Overview

 

 

Taiwan is located off the southeastern coast of mainland China in the Western Pacific Ocean. It has been ruled by the Netherland, Spain, China, Japan since the 17th century as an important traffic hub in western Pacific Ocean. Beginning in the 1950s, the ruling authorities gradually democratized and became the first democratic country in Asia.

 

The island's economy grew rapidly after World War II and was listed as one of East Asia's economic "Tigers" in the 1970s. 

 

There are roughly 3 ethnic groups: the "Taiwanese" (84%, including Hoklo, and Hakka), mainland Chinese (14%), and indigenous peoples (2%). Han Chinese people populate the western half of the island while the indigenous Taiwanese aboriginal tribe, Ami, Atayal, Bunun, Kanakanavu, Kavalan, Paiwan, Puyuma, Rukai, Saisiyat, Saaroa, Sakizaya, Sediq, Thao, Truku and Tsou, live mostly in the eastern half, and the Yami inhabit Orchid Island. Mandarin is the official language and Traditional Chinese is used as the writing system. However, there are many dialogues and the Formosan language, originating from the Austronesian language family, is widely used among the aborigines.

 

 

 

 

Taipei

 

 

The capital city, Taipei, is a political, economic, educational, and cultural center, home to various world-famous architectural or cultural landmarks such as Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Dalongdong Baoan Temple, Hsing Tian Kong, Mengjia Longshan Temple, National Palace Museum, Presidential Office Building, Taipei Guest House, Ximending, and several night markets dispersing over the city. If you are a nature lover, natural features like Maokong, Yangmingshan, and hot springs will suit you perfectly. Want to see something more? Railways, high-speed rail, highways, airports, and bus lines connect you to every corner of Taiwan from Taipei.

 

If you are a food lover, Taipei is definitely your paradise! "Gluttony" was how CNN described it in the report "Asia's most sinful cities." There are 18 streets dedicated to nothing other than food. Where you might usually expect a bus shelter, instead you'll find a barbecue. Sidewalks become snack stalls. The pungent smell of stinky tofu fills the air. Night markets in Taipei have become famous for their snack selections, or xiaochi, literally meaning "small eats." Something like the stinky tofu, coffin bread or pig blood cake may sound a little bit weird. But if you dare to try it once, you will be eager to take a second bite!