC directly to a County/City Service Center of the National Immigration Agency, without having to leave the country; such persons will, however, be fined NT$2,000 to NT$4,000. Those who exceed the limit of their stay, residence, or order to exit the country can be compelled to leave the country and forbidden to re-enter by the National Immigration Agency; for related regulations, please check the Immigration Act.

Application for Extension of Stay for Foreigners: http://www.immigration.gov.tw/ns/maine1.htm Telephone: 0800-024111 Locations of National Immigration Agency Service Centers: http://www.immigration.gov.tw/aspcode/show_menu22.asp?url_disno=158

11

Reapplication for Entry Visas

Holders of ARCs who overstay under simple conditions may reapply for entry visas as follows:
Status Conditions of Overstay
Employment permit still within period of validity, and overstay of residence not more than one month.

Documents Needed for Application

With the stamp indicating work permit date in passport affixed by National Immigration Agency Service Center at the workers location, apply to competent authority for ARC with three-month validity. Household registration not older than three months, or proof of valid resident status of spouse in Taiwan. Household registration no more than three months or proof of a valid Taiwan residence ID from a relative. Household registration no more than three months or proof of a valid Taiwan residence ID from a relative. Valid student ID card.

White-collar workers legally working in Taiwan

Foreign spouses Overstay of ARC period by less than six months.

Underage dependents Overseas Chinese and foreign students

Bureau of Consular Affairs Global Information website: http://www.boca.gov.tw/mp?mp=2

12

Service Centers of the National Immigration Agency

Service Center
Keelung City Taipei City Taipei County Taoyuan County Hsinchu City Hsinchu County Miaoli County Taichung City Taichung County Changhua County Nantou County Yunlin County Chiayi City

Telephone
02-2428-1775 02-2427-6174 02-2389-9983 02-8964-7960 02-8964-6937 03-331-4830 03-331-0409 03-5243517 03-524-7357 03-551-4590 03-551-9905 037-322-350 037-327-941 04-2254-9981 04-2254-2545 04-2526-1087 04-2526-9777 04-834-9614 04-834-7640 049-220-0065 049-224-2235 05-534-5971 05-534-6029 05-231-3274 05-231-9947

Service Center
Chiayi County Tainan City Tainan County Kaohsiung City Kaohsiung County Pingtung County Yilan County Hualien County Taitung County Penghu County Kinmen County Lienchiang County

Telephone
05-362-3763 06-293-7641 06-293-6210 06-581-7404 06-581-6659 07-282-1400 07-221-3478 07-621-2143 07-623-6294 08-721-6665 08-721-5417 03-957-5448 03-957-8455 03-832-9700 03-833-0007 089-361-631 06-926-7150 06-926-9469 082-323701 082-323-695 0836-23741 0836-23738

13

Visa Services
In countries where the ROC maintains a mission, foreigners may submit visa applications at the ROC embassy or representative office. It is advised that they apply at the ROC mission in the country where they have a fixed residence. Applications for foreigners visas submitted within Taiwan must be taken to the Bureau of Consular Affairs and must include a Letter of Guarantee for Visa Application to the Republic of China, Notification of Approval of Letter of Guarantee for Visa Application to the Republic of China, Visa Application Form, and other relevant documents. The Bureau of Consular Affairs and the different regional offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provide the forms and information needed for visa application.

Locations for Submitting Visa Applications in Taiwan

Service Unit
Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Central Taiwan Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Southern Taiwan Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Eastern Taiwan Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Taoyuan International Airport Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (24 hours)

Telephone
02-2343-2888 04-2251-0799 07-211-0605 03-833-1041

Address
3~5F., 2-2, Sec. 1, Jinan Rd. Taipei City 1F., 503, Sec. 2, Liming Rd., Taichung City 2F., 436, Chenggong 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City 6F., 371, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City

03-398-2629 (Terminal I) 03-398-5805 (Terminal II)

Service hours: 08:30 - 17:00 (available during lunch hours)

14

Taiwan has a comprehensive transportation network. Here, you can take the High Speed Rail to whisk you from north to south in a jiffy, or you can use the round-the-island railway network, highway buses, and mass rapid transit systems, drive your own car, or ride motor scooters to take you throughout the island. Cyclists can plan a round-the-island trip and load your bike on a train or MRT at designated stations. You can also travel to offshore islands by plane or ferry.

International/Domestic Flight Routes Taiwan High Speed Rail Round-the-island Railroad Metropolitan Rapid Transit Systems Long-distance Bus Service Taxis/Car Rental Drivers License and International Driving Permit Bicycles Marine Transportation

International Flight Routes

Taiwans international air routes are served by Taoyuan International Airport (about 40 kilometers from Taipei) and Kaohsiung International Airport, which have direct flights to major destinations all over the world.

Airlines Serving Taiwans International Airports, and Flight Destinations

Airport Destinations Airlines
China Airlines, EVA Airways, Far Eastern Air Transport, Mandarin Airlines, TransAsia Airways, Uni Air, Air Macau, All Nippon Airways, Air New Zealand, Continental Airlines, Dragon Air, Vietnam Airlines, Japan Asia Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Angkor Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways International, United Airlines, Australia Asia Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Thai Sky Airline, Cargolux, Federal Express, Gemini Air Cargo, Martinair, Polar Air Cargo, Pacific East Asia Cargo Airlines, Singapore Airlines Cargo, Saudi Airlines, UPS, Emirates Airline, Air Hong Kong. China Airlines, EVA Airways, Far Eastern Air Transport, TransAsia Airways, Uni Air, Mandarin Airlines, Air Macau, Japan Asia Airways, Dragon Air, Malaysia Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Air Macau, Federal Express.

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

Hong Kong, Macau, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Sapporo, Okinawa, Seoul, Manila, Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Chiangmai, Phnom Penh, Jakarta, Da Nang, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Bali, Surabaya, Singapore, Palau, Kota Kinabalu, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brisbane, Sydney, Delhi, Auckland, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Anchorage, New York Kennedy, Guam, Honolulu, Vancouver, Frankfurt, Paris, Kaohsiung.

Kaohsiung International Airport

Hong Kong, Macau, Tokyo, Manila, Incheon, Jeju, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpor, Singapore, Bali, Kota Kinabalu, Jakarta, Taoyuan.

National Immigration Agency: http://www.immigration.gov.tw//immig_eng/aspcode/main4.asp Taoyuan International Airport: http://www.taoyuanairport.gov.tw/english/ Kaohsiung International Airport: http://www.kia.gov.tw/english/e_index.asp International Community Service Hotline: 0800-024111

16

Flights Across the Taiwan Straits

Foreigners with valid visas and passports or other travel documents, or valid passports with which they have entered the Republic of China visa-free, and residents of Hong Kong and Macau holding valid entry and exit permits, may enter and depart from mainland China via Kinmen, Matsu, or Penghu after their documents have been examined by the National Immigration Agency. Taiwan airports with direct flights to mainland China: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei Songshan Airport, Kaohsiung International Airport, Taichung Airport, Hualien Airport, Taitung Airport, Magong Airport, Kinmen Airport.

Domestic Flight Routes

Taiwan has a highly developed domestic flight network with 17 airports serving Taiwan proper as well as outlying islands. Flights should be reserved ahead of time, or have a travel agency to arrange for tickets. Foreigners need their passports when checking in and boarding.
Civil Aeronautics Administration: http://www.caa.gov.tw/en/

Major Airport Telephone

Airport
Taipei Songshan Airport Kaohsiung International Airport Hualien Airport Taitung Airport Taichung Airport Chiayi Airport Tainan Airport Kinmen Airport Magong Airport Orchid Island Airport Green Island Airport Cimei Airport

Telephone
02-8770-3430, 02-8770-3460 Domestic flights: 07-805-7630 International flights: 07-805-7631 03-821-0768 089-362530, 089-362531 04-2615- 5206, 04-2615-5000 ext. 123 05-286-7886 ext. 0, 311 06-260-1016, 06-260-1017 082-322-381, 082-313-694 06-922-8188 089-732-220 089-671-194 07-9971-256

17

Wangan Airport Nangan Airport Beigan Airport Hengchun Airport Pingtung Airport

06-999-1806 0836-26-505 0836-56-606 ext. 105 08-889-7120 ext. 1127 08-7665760

Taiwan High Speed Rail

The High Speed Rail has become the main facility for north-south passenger transportation along Taiwans westcoast corridor. It zips from Taipei to Kaohsiung in less than two hours, with stations in Taipei, Banciao (Banqiao), Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan, and Zuoying in Kaohsiung.
For High Speed Rail schedules and ticket prices, consult: http://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/ High Speed Rail Service Telephone: 02-4066-3000 High Speed Rail Reservation Telephone: 02-4066-0000

Station transfers

Passengers can transfer directly between High Speed Rail and Taiwan Railways Administration trains at the Taipei, Banciao (Banqiao), Taichung, and Zuoying stations. Other stations have shuttle buses, taxis, reserved pickup, and car rental services to provide transportation to other destinations. For drivers, parking lots are located in the vicinity.
For High Speed Rail transfers, consult: http://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/destinations/des_transfer.asp

Round-the-island Railroad
The round-the-island railroad connects all of Taiwans major cities. There are also branch lines that give access to specific areas including Jiji, Pingxi (Pingsi) and Neiwan. Riding on a train is one of the best ways to travel around Taiwan. Tickets can be reserved up to 14 days prior to travel via telephone or website, but must be picked up at the railway administration or post office within two days after reservations. For travel on holidays, be sure to reserve early.
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Students who are in Taiwan on shortterm study tours can present their foreign passports and international student certification or a travel pass issued by the National Youth Commission, and buy a cheap 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day Taiwan Rail Pass (TR-PASS). (This is not available to foreigners with resident certificates). This offers young people an ideal opportunity to learn about Taiwan by taking a leisurely and economical trip around the country.

Taipei Transportation Taichung Transportation Kaohsiung Transportation Yilan Transportation Hualien Transportation

Taipei City / County Taoyuan County Hsinchu City / County Miaoli County Yilan County

Taichung City / County Changhua County Yunlin County Chiayi City / County Nantou County Hualien County

Tainan City / County

Kaohsiung City / County

Taitung County

Taiwan Railways Administration: http://service.tra.gov.tw/EN Train schedules: http://163.29.3.96/TWRail_en

Pingtung County

Metropolitan Rapid Transit Systems

Danshui Hongshulin Zhuwei Zhongyi Beitou Guandu Fuxinggang Xinbeitou Qiyan Qilian Shipai Mingde Zhishan Shilin Jiantan Yuanshan Minquan W. Rd. Shuanglian Zhongshan Longshan Temple Jiangzicui Xinpu Banqiao Fuzhong Far Eastern Hospital Haishan Tucheng Yongning Xindian City Office Xindian Siaogang Ximen Songshan Airport Zhongshan Junior High School Nanjing E. Rd. Nangang Software Park Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Kunyang Nangang Houshanpi Yongchun Xihu Gangqian Jiannan Rd. Dazhi Wende Neihu Huzhou Donghu

Metro Taipei Route Map

Shandao Zhongxiao Zhongxiao Sun Yat-Sen Temple Xinsheng Fuxing Memorial Hall

Xiaonanmen Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Dingxi Yongan Market Jingan Nanshijiao

Taipei Main Station NTU Hospital

Zhongxiao Dunhua Daan

Taipei City Hall

Technology Building Guting Taipower Building Liuzhangli Gongguan Wanlong Jingmei Dapinglin Xinhai Linguang Wanfang Community Wanfang Hospital Muzha

Siz

Both Taipei and Kaohsiung Gangshan South have mass rapid transit Ciaotou Ciaotou Sugar Refinery system s t h at provide Cingpu convenient access to tourist Metropolitan Park Nanzih Export Processing Zone spots within the cities and, Houjing Oil Refinery Elementary School sometimes with connecting World Game Zuoying buses in surrounding areas. If you plan to stay in Taiwan Ecological District for an extended Kaohsiung Arena period, you can Aozihdi save time by buying Houyi an IC fare card, including Kaohsiung Main Station EasyCard in Taipei, I-Pass Formosa Boulevard and TaiwanMoney Card in Central Park Kaohsiung. Sanduo Shopping District
ihw an n Ya ch en gp u Cit yC ou nc il

Sizihwan Yanchengpu City Council Sinyi Elementary School Cultural Center Station Wukuaicuo Martial Arts Stadium Weiwuying Fongshan West Fongshan Station

ol ho Sc ry ium ta er r ad t en ent nio St m o es C le Ju l l W rts icu n i E ura an oo ua ial A ying han sha y g lt k sh ch u t u g Sin Cu on W Mar eiw ngs on ng h S ao d o a F li F Hig D W Fo Da

Dadong Station Fongshan Junior High School

Shihjia Kaisyuan Cianjhen Senior High School Daliao Station

Taipei Zoo

Xiaobitan

Qizhang

Caoya Kaohsiung International Airport

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Danshui Hongshulin Zhongyi Beitou Guandu Fuxinggang Xinbeitou Qiyan Qilian Shipai Mingde Zhishan

Zhuwei

Smoking, eating or drinking, and chewing gum are prohibited in MRT stations and on Xihu Wende trains.
Gangqian Jiannan Rd. Neihu

Gangshan South Ciaotou Ciaotou Sugar Refinery Cingpu

Kaohsiung MRT Route Map

Metropolitan Park Nanzih Export Processing Zone Oil Refinery Elementary School World Game Zuoying Houjing

Sizihwan Yanchengpu City Council Sinyi Elementary School Cultural Center Station

Zhongshan Longshan Temple Jiangzicui Xinpu Ximen

Houyi Kaohsiung Main Station Formosa Boulevard

lem e ra ntar lC y W en Sch uk te oo ua r l i M ar cuo tia lA W eiw rts S u Fo yin tadi um ng g sh a Fo n W e ng sh st an Da do ng Fo n Hi gsh gh a S nJ Da cho uni ol or lia o

Taipei Rapid Transit Corp.: Huzhou Dazhi Jiantan http://www.trtc.com.tw/e Donghu Yuanshan Songshan Kaohsiung RapidNangang Transit Airport Software Park Minquan W. Rd. Taipei Nangang Zhongshan Corp.: Shuanglian Exhibition Center Junior High School Nanjing E. Rd. http://www.krtco.com.tw/ Kunyang Nangang Shandao Zhongxiao Zhongxiao Sun Yat-Sen Temple Xinsheng Houshanpi Fuxing Memorial Hall en/e-index.aspx

Shilin

Ecological District Wukuaicuo Kaohsiung Arena Aozihdi Martial Arts Stadium Weiwuying Fongshan West Fongshan Station

Xiaonanmen Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Dingxi Yongan Market Jingan Nanshijiao

Taipei Main Station NTU Hospital

Zhongxiao Dunhua Daan

Taipei City Hall

ny Si

il

Technology Building
Ci

Cu

ltu

Yongchun

iE

zih

Si

Gongguan Wanlong Jingmei Dapinglin

Xinhai

Ya n

Fuzhong

ch

Taipower Building Liuzhangli

wa

en

Linguang Wanfang Community Wanfang Hospital Muzha

u ty Co u

Banqiao

Guting
n

Central Park Sanduo Shopping District Shihjia Kaisyuan Cianjhen Senior High School

gp

nc

Dadong Station Fongshan Junior High School Station

Eastern pital Haishan

Taipei Zoo

Daliao Station

ucheng Yongning

Xiaobitan

Qizhang Xindian City Office Xindian

Caoya Kaohsiung International Airport Siaogang

Long-distance Bus Service

Long-distance passenger buses ply Taiwans freeways and provincial highways, providing convenient travel between cities. Some routes operate 24 hours a day, and prices are cheaper than going by train or plane, making them the best options for travelers.

Bus Company Contacts

Bus Company
Kuo-Kuang Bus Ubus Aloha Bus Ho-Hsin Bus Free Go Bus

Telephone
0800-010-138, 02-2331-2950 0800-241-560, 02-2995-7799 0800-043-168, 07-237-5640 0800-002-377 0800-051-519

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Local Bus Service

Short-distance bus services cover all cities and rural areas. In the Taipei and Kaohsiung metropolitan areas you can use the MRT system in conjunction with shuttle buses to save travel time. The routes information of these public buses is marked by bus-stop signs.
E-Traffic Service: http://e-iot.iot.gov.tw/ (Chinese only)

Taxis
Taiwans taxis are easily identifiable by their bright yellow color as well as the Taxi light on their roofs. Taxis in major cities charge by the meter, but use fee and mileage charges differ city by city. Some long-distance taxi drivers do not use their meters, so passengers should ascertain the cost before boarding. Most cities in Taiwan have convenient taxi services and can be summoned by telephone. In Taipei and Kaohsiung there are certified taxi drivers that have passed English proficiency tests; one way to hire them is to call the International Community Service Hotline (0800-024111) and have one ordered up for you. Most chain convenience stores can also call a taxi for you.
Toll Free Taxi Hotline: 0800-055850 (Taipei and Keelung areas), 0800-001006 (Kaohsiung Information for Foreigners website: http://iff.immigration.gov.tw Taipei English Taxi Drivers Association: 02-2799-7997 Taiwan Taxi Corp: 405-88888 ext. 9

Car Rental
Renting a car in Taiwan is very convenient, with rental companies offering various kinds of vehicles at major airports, railway stations, and major cities. If you are unfamiliar with Taiwans roads, you might consider chauffeur service.
24-hour Travel Information Hotline: 0800-011765

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Drivers License and International Driving Permit

Drivers licenses in Taiwan include automobile drivers licenses and motorcycle drivers licenses (both light and ordinary heavy motorcycles). There are two regulations governing the conversion of licenses for foreigners: Holders of International Driving Permit Issued by Countries Having Reciprocity with ROC, and Holders of Foreign Domestic Drivers Licenses Eligible for Conversion to ROC Drivers Licenses Without Testing. Holders of licenses from countries without reciprocity must be tested in Taiwan. Holders of International Driving Permits issued by countries having reciprocity with the ROC may use them to drive in Taiwan for short-term stays of up to 30 days; drivers staying for more than 30 days must fill out an International Driving License Permit Application and submit it to a Highway Supervision Office for license issuance. Holders of Foreign Domestic Drivers Licenses Eligible for Conversion to ROC Drivers Licenses Without Testing may, within one year of the day following their entry into Taiwan, submit their valid license and proof of permission for stay or residence in Taiwan for one year or longer to a Highway Supervision Office for conversion into a Taiwan license without testing under the principle of equality and reciprocity. To convert a license issued by another country or area into an ROC drivers license, however, the holder must, before arriving in Taiwan, apply for verification at an overseas ROC embassy, representative office, office, or at a foreign embassy in Taiwan. To obtain a new ROC drivers license, a driver must apply at a Motor Vehicle Supervision Office or Station under the Directorate General of Highways. For the convenience of foreigners, a computerized written test item bank is provided in seven languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese, and Cambodian.
Directorate General of Highways: http://www.thb.gov.tw/new_english/index.htm

License Testing and Conversion of International Driving Permits

Department in Charge
Motor Vehicle Office, Taipei City Goverment Taipei Motor Vehicle Supervision Office Hsinchu Motor Vehicles Office

Website
www.mvo.taipei.gov.tw www.tmvso.gov.tw www.hmv.gov.tw

Telephone
02-2831-4155 02-2688-4366 03-589-2051

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Taichung Motor Vehicles Office Chiayi Motor Vehicles Office Kaohsiung Motor Vehicles Office Department of Motor Vehicle Kaohsiung City

www.tmv.gov.tw www.cyi.gov.tw www.komv.gov.tw mvdis1.kcg.gov.tw

04-2691-2011 05-277-0150 07-771-1101 07-361-3161

Getting a Motorcycle Drivers License

Motorcycles in Taiwan are divided into light motorcycles, ordinary heavy motorcycles, and large heavy motorcycles. Motorcycles with engines 550cc or larger are now allowed on all of Taiwans expressways (but not freeways). Headlights must be on at all times, and drivers and passengers must wear full-face safety helmets.

Motorcycle drivers and riders in Taiwan are required to wear safety helmets at all times. For details on license testing, please consult one of the motor vehicle offices listed above.

Bicycles
Riding a bicycle is about the healthiest, most fun, and most environmentally friendly way you can get about in Taiwan today. The government has been promoting leisure bicycling, and the domestic bicyclemanufacturing industry has been working hard to build Taiwan into a Cycling Island. Many of the islands top tourist areas have dedicated bikeways, such as the Dongfeng Green Bicycle Corridor and the Shoreline Bikeway at Sun Moon Lake, as well as bicycle rental shops. Taipei
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City, Taipei County, and Kaohsiung City offer public bike rental with picking up at one location and returning at another. Rental is free of charge for the first 30 minutes to two hours; for details, check the relevant city or county website.
Taipei City YouBike Bicycle Rental System: http://www.youbike.com.tw/upage/english.htm Kaohsiung City Public Bike Information System: http://www.c-bike.com.tw/eng/knowing.html Carefree Tour Biking (Chinese and English versions available), Published by Sports Affairs Council of the Executive Yuan http://www.ncpfs.gov.tw/en/

Marine Transportation
Passenger boat routes primarily link the main island with offshore islands (Penghu, Xiao Liuqiu, Green Island, Orchid Island), Kinmen and Matsu. There is only one scheduled international passenger route, linking Taiwan with Japans Ryukyu Islands. Departures are sometimes uncertain, depending on the weather and number of passengers. Be sure to confirm by phone before making your travel plan. Many rivers in Taiwans unique topography flow through the cities create a major tourist activity: river cruise. Examples are Taipei Countys Blue Highway (on the Tamsui River) and Kaohsiung Citys scenic Love River. Be sure to try the river cruise during your stay in Taiwan!
Marine Transport Network Portal: https://web02.mtnet.gov.tw/eng/ Offshore Islands of Taiwan Information website: http://www.isles.org.tw/English/ Northern Taiwan Marine Transportation Information: http://www.klhb.gov.tw/English/E00/E0001.aspx Eastern Taiwan Marine Transportation Information: http://www.hlhb.gov.tw/ttu04.Asp (Chinese only) Southern Taiwan Marine Transportation Information: http://163.29.117.5/english/

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Ever since the 16 th century Taiwan has been known as Ilha Formosa, the Beautiful Island. Its unique geology and topography have created a wonderland of mountain landscapes and coastal scenes, and its location where continent meets ocean has nurtured a wide range of special ecologies and species. These natural splendors are joined by a richly diversified cultural mix produced by the blending of the historical backgrounds of various local groups with international cultures. You will be amazed and moved by the natural ecology and cultural custom that you find in Taiwan.

Tourist Information Services Taiwan Tour Bus/Digital Tour Buddy National Parks National Scenic Areas In-depth Touring Leisure Agritourism Arts and Culture

Tourist Information Services

Tourist Information Website
The Taiwan Tourist Information website (http://eng.taiwan.net.tw) is your best reference for traveling in Taiwan, with separate sections on getting to know Taiwan, travel in Taiwan, folk festivals, cuisine, shopping, itinerary planning, accommodation, and transportation. The website also contains recommendations for dining, culture, outer islands, the ecology, hot springs, railroads, LOHAS living, and night markets, helping you to map out the itineraries that cover the aspects you are most interested in. There is also information on entry and exit, exchange rates, postal services, emergency contacts, and other practical matters. And you can find out all these informations in Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, German, and French.
Taiwan Tourist Information website: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw

Tourist Information Hotline: 0800-011765

Travel in Taiwan, when you need information on itinerary planning or emergency assistance, you can call the Tourism Bureaus Tourist Information Hotline at 0800-011765 and get the help you need in Chinese, English, Japanese, or Korean toll-free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Special operators provide quick and comprehensive information and recommendations on transportation routes, accommodation, itinerary design, and other travel-related matters.

Travel Service Centers

The Tourism Bureau has helped to set up Travel Information Service Centers at airports, major railway stations, MRT stations, national scenic areas, and important tourist sites. Just logo and find the go to the bright yellow most practical travel information, free of charge. These information centers not only offer brochures on scenic areas, transportation maps, but also allow you to go online (again, free of charge) and look for the information you want. In addition, specialized personnel are on-site to provide detailed local travel information.
Travel Service Centers in different areas: http://admin.taiwan.net.tw/english

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Taiwan Tour Bus

In-depth Travel Around Taiwan
The Tourism Bureau has assisted bus operators in planning Taiwan Tour Bus itineraries to cover all major tourist sites, rural ecologies, natural scenery, hot springs and cuisine, shopping, and festival activities. From pickup at your hotel, airport, or railway station, the service takes you to popular tourist sites, providing all the transportation, insurance, and other considerate services you need. The tours also have guides who provide Chinese, English, or Japanese interpretation so that you can enjoy carefree travel with no language barrier. For detailed information, go to the Taiwan Tour Bus website and enquire about oneday or multiple-day tours of northern, central, southern, or eastern Taiwan, or the offshore islands. The website also offers online reservations and the telephone numbers of travel agencies where you can make reservations.
Taiwan Tourist Information website: http://taiwan.net.tw; link to Taiwan Tour Bus page. Tourist Information Hotline; 24-hour travel consultation in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean: 0800-011765.

Digital Tour Buddy

An Essential Helpmate for DIY Travel
The Digital Tour Buddy is a mobile phone that you can borrow for 15-30 days, free of charge, in a program organized by the National Youth Commission. It is aimed at foreign backpackers who are traveling on their own. In addition to providing communication, the Digital Tour Buddy has a built-in English-Chinese dictionary, built-in numbers for visitor information centers, 24-hour Tourist Information Hotline, Information for Foreigners Hotline, Youth Hostel reservations, English-language taxis, and other practical functions in addition to the text messaging and direct-dial functions. The phones stored-value card can be purchased, and value added, at convenience stores and Chunghwa Telecom business offices.

27

Using the Digital Tour Buddy

Application prior to entry International backpack travelers can apply for a Digital Tour Buddy seven days to one month prior to entering Taiwan. The application form can be filled out online by visiting this website: http://youthtravel.tw. For online submission, on receipt of the National Youth Commissions approval, the applicant should print the approved booking form. 1.Online application: International backpack travelers can visit the National Youth Commission website (http://youthtravel.tw) and apply online three days before picking up their Digital Tour Buddy. For online submission, on receipt of the National Youth Commissions approval, the applicant should print the approved booking form. 2. On-site application: International backpack travelers can go to the service counter of the National Youth Commissions flagship Youth Volunteer Center in Taipei between 10:00 and 21:00, Tuesday through Sunday, and fill out an application form on-site. At the time of entry into Taiwan, take your necessary documents (passport, copy of passport, valid photo ID, and Digital Buddy approval form) to the Travel Information Service Counter at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 of Taoyuan International Airport, or to the service counter of the flagship Youth Volunteer Center of the National Youth Commission in Taipei (31, Sec. 1, Zhongxiao E. Rd., Taipei), to pick up your phone. 1. Online application: Backpack travelers who apply after entering Taiwan must pick up their Digital Tour Buddies at the National Youth Commissions Youth Hub. They have to personally bring their documents (passport, copy of passport, valid photo ID such as drivers license or student ID, and Digital Tour Buddy approval form) to the service counter of the NYCs Youth Volunteer Center in Taipei, and leave a copy of their passport and ID as security. 2. On-site application: Those who wish to apply on-site must take their documents (passport, copy of passport, and valid photo ID such as drivers license or student ID) to the service counter of the flagship Youth Volunteer Center of the National Youth Commission in Taipei between 10:00 and 21:00, Tuesday through Sunday, and fill out an application form. After the application is approved, they can leave their passport copy and ID as security, and pick up their Digital Tour Buddy.

Applying for a Digital Tour Buddy Application after entry

Application prior to entry

Picking up a Digital Tour Buddy Application after entry

Application and Issuance: To December 31, 2009 (to be extended if necessary)

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Youth Travel in Taiwan website: http://www.youthtravel.tw/youthtravel/indexMain.jsp Flagship Youth Volunteer Center, National Youth Commission: 31, Sec. 1, Zhongxiao E. Rd., Taipei

National Parks
Majestic Peak to Seashore, Ancient Sacred Tree to Coral Reef, Taiwan Has Surprises Everywhere!
Taiwan is surrounded by the sea and has a subtropical climate, with alpine forests and a highly varied topography. The warm temperatures and abundant rainfall nurture forests with rich plant life as well as a huge variety of animal species. To preserve the islands important natural res ources , the government has established 7 national Chinese Crested Tern/photo by Wang Shu-qin parks: Yangmingshan, Shei-Pa, Taroko, Yushan, Kenting, Kinmen, and Dongsha, each with its own special character and unique attraction. Tourists must observe the principles of protecting the natural environment and respecting local cultures, traditions, and practices. Each of the national parks has English-language signage, brochures and films, as well as guide interpretation and website. For more information, please visit the National Parks of Taiwan website (http://np.cpami.gov.tw).

National Parks in Taiwan

Name
Yangmingshan National Park

Features
Preserve volcanic mountains, crater lakes, and other landscapes, with a splendid flowers in full bloom every year. Scenes of high peaks and streams along with the Formosan landlocked salmon, broad-tailed swallowtail butterflies, Formosan black bears, Formosan serows, and other protected wildlife.

Website
http://www. ymsnp.gov.tw/ html/eng/

Headquarters Telephone
02-2861-3601

Shei-Pa National Park

http://w3.spnp. gov.tw/english/

037-996-100

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Taroko National Park

Wonderous sights of a verticalwalled marble gorge plus archaeological sites of the Neolithic Age. Yushan, or Jade Mountain, is the highest peak in Taiwan as well as Northeast Asia at 3.952 meters. It is in the competition for the New 7 Wonders of Nature list. It spans subtropical, temperate, and frigid zone forests, rich wildlife ecologies, and the Batong Historic Trail left over from the Qing Dynasty . There is a carrying capacity limit on climbers of Jade Mountain, and climbers must apply in advance. A park filled with the atmosphere of the South Seas, known for its beautiful coral reef ecology. A special battleground historical background along with rich cultural aspects. As autumn turns to winter Kinmen becomes a way station for migrating fowl of many species, making it a great place for bird watching.

http://www. taroko.gov.tw/

03-862-1100

Yushan National Park

http://english. ysnp.gov.tw/

049-277-3121

Kenting National Park

http://www.ktnp. gov.tw/eng/

08-886-1321

Kinmen National Park

http://www. 082-31-3100 kmnp.gov.tw/en/

Unique geological landscapes Dongsha Marine formed of weathered coral clast and National Park seashells (not yet open to visitors).

http://dongsha. cpami.gov.tw/

07-360-1898

National Scenic Areas

A Personal Experience of Taiwans Multiple Faces
Taiwan currently has 13 national scenic areas, including the internationally famous Alishan and Sun Moon Lake, the North Coast and Guanyinshan and the Northeast Coast and Yilan Coast with their unique coastal terrain, the East Coast where the mountains drop precipitously into the sea, and the East Rift Valley with its pastoral scenery. Each of the national scenic areas promotes special tourist activities of the season go give visitors a deep experience of the local cultures.
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Taiwans National Scenic Areas

National Scenic Area Website Service Telephones
National Scenic Area Administration: 02-2499-1115 Longdong Ranger Station: 02-2499-1190 Dali Ranger Station: 03-978-0727 Yilan Ranger Station: 03-930-8420 Fulong Visitor Center: 0800-091115 Jinshan Visitor Center: 02-2498-8980 Sanzhi Visitor Center and Gallery of Famous Sons: 02-8635-3640 Guanyinshan Visitor Center: 02-2292-8888 Yeliu Visitor Center: 02-2492-2016 Baishawan Visitor Center: 02-8635-5100 National Scenic Area Administration: 089-841-520 Taitung Ranger Station: 089-281-530 Hualien Ranger Station: 03-867-1326 Green Island Ranger Station: 089-672-026 National Scenic Area Administration: 03-887-5306 Liyutan Ranger Station: 03-864-1691 Luoshan Ranger Station: 03-882-1725 Luye Ranger Station: 089-551-637 04-2331-2678 049-285-5668 08-833-8100 0800-600766 06-786-1000

Northeast Coast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area

http://www.necoastnsa.gov.tw

North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area

http://www.northguan-nsa.gov.tw/en

East Coast National Scenic Area

http://www.eastcoast-nsa.gov.tw/en

East Rift Valley National Scenic Area

http://www.erv-nsa. gov.tw

Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area Maolin National Scenic Area Southwest Coast National Scenic Area

http://www.trimt-nsa. gov.tw/eng http://www.sunmoonlake.gov.tw http://www.dbnsa. gov.tw/ http://www.maolinnsa.gov.tw/ http://www.swcoastnsa.gov.tw/en

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Siraya National Scenic Area

http://www.sirayansa.gov.tw/

0800-580762 National Scenic Area Administration: 0836-25-630 Dongyin Visitor Center: 0836-77-266 Beigan Visitor Center: 0836-56-531 Juguang Visitor Center: 0836-89-388 06-921-6521 05-259-3900

Matsu National Scenic Area

http://www.matsunsa.gov.tw/

Penghu National Scenic Area Alishan National Scenic Area

http://www.penghunsa.gov.tw/ http://www.ali-nsa. net/

In-depth Touring
Local Tourist Festivals
Taiwans local governments combine their special industries with leisure travel and organize interesting activities either on a scheduled or unscheduled basis. These activities include Taipei Citys Chinese Food Festival, Taipei Countys Yingge Ceramics Carnival and Shimen International Kite Festival, Yilan Countys International Rain Festival, Taoyuan Countys Lotus Festival, Hsinchu Countrys Xinpu Persimmon Cake Festival, Hsinchu Citys International Glass Art Festival, Miaoli Countys Tung Blossom Festival and Sanyi Wood Carving Festival, Taichung Countys Mazu International Festival, Taichung Citys Jazz Festival, Changhua Countys Wang-gong Fishing Boat Lights Festival, Nantou Countys Hot Spring Festival, Yunlin Countys Linnei Purple Butterfly Festival, Chiayi Countys Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival, Chiayi Citys Childrens Theater Festival, Tainan Countys Baihe Lotus Festival, Tainan Citys International Chihsi (Chinese Valentines Day) Arts Festival, Kaohsiung Citys International Container Arts Festival, Kaohsiung Countys Puppetry Festival, Pingtung Countys Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival and Kending Wind Chime Festival, Hualien Countys Whale Watching Festival, Taitung Countys East Coast Music Festival, and Penghu Countys Ocean Fireworks Festival.

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One Town, One Product

There are 319 townships, ranging from high-mountain aboriginal areas to coastal fishing settlements. The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) instituted the OTOP (One Town, One Product) program to pinpoint a traditional industry from each locality, one with distinctive historical and cultural characteristics, and develop an innovative and fashionable tourist industry cluster around it. By visiting the Taiwan One Town One Product website (http://www.otop.tw) you can learn all about the local scenery, festival activities, foods and handicrafts of each town, and use that information in planning your in-depth tours.

Leisure Agritourism
Taiwan Agritourism
For a long time, Taiwans agricultural technology has made continuous advances in quantity, variety and quality. The leisure agritourism that has emerged in recent years integrates local cultural and lifestyle characteristics to provide rich agricultural experiences that combine leisure with esthetic enjoyment, good dining and services, the traditional and the innovative. At the internationalstandard 130-hectare Jhong Shan Agriculture Area in Yilan Countys Dongshan Township, for example, you can savor the local Suxin Tea and home-grown pomelos, and enjoy the kite festival, rice-straw art, as well as Sanqing Temple and a prehistoric archaeological site. Homestays have become stars of Taiwans leisure travel industry in recent years. Many of these facilities have distinctive architectural stylesSouth Seas, European villa, rural rusticity, traditional villageand are nestled beside mountain streams, on the seacoast, in the forest, among farm fields, in rural villages, all giving a strong feeling of intimacy with the local culture and environment.
Taiwan Leisure Farming Development Association: http://www.taiwan-farming.org.tw/

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Taiwan Farming website: http://www.taiwanfarm.com.tw/ (Chinese) Leisure Agriculture Service website: http://ezgo.coa.gov.tw (Chinese) Farm Stay website: http://ezhome.org.tw/ (Chinese)

Arts and Culture

Folk Festivals
Taiwan was originally an agricultural country, and the farmers have developed all kinds of religious and folk festivals. The melding of history and ethnic cultures has, in addition, produced celebratory activities with unique cultural content. The most important traditional festivals, in order of their lunar-calendar dates, are the Lunar New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, Ghost Festival, and Mid-Autumn Moon Festival. Other religious festivals include the Dajia Mazu Culture Festival, Neimen Songjiang Battle Array, Donggang Burning of the Plague God Boat, Taitung Bombing of Han Dan, Yanshui Firecrackers C e r e m o n y, a n d P i n g x i S k y Lanterns, all of which carry intense cultural significance. Taiwans indigenous peoples have also developed celebrations, rituals and competitions based on their veneration of heaven, earth, and the deities. These include the Harvest Festival of the Amis, the Saisiat Sacrifice to the Short Spirits, Bunun Ear-shooting Festival, Puyuma New-year Sacrifices, and Yami (Dawu) Flying Fish Festival, among others, all of which bring out the romance of Taiwans true natives. In recent years the cultural infusion from new immigrants has led to the development of new activities such as the Zhonghe Songkran (Water-splashing) Festival, with a Thai-Burmese flair. Viewing Taiwan through its festivals will give you a richer experience of the islands multicultural milieu.
Tourist Festivals: http://www.taiwan.net.tw/festival/ (Chinese only) Taiwan Tourist Information network: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw/

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Major Taiwanese Folk Festivals

Traditional Festival Lunar Calendar Folk Activity
Family dinner on New Years Eve, New Year worship on the 1st day of the year, married daughters return to parents home on the 2nd day, God of Wealth is welcomed on the 4th day, business reopens on the 5th day. Taiwan Lantern Festival, Pingxi Heavenly Lanterns, Bombing of Han Dan in Taitung, Beehive Rockets in Yanshui. Dragon Boat races, eating of zongzi dumplings, hanging of mugwort on entrances. General salvation of souls, release of water lanterns, Grappling with the Ghosts. Watching the moon, eating moon cakes.

Lunar New Year

Last Day of Last Month to 5th Day of First Month

Lantern Festival Dragon Boat (Poets) Festival Ghost Festival Mid-Autumn Moon Festival

15th Day of First Month

5th Day of Fifth Month 15th Day of Seventh Month 15th Day of Eighth Month

Museums
Taiwan is the home of the world-famous National Palace Museum, which has a huge collection of artworks built up by Chinese emperors during the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Its reputation stands on par with that of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the British Museum, and the Louvre. Taiwan also boasts various museums of history, ethnology, narration, natural history, art, industrial arts, image, and industry, including the National Museum of History, National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, and National Museum of Natural Science. These museums provide concrete displays of the characteristics of local cultures, stimulating the accumulation of and dialogue between civilizations. For more information on museums in Taiwan, consult the website of the Chinese Association of Museums (http://www.cam.org.tw/english/main.htm).
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Major Museums in Taiwan

Museum
National Palace Museum National Museum of History National Taiwan Museum National Museum of Taiwan History National Museum of Natural Science National Museum of Prehistory National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium National Science and Technology Museum National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts Taipei Fine Arts Museum Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts Yingge Ceramics Museum Hsinchu Municipal Glass Museum

Telephone
02-2881-2021 02-2361-0270 02-2382-2699 06-3568889 04-2322-6940 089-381-166

Website
http://www.npm.gov.tw/en/ http://www.nmh.gov.tw/en-us/ Home.aspx http://www.ntm.gov.tw/en/index. aspx http://www.nmth.gov.tw/ http://www.nmns.edu.tw/index_eng. html http://en.nmp.gov.tw http://www.nmmba.gov.tw/Default. aspx?tabid=512&language=en-US http://www.nstm.gov.tw/english/ http://www.tmoa.gov.tw/english/ home.php http://www.tfam.museum/ http://english.kmfa.gov.tw/ http://www.ceramics.tpc.gov.tw/ en-us/Home.aspx http://glassmuseum.cca.gov.tw/

Location
Taipei City Taipei City Taipei City Tainan City Taichung City Taitung County Pingtung County Kaohsiung City Taichung City Taipei City Kaohsiung City Taipei County Hsinchu City

089-8547-702

07-380-0089 04-2372-3552 02-2595-7656 07-555-330 02-8677-2727 03-562-6091

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Taiwanese Art and Culture

Taiwans main theatrical arts are Taiwanese opera (Gezaixi) and hand-puppet opera (Budai Xi). Taiwanese opera has moved from its traditional outdoor stages to modern theaters and its performance has become more sophisticated; and some troupes, like the Ming Hua Yuan (), have even expanded onto the international stage. Hand-puppet opera, which combines popular folk stories with theatrical martial arts skills, has become an important part of the islands popular culture. Beijing opera () was brought to Taiwan from mainland China, and it too has added modern elements while retaining its original essence.

Hand puppets/photo by Xie Qing-you

Modern art and culture are flourishing in Taiwan. Every town and city has a culture center, performance hall, and activity center where concerts, dances, dramas, stage plays and the likes are frequently performed. Concerts are also mounted outdoor, such as Taichungs Jazz Festival and Gongliaos Hohaiyan Music Festival. Taiwanese performing-arts groups like the Cloud Gate Dance Theater and Utheatre have achieved international fame, and aboriginal music like the Pasibutbut chorus () of the Bunun tribe () also presents a variety of unique cultural features that make them treasures of Taiwan. For more information on performing-arts activities throughout Taiwan, visit the website of the Council for Cultural Affairs (http://english. cca.gov.tw/) or of the cultural bureaus of the different cities and counties (http://event.cca.gov. tw/organ-1.asp, Chinese only).
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photo by Ming Hua Yuan

Cloud Gate Dance Theater ()Cursive: A Trilogy/photo by Cloud Gate Dance Theater Cloud Gate Dance Theater ()Cursive: A Trilogy/photo by Cloud Gate Dance Theater

Ju Ming's art ()Taichi Series

Utheatre ()photo by Council for Cultural Affairs

Information on Art and Culture in Taiwan

Council for Cultural Affairs: http://english.cca.gov.tw/ City and County Culture Bureaus: http://event.cca.gov.tw/organ-1.asp (Chinese only) National Chiang Kai-Shek Cultural Center (National Theater and National Concert Hall): http://www.ntch.edu.tw/english National Center for Traditional Arts: http://www.ncfta.gov.tw National Taiwan Arts Education Center: http://www.arte.gov.tw/eng

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The unique characteristics of Taiwanese cuisine are closely related to the ethnic diversity. Southern Fujianese dishes, flavors from all the other regions of China, Hakka delicacies, and the special dishes of indigenous tribes are mixed and adapted in the islands kitchens, with yet more variety added by the infusion of foreign culinary traditions. Taiwan has everything from exquisite palace dishes and fine foreign foods to innovative local creations. The constantly simmering and metamorphosing culinary melting pot has brewed and stewed up the irresistible, mouth-watering delights.

Taiwans Rice-food Culture Taiwans Noodle Culture Taiwans Tea Culture Diversified Culinary Culture Night-market Snacks Special Local Delicacies Food Safety Certification and Labeling

Taiwans Rice-food Culture

Rice is one of the staples of any meal in Taiwan. Over the years the island has moved toward a culture of rice foods with varietal improvement producing highquality types of rice with varying textures and aromas. The organic cultivation and traceability systems introduced in recent years have added to the safety and value of rice foods in Taiwan. In addition to using traditional cooking methods, most people will add local ingredients to their culinary creations, bringing an alternative interpretation to rice foods. Besides the delicious rice with marinated mincemeat or shredded chicken, fried rice, rice with creamy toppings, rice noodles, and rice vermicelli, todays cooks also take advantage of the characteristics of rice varieties to concoct snacks such as turnip cakes, glutinous rice mochi, bamboo leaf-wrapped tamale zongzi, and New Years cakes. These rice snacks are used as sacrificial items every time a festival rolls around, allowing the God to enjoy them along with all men. In Taiwan, rice is more than just food; it is a deeply rooted culture.

Taiwans Noodle Culture

Most of the restaurants have noodle dishes on their menus, and some of those dishes, like danzai (carrying-pole) noodles and beef noodles, have developed unique Taiwanese characteristics. Most characteristics, perhaps, of the old-time flavors (and friendly atmosphere) of Taiwan are the Du Xiao Yue Danzai Noodles ( ), where customers sit on low chairs around low tables, eating noodles in small bowls and chatting with the proprietor. Beef noodles are an original Taiwanese popular food, and through the compitition for Taipei International Beef Noodle Festival in recent years, it has created a new dining fashion that binds culinary culture together with life.
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Taiwans Tea Culture

Taiwan has long been known for its production of fine teas with a large range of varieties. These teas are especially notable for the richness of aroma and sweetness. They are divided into four major categories: Dongding Wulong ( ), Wenshan Baozhong (), Tie Guanyin (), and White-tipped Wulong ( ), also known as Oriental Beauty). Taiwan also produces a relatively small amount of Assam tea. In the lives of Taiwanese people, drinking tea is both common and special; it can be served as a daily drink, or it can also be the beverage chosen to treat special guests. This has led to the development of a unique feature of the islands culinary culture: tea houses. The Maokong () area in Taipei has grown tea since the old days, and today it is a popular destination for practicing tea arts and observing night views of the city. Besides the traditional types of tea, unique tea drinks have also been developed, among which, the pearl milk tea is most popular even with foreign customers. With the trend toward healthy living, Taiwans tea has diversified beyond a beverage into a diverse range of products. This gives tea lovers more options; tea leaves are now used, for example, in the making of various kinds of snacks, pastries, and cakes, all with innovative tastes that will leave an unforgettable flavor. The tea-boiled egg with strong aroma is one of the most popular tearelated products in Taiwan. For a full understanding of the tea culture, you can visit the Tea Museum at Pinglin in Taipei County. The museum exhibits all the facts about tea, its history and artingredients, tea-plant varieties, categories of tea leaves, tea production and marketing, distribution of tea farms in Taiwan, tea-processing tools of the Tang and Song dynasties, tea processing down the ages, and modern teaproduction processes. The museum also has a multimedia room, a tea house, an outdoor tea-tasting area, and a tea promotion area.
Pinglin Tea Museum: http://www.pinglin.tpc.gov.tw/tea.asp Hours: Mon. to Fri.: 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 9:00 a.m.6:00 p.m.

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Diversified Culinary Culture

Taiwan is a great melting pot of Chinese and foreign cuisines, which are served in an awesome variety of restaurants all over the island. Taiwanese culinary culture embraces all of the traditions of ChinaBeijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Sichuan, southern Fujian, and the restand makes refinements so that the Taiwan version is often better. Taiwanese food emphasizes the natural features of the ingredients and adds soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, fermented black beans, sweet basil, green onions, coriander, and other spices to produce its characteristic colors, aromas, and flavors. The surrounding seas have made seafood another major feature of the islands food. The Hakka people have developed their own flavors with a strong emphasis on saltiness, fatness, and aroma. The indigenous peoples cook ingredients they find locally into dishes outstanding in natural freshness that they accompany with a sweet wine made of millet. With the infusion of the foods of new residents from Southeast Asia, plus the establishment of foreign cuisines (including those of Japan, America, Italy, France, Korea, and India, among others). Taiwan has foods that can satisfy any taste.
Taiwan Tourism Information Website: http://taiwan.net.tw

Night-market Snacks
Inexpensive Native FlavorsNight-market Snacks
Taiwans night markets, which embody a very special kind of dining culture, form near the busiest markets and temples in all towns. Enter a brightly lighted night market and you will see closely packed vendors stalls and a bustle of human activity, with all kinds of products vying for your attention and palate: mouth-watering oyster omelet, milkfish belly stew, fried rice vermicelli, little cake wrapped in big cake, pork knuckles, oyster noodles, and an endless variety of other snacks. Dining at a night market is convenient, fast, and cheap. The experience at the night markets, that become more colorful as the hours grow late into night, will definitely enrich your journey in Taiwan. Raohe Street Night Market
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Authentic flavors of TaiwanGive them a try!

Fried rice vermicelli

Stinky bean curd

Mango ice

Oyster noodles

Oyster omelet

Meatballs

Zongzi dumplings

Steamed dumplings

Steamed sandwich

Photo by Tourism Bureau/Hsin Tung Yang

Seven Popular Night Markets in Northern Taiwan

Night Market
Miaokou Night Market ()

Special Features
The snacks available in the Miaokou Night Market are known far and wide, among them pot-side noodle soup, frothy ice, tempura, nutritious sandwiches, and bean-sprout stew. This night market offers a wide selection of snacks from all over Taiwan, and is a favorite among tourists.

Location
Near Dianji Temple, on Ren 3rd Road and Ai 4th Road in Keelung.

Shilin Night Market ()

Between Dadong Road and Anping Road in the Shilin District of Taipei.

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Night Market
Raohe Street Night Market () Huaxi Street Night Market () Jingmei Night Market () Tonghua Street Night Market ()

Special Features
Taipeis first tourist night market, this one stretches 600 meters and has numerous vendors offering medicinal stewed spareribs. A good place for a healthy diet. Taipeis most famous night market, with popular snacks like seafood. This night market has over 30 years of history and hundreds of stalls. It is the most popular street market in southern Taipei. This cross-shaped market is located along two intersecting streets, with dining on one side and general goods on the other. A fine place for shopping as well as snacking. Among the famous snacks here are goose meat, seafood, glutinous rice cake in bamboo tubes, shwarma, oyster omelet, and marinated stew.

Location
Intersection of Bade Road, Sec. 4 and Fuyuan Street to Ciyou Temple on Bade Road in Taipei.

Huaxi Street in Taipei, between Xiyuan Road and Huanhe South Road.

Jingmei Street, Taipei.

Tonghua Street, between Xinyi Rd., Sec. 4 and Keelung Road, Sec. 2 in Taipei.

Lioaning Night Market ()

Liaoning Street in Taipei, between Chang-an East Road and Chung Hsin High School.

Night Markets in Central, Southern, and Eastern Taiwan

Night Market
Fengjia Night Market ()

Special Features
The streets around Feng Chia University form a city that never sleeps, and the night market is known for cheap prices and everything under the sun. All kinds of snacks, clothing, and accessories are on offer. The snacks here include all kinds of seafood such as crabs, eel, oysters, shrimp, mudskipper fish, and clams. Also on offer are tea snacks like phoenix cake and ox tongue cakes, with the products of the Yu Zhen Zhai Cake Shop being famous throughout Taiwan.

Location
Fuxing Road, Feng Chia Road, and Wenhua Road, between Xitun Road, Sec. 2 and Xian St. in Taichung.

Lugang Snacks ()

Lugang, Changhua County.

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Xiaobei Night Market () Liuhe Night Market () Luodong Night Market () Nanbin Night Market ()

Each vendor is numbered in this clean and neat night market, which offers a huge variety of snacks including seafood, coffin sandwiches, pot-side noodle soup, and eel. Food and Drinks produced in the mountain and from the sea, including special products from different localities, and snacks are available here in endless variety. Specialties include papaya milk and salt-steamed shrimp. The authentic snacks sold here include salty rice noodles, smoked duck, pork stew, shrimp and chicken leg, bean curd rolls, rice vermicelli stew, seafood, pork intestines, sausage wrapped in oily bean curd and oyster omelet. In this night market, Hualiens largest, you can try stir-fried fresh seafood and special snacks as you watch the sun sets slowly behind the mountains to the west.

Intersection of Ximen Road and Linan Road in Tainan.

Liuhe Road in Kaohsiung.

Around the town center and Zhongshan Park in Luodong, Yilan County.

Nanbin Park in Hualien.

Taiwan Tourist Information website: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw/

Special Local Delicacies

Taiwan may be relatively small, but being surrounded by sea and having a subtropical climate, it has an abundance of produce and, with the mixture of Indigenous people, Hakka, and people from all the provinces of China, it presents a rich tapestry of local cultures. As a result of unique folk customs and dining habits, each town and village has developed its own local delicacies that have become famous throughout Taiwan and overseas as well. All kinds of tea snacks, cakes and cookies are still made by the traditional methods, or have been given innovative and challenging flavors that are perfect for a taste on the spot and for taking home as gifts to share with relatives and friends.

Taro pastries

Taiwan love cakes

Pineapple pastries

Pork jerky

Photo by Shan Mai Food/Hsin Tung Yang (both are the winner of 2009 English Services Emblem).

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Food Safety Certification and Labeling

To assure food safety, the Taiwanese government has followed international standards in establishing the CAS (Certified Agricultural Standards) label for outstanding agricultural products and the Taiwan Food GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) label. These two labels on agricultural products and processed food products signify that the quality of the products has passed government certification. The Department of Health has been helping the catering industry to promote the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) system so that the control of food manufacturing processes can be strengthened, thereby upgrading the sanitation and quality of food and beverage products. Taiwans Commodity Labeling Act requires products to bear labels and stating the product name, producer, name of manufacturer or importer, telephone number and address, place of origin, main ingredients or materials, manufacturing date, expiration date, and other essential information that consumers can use as a reference when choosing their purchases; for rules on product labeling, please refer to the chapter on Shopping.
Food Safety Information website: http://food.doh.gov.tw/english/english.asp Taiwan Premium Agricultural Products Development Institute: http://www.cas.org.tw/en/ Taiwan Food Good Manufacturing Practice Development Association: http://www.gmp.org.tw/

Protect the worldBring your own eating utensils

As Taiwan promotes waste reduction, energy conservation, and carbon reduction, the government also encourages its people to take their own dining utensils when eating out. In the swelling tide of environmental protection, we show our love for the Earth by protecting the environment at all times!

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Taiwan has a rich and varied shopping environment, with shops staying open an average of more than 12 hours a day. In addition to the department stores and large shopping centers, different places all over the island have developed unique shopping districts, each with its own special character, in accordance with the customs and conditions of the particular locality. These shopping districts offer all kinds of quality merchandise and a wide range of considerate services. Taiwan is also concerned with consumer interests, so that when you come here you can have a joyful shopping experience.

Metropolitan Shopping Districts English Services Emblem Tourist Shopping Assurance System Consumer Protection Information for Consumers

Metropolitan Shopping Districts

The three major cities of Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung are shoppers paradises where you can put your finger on the pulse of style and fashion. The shopping districts in these cities can satisfy the purchasing needs of all different consumer groups, and the mass transportation networks that shorten the distance between the cities add even more to the joy of shopping in different places.
City/District
Taipei: Ximending Shopping District

Characteristics
The name Ximending was given to this district during the period of Japanese Occupation (1895-1945), and under planning by the Taipei City Government it has metamorphosed into the citys Champs Elysees. On weekends and holidays it is packed with people who come for culture, exercise, music performances, and other activities, with old- and new-wave cultures melding into a new experience. The Eastern District is the most popular business districts in Taipei City, with the MRT and bus systems providing connections to the department stores and restaurants that line the streets. Just about all of the big name-brand fashions and flagship chain stores are located in this area. This is called the Manhattan of Taipei, in the daytime; it is a business and financial center with a frenetic pace of life but at night another fashionable shopping area. Cafes, exotic restaurants, and art galleries line this street, with open-air tables on the sidewalks and outdoor concerts, art exhibits, and other community activities enlivening the holidays. This is a street for shopping, leisure activities, and art. The International Art Street is a Utopian community close to Tunghai University that combines culture, artistic landscapes, and community consciousness. It is filled with all kinds of individualized products, and shops with a cultural air. The cozy cultural mood is especially rich in the night-time. Over the past several years the New Juejiang Shopping District has developed into the biggest and most famous area for the sale of imported goods in southern Taiwan. It is a new-wave shopping and leisure heaven for young people.

Taipei: ZhongxiaoDunhua Shopping District Taipei: Xinyi Shopping District Taichung: Jingming 1st Street

Taichung: Tunghai International Art Street Kaohsiung: New Juejiang (Horie) Shopping District

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City/District
Kaohsiung: Sanduo Shopping District

Characteristics
The Sanduo Shopping District is centered on the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Sogo, and MegA department stores. In the surrounding area is a dazzling display of clothing and other products at inexpensive prices. The area is a favorite with the young crowd, and for an added attraction the Linsen Night Market is nearby. Source: Taiwan Tourism Bureau

Taiwans Brand Commercial Districts

To meet the combined needs of shopping and in-dept tourism, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) is helping to create Taiwans Brand Commercial Districts that will enhance the functions of traditional shopping districts and include historic villages, natural landscapes, and leisurely travel. The aim is to remold shopping districts for shopping, healthy activity, and culture. To find out about the travel, cultural, and dining characteristics of the different shopping districts, go to the Taiwans Brand Commercial District website.

Taiwans Brand Commercial District website: http://gcis.nat.gov.tw/taiwan-go Taiwan Go Living Network: http://www.go2tw.net/ (Chinese only) Taiwan Gifts Website: http://www.tw-agriflavours.com/ (Chinese only) Taiwan Handicraft Promotion Center: http://www.handicraft.org.tw/en/index2.php East Agritourism website: http://v5.coa.gov.tw/ezgo_eng/

Taiwan OTOP Shops

The Taiwan OTOP ShopsOTOP stands for one town, one producthave carefully chosen special products that characterize different towns all over the island and offer them to travelers on the 5th floor of Taipei 101, the 8th floor of Dream Mall in Kaohsiung City, and beside boarding gate C6 in Terminal II of Taoyuan International Airport. This makes it easy for visitors to take some special products and folk-art souvenirs home for friends to share their experience with the rich beauty of Taiwan.

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English Services Emblem

The government is promoting an English Services Emblem certification program in order to boost Taiwans international service capabilities, and provide foreigners with a friendly shopping and consumption environment. This program involves guidance for certification in five areas: shopping and consumption, accommodation and dining, tourism and recreation, medical services, and transportation. It encourages businesses to join the program and awards them with three-stars, four-stars, or five-stars emblems depending on their ability to provide English services, informing foreigners that friendly English services are available and that they will receive an adequate amount of clear information in English. For information please consult the International Taiwan Services Portal: (http://www.i-taiwan.nat. gov.tw/en/).

Tourist Shopping Assurance System

To assure shopping security for domestic and foreign tourists alike, in 2006 the Travel Quality Assurance Association set up a Tourist Shopping Assurance System in that evaluates businesses in regard to their environmental safety, after-sales services, product labeling, product shipping, and quality of services provided by sales personnel. Businesses that pass the evaluation are issued the Tourist Shopping Assurance Emblem, and when shopping disputes arise in stores bearing this emblem the shopper has 30 days to contact the Assurance Association for assistance.
Travel quality Assurance Association: http://shop.travel.org.tw/ (Chinese only) Shopping Complaints: 02-2516-9090 e-mail: [email protected]

Consumer Protection
Protection of Consumer Interests
In Taiwan, consumers interests are protected under the Consumer Protection Act. In general, disputes about returning merchandise are more likely to arise with products that are purchased by mailorder or door-to-door sales. Under the regulations, consumers can return objects bought via mail-order contract or door-to-door sales within seven days of receipt
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without having to give reasons or bear any cost. Disputes can be reported to the consumer service center of the local county or city government.
Complaint window: Consumer Service Center of the local county or city government Consumer Protection Commission, Executive Yuan telephone: 02-2886-3200

Commodity Labeling Act

To promote correct commodity labeling, protect consumer interests and uphold the business reputation, the Commodity Labeling Act stipulates that all commodities on the market should include labels in the products, inside and outside packaging and manual with facts about product name, manufacturer or importer, contents and manufacturing date, etc. (as listed in the following table), and vendors are not allowed to sell or intend to sell by displaying unlabeled commodities.

Required Contents of Commodity Labels

1. Name of product. 2. Name, telephone number, and address of producer or manufacturer, and place of origin. Labels on imported commodities should also contain name, telephone number, and address of importer. 3. Contents of commodity: Main ingredients or materials. Net weight, volume, quantity or measure; net weight, volume, and quantity or measure should be given in legally designated units of weights and measurement, with units of other kinds being added if necessary. 4. Manufacturing date should be given according to the ROC or Gregorian calendar. For time-limited products, period of use or expiration date should be given. 5. Other items of labeling as required by the central government authority. 6. Labeling of special products: For commodities meeting the following conditions, labels should state use, method or use and preservation, and other instructions for use. Products of a dangerous nature. Products related to safety and health. Products that have a special nature or need special handling.

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Consumer Protection Labels

To assure the safety of consumer, Taiwans government has established, or helped to establish, labels for various kinds of commodities and business premises. Choosing products with these labels give consumers a further protection.
Label
CAS Good Agricultural Product GAP Fruits and Vegetables

Logo

Explanation
CAS stands for Chinese Agricultural Standards, and is a label for domestically produced and processed agricultural products of the highest quality. Applied to fresh fruits and vegetables that have been inspected and certified as conforming to standards of tolerance for chemical residue. This label means that the product to which it is attached conforms to production and marketing operational criteria, from production to processing and packaging; it has not harmed the environment in the course of production, nor will it harm human health. Meat products bearing the Meat Safety Inspection Label have been processed in abattoirs that meet environmental health and equipment standards. Meat products that bear the CAS label have also passed meat safety inspection. The Food GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) label indicates good operating practices or good production standards that emphasize production quality, safety, and health. Applied to foods that have been examined by the Department of Health and found to possess certain health functions. Denotes products from legal dairy plants that have dairy product registration and engage in the production of domestically produced fresh milk. Products bearing this certification must pass strict inspection by the National Animal Industry Foundation, assuring health, safety, and quality.

Traceable Agricultural Product

Meat Safety Inspection

Food GMP Certification

Health Food

Fresh Milk Label

Good Goats Milk Label

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Label
Quality Alcohol Certification

Logo

Explanation
The Quality Alcohol Certification Label assures the quality of materials, production processes, and finished alcoholic products. This label is applied to electrical apparatus and electronic products, as well as toys that have passed inspection by the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection, and have been registered. Products bearing the CNS Mark have been inspected and certified as meeting national standards, and the quality management system used by the producing factory also meets standards set by the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection. The Safe Toy label is applied to products that have passed assessment by the Toy Safety Assessment Committee of the Taiwan Toy Research and Development Center. This label represents an energy efficiency 10-50% higher than national standards, assuring not only quality but the saving of energy and money. The Eco-label exemplifies the green consumption concept recyclable, low pollution, energy saving products, and products awarded this label are among the top 20-30% of all products in environmental protection performance. Hotels in Taiwan are divided into three categories: international tourist hotels, tourist hotels, and ordinary hotels. Hotels bearing the Legal Hotel label are operating legally, providing extra assurance for guests. Homestays that post this label are legally registered. For information on legal homestays, check the website of the Tourism Bureau or of the relevant city or county government. Tourist amusement enterprises that operate with government approval are granted this label. For information on legal tourist amusement enterprises, go to the website of the Tourism Bureau or of the relevant city or county government.

Commodity Inspection Mark CNS (Chinese National Standards) Mark

Safe Toy

Energy Saving Label

Eco-label

Legal Hotel

Legal Homestay

Legal Tourist Amusement Enterprise

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Information for Consumers

Store Hours
Stores in Taiwan operate for pretty long hours, generally from 10:00 to 22:00, and stores in most shopping areas lengthen their hours on weekends and holidaysespecially long holidays and the Chinese New Year. Large department stores and shopping centers are open 365 days a year. Some convenience stores, chain pharmecies, and fast-food restaurants (and even book stores) operate 24 hours a day.

Tax Refund
Foreigners who enter Taiwan on a non-ROC passport (including those who enter on a travel pass, entry/exit permit, or ROC passport without the holders ROC ID number stamp); who purchase, at the same store bearing the Tax Refund sign, NT$3,000 or more worth of goods that may be carried out of the country together with the traveler; and who take those goods out of the country within 30 days, may, at the time of exit, take their passports together with the purchased goods, tax refund form, and unified invoice(s) bearing the Tax Refundable stamp to Customs at the airport or seaport of exit and request a refund of the business tax paid on those goods.

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Tax refund counters for foreign travelers at airports and seaports

Airport/Seaport
Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 1 Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 2 Keelung Harbor Taichung Airport Taichung Harbor Hualien Airport Hualien Harbor Bureau Kaohsiung International Airport Kaohsiung Harbor

Location
Departure Lounge, 1st floor: Customs Service Counter Departure Lounge, 3rd floor: Customs Service Counter East Pier 2 and West Pier 2 Visitor Center, Customs Service Counter Visitor Center, Customs Service Counter 1st floor, Visitor Center 1st floor, Visitor Center 3rd floor, Customs Office Visitor Center 3rd floor, Passenger Terminal

Tax Refund Information

Service Center
Taipei Service Center Taichung Service Center Tainan Service Center Kaohsiung Service Center Taoyuan International Airport Kaohsiung International Airport

Telephone
02-2717-3737 0800-011765 04-2254-0809 0800-422022 06-226-5681 0800-611011 07-281-1513 0800-711765 03-383-4631 03-383-4632

Website

Travel Service Center, Tourism Bureau

http://eng.taiwan.net.tw

07-805-7888

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Service Center

Telephone

Website

Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 1, 03-398-2308 Customs Service Counter 0800-311006 Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 2, 03-398-3428 Customs Service Counter 0800-016801 National Tax Administration 02-2311-3711

http://www.taoyuanairport. gov.tw/english/

http://www.ntat.gov.tw/ county/ntat_ch/ntat_en/

Getting the Unified Invoice

With the exception of those that are exempt from issuing it under the provisions of the Business Tax Law, all businesses must use the Unified Invoice. It also serves as proof of purchase; if you discover a defect in something you buy, you can take your Unified Invoice to the store of purchase and ask for a replacement or refund. If you save your Unified Invoices you can also participate in a drawing held every two months; and if youre lucky, you can win NT$200 to NT$2 million!
Winning numbers for Unified Invoice drawings: http://english.etax.nat.gov.tw/

A Shopping Reminder
Please have your own shopping bag
In the interest of environmental protection, we encourage shoppers to carry their own shopping bags so that as they savor the pleasures of shopping, they can do their part for the future of the world at the same time.

Smoking is banned in public places

Taiwan implemented an indoor public area smoking ban on Jan. 11, 2009. Smoking is forbidden in indoor spaces with more than three people, and businesses post No Smoking signs. Those who smoke in places where smoking is banned are subject to a fine of NT$2,000 to NT$10,000.
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It is exceptionally easy to procure the items you need for your daily life in Taiwan. And your everyday interactions will give you a feel for the unique culture and friendliness of the local people. Living in Taiwan presents foreigners with extraordinary opportunities to expand their living experience and perception.

Renting a House Basic Public Services Telecommunications and Internet Postal Services Buying Daily Necessities Keeping a Pet Recycling

Renting a House
The cost of renting a house or apartment in Taiwan varies by location, size, and convenience, so it is best to look around, ask about, and compare. Before renting, we suggest that you go in person and look the place over, learn about its environment, and communicate with the landlord; then, after you decide, however long you are renting you must sign a lease to protect your interests. In addition to the rental itself you will most likely be asked for a deposit; and, if you go through a real estate broker, you will have to pay the brokerage fee as well. You can check the websites of legal brokers for news about houses for rent. The following website and hotline may also help:

Tsuei Ma Ma Foundation for Housing and Community Service: http://www.tmm.org.tw/English International Community Service Hotline: 0800-024111

Basic Public Services

Tap Water
Taiwans tap water is safe and convenient, with a qualification ratio above 99%. In Taipei City, the Taipei Water Department assures water safety and quality by offering free inspection of water supply facilities and water quality to assure that they meet drinking-water standards. We still suggest that you boil your water before drinking it for your safety. In principle the Taipei Water Department supplies water in the Greater Taipei area; outside Greater Taipei, the supplier is the Taiwan Water Corp. Information on applications for service, payment of fees, and other water-related matters is available on the websites of the two suppliers. You can also call their customer service lines for information.

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Tap Water Services

LOGO
Taipei Water Department Taiwan Water Corp.

Service Hours
8:3017:30 (Except Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays) 8:0017:30 (Except Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)

Customer Service Line

02-8733-5678 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year) Check the nearest service branch

Website
http://www.twd.gov. tw/english

http://www.water.gov. tw/eng

Electricity
Taiwans household electricity is supplied at 110 and 220 volts, 60 cycles. Lights, TVs, refrigerators, and other small appliances generally use 110 volts, while most air conditioners use 220 volts. If you use electrical products brought from overseas, be sure to check their voltage before plugging in; if they do not match the local electricity supply, or if your plug doesnt fit the local sockets, you will have to use an adapter or transformer.
Taiwan Power Co.: http://www.taipower.com.tw/indexE.htm

Gas
Households in Taiwan generally use piped or bottled gas. To get natural gas piped into your house, contact the local gas supplier and apply to have the necessary pipes installed. You can order bottled gas from a local supplier, who will deliver it to your home and change bottles for you. Gas is easy to use, but you need to be careful to assure safety. Gas suppliers add an aromatic substance to their gas in accordance with government regulations, so that a leak can be detected by smell and action taken to avoid danger.

Cable TV & Radio

Taiwan has five terrestrial TV stations and numerous cable stations, which include CNN, BBC, NHK, HBO, Discovery, and other international channels for the choice of viewers. You can receive terrestrial TV programs simply by using

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an antenna; for cable TV, however, you need to apply to your local cable TV company for installation. Taiwans only English-language radio station is ICRT (International Community Radio Taipei), at FM100.7 in north and south Taiwan, and FM100.1 in central Taiwan. You can listen to it online by going to its website (http://www.icrt.com. tw). ICRT can be received in most areas of western Taiwan and some parts of the east, although reception may not be very good because of the mountainous terrain.

Telecommunications and Internet

Local Telephone Service
Taiwans local telephone service is provided mainly by the Chunghwa Telecom Co. The National Communications Commission (NCC) has approved licenses for other local phone service providers since February 2008. Foreign residents can apply for a local telephone land line by going personally to a telecom business office with their Alien Resident Certificates, passports, and localcitizen guarantors (with ID card, National Health Insurance IC card, etc.), and submitting an application. The applicant can state that the customer wishes to be billed in English. To call another party in your same area, simply dial the telephone number; to make a domestic long-distance call (to another county or city), first dial the area code and then the number. To call the Nantou number 239-xxxx, for example, first dial the area code for Nantou, 049, and followed by the phone number: 239-xxxx. To call internationally, first dial the international access code, then the country code, followed by the area code, and finally the number of the party being called. To call the number 730-xxxx in New York, for example, first dial international access 002 (or 009 or 019), then the U.S. country code 1, then the New York area code 212, and finally the number: 730-xxxx.
International Operator: 100 English Speaking Directory Assistance: 106 International Telephone Service: 0800-080100

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Taiwan Area Code

Area
Keelung City, Taipei City, Taipei County Taoyuan County, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Yilan County, Hualien County Miaoli County Taichung City, Taichung County, Changhua County Nantou County Yunlin County, Tainan County, Chiayi County Tainan City, Tainan County, Penghu County

Area Code
02 03 037 04 049 05 06

Area
Kaohsiung City, Kaohsiung County Pingtung City, Pingtung County Taitung County Kinmen County Matsu (Lienchiang County) Wuqiu Nansha (Spratley) Islands, Dongsha (Pratas) Islands

Area Code
07 08 089 082 0836 0826 07

Cell Phones
Taiwan has six cell phone carriers providing 2G, 3G, and PHS services. Foreign residents can choose their service provider based on the pricing programs offered by the companies. Applications for cell phone numbers are divided into two types, monthly plan and prepaid plan. Foreigners applying for cell phones need to take their Alien Resident Certificates, passports, and basic personal ID documents; they also need to pay a deposit or have a local citizen act as guarantor. If you have just arrived in Taiwan or are here for only a short stay, we suggest that you apply for a cell phone on the more convenient prepaid plan.
Telecom Company
Chunghwa Telecom FAREASTONE Telecommunications Taiwan Mobile

English Service Line

0800-080090 0800-058885 02-6606-2977

Telecom Company
VIBO Telecom Asia Pacific Telecom First International Telecom

English Service Line

0986-000537 02-4050-7999 0800-096866

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Wireless Internet Connection

Taiwan offers a convenient and diversified wireless Internet environment that allows you to choose between ADSL, optical fiber, TV cable, Wi-Fi wireless, and 3G mobile for your Internet connection. To get connected by ADSL or optical fiber, you have to apply to a fixed network company; to do it by cable, apply to the cable TV operator in your area. Many transportation stations, restaurants, coffee shops, and other establishments offer WLAN wireless Internet connection, but you need to apply to your telecoms company or buy a prepaid card at a convenience store. For connection on your 3G cell phone, apply to your cell phone operator for 3G number and use a 3G wireless card. Most users pay on the monthly plan.

Postal Services
Taiwans postal services are highly convenient. The Chunghwa Post Co. is a state-run enterprise with post offices in all towns. Major post offices offer domestic and international express delivery, the delivery of refrigerated goods, and home pickup, among other services. In addition, a number of private homedelivery companies also offer convenient services, including 24-hour pickup at chain convenience stores. Chunghwa Post also issues exquisite stamps on all kinds of subjects, arousing a passion for collecting thema passion that is catered to on the Philately section of the companys website.
Chunghwa Post Global Information website: http://www.post.gov.tw/post/internet/u_english

Buying Daily Necessities

Buying fresh fruits and vegetables, other foodstuffs, and daily necessities is convenient in Taiwan, from all kinds of establishments including chain wholesale stores, community supermarkets, 24-hour convenience stores, and popular traditional markets.
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Traditional Markets
Taiwan has a high density of convenience stores, including those of the 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Hi-Life, and OK chains. Many of them are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, not only selling packaged foods, drinks, and daily necessity but also collecting various fees, accepting packages for home-delivery companies, providing ATM machines, the pickup of goods bought online, the sale of postage stamps, and the collection of tax and fine payments. Convenience, indeed!

Keeping a Pet
If you want to bring a pet into Taiwan, you should first apply to the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Council of Agriculture. If you bring an animal into Taiwan you should report to the quarantine counter at the airport or seaport of entry for on-site quarantine inspection and should submit an import permit or a certificate of animal health inspection. If the documents are found to be in order, the animal will be released on the spot; otherwise, it will be sent into quarantine until the period of quarantine is completed before being released. Owners of pets in Taiwan are required to register them with a county or city Animal Disease Control Center or a private organization commissioned by the Center within four months of birth. When a pet dies, the owner should cancel its registration with the registry organization within one month of the date of death. Most veterinary clinics provide pet health care, preventive injections, health examinations, and pet registration, among other services.
Pet-related Organization
Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Council of Agriculture Animal Protection Information Website, Council of Agriculture National Veterinary Hospital (with English Services Emblem)

Website
http://www.baphiq.gov. tw/mp.asp?mp=2 http://animal.coa.gov. tw/html/english/index.htm http://www.vet.com.tw/ National/address.htm

Telephone
0800-039131

02-2381-2991

0800-284666

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Recycling
The people of Taiwan in general have a very high level of environmental protection awareness. The compulsory separation of garbage has been practiced for many years, and garbage is now separated into three major categories: recyclable garbage, kitchen waste, and ordinary garbage. Recyclable garbage and kitchen waste are both recycled. For information on related activities, go to the website of the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) and link to the websites of local environmental protection agencies and private environmental protection bodies. Recyclable garbage includes paper, metal, glass, plastic, dry batteries, motorized vehicles (automobiles and motor scooters), tires, lead-acid batteries, electrical apparatus, information products, light sources, and cell phones, among other things. Kitchen waste includes waste raw and cooked foods, and other organic wastes. Different parts of the island have different ways of enforcing waste separation; for details, and for garbage collection times and places, contact your local cleaning squad or environmental protection bureau, or call the special recycling information line. Before you take out your garbage, separate it in your home and then deliver the designated category of recyclable garbage for the day to the cleaning squad at the designated time. Failure to separate your garbage according to the regulations can result into a fine of NT$1,200 to NT$6,000.
Type of Logo
Recycling logo

Symbol

Explanation
This logo on product and container packaging indicates that the contents are recyclable. Taipei City currently exacts garbage collection fees by including the fees in the price of its authorized garbage bags, which are made by the Taipei City Environmental Protection Bureau. The bags can be purchased at chain stores and traditional shops that bear theAuthorized Garbage Bag Salessign. Other counties and cities are gradually implementing this system.

Taipei garbage bag logo

Recycling Information Line: 0800-085717 Environmental Protection Administration: http://www.epa.gov.tw/en (02) 2311-7722

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Taiwan has a comprehensive healthcare system with hospitals classified into medical centers, regional hospitals, area hospitals and basic-level medical institutions, or another two major systems, Western and Chinese. The number of hospitals and clinics exceeded 20,000 in 2008, of which more than 18,000 had signed contracts with National Health Insurance. The inauguration of National Health Insurance in 2004 brought the right to equal medical care to all Taiwan residents. Foreigners holding ARCs are also eligible to join this system and gain access to the same healthcare resources.

National Health Insurance Bilingual Healthcare Service Hospital Gradation and Fees Chinese Medicine Drug Safety Medical Tourism

National Health Insurance

National Health Insurance is a kind of compulsory social insurance in Taiwan, providing equal medical rights to all the residents. Under the provisions of the National Health Insurance Act, foreigners with permanent residency documentation but without fixed employers should take that documentation and join the National Health Insurance program after they have lived in Taiwan for four months. Foreigners with fixed employers should join the program on the date when their employment begins. If they have dependents who are foreign nationals, those dependents have to obtain Taiwan residency documentation and live on the island for four continuous months before they can take out insurance. Mainland Chinese spouses are divided, in accordance with their Taiwan entry and exit permits, into family reunion status, dependent resident, and long-term resident, each category of which is subject to different health insurance standards; for details, consult with a Bureau of National Health Insurance office. When the ARCs expire, the holders will lose insurance eligibility and should apply for withdrawal. Insured persons living in Taiwan need only to receive their NHI IC card and pay their premiums regularly; then, in case of injury, illness, or childbirth, all they need to do is take the card to a contracted medical care institution, pay a small registration fee and partial payment for hospitalization or treatment, and obtain a full medical care.

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How Foreigners Apply for Insurance

Insured Person
Person working in Taiwan Responsible person of a company Dependent of foreigner Missionary Overseas Chinese or foreign student Those without fixed occupations and family dependants

Insuring Unit
Employer His or her company Through insurer of spouse or lineal relative Religious organization to which the missionary belongs Through the students institute Through township, city, or district office at place of residence

Method of Payment
Premium deducted and paid by employer Premium deducted and paid by employer Paid together with family member Collected and paid by the organization Collected and paid by the institute Monthly notification for payment mailed to insured person by NHI

Bilingual Healthcare Service

Seeing a Doctor with an Interpreter
Most public hospitals and large medical centers in Taiwan offer Chinese-English bilingual healthcare services, and most of their websites, information desks, and signage provide both languages as well. If you need English-language medical consultation, you can contact a hospital service to arrange it for you. Some hospitals also have international healthcare centers that provide convenient healthcare services to foreigners, and even interpreters to help or accompany them with consultation. There are some hospitals that can work out a plan of treatment and cost estimate b e f o r e y o u a r r i v e i n Ta i w a n , provide transportation information after your arrival, and offer you information on medical tourism services.

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Hospitals Offering Foreign-language Medical Services

Northern Taiwan
Hospital
National Taiwan University Hospital, International Medical Service Center Mackay Memorial Hospital, International Medical Service Center Taipei Medical University Hospital, International Patient Center Cathay General Hospital, International Health Care Services Taipei Medical University Wan Fang Hospital

Website
http://www.ntuh.gov.tw/ en/IMSC/default.aspx http://www.mmh.org.tw/ imsc/ http://www.tmch.org.tw/ tmuh%20english/index. htm http://www.cgh.org.tw/ en/ http://www.wanfang.gov. tw/ http://www.tahsda.org. tw/en/ http://www.skh.org.tw/ SKHenglish%20website/ index.htm http://www.cgmh.org.tw/ isc/

Telephone/Address
02-2356-2900 7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Taipei City 02-2562-7200 92, Sec. 2, Zhongshan N. Rd., Taipei City 02-2737-2181 ext. 3329 252, Wuxing St., Taipei City 02-2708-2121 ext. 1312 280, Sec. 4, Renai Rd., Taipei City 02-2930-7930 ext. 7766 111, Sec. 3, Xinglong Rd., Taipei City 02-2771-8151 424, Sec. 2, Bade Rd., Songshan District, Taipei City

Taiwan Adventist Hospital

Shin Kong Wu Ho-su Memorial Hospital Chang Gung Memorial Hospital

02-2833-2211 95, Wenchang Rd., Shilin, Taipei City

03-319-6200 5, Fuxing St., Guishan Township, Taoyuan County

Central Taiwan
Hospital
Tungs Taichung MetroHarbor Hospital China Medical University Hospital Show Chwan Memorial Hospital

Website
http://www.sltung.com.tw/

Telephone/Address
04-2658-3899 699, Sec. 1, Zhongqi Rd., Wuqi Town, Taichung County 04-5260-0770 ext. 5178 2, Yude Rd., North District, Taichung City 04-781-3888 6, Lugong Rd., Lugang Town, Changhua County

http://www.cmuh.org.tw/htdocs/ english/e_index.htm

http://www.cbshow.org.tw/en/

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Southern Taiwan
Hospital
Yuans General Hospital Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, International Medical Services Center St. Martin De Porres Hospital National Cheng Kung University Hospital

Website
http://yuanhosp.inks. com.tw/

Telephone/Address
07-335-1121 162, Chenggong 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City 07-312-1101 11, Ziyou 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City 05-275-6000 565, Sec. 2, Daya Rd., Chiayi City 06-235-3535 138, Shengli Rd., Tainan City

http://www.kmuh.org. tw/english/

http://www.stm.org.tw/ http://www.hosp.ncku. edu.tw/nckm/english

Eastern Taiwan
Hospital
Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital

Website
http://www.pohai.org.tw/

Telephone/Address
03-954-3131 83, Nanchang St., Luodong Town, Yilan County 038-561-825 707, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien City

http://www.tzuchi.com. tw/tzuchi_en

Hospital Gradation and Fees

Graded Medical Care with Convenient, Reasonable Services
In line with the implementation of the National Health Insurance referral system, hospital contracts have been divided into four grades: medical centers, regional hospitals, area hospitals, and basic-level medical institutions. You can tell the grade of a medical facility from the NHI logo hanging at its entrance. When you seek medical care with your NHI card, in addition to the payment made by the NHI, you will also be responsible for paying the registration fee (not within the scope of NHI payment) plus partial payment (including a basic charge plus partial payment for drugs, rehabilitation, and hospitalization). These payments vary according to the grade of the hospital and are imposed primarily to encourage the public to appreciate their medical resources. For the schedule
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of partial payments, please consult the Bureau of National Health Insurance website.

Hospital Registration Fees

Grade of Facility
Medical Center Regional Hospital Area Hospital Basic-level Medical Institution

Unit: NT$

Outpatient Treatment
50~300 50~250 50~200 50~200

Emergency Treatment
450 300 150 150

Bureau of National Health Insurance, Information for Foreigners: http://www.nhi.gov.tw/english

Protector of Community Health

Health clinics are Taiwans most basic medical institutions; every township, city, and district throughout the island has one. For remote areas far from large hospitals, health clinics are the first line of public health protection, providing a full range of timely medical services, including outpatient treatment, general health examinations, preventive immunization, cancer screening, well-baby information, and chronic disease prevention, among other healthcare services. They also promote adult health examinations, communicable disease prevention, health education, child health management, health inspection, and home care.
Health Bureaus and Clinics in Taiwan: http://www.doh.gov.tw/healthoffice/ (Chinese only)

Chinese Medicine
Looking, Listening, Asking, Pulse-taking for Maintenance of Health
Traditional Chinese medicine represents a healthcare system with a very long history of development. The Department of Health set up a Committee on Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy in 1995 to promote the modernization and internationalization of this ancient practice. The people of Taiwan have faith in both Western and Chinese medicine, and both are encompassed in NHI medical payments. In addition
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to independent Chinese medicine clinics, many hospitals also have Chinese medicine outpatient departments and some provide English-language consultation services. Combined Chinese/Western medical treatment has become a new trend, bringing together the features of Western medical therapy with auxiliary Chinese medical treatments that are known to be effective to provide a greater diversity of care.
Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy Information: http://www. ccmp.gov.tw/en/

Chinese Medicine Hospitals and Clinics that Offer English Consultation

Hospital or Clinic
Department of Traditional Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital Chinese Medicine Center, Taipei City Hospital

Website
http://www.tmch.org.tw/

Telephone/Address
02-5552-2850 252, Wuxing St., Taipei City 02-2388-7088 100, Kunming St., Taipei City 03-319-6200 123, Dinghu Rd., Jiulu Village, Guishan Township, Taoyuan County 04-2205-2121 2, Yude Rd., Taichung 04-3606-0666 66, Sec. 1, Fengxing Rd., Tanzi Township, Taichung County 07-761-3186 6, Fucheng St., Kaohsiung City 07-312-1101 ext. 6410 100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City

http://temp.tpech.gov.tw/

Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan Branch Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital Department of Chinese Medicine, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital Kaohsiung Municipal Chinese Medical Hospital Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital

http://www2.cgmh.org.tw/ eng2002/index.asp http://www.cmuh.org.tw/ htdocs/english/e_index. htm http://www.tzuchi.com.tw/ tzuchi%5Fen/

http://www.kmcmh.gov.tw/ synopsisE.htm

http://www.kmuh.org.tw/ english/

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Drug Safety
Get Proper Medicine with a Prescription
Taiwan practices a system of separated medicine and pharmacy, so in addition to the pharmacies that operate inside some hospitals, patients can go to outside pharmacies to have their prescriptions filled. Drugs are generally divided into prescription drugs and non-prescription drugs; the former can be obtained only with a prescription written by a doctor, while the latter can be obtained and used under consultation with a qualified pharmacist in a drug store.

Refill Prescriptions
Patients of stabilized chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure can ask their doctors to write a refill prescription that is good for one to three months, and can then get their medication at neighborhood drug stores. This avoids repeated trips to the doctors and allows more efficient use of medical resources.

Medical Tourism
The quality of Taiwans healthcare hardware, software, and services is fully up to world standards, and the cost of medical care is reasonable. This gives the islands healthcare a strong international competitive edge, and the authorities are boosting the internationalization of healthcare services and the combination of tourism with such non-essential medical procedures such as physical examinations, cosmetic surgery, dental treatment, LASIK eye treatment, and Chinese medical treatment. As they enjoy Taiwans beautiful scenery and delicious cuisine, tourists can improve their health at the same time!

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Taiwan has almost as many banks as it has convenience stores, with 37 domestic banks, 32 foreign banks, and a total of more than 3,000 branches providing deposits and withdrawals, remittances, loans, bills collection, and trading in all kinds of financial products. In addition, approximately 1,300 post offices also provide savings, remittance, and other financial services. Banking hours are 9:00 - 15:30, and post offices are generally open 8:00 - 17:30. The banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but there are plenty of ATMs providing services 24 hours a day, every day.

Currency and Money Exchange Travelers Check Opening an Account Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) Credit Card Internet Banking

Currency and Money Exchange

Currency
The currency used in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$), and the basic unit is Yuan. Bank notes come in denominations of NT$2,000, NT$1,000, NT$500, NT$200, and NT$100 (NT$2,000 and NT$200 bills are very rare, however), all having different sizes, colors, and designs. Coins come in denominations of NT$50, NT$20, NT$10, NT$5, and NT$1.

NT$2,000

NT$1,000

NT$500

NT$200

NT$100

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NT$50

NT$20

NT$10

NT$5

NT$1

Money Exchange
Foreigners who come to Taiwan to sightsee or live and need to exchange foreign cash or travelers checks for New Taiwan Dollars can go to an authorized foreign exchange bank or a bank that is authorized to deal in foreign cash and travelers checks. The foreign currencies that a bank can handle, the fees it charges, and their exchange rates are not exactly the same. There may even be a difference in currencies handled by a headquarters bank and its branches. Checking first on the Internet, and then by telephone, are recommended. Foreigners should present their passports or Alien Resident Certificates when exchanging money, and the bank will collect a small processing fee. International tourist hotels also provide exchange services. Changing on the black market could lead to being cheated or running afoul of the law. With the promulgation of the Rules for the Establishment of Designated Foreign Currency Exchange Bureaus by the Bank of Taiwan, and for Dealing in Foreign Currency in February 2006, tourist hotels, travel agencies, department stores, handicraft stores,
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jewelry stores, convenience stores, national scenic area administrations, visitor centers, railway stations, temples, and museums, along with other organizations that provide services to foreign travelers in Taiwan as well as ordinary hotels and stores in remote areas, are also allowed to apply for handling foreign exchange. Except for tourist hotels, establishments that exchange money display a standard Money Exchanger sign, in Chinese and English, outside their doors. For the rate of exchange, check a bank website.

Foreign Exchange Banks Designated by the Central Bank (DBU)

Bank
Bank of Taiwan Taiwan Cooperative Bank First Bank Chang Hwa Bank Hua Nan Commercial Bank Shanghai Commercial and Savings Bank Citibank Taiwan Land Bank of Taiwan Cathay United Bank Mega International Commercial Bank

Telephone
0800-025168 0800-033175 02-2348-1111 0800-365889 02-2181-0101 0800-003111 02-2576-8000 02-2348-3456 0800-818001 0800-016168

Website
http://www.bot.com.tw/English http://www.tcb-bank.com.tw/tcb/home/ frame_eng.htm http://www.firstbank.com.tw/en_index.html https://www.chb.com.tw/wps/wcm/connect/ web/common/English http://www.hncb.com.tw/eng http://www.scsb.com.tw/english/ eng_default.jsp http://www.citibank.com.tw/tw_citi_eng. html http://www.landbank.com.tw https://www.cathaybk.com.tw/cathaybk/ english/eindex.htm https://www.megabank.com.tw/en/

Travelers Check
Not many general businesses in Taiwan accept travelers checks. We recommend that you take your passport and identity documents with you, and exchange your travelers checks for New Taiwan Dollars at a bank. Most banks provide this service.
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Opening an Account
Opening an NT Dollar deposit account in Taiwan is quite simple. Just take your passport bearing a legal entry visa (or stamp), together with an ARC (if you havent yet received your ARC, go to a county/ city service center of the National Immigration Agency and apply for a Record of ID Number in the ROC to use as a substitute). In general, when you open an account you can apply for a bank card at the same time for deposit, withdrawal or transfering funds. Different banks use different procedures; for details, check with the individual bank.

Using Bank Cards in Taiwan

Withdrawal Restrictions
Withdrawals are in multiples of NT$100; maximum withdrawal per transaction is NT$30,000 (NT$20,000 for interbank withdrawal), and maximum withdrawal per day is NT$100,000. Transfers are limited to NT$30,000 per day (without prior arrangement); transfers of more than NT$30,000 must be prearranged with the bank in which the account resides, the maximum transfer per transaction is NT$2 million. (Each bank sets its own daily maximum for transfers.) If you lose your bank card, you can use your banks 24hour lost-card telephone line to report your lost card and stop payment. You also need to fill out a lost-card and stop-payment form as soon as possible. Different banks collect different fees for card application, lost card, and replacement card; for details, check with the individual bank.

Funds Transfer Restrictions

Card Replacement Process

Card Replacement Fees

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Automatic Teller Machine (ATM)

Outside of banks, you can find ATMs in major railway stations, airports, convenience stores, petrol stations, and large shops, providing 24-hour service. Besides withdrawing cash, to transfer funds, and pay taxes, a utility bill, telecommunications bill, transportation fee or fine, tuition, credit-card bill or insurance premium, all you need to do is go to an ATM. If you make an interbank withdrawal (that is, withdrawal from an ATM that does not belong to your bank) you will be charged a small fee for each transaction. Most ATMs offer interface in both Chinese and English, making them easy to use.

Credit Cards
Foreign residents can apply for international credit cards in Taiwan without regard to their length of stay. In general, a copy of your passport and ARC, along with a completed application form, are required. Each issuing bank has its own rules about guarantors; and the period of validity of your card, and its charge limit, will be determined by such factors as your residence, income, and assessment of your debt repayment ability.

Internet Banking
Most of Taiwans major banks offer Internet banking services. Foreigners who have accounts in local banks can go personally to the bank in which they have an account with their valid passport, ARC (or if they have not yet received their ARC, a Record of ID Number in the ROC obtained from a county/city service center of the National Immigration Agency), and specimen chop (or signature), and apply to use its Internet banking services.
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The government has adopted a number of measures to attract foreign professionals to work in Taiwan, including the simplification of visa, work permit, and resident permit application procedures. Three courtesy cards were also introduced in 2009: Employment Pass Card, Academic and Commercial Travel Card, and Permanent Resident Card. A related labor insurance system is also being promoted with the aim of creating a safe and convenient working environment for foreign professionals.

Work Permits for Foreign Professionals Courtesy Treatment for Foreign Professionals in Taiwan Work Permits for Overseas Chinese and Foreign Students Working in Taiwan: Rights and Obligations Labor Protection Investing in Taiwan

Work Permits for Foreign Professionals

A One-stop Center for Work Permits applications for Foreign Professionals was set up by the Council of Labor Affairs (CLA) on January 15, 2004 to make application procedures easier for foreigners. With the exception of professionals who need to obtain professional licenses before applying for a work permit, such as doctors, lawyers, airline pilots, and other foreign professionals can apply directly to the CLA through their employers. There are, however, a few exceptions; employers of foreign sailors, for example, must apply to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), and employers located in Science Parks and Export Processing Zones who hire foreign professional technical personnel must apply to the Science Park Administration or the Export Processing Zone Administration respectively. The employers of foreigners who come to work in Taiwan must submit applications for work permits, together with required documentation to the competent authority. However, for foreigners who are married to local nationals and have established residence in Taiwan; consultants and research workers hired by government agencies and academic research institutions under government jurisdiction; and lecturers and academic researchers on short-term stays of up to six months who are hired by public and legally registered private universities with the approval of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) need not apply for work permits. Work permits for foreign professionals are valid for a maximum of three years; if further employment is needed, the employer may apply for an extension four months prior to expiration of the original work permit. After a foreign professional receives permission to work in Taiwan, prior to his or her arrival, he or she should apply to an overseas consulate or representative office of the Republic of China for a resident visa. Those who are already in Taiwan can apply to an office of the Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for the change of a resident visa, and then go to the National Immigration Agency (NIA) to apply for an alien resident certificate. A foreign professional whose employer applies for an extension prior to expiration of his or her original work permit may continue working in Taiwan without having to leave the country and then return.
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Categories of Work Permits for Foreign Professionals, and Issuing Agencies

Foreign Professional Issuing Agency
A.) Professional or technical workers; B.) Ranking executives of enterprises invested in or established with government approval by overseas Chinese or foreign nationals; C.) Schoolteachers; D.) Full-time foreign language teachers in supplementary schools registered in accordance with the Council of Labor Affairs, Supplementary and Continuing Education Law; E.) Athletic Executive Yuan coaches and athletes; F.) Religious, art, and performance workers; G.) Contract performance workers; and H.) Foreign and overseas Chinese students, and students from Hong Kong and Macau Foreign sailors Foreign professionals and technical personnel hired by enterprises in Science Parks Foreign professionals and technical personnel hired by enterprises in Export Processing Zones Ministry of Transportation and Communications Science Park Administration Export Processing Zone Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs

Bureau of Employment and Vocational Training, Council of Labor Affairs: http://www.evta.gov.tw/eng Foreign Professional Work Permit Area: http://www.evta.gov.tw/eng/topicsite/topic_index.asp

Courtesy Treatment for Foreign Professionals in Taiwan

Employment Pass Card
The Employment Pass Card is issued to foreign workers of a professional or technical nature and combines the functions of a resident visa, work permit, ARC, and re-entry permit. It is issued by the National Immigration Agency. Applications for working in Taiwan must conform to the types of work listed in Article 46, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 1 through Subparagraph 6 of the Employment Service Act. For professionals who are not in Taiwan, applications must be submitted by the
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professionals themselves, their employers, or their agents, together with required documentation and fees, to an ROC consulate or representative office overseas. For professionals who are already in Taiwan, applications must be submitted by their employers or agents, together with required documentation and fees, to NIA.

Qualifications for the Employment Pass Card

Professional or technical work. Executives of enterprises invested in or established by overseas Chinese or foreign nationals with approval from the government. Teachers in the following schools: 1. Teachers in public or legally registered private schools at the college level or above, and schools for foreign residents. 2. Teachers of qualified foreign-language courses of public or legally registered private schools at the senior high level or below. 3. Teachers in the bilingual departments of public or legally registered private experimental senior high schools, or in bilingual schools. Full-time foreign-language teachers in legally registered short-time supplementary schools. Athletic coaches and athletes. Religious, art, and performance workers. Consultants or research workers hired by government agencies or government academic research institutions. National Immigration Agency, Ministry of the Interior: http://www.immigration.gov.tw Employment Pass Card Application for Foreign Professionals:

http://www.immigration.gov.tw/immig_eng/aspcode/main4.asp

Academic and Business Travel Card

International elites who qualify under the Operation Directions for Issuance of the Academic and Business Travel Card and the Implementation of Expedited Immigration Clearance, and whose primary purpose in entering Taiwan is not employment, may apply to NIA for Academic and Business Travel Cards. The cards are valid for three years; they may not be extended, but those who wish to stay in Taiwan for longer than three years may apply for new cards. The cards allow unlimited entry into and exit from Taiwan for stays of up to 30 days per time, and
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holders also enjoy expedited immigration clearance. During periods of stay in Taiwan the cards may also be viewed as work permits that allow their holders to engage in such business and academic activities as contract performance, lecturing, and business or technical guidance.
National Immigration Agency, Ministry of the Interior: http://www.immigration.gov.tw Information for Foreigners Applying for Academic and Business Travel Cards: http://www.immigration.gov.tw/immig_eng/aspcode/main4.asp

Work Permits for Overseas Chinese and Foreign Students

Foreign students and overseas Chinese students may submit work permit applications to the CLA, in accordance with their status, with a completed application form and required documentation, and with the permission of their schools. After obtaining work permits, they may engage in various types of legal employment in Taiwan. The work permits have a maximum validity of six months (those who apply in the first semester will receive work permits that are valid until March 31 the next year; those who apply in the second semester will get permits valid until September 30 the same year). With the exception of the summer vacation period, holders of these work permits may work a maximum of 16 hours per week. Foreign students, overseas Chinese students with ROC passports, and foreign students of Chinese ethnicity who wish to apply for work permits can find out more information by visiting the website of the Bureau of Employment and Vocational Training (http://www.evta.gov.tw/eng).
Foreign Workers for Special Professions or Technical Assignments (White Collar): http://www.evta.gov.tw/eng/topicsite/topic_index.asp Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission: http://www.ocac.gov.tw/english/ Information for Foreigners: http://iff.immigration.gov.tw

Working in Taiwan: Rights and Obligations

Regular Medical Examination
Foreigners applying to be teachers in supplementary schools in Taiwan must attach a certificate of medical examination performed within three months and approved by the Department of Health (DOC); if the medical examination is performed overseas, it must be validated by an overseas ROC representative

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office. For foreign workers who enter Taiwan, their employer must arrange for them to take medical examinations at a hospital designated by the DOH within three working days after entering Taiwan, and within 30 days before or after the date on which they have been in Taiwan for six months, 18 months, and 30 months.

Visa
Foreigners who have obtained work permits from the CLA should apply for visas at ROC overseas offices, prior to traveling to Taiwan. If they have already entered Taiwan, they should consult with a nearby office of the BOCA.
Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://www.boca.gov.tw/

Alien Resident Certificate (ARC)

Foreigners intending to reside in Taiwan should submit an application for an ARC, together with required documentation, to a County/City Service Center of NIA within 15 days after entering Taiwan.
National Immigration Agency: http://www.immigration.gov.tw International Community Service Hotline: 0800-024111

Salary Income and Tax Payment

Tax must be paid on salary income earned in Taiwan. The filing month is May. Those who work legally in Taiwan and stay on the island for less than 183 days within a tax year (January 1December 31) are taxed as non-residents; those who earn no more than 1.5 times the minimum wage (that is, no more than NT$25,920 per month) are taxed a rate of 6% of salary income; those who earn more than that are taxed at 20%. Those who work and live in Taiwan for 183 days or more within a taxable year are taxed as residents at a rate of 6%-40%.
National Tax Administration Toll-free Hotline: 0800-000321 eTax Portal, Ministry of Finance: http://www.etax.nat.gov.tw/

Personal Tax Preferences

To strengthen the willingness of foreigners to live and work in Taiwan, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) implemented the Scope of Application for Tax Preferences Provided to Foreign Professionals on January 1, 2008. Foreign
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professionals eligible for these preferences are allowed to list round-trip travel costs paid by the company for themselves and their dependents, home-leave travel costs, moving costs, utilities fees, cleaning costs, telephone fees, rental costs, the cost of renovating rented premises, and childrens educational costs as expenses that can be deducted from taxable income.

Tax Information
Agency
Foreign Taxpayers Section, Services Division, Taipei National Tax Administration National Tax Administration of Northern Taiwan Province National Tax Administration of Southern Taiwan Province Foreign Taxpayers Section, Services Division, Kaohsiung National Tax Administration

Telephone
02-2311-3711

Address
2, Sec. 1, Zhonghua Rd., Taipei City 15F., 286, Sec. 3, Sanmin Rd., Taoyuan City 6-17F., 7, Fubei St., Tainan City 148, Guangzhou 1st St., Kaohsiung City

03-339-3789 ext. 1430 06-222-3111 ext. 1203 07-725-6600 ext. 7020, 7021

Labor Protection
Labor Insurance
All foreigners who hold ARCs and work permits must participate in National Health Insurance (NHI, please see the Healthcare chapter); and, to further protect the interests of employees, they need to join Labor Insurance. Labor insurance in Taiwan is divided into two major categories: workers with fixed employers are insured through their companies, and workers without fixed employers must join a union and be insured through the union. Labor insurance premiums are paid as a ratio of the workers monthly insurance salaries, with the employer paying 70%, the government subsidizing 10%, and the worker paying 20%. Coverage includes injury and illness, loss of function,
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childbirth, death, old-age pension, and medical costs resulting from occupational accidents. Foreign workers enjoy the same benefits as domestic workers.
Council of Labor Affairs: http://www.cla.gov.tw/en/ Bureau of Employment and Vocational Training, Council of Labor Affairs: http://www.evta.gov.tw/eng/

Investing in Taiwan
Taiwan lies at the hub connecting Europe, America, Japan, and the emerging markets of the Asia-Pacific region; it is a center of high-tech OEM/ODM manufacturing, and an R&D and testing center for Chinese markets all over the world. With the liberalization of economic and trade relations with China, Taiwan is better situated to serve as a key link to the China market and to global deployment for multinational enterprises, making it an indispensable partner in the Asia-Pacific for companies from all over the world. The MOEA operates the Invest in Taiwan portal website to provide investors with the information they need for the different stages of investment evaluation. This is the gateway where investors from all over the world can learn about Taiwans investment environment. Two major sections of the website, Investment Environment and Investment Guide, give clear and complete information on Taiwans manpower resources, tax system, investment incentives, investment regulations, and operating locations, among other subjects, and an interactive Taiwan map introduces the investment environments and opportunities of the islands different counties and cities. A Help with Your Investment section offers customized investment procedures and related forms depending on the type of investor, amount of investment, and operating location. Investors can learn what they need to know in the FAQ section, and can use the Contact Us service area to contact the Department of Investment Services of MOEA and have a designated person provide consultation and assistance about investing in Taiwan.
Invest in Taiwan portal site: http://investintaiwan.nat.gov.tw/en/

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Taiwans universities are vigorously promoting a policy of internationalization and enhancing competitiveness in response to the trends toward globalization. They are offering scholarships to encourage foreign students to come and study in Taiwan and are establishing centers of Chinese studies to promote cultural and educational exchange. In addition, a friendly international living environment is created to attract international talent through the establishment of foreign schools so that foreigners will not worry about their childrens education.

Foreign Schools Taiwan Education Centers Study in Taiwan Scholarships in Taiwan Studying Chinese in Taiwan

Foreign Schools
Taiwan currently has 19 foreign schools: 12 American schools, 3 Japanese schools, 2 Korean schools, 1 Dutch school, and 1 European school (with German, British, French, and senior high branches). These schools offer education from kindergarten through the 12th grade, depending on the school, and are located in Taipei City, Hsinchu City, Taichung County, and Kaohsiung City and County. For qualifications of entry, and registration and tuition fees, consult the individual schools.

Foreign Schools in Taiwan

Location School
Taipei American School Grace Christian Academy

Program
Kindergarten through 12th grade Kindergarten through 9th grade

Telephone
02-2873-9900

Website
http://www.tas.edu. tw http://www.gcataipei.org http://www.dishs. tp.edu.tw http://bethany.mca. org.tw http://www.taastaiwan.com http://www.taipeieuropeanschool.com http://www.taipeijs. org http://taipeikoes. com

02-2785-7233

Kindergarten Dominican through 12th International School grade Taipei Morrison Academy City Bethany Campus (8 schools) Taipei Adventist American School Taipei European School Taipei Japanese School Taipei Korean School Kindergarten through 9th grade First through 8th grade Kindergarten through 13th grade First through 9th grade Kindergarten through 6th grade

02-2533-8451

02-2365-9691

02-2861-6400

02-2862-2920

02-2872-3801

02-2303-9126

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Location

School
Hsinchu American School

Program
Kindergarten through 12th grade

Telephone
03-520-3211

Website
http://www.has. hc.edu.tw http://www.hdis. hc.edu.tw http://pacificamerican.org http://www.ast. tc.edu.tw http://k8.mca.org.tw http://hs.mca.org.tw http://tjs97.myweb. hinet.net http://www.kas. kh.edu.tw

Hsinchu Kindergarten Hsinchu City through 12th (3 schools) International School grade Pacific American School American School in Taichung Taichung City (2 schools) Morrison Academy Taichung County (1 school) First through 12th grades First through 12th grade Kindergarten through 12th grade First through 9th grade Kindergarten through 12th grade Kindergarten through 6th grade First through 9th grades Kindergarten through 6th grade Kindergarten through 9th grade

03-538-8113

03-571-7070 04-2239-7532

04-2297-3927

Taichung Japanese School Kaohsiung American School

04-2567-2079

07-583-0112

Kaohsiung Dominican School Kaohsiung City (4 schools) Kaohsiung Japanese School Kaohsiung Korean School Kaohsiung County (1 school) Morrison Academy Kaohsiung

07-552-3989

http://www.dskg.org http://takaojs. hihosting.hinet.net

07-224-9314

07- 551-3918 --

07-356-1190

http://kaohsiung. mca.org.tw

Note: Last updated on March 31, 2009 (For details, consult Ministry of Education website) Ministry of Education Global Information website: http://english.moe.gov.tw/ Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission: http://www.ocac.gov.tw/english/

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Taiwan Education Centers

To expand the recruitment of foreign students to study in Taiwan and to promote the study of the Chinese language, the Ministry of Education (MOE) encourages domestic universities to set up Taiwan education centers overseas to offer Chinese-language courses and Chinese-language proficiency testing, provide information on higher education in Taiwan, and encourage foreign students to come and study in Taiwan. Such centers have been established in seven cities in Thailand, Vi e t n a m , M a l a y s i a , M o n g o l i a , and Korea, providing international education and exchange services.

Taiwan Education Centers Overseas

Establishing School
National Taiwan Normal University National Chung Hsing University Wenzao Ursuline College of Languages National Chi Nan University National Changhua University of Education

(Last updated: May 1, 2009)

Country/City

Telephone (Taiwan)
02-2363-7559 ext. 22

Telephone (Overseas)

Website

Thailand/ Bangkok

+66-2-6670183

http://www.Taiwancenter.com

Thailand/ Chiang Mai

04-2284-0206 ext. 25

+66-53-873181

http://www.tec.mju. ac.th/

Vietenam/ Hanoi Vietnam/ Ho Chi Minh City Malaysia/ Kuala Lumpur

07-342-6031 ext. 3203

+84-4-33535118

http://cfd.wtuc.edu. tw/survey/ctet/index

049-291-0960 ext. 2561

+84-08-39103105

http://www.techcmc. com.vn http://www.cts.edu. my/educenter/index. htm

04-723-2105 ext. 5452

+603-5121-3100 ext. 114

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Establishing School
Ming Chuan University Ming Chuan University

Country/City
Mongolia/ Ulaanbaatar

Telephone (Taiwan)
03-350-7001 ext. 3705 02-2882-4564 ext. 8317

Telephone (Overseas)
+976-9980-6188

Website
http://www1.mcu.edu. tw/Apps/SB/SB_Site. aspx?PageID=583 http://www1.mcu.edu. tw/Apps/SB/SB_Site. aspx?PageID=583

Korea/Seoul

+82-2-2757-9371

Study in Taiwan
Foreign students refers to those without ROC nationality and without Overseas Chinese ID. Under the Regulations Regarding International Students Undertaking Studies in Taiwan, foreign students should apply directly to their preferred schools at the designated times and submit all necessary documentation. Those who are approved will be issued letters of admission. Foreign students who already have legal resident status in Taiwan and seek admission to elementary or high school can go to a school near where they live. With the exception of those who are applying to masters or more advanced programs, foreign students who complete a course of study in Taiwan and wish to continue with the next course can apply under the same conditions as local students. For more information on schooling conditions and information on application for admission, visit the Foreign Students section of the website of the Bureau of International Cultural and Educational Relations (http://english.moe. gov.tw).

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Schools that Admit Foreign Students

Each college and university sets its own rules, qualifications, and methods for the admission of foreign students. For details, please contact the school of your choice directly.
For a list of colleges and universities in Taiwan that accept foreign students, visit this website: http://www.taiwanembassy.org/public/Attachment/66711463471.doc

Information for Foreign Students in Taiwan

Information for Foreigners website: http://iff.immigration.gov.tw/enfront/student.php Bureau of International Cultural and Educational Relations, Ministry of Education: http://english.moe.gov.tw/mp.asp?mp=1

Scholarships in Taiwan
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), National Science Council (NSC), and Ministry of Education (MOE) have jointly established Taiwan Scholarships to encourage outstanding foreign students (excluding those from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau) to come and pursue degree programs in Taiwan. The MOFA offers scholarships to students from diplomatic allies and other friendly countries; MOE and NSC scholarships help students from other countries. For details on the types of degrees, quotas, amount of scholarship, application procedures, and other information, please consult an ROC overseas embassy or representative office. For information on the embassy or offices close to you, visit the ROCs MOFA website and click on List of Embassies & Missions Abroad. F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o n Ta i w a n Scholarships, visit the website of Taiwan Scholarship and Huayu Enrichment Scholarship Office at http://scholar.cher. ntnu.edu.tw/TSP or call (02) 2321-1795 ext. 18.

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Scholarships Offered by Different Institutions

Name
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Scholarship

Recipient
Primarily countries having diplomatic ties with the ROC; for university and graduate courses. Countries outside those provided scholarships by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for graduate programs in hightech science, engineering, medicine, and agriculture. Countries outside those provided scholarships by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for graduate programs. Countries outside those provided scholarships by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for university and graduate programs.

Amount
NT$30,000 per month, plus round-trip economy-class air ticket for most direct route to Taiwan.

Ministry of Economic Affairs Scholarships National Science Council Scholarships Ministry of Education Scholarships

NT$30,000 per month.

NT$30,000 per month.

NT$25,000 per month, for university and pre-university language programs; NT$30,000 per month, for graduate programs. (Last updated: Jan. 14, 2009)

Bureau of International Cultural and Educational Relations: http://english.moe.gov.tw/ Study in Taiwan website: http://www.studyintaiwan.org Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://www.mofa.gov.tw/webapp/mp?mp=6

Studying Chinese in Taiwan

Colleges and universities all over Taiwan have set up Chinese-language centers with long-term Chinese-language curricula. A few examples are the Mandarin Training Center at NTNU, Language Center at NTU, Language Center at NCHU, and Chinese Language Education Center at NTUE. There are also Chinese-language educational institutions, approved by MOE, that support university Chinese-language education; these include the Chientan Overseas Youth Activity Center and the Language Training and Testing Center.
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Universities with Attached Chinese Language Centers

Location Education Center
National Central University (NCU), Language Center National Taipei University of Education (NTUE), Chinese Language Education Center National Taiwan University (NTU), Language Center, Chinese Language Division, Language Center National Taiwan University, International Chinese Language Program National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), Mandarin Center National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), Chinese Language Center National Chengchi University, Chinese Language Center Chinese Culture University, Mandarin Learning Center Tamkang University, Division of Continuing Education, Chinese Language Center Fu Jen Catholic University, Language Center Ming Chuan University, Mandarin Studies & Culture Center Kainan University, Chinese Learning Center Chung Yuan Christian University, Center of Mandarin Learning Chung Hua University, Language Centre Technology and Science Institute of Northern Taiwan, Mandarin Center Northern Taiwan

Website
http://www.lc.ncu. edu.tw/main/clp/ http://r9.ntue.edu. tw/ http://homepage. ntu.edu.tw/~cld222/

Telephone
03-422-7151 ext. 33807 02-2732-1104 ext. 3331, 2025

02-3366-3417

http://iclp.ntu.edu.tw h t t p : / / w w w. m t c . ntnu.edu.tw/ http://aadm.nctu. edu.tw/mandarin/ http://mandarin. nccu.edu.tw/ http://mlc.sce.pccu. edu.tw http://www.dce.tku. edu.tw h t t p : / / w w w. l c . f j u . edu.tw h t t p : / / w w w. m c u . edu.tw/admin/mscc/ english/index.htm http://www.knu.edu. tw/CLC/ h t t p : / / w w w. c y c u . edu.tw/cycu/cce/ mandarin/ http://international. chu.edu.tw/ h t t p : / / w w w. t s i n t . edu.tw/chinese/

02-2363-9123

02-232-18457 03-513-1231 02-2938-71411 02-2700-5858 ext. 8131-8137 02-2321-6320 ext. 24, 34 02-2905-2414/ 02-2905-3721 02-2882-4564 ext. 8321 03-341-2500 ext. 4639, 4640 03-265-1308

03-518-6176 02-2892-7154 ext. 2730

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Location

Education Center
National Chung Hsing University (NCHU), Language Center Tunghai University, Chinese Language Center Feng Chia University, Chinese Language Center Providence University, Chinese Language Education Center National Kaohsiung Normal University, Center of Language and Culture Teaching National Cheng Kung University, Chinese Language Center National Sun Yat-sen University, Chinese Language Center National University of Kaohsiung, Chinese Language Center National Pingtung University of Education, Language Center Southern Taiwan University, Chinese Language Center Wenzao Ursuline College of Languages, Center of Chinese Language Tzu Chi University, Center for Language Studies Fo Guang University, Chinese Language Instruction Center

Website
h t t p : / / w w w. n c h u . edu.tw/~cnpm/chinese/index_en.htm http://www2.thu. edu.tw/~clc/ http://www.clc.fcu. edu.tw http://clec.pu.edu.tw h t t p : / / w w w. n k n u . edu.tw/~clct/ http://kclc.ncku.edu. tw http://www2.nsysu. edu.tw/CLC http://www2.nuk. edu.tw/clc/chinese/ index.htm http://b037.npue. edu.tw/front/bin/ home.phtml http://clc.stut.edu. tw/ http://c016. wtuc.edu.tw/ front/bin/cglist. phtml?Category=39 h t t p : / / w w w. l a n guage.tcu.edu.tw/ http://www.fgu.edu. tw/~chinlang/clic. htm

Telephone
04-2284-0326 ext. 399 04-2359-0259 04-2451-7250 ext. 5871 04-2664-5009 07-342-6031 ext. 3303, 3302 07-717-2930 ext. 2603~2605 07-525-2000 ext. 3030, 3031 07-591-9261

Central Taiwan Southern Taiwan Eastern Taiwan

08-722-6141 ext. 24000~24002 06-253-3131 ext. 6010, 6011 07-342-6031 ext. 3303, 3302 03-8572-677 ext. 1681, 1682 03-931-3343 ext. 1562

(Last updated on March 31, 2009)

95

The Handy Guide for Foreigners in Taiwan

Publisher: Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive Yuan Chief Editor: Juang Li-Lan Editorial Coordinator: Tseng Shu-Chuan Translator: Earl Wieman English Editor: Y.Y. Chuan English Copy Editor: Yang Jui-Yun; Sunny Yen; Ted Liu Planning and Production: Business World Editing Photographs: Council for Cultural Affairs, Executive Yuan; Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications; Kaohsiung City Government; Shan Mai Food Co.; Hsin Tung Yang Food Co.; American Eagle Institute; Cloud Gate Dance Theater; Ming Hua Yuan; Merida Bicycles; Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House; Juang Li-Lan; Wang Shu-Qin; Lin Shen-Wei; Xie Qing-You; Ho Jun-Lin; Chung Soon-Taek; Liu Yen-Yin; Tsai Tsung-Han Sales: Government Bookstore and Government Bookstore Online: 209, Songjiang Rd., Taipei; Tel: 02-2518-0207 02-2657-9211 http://www.govbooks.com.tw Wu-Nan Book Inc.: 6, Zhongshan Rd., Taichung; Tel: 04-2226-0330 We owe special thanks to the following organizations for providing information and assistance: Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ministry of Education; Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Economic Affairs; Council of Labor Affairs; Government Information Office; Department of Health; Environmental Protection Administration; Bureau of Consular Affairs, MOFA; Construction and Planning Agency, MOI; National Immigration Agency, MOI; Taxation Agency, MOF; Directorate General of Highways, MOTC; Civil Aeronautics Administration, MOTC; Bureau of High Speed Rail, MOTC; Taiwan Railways Administration, MOTC; and Bureau of Labor Insurance, CLA. Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive Yuan Address: 6F., 2-2, Sec. 1, Jinan Rd., Taipei, 10051, Taiwan, R.O.C. Tel: +886-2-2341-9066 Website: http://www.rdec.gov.tw Price: NT$100 Copyright August 2009. Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive Yuan. All rights reserved. GPN 1009802190 / ISBN 978-986-01-9629-0 / VII-0010