handy foreigner guide to tainan
TRANSCRIPT
Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive YuanAugust 2009
2009 World Games Main Stadium in Kaohsiung
Photo by Kaohsiung City Government
The Handy Guide forForeigners in Taiwan
2
Taiwan’s 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 fauna—a quarter of them are endemics, including the Formosan land-locked salmon, Formosan rock monkey, Formosan black bear, and Swinhoe’s pheasant. This makes Taiwan one of the world’s 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 creation—to 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 Education—with 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
Welcome to Taiwan!
3
05
▼ Information for Foreigners Website 06
▼ International Community Service Hotline 06
▼ Visitor Visas 07
▼ Resident Visas 07
▼ Visa-free Entry 09
▼ Landing Visas 09
▼ Overstay 11
▼ Visa Services 14
15▼ International/Domestic Flight Routes 16
▼ Taiwan High Speed Rail 18▼ Round-the-island Railroad 18
▼ Metropolitan Rapid Transit Systems 19
▼ Long-distance Bus Service 20
▼ Taxis/Car Rental 21
▼ Driver’s License and International Driving Permit 22
▼ Bicycles 23
▼ Marine Transportation 24
25
▼ Tourist Information Services 26
▼ Taiwan Tour Bus/Digital Tour Buddy 27
▼ National Parks 29
▼ National Scenic Areas 30
▼ In-depth Touring 32
▼ Leisure Agritourism 33
▼ Arts and Culture 34
39
▼ Taiwan’s Rice-food Culture 40
▼ Taiwan’s Noodle Culture 40
▼ Taiwan’s Tea Culture 41
▼ Diversified Culinary Culture 42
▼ Night-market Snacks 42
▼ Special Local Delicacies 45
▼ Food Safety Certification and Labeling 46
02 Welcome to Taiwan!
Contents
Eating & DrinkingDiscover Taiwan
Visas & ServicesTransportation
4
47Shopping▼ Metropolitan Shopping Districts 48
▼ English Services Emblem 50
▼ Tourist Shopping Assurance System 50
▼ Consumer Protection 50
▼ Information for Consumers 54
57Living Tips
▼ Renting a House 58
▼ Basic Public Services 58
▼ Telecommunications and Internet 60
▼ Postal Services 62
▼ Buying Daily Necessities 62
▼ Keeping a Pet 63
▼ Recycling 64
65Healthcare
▼ National Health Insurance 66
▼ Bilingual Healthcare Service 67
▼ Hospital Gradation and Fees 69
▼ Chinese Medicine 70
▼ Drug Safety 72
▼ Medical Tourism 72
73Banking Services▼ Currency and Money Exchange 74
▼ Traveler’s Check 76
▼ Opening an Account 77
▼ Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) 78
▼ Credit Cards 78
▼ Internet Banking 78
79
▼ Work Permits for Foreign Professionals 80
▼ Courtesy Treatment for Foreign Professionals in Taiwan 81
▼ Work Permits for Overseas Chinese and Foreign Students 83
▼ Working in Taiwan: Rights and Obligations 83
▼ Labor Protection 85
▼ Investing in Taiwan 86
87Studying
▼ Foreign Schools 88
▼ Taiwan Education Centers 90
▼ Study in Taiwan 91
▼ Scholarships in Taiwan 92
▼ Studying Chinese in Taiwan 93
Employment and Investment
▲ Information for Foreigners Website
▲ International Community Service Hotline
▲ Visitor Visas
▲ Resident Visas
▲ Visa-free Entry
▲ Landing Visas
▲ Overstay
▲ Visa Services
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.
▼ 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
▼ Currency and Money Exchange 74
▼ Traveler’s Check 76
▼ Opening an Account 77
▼ Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) 78
▼ Credit Cards 78
▼ Internet Banking 78
6
Information for Foreigners Websitehttp://iff.immigration.gov.twThe 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 Hotline0800-024111Foreigners 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 toll-free, 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 addit ion, a three-way ca l l func t ion can ass i s t with reporting to the fire department or other request. Help and information from Hot l ine personnel make life in Taiwan care-free and convenient.
研考會廣告4.indd 2 2009/7/23 5:51:17 PM
7
Visitor VisasVisitor 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 VisasResident 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.
DocumentsNeeded
‧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.
Period ofVisa Validity
An ordinary resident visa is valid for three months.
Period ofResidence
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.
Documents Needed for Resident Visa Application
8
Coming to Taiwan for EmploymentEmployers 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/
▼ 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
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.
Notes
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.
9
Visa-free EntryVisa-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
Visa-free Entry for 30 Days
‧ Asia: Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore.‧ North America: United States, Canada.‧ Latin America: Costa Rica.‧ Europe: 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 90 days
Japan, the United Kingdom, Ireland.
Landing VisasCitizens 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
10
Ports of Entry Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Kaohsiung International Airport.
Required Items
‧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.
Processing Procedure
‧Those who enter Taiwan at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport should proceed to the airport office of the Bureau of Consular Af-fairs. ‧Those who enter Taiwan at Kaohsiung International Airport should
first obtain a Temporary Entry Permit from the Kaohsiung Inter-national 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.
Landing Visa Information
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.
11
OverstayTo Avoid Punishment—Apply for Extension 15~30 Days Prior to ExpirationForeigners 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
▼ 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
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.
12
Reapplication for Entry VisasHolders of ARCs who overstay under simple conditions may reapply for entry visas as follows:
StatusConditions of
OverstayDocuments Needed for
Application
White-collar workers legally working in Taiwan
Employment permit still within period of validity, and overstay of residence not more than one month.
With the stamp indicating work permit date in passport affixed by National Immigration Agency Service Center at the worker’s location, apply to competent authority for ARC with three-month validity.
Foreign spouses
Overstay of ARCperiod by less than six months.
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.
Underage dependents
Household registration no more than three months or proof of a valid Taiwan residence ID from a relative.
Overseas Chinese and foreign students
Valid student ID card.
▼ Bureau of Consular Affairs Global Information website: http://www.boca.gov.tw/mp?mp=2
13
Service Centers of the National Immigration Agency
Service Center Telephone Service Center Telephone
Keelung City02-2428-177502-2427-6174 Chiayi County
05-362-3763
Taipei City02-2389-9983
Tainan City06-293-764106-293-6210
Taipei County02-8964-796002-8964-6937 Tainan County
06-581-740406-581-6659
Taoyuan County03-331-483003-331-0409 Kaohsiung City
07-282-140007-221-3478
Hsinchu City03-524351703-524-7357 Kaohsiung County
07-621-214307-623-6294
Hsinchu County03-551-459003-551-9905 Pingtung County
08-721-666508-721-5417
Miaoli County037-322-350037-327-941 Yilan County
03-957-544803-957-8455
Taichung City04-2254-998104-2254-2545 Hualien County
03-832-970003-833-0007
Taichung County04-2526-108704-2526-9777 Taitung County
089-361-631
Changhua County04-834-961404-834-7640 Penghu County
06-926-715006-926-9469
Nantou County049-220-0065049-224-2235 Kinmen County
082-323701082-323-695
Yunlin County05-534-597105-534-6029 Lienchiang County
0836-237410836-23738
Chiayi City05-231-327405-231-9947
14
Visa ServicesIn 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.
Service hours: 08:30 - 17:00 (available during lunch hours)
Service Unit Telephone Address
Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
02-2343-28883~5F., 2-2, Sec. 1, Jinan Rd. Taipei City
Central Taiwan Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
04-2251-07991F., 503, Sec. 2, Liming Rd., Taichung City
Southern Taiwan Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
07-211-06052F., 436, Chenggong 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City
Eastern Taiwan Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
03-833-10416F., 371, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City
Taoyuan International Airport Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (24 hours)
03-398-2629 (Terminal I)03-398-5805 (Terminal II)
Locations for Submitting Visa Applications in Taiwan
▲ International/Domestic Flight Routes
▲ Taiwan High Speed Rail
▲ Round-the-island Railroad
▲ Metropolitan Rapid Transit Systems
▲ Long-distance Bus Service
▲ Taxis/Car Rental
▲ Driver’s License and International Driving Permit
▲ Bicycles
▲ Marine Transportation
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.
16
International Flight RoutesTaiwan’s 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.
▼ 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
Airport Destinations Airlines
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, Ja-karta, Da Nang, Kuala Lum-pur, Penang, Bali, Surabaya, Singapore, Palau, Kota Kina-balu, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brisbane, Sydney, Delhi, Auckland, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Anchor-age, New York Kennedy, Guam, Honolulu, Vancouver, Frankfurt, Paris, Kaohsiung.
China Airlines, EVA Airways, Far East-ern Air Transport, Mandarin Airlines, TransAsia Airways, Uni Air, Air Macau, All Nippon Airways, Air New Zealand, Continental Airlines, Dragon Air, Viet-nam Airlines, Japan Asia Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Angkor Air-ways, 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, Sin-gapore Airlines Cargo, Saudi Airlines, UPS, Emirates Airline, Air Hong Kong.
Kaohsiung International Airport
Hong Kong, Macau, Tokyo, Manila, Incheon, Jeju, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpor, Sin-gapore, Bali, Kota Kinabalu, Jakarta, Taoyuan.
China Airlines, EVA Airways, Far East-ern 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.
Airlines Serving Taiwan’s International Airports, and Flight Destinations
17
Flights Across the Taiwan StraitsForeigners 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 RoutesTaiwan 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 Telephone
Taipei Songshan Airport 02-8770-3430, 02-8770-3460
Kaohsiung International AirportDomestic flights: 07-805-7630International flights: 07-805-7631
Hualien Airport 03-821-0768
Taitung Airport 089-362530, 089-362531
Taichung Airport 04-2615- 5206, 04-2615-5000 ext. 123
Chiayi Airport 05-286-7886 ext. 0, 311
Tainan Airport 06-260-1016, 06-260-1017
Kinmen Airport 082-322-381, 082-313-694
Magong Airport 06-922-8188
Orchid Island Airport 089-732-220
Green Island Airport 089-671-194
Cimei Airport 07-9971-256
18
Taiwan High Speed RailThe High Speed Rail has become the main facility for north-south passenger transportation along Taiwan’s west-coast 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 transfersPassengers 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 RailroadThe round-the-island railroad connects all of Taiwan’s 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.
Wangan Airport 06-999-1806
Nangan Airport 0836-26-505
Beigan Airport 0836-56-606 ext. 105
Hengchun Airport 08-889-7120 ext. 1127
Pingtung Airport 08-7665760
19
Taipei City / County
Taoyuan County
HsinchuCity / County
Yilan County
Hualien County
Taitung County
MiaoliCounty
TaichungCity / County
Changhua County
Yunlin County
Chiayi City / County
Tainan City / County
KaohsiungCity / County
Pingtung County
◎Taipei Transportation◎Taichung Transportation◎Kaohsiung Transportation◎Yilan Transportation◎Hualien Transportation
NantouCounty
Metropolitan Rapid Transit SystemsBoth Taipei and Kaohsiung have mass rapid transit s y s t e m s t h a t p r o v i d e convenient access to tourist spots within the cities and, sometimes with connecting buses in surrounding areas. If you plan to stay in Taiwan for an extended period, you can save time by buying an IC fare card, including EasyCard in Taipei, I-Pass and TaiwanMoney Card in Kaohsiung.
Danshui
Hongshulin
Zhuwei
Guandu
Zhongyi
Fuxinggang
Beitou Xinbeitou
QiyanQilian
Shipai
Mingde
Zhishan
Shilin
Jiantan
Yuanshan
Minquan W. Rd.
Shuanglian
Zhongshan
Taipei Main StationNTU Hospital
Chiang Kai-ShekMemorial Hall Guting
Taipower Building
Gongguan
Wanlong
Jingmei
Dapinglin
QizhangXiaobitan
Xindian City Office
Xindian
Yongning
Tucheng
Haishan
Far EasternHospital
Fuzhong
Banqiao
Xinpu
Jiangzicui
LongshanTemple Ximen
ShandaoTemple
Nanshijiao
Jingan
YonganMarket
Dingxi
Xiaonanmen
NangangKunyang
HoushanpiYongchunTaipei
City Hall
ZhongxiaoXinsheng
ZhongxiaoFuxing
ZhongxiaoDunhua
Sun Yat-SenMemorial Hall
Taipei NangangExhibition Center
NangangSoftware Park
Donghu
Huzhou
Gangshan South
Ciaotou
Ciaotou Sugar Refinery
Cingpu
Metropolitan Park
HoujingNanzih Export Processing Zone
Oil Refinery Elementary School
World Game
Zuoying
Ecological District
Kaohsiung Arena
Aozihdi
DaliaoFon
gshan
Junio
r
High Scho
ol
Dadon
gFon
gshan
Fongsh
an W
est
Weiwuyi
ng
Martial
Arts Stad
ium
Wukuaic
uo
Cultural
Center
Sinyi E
lemen
tary S
chool
City Cou
ncil
Yanch
engp
u
Sizihwan
Houyi
Kaohsiung Main Station
Formosa Boulevard
Central Park
Sanduo Shopping District
Shihjia
Kaisyuan
Cianjhen Senior High School
Kaohsiung International AirportCaoya
Siaogang
Neihu
Wende
Gangqian
Xihu
Jiannan Rd.
Dazhi
SongshanAirport
ZhongshanJunior High SchoolNanjing E. Rd.
Daan
Technology Building
Liuzhangli Linguang
Xinhai
WanfangHospital
MuzhaTaipei Zoo
WanfangCommunity
N
Sizihwan
Yanchengpu
City Council
Sinyi Elementary School
Cultural Center Station
Wukuaicuo
Martial Arts Stadium
Weiwuying
Fongshan West
Fongshan Station
Dadong Station
Fongshan Junior High School Station
Daliao Station
N
Metro Taipei Route Map
Students who are in Taiwan on short-term study tours can present their foreign passports and international student cer t i f icat ion or a t ravel 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.
▼ Taiwan Railways Administration: http://service.tra.gov.tw/EN
▼ Train schedules: http://163.29.3.96/TWRail_en
20
Long-distance Bus ServiceLong-distance passenger buses ply Taiwan’s 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 Telephone
Kuo-Kuang Bus 0800-010-138, 02-2331-2950
Ubus 0800-241-560, 02-2995-7799
Aloha Bus 0800-043-168, 07-237-5640
Ho-Hsin Bus 0800-002-377
Free Go Bus 0800-051-519
＊ Smoking, eating or drinking, and chewing gum are prohibited in MRT stations and on trains.
▼ Taipei Rapid Transit Corp.: http://www.trtc.com.tw/e
▼ Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corp.: http://www.krtco.com.tw/ en/e-index.aspx
Danshui
Hongshulin
Zhuwei
Guandu
Zhongyi
Fuxinggang
Beitou Xinbeitou
QiyanQilian
Shipai
Mingde
Zhishan
Shilin
Jiantan
Yuanshan
Minquan W. Rd.
Shuanglian
Zhongshan
Taipei Main StationNTU Hospital
Chiang Kai-ShekMemorial Hall Guting
Taipower Building
Gongguan
Wanlong
Jingmei
Dapinglin
QizhangXiaobitan
Xindian City Office
Xindian
Yongning
Tucheng
Haishan
Far EasternHospital
Fuzhong
Banqiao
Xinpu
Jiangzicui
LongshanTemple Ximen
ShandaoTemple
Nanshijiao
Jingan
YonganMarket
Dingxi
Xiaonanmen
NangangKunyang
HoushanpiYongchunTaipei
City Hall
ZhongxiaoXinsheng
ZhongxiaoFuxing
ZhongxiaoDunhua
Sun Yat-SenMemorial Hall
Taipei NangangExhibition Center
NangangSoftware Park
Donghu
Huzhou
Gangshan South
Ciaotou
Ciaotou Sugar Refinery
Cingpu
Metropolitan Park
HoujingNanzih Export Processing Zone
Oil Refinery Elementary School
World Game
Zuoying
Ecological District
Kaohsiung Arena
Aozihdi
DaliaoFon
gshan
Junio
r
High Scho
ol
Dadon
gFon
gshan
Fongsh
an W
est
Weiwuyi
ng
Martial
Arts Stad
ium
Wukuaic
uo
Cultural
Center
Sinyi E
lemen
tary S
chool
City Cou
ncil
Yanche
ngpu
Sizihwan
Houyi
Kaohsiung Main Station
Formosa Boulevard
Central Park
Sanduo Shopping District
Shihjia
Kaisyuan
Cianjhen Senior High School
Kaohsiung International AirportCaoya
Siaogang
Neihu
Wende
Gangqian
Xihu
Jiannan Rd.
Dazhi
SongshanAirport
ZhongshanJunior High SchoolNanjing E. Rd.
Daan
Technology Building
Liuzhangli Linguang
Xinhai
WanfangHospital
MuzhaTaipei Zoo
WanfangCommunity
N
Sizihwan
Yanchengpu
City Council
Sinyi Elementary School
Cultural Center Station
Wukuaicuo
Martial Arts Stadium
Weiwuying
Fongshan West
Fongshan Station
Dadong Station
Fongshan Junior High School Station
Daliao Station
N
Kaohsiung MRT Route Map
21
Local Bus ServiceShort-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)
Car RentalRenting 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 Taiwan’s roads, you might consider chauffeur service.
▼ 24-hour Travel Information Hotline: 0800-011765
TaxisTaiwan’s 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
22
Driver’s License and International Driving PermitDriver’s licenses in Taiwan include automobile driver’s licenses and motorcycle driver’s 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 Driver’s Licenses Eligible for Conversion to ROC Driver’s 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 Driver’s Licenses Eligible for Conversion to ROC Driver’s 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 driver’s 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 driver’s 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 Website Telephone
Motor Vehicle Office, Taipei City Goverment www.mvo.taipei.gov.tw 02-2831-4155
Taipei Motor Vehicle Supervision Office www.tmvso.gov.tw 02-2688-4366
Hsinchu Motor Vehicles Office www.hmv.gov.tw 03-589-2051
23
Getting a Motorcycle Driver’s LicenseMotorcycles 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 Taiwan’s 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.
BicyclesRiding 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 domest ic b icycle-manufacturing industry has been working hard to build Taiwan into a “Cycling Island.” Many of the island’s 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
Taichung Motor Vehicles Office www.tmv.gov.tw 04-2691-2011
Chiayi Motor Vehicles Office www.cyi.gov.tw 05-277-0150
Kaohsiung Motor Vehicles Office www.komv.gov.tw 07-771-1101
Department of Motor Vehicle Kaohsiung City mvdis1.kcg.gov.tw 07-361-3161
24
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 TransportationPassenger 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 Japan’s 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 Taiwan’s unique topography flow through the cities create a major tourist activity: river cruise. Examples are Taipei County’s “Blue Highway” (on the Tamsui River) and Kaohsiung City’s 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/
▲
Tourist Information Services
▲
Taiwan Tour Bus/Digital Tour Buddy
▲
National Parks
▲
National Scenic Areas
▲
In-depth Touring
▲
Leisure Agritourism
▲
Arts and Culture
Ever since the 16th 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.
26
Tourist Information ServicesTourist Information WebsiteThe 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: 0800-011765Travel in Taiwan, when you need information on itinerary planning or emergency assistance, you can call the Tourism Bureau’s 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 CentersThe 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 go to the bright yellow logo and find the 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
27
Taiwan Tour BusIn-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 one-day 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 BuddyAn Essential Helpmate for DIY TravelThe 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 phone’s stored-value card can be purchased, and value added, at convenience stores and Chunghwa Telecom business offices.
28
Applying for a
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 Commission’s approval, the applicant should print the approved booking form.
Application after entry
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 Commission’s ap-proval, 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 Commission’s flagship Youth Volunteer Center in Taipei between 10:00 and 21:00, Tuesday through Sunday, and fill out an application form on-site.
Picking up a
Digital Tour
Buddy
Application prior to entry
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.
Application after entry
1. Online application: Backpack travelers who apply after entering Taiwan must pick up their Digital Tour Buddies at the National Youth Commission’s Youth Hub. They have to personally bring their documents (passport, copy of passport, valid photo ID such as driver’s license or student ID, and Digital Tour Buddy approval form) to the service counter of the NYC’s 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 driver’s 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.
Using the Digital Tour Buddy
◎ Application and Issuance: To December 31, 2009 (to be extended if necessary)
29
▼ 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 in Taiwan
National ParksMajestic 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 island’s important natural resources, the government has established 7 national 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).
Name Features Website HeadquartersTelephone
Yangmingshan National Park
Preserve volcanic mountains, crater lakes, and other landscapes, with a splendid flowers in full bloom every year.
http://www.ymsnp.gov.tw/html/eng/
02-2861-3601
Shei-Pa National Park
Scenes of high peaks and streams along with the Formosan land-locked salmon, broad-tailed swal-lowtail butterflies, Formosan black bears, Formosan serows, and other protected wildlife.
http://w3.spnp.gov.tw/english/
037-996-100
Chinese Crested Tern/photo by Wang Shu-qin
30
National Scenic AreasA Personal Experience of Taiwan’s Multiple FacesTaiwan 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.
Taroko National Park
Wonderous sights of a vertical-walled marble gorge plus archaeo-logical sites of the Neolithic Age.
http://www.taroko.gov.tw/
03-862-1100
Yushan National Park
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.
http://english.ysnp.gov.tw/
049-277-3121
Kenting National Park
A park filled with the atmosphere of the South Seas, known for its beautiful coral reef ecology.
http://www.ktnp.gov.tw/eng/
08-886-1321
Kinmen National Park
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.kmnp.gov.tw/en/
082-31-3100
Dongsha Marine National Park
Unique geological landscapes formed of weathered coral clast and seashells (not yet open to visitors).
http://dongsha.cpami.gov.tw/
07-360-1898
31
Taiwan’s National Scenic Areas
NationalScenic Area
Website Service Telephones
Northeast Coast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area
http://www.necoast-nsa.gov.tw
．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
North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area
http://www.north-guan-nsa.gov.tw/en
．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
East Coast National Scenic Area
http://www.east-coast-nsa.gov.tw/en
．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
East Rift Valley Na-tional Scenic Area
http://www.erv-nsa.gov.tw
．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
Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area
http://www.trimt-nsa.gov.tw/eng
04-2331-2678
Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area
http://www.sun-moonlake.gov.tw
049-285-5668
Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area
http://www.dbnsa.gov.tw/
08-833-8100
Maolin National Scenic Area
http://www.maolin-nsa.gov.tw/
0800-600766
Southwest Coast National Scenic Area
http://www.swcoast-nsa.gov.tw/en
06-786-1000
32
In-depth Touring Local Tourist Festivals Taiwan’s local governments combine their special industries with leisure travel and organize interesting activities either on a scheduled or unscheduled basis. These activities include Taipei City’s Chinese Food Festival, Taipei County’s Yingge Ceramics Carnival and Shimen International Kite Festival, Yilan County’s International Rain Festival, Taoyuan County’s Lotus Festival, Hsinchu Country’s Xinpu Persimmon Cake Festival, Hsinchu City’s International Glass Art Festival, Miaoli County’s Tung Blossom Festival and Sanyi Wood Carving Festival, Taichung County’s Mazu International Festival, Taichung City’s Jazz Festival, Changhua County’s Wang-gong Fishing Boat Lights Festival, Nantou County’s Hot Spring Festival, Yunlin County’s Linnei Purple Butterfly Festival, Chiayi County’s Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival, Chiayi City’s Children’s Theater Festival, Tainan County’s Baihe Lotus Festival, Tainan City’s International Chihsi (Chinese Valentines Day) Arts Festival, Kaohsiung City’s International Container Arts Festival, Kaohsiung County’s Puppetry Festival, Pingtung County’s Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival and Kending Wind Chime Festival, Hualien County’s Whale Watching Festival, Taitung County’s East Coast Music Festival, and Penghu County’s Ocean Fireworks Festival.
Siraya National Scenic Area
http://www.siraya-nsa.gov.tw/
0800-580762
Matsu National Scenic Area
http://www.matsu-nsa.gov.tw/
．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
Penghu National Scenic Area
http://www.penghu-nsa.gov.tw/
06-921-6521
Alishan National Scenic Area
http://www.ali-nsa.net/
05-259-3900
33
Leisure AgritourismTaiwan AgritourismFor a long time, Taiwan’s 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 international-standard 130-hectare Jhong Shan Agriculture Area in Yilan County’s 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 Taiwan’s leisure travel industry in recent years. Many of these facilities have distinctive architectural styles—South Seas, European villa, rural rusticity, traditional village—and 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/
One Town, One ProductThere 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 innovat ive 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.
34
▼ 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 CultureFolk FestivalsTaiwan 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, al l of which carry intense cultural significance.
Taiwan’s 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 Taiwan’s 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 island’s multicultural milieu.
▼ Tourist Festivals: http://www.taiwan.net.tw/festival/ (Chinese only)
▼ Taiwan Tourist Information network: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw/
35
Major Taiwanese Folk Festivals
Traditional Festival
Lunar Calendar Folk Activity
LunarNew Year
Last Day of Last Month to 5th Day of First Month
Family dinner on New Year’s 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.
LanternFestival
15th Day of First Month
Taiwan Lantern Festival, Pingxi Heavenly Lanterns, Bombing of Han Dan in Taitung, Beehive Rockets in Yanshui.
DragonBoat (Poet’s)
Festival
5th Day of Fifth Month
Dragon Boat races, eating of zongzi dumplings, hanging of mugwort on entrances.
Ghost Festival15th Day of Seventh Month
General salvation of souls, release of water lanterns, Grappling with the Ghosts.
Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
15th Day of Eighth Month
Watching the moon, eating moon cakes.
MuseumsTaiwan 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).
36
Museum Telephone Website Location
National Palace Museum
02-2881-2021 http://www.npm.gov.tw/en/Taipei City
National Museum of History
02-2361-0270http://www.nmh.gov.tw/en-us/Home.aspx
Taipei City
National Taiwan Museum
02-2382-2699http://www.ntm.gov.tw/en/index.aspx
Taipei City
National Museum of Taiwan History
06-3568889 http://www.nmth.gov.tw/Tainan
City
National Museum of Natural Science
04-2322-6940http://www.nmns.edu.tw/index_eng.html
Taichung City
National Museum of Prehistory
089-381-166 http://en.nmp.gov.twTaitung County
National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium
089-8547-702http://www.nmmba.gov.tw/Default.aspx?tabid=512&language=en-US
Pingtung County
National Science and Technology Museum
07-380-0089 http://www.nstm.gov.tw/english/Kaohsiung
City
National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts
04-2372-3552http://www.tmoa.gov.tw/english/home.php
Taichung City
Taipei Fine Arts Museum
02-2595-7656 http://www.tfam.museum/Taipei City
Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts
07-555-330 http://english.kmfa.gov.tw/Kaohsiung
City
Yingge Ceramics Museum
02-8677-2727http://www.ceramics.tpc.gov.tw/en-us/Home.aspx
Taipei County
Hsinchu Municipal Glass Museum
03-562-6091 http://glassmuseum.cca.gov.tw/Hsinchu
City
Major Museums in Taiwan
37
Taiwanese Art and CultureTaiwan’s 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 (明華園), 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 island’s popular culture. Beijing opera (京戲) was brought to Taiwan from mainland China, and it too has added modern elements while retaining its original essence.
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 Taichung’s Jazz Festival and Gongliao’s 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” (八部合音) of the Bunun tribe (布農族) also presents a
variety of unique cultural features that make them treasures of Taiwan.
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o n p e r f o r m i n g - a r t s a c t i v i t i e s throughout Taiwan, visit the websi te of the Counci l 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).
Hand puppets/photo by Xie Qing-you
photo by Ming Hua Yuan
38
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
Utheatre (優人神鼓)—photo by Council for Cultural AffairsJu Ming's art (朱銘作品)—Taichi Series
Cloud Gate Dance Theater (雲門舞集)—Cursive: A Trilogy/photo by Cloud Gate Dance Theater
Cloud Gate Dance Theater (雲門舞集)—Cursive: A Trilogy/photo by Cloud Gate Dance Theater
▲
Taiwan’s Rice-food Culture
▲
Taiwan’s Noodle Culture
▲
Taiwan’s Tea Culture
▲
Diversified Culinary Culture
▲
Night-market Snacks
▲
Special Local Delicacies
▲
Food Safety Certification and Labeling
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 island’s 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.
40
Taiwan’s Rice-food CultureRice 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 high-quality 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, today’s 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 Year’s 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.
Taiwan’s Noodle CultureMost 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 (度小月担仔麵), 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.
41
Taiwan’s Tea CultureTaiwan 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 (凍頂烏龍), Wenshan Baozhong (文山包種), Tie Guanyin (鐵觀音), and White-tipped Wulong (白毫烏龍), 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 island’s culinary culture: tea houses. The Maokong (貓空) 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, Taiwan’s 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 tea-related 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 art—ingredients, 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 tea-production 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.
42
Diversified Culinary CultureTaiwan 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 China—Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Sichuan, southern Fujian, and the rest—and 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 island’s 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 SnacksInexpensive Native Flavors—Night-market SnacksTaiwan’s 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
43
Seven Popular Night Markets in Northern Taiwan
Authentic flavors of Taiwan—Give them a try!
Oyster noodles Oyster omelet Meatballs
Zongzi dumplings Steamed dumplings Steamed sandwich
Fried rice vermicelli Stinky bean curd Mango ice
Photo by Tourism Bureau/Hsin Tung Yang
Night Market Special Features Location
MiaokouNight Market
(基隆夜市)
The snacks available in the Miaok-ou Night Market are known far and wide, among them pot-side noodle soup, frothy ice, tempura, nutritious sandwiches, and bean-sprout stew.
Near Dianji Temple, on Ren 3rd Road and Ai 4th Road in Keelung.
ShilinNight Market
(士林夜市)
This night market offers a wide selection of snacks from all over Taiwan, and is a favorite among tourists.
Between Dadong Road and Anping Road in the Shilin District of Taipei.
44
Night Market Special Features Location
Fengjia Night
Market
(逢甲夜市)
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.
Fuxing Road, Feng Chia Road, and Wenhua Road, between Xitun Road, Sec. 2 and Xian St. in Taichung.
Lugang Snacks
(鹿港夜市)
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.
Lugang, Changhua County.
Night Markets in Central, Southern, and Eastern Taiwan
Night Market Special Features Location
Raohe StreetNight Market
(饒河街夜市)
Taipei’s first tourist night market, this one stretches 600 meters and has numerous vendors offering medicinal stewed spareribs. A good place for a healthy diet.
Intersection of Bade Road, Sec. 4 and Fuyuan Street to Ciyou Temple on Bade Road in Taipei.
Huaxi Street Night Market
(華西街夜市)
Taipei’s most famous night market, with popular snacks like seafood.
Huaxi Street in Taipei, between Xiyuan Road and Huanhe South Road.
Jingmei Night Market
(景美夜市)
This night market has over 30 years of history and hundreds of stalls. It is the most popular street market in southern Taipei.
Jingmei Street, Taipei.
Tonghua Street
Night Market
(通化街夜市)
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.
Tonghua Street, between Xinyi Rd., Sec. 4 and Keelung Road, Sec. 2 in Taipei.
Lioaning Night Market
(遼寧夜市)
Among the famous snacks here are goose meat, seafood, glutinous rice cake in bamboo tubes, shwarma, oyster omelet, and marinated stew.
Liaoning Street in Taipei, between Chang-an East Road and Chung Hsin High School.
45
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.
Xiaobei Night
Market
(小北夜市)
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.
Intersection of Ximen Road and Linan Road in Tainan.
Liuhe Night
Market
(六合夜市)
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.
Liuhe Road in Kaohsiung.
LuodongNight
Market
(羅東夜市)
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.
Around the town center and Zhongshan Park in Luodong, Yilan County.
Nanbin Night
Market
(南濱夜市)
In this night market, Hualien’s largest, you can try stir-fried fresh seafood and special snacks as you watch the sun sets slowly behind the mountains to the west.
Nanbin Park in Hual-ien.
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).
▼ Taiwan Tourist Information website: http://eng.taiwan.net.tw/
46
Food Safety Certification and LabelingTo 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.
Taiwan’s 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.
Protect the world—Bring 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!
▼ 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/
▲ Metropolitan Shopping Districts
▲ English Services Emblem
▲ Tourist Shopping Assurance System
▲ Consumer Protection
▲ Information for Consumers
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.
48
City/District Characteristics
Taipei: Ximending Shopping District
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 city’s 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.
Taipei: Zhongxiao-Dunhua Shopping District
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.
Taipei: Xinyi Shopping District
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.
Taichung: Jingming 1st Street
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.
Taichung: TunghaiInternationalArt Street
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.
Kaohsiung: New Juejiang (Horie) Shopping District
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.
Metropolitan Shopping DistrictsThe 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.
49
Source: Taiwan Tourism Bureau
Taiwan’s Brand Commercial DistrictsTo meet the combined needs of shopping and in-dept tourism, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) is helping to create “Taiwan’s 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 Taiwan’s Brand Commercial District website.
▼ Taiwan’s 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 ShopsThe Taiwan OTOP Shops—“OTOP” stands for “one town, one product”—have 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.
City/District Characteristics
Kaohsiung: Sanduo Shopping District
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.
50
Consumer ProtectionProtection of Consumer InterestsIn 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 mail-
order 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
Tourist Shopping Assurance SystemTo 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]
English Services EmblemThe government is promoting an English Services Emblem certification program in order to boost Taiwan’s 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/).
51
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.
Required Contents of Commodity Labels
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.
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
52
Consumer Protection LabelsTo assure the safety of consumer, Taiwan’s 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 Logo Explanation
CAS Good Agricultural Product
“CAS” stands for “Chinese Agricultural Standards,” and is a label for domestically produced and processed agricultural products of the highest quality.
GAP Fruitsand Vegetables
Applied to fresh fruits and vegetables that have been inspected and certified as conforming to standards of tolerance for chemical residue.
Traceable Agricultural Product
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 Safety Inspection
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.
Food GMP Certification
The Food GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) label indicates good operating practices or good production standards that emphasize production quality, safety, and health.
Health FoodApplied to foods that have been examined by the Department of Health and found to possess certain health functions.
Fresh Milk Label
Denotes products from legal dairy plants that have dairy product registration and engage in the production of domestically produced fresh milk.
Good Goat’s Milk Label
Products bearing this certification must pass strict inspection by the National Animal Industry Foundation, assuring health, safety, and quality.
53
Label Logo Explanation
Quality Alcohol Certification
The Quality Alcohol Certification Label assures the quality of materials, production processes, and finished alcoholic products.
Commodity Inspection Mark
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.
CNS (Chinese National Standards) Mark
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.
Safe Toy
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.
Energy Saving Label
This label represents an energy efficiency 10-50% higher than national standards, assuring not only quality but the saving of energy and money.
Eco-label
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.
Legal Hotel
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.
Legal Homestay
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.
Legal Tourist Amusement Enterprise
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.
54
Information for ConsumersStore HoursStores 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 holidays—especially 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 RefundForeigners who enter Taiwan on a non-ROC passport (including those who enter on a travel pass, entry/exit permit, or ROC passport without the holder’s 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.
55
Tax refund counters for foreign travelers at airports and seaports
Airport/Seaport Location
Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 1Departure Lounge, 1st floor: Customs Service Counter
Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 2Departure Lounge, 3rd floor: Customs Service Counter
Keelung Harbor East Pier 2 and West Pier 2
Taichung Airport Visitor Center, Customs Service Counter
Taichung Harbor Visitor Center, Customs Service Counter
Hualien Airport 1st floor, Visitor Center
Hualien Harbor Bureau 1st floor, Visitor Center
Kaohsiung International Airport 3rd floor, Customs Office Visitor Center
Kaohsiung Harbor 3rd floor, Passenger Terminal
Tax Refund Information
Service Center Telephone Website
Travel ServiceCenter, Tourism Bureau
Taipei Service Center
02-2717-37370800-011765
http://eng.taiwan.net.tw
Taichung Service Center
04-2254-08090800-422022
Tainan Service Center
06-226-56810800-611011
Kaohsiung Service Center
07-281-15130800-711765
Taoyuan International Airport
03-383-463103-383-4632
Kaohsiung International Airport
07-805-7888
56
Getting the Unified InvoiceWith 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 you’re 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 bagIn 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 placesTaiwan 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.
56
Service Center Telephone Website
Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 1, Customs Service Counter
03-398-23080800-311006 http://www.taoyuanairport.
gov.tw/english/Taoyuan International Airport, Terminal 2, Customs Service Counter
03-398-34280800-016801
National Tax Administration 02-2311-3711http://www.ntat.gov.tw/county/ntat_ch/ntat_en/
▲ Renting a House
▲ Basic Public Services
▲ Telecommunications and Internet
▲ Postal Services
▲ Buying Daily Necessities
▲ Keeping a Pet
▲ Recycling
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.
58
Renting a HouseThe 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 ServicesTap WaterTaiwan’s 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.
59
Tap Water Services
ElectricityTaiwan’s 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 doesn’t fit the local sockets, you will have to use an adapter or transformer.
▼ Taiwan Power Co.: http://www.taipower.com.tw/indexE.htm
GasHouseholds 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 & RadioTaiwan 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
LOGOService Hours
Customer Service Line
Website
Taipei Water Department
8:30—17:30(Except Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)
02-8733-5678(24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
http://www.twd.gov.tw/english
Taiwan WaterCorp.
8:00—17:30(Except Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)
Check the nearest service branch
http://www.water.gov.tw/eng
60
an antenna; for cable TV, however, you need to apply to your local cable TV company for installation.
Taiwan’s 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 InternetLocal Telephone ServiceTaiwan’s 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 local-citizen 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
61
AreaAreaCode
AreaAreaCode
Keelung City, Taipei City, Taipei County 02Kaohsiung City, Kaohsiung County
07
Taoyuan County, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Yilan County, Hualien County
03Pingtung City, Pingtung County
08
Miaoli County 037 Taitung County 089
Taichung City, Taichung County, Changhua County
04 Kinmen County 082
Nantou County 049 Matsu (Lienchiang County) 0836
Yunlin County, Tainan County, Chiayi County
05 Wuqiu 0826
Tainan City, Tainan County, Penghu County
06Nansha (Spratley) Islands, Dongsha (Pratas) Islands
07
Cell PhonesTaiwan 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.
TelecomCompany
English Service Line
TelecomCompany
English Service Line
Chunghwa Telecom 0800-080090 VIBO Telecom 0986-000537
FAREASTONE Telecommunications
0800-058885 Asia Pacific Telecom 02-4050-7999
Taiwan Mobile 02-6606-2977First International
Telecom0800-096866
Taiwan Area Code
62
Wireless Internet ConnectionTaiwan 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 ServicesTaiwan’s 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 home-delivery 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 them—a passion that is catered to on the Philately section of the company’s website.
▼ Chunghwa Post Global Information website: http://www.post.gov.tw/post/internet/u_english
Buying Daily NecessitiesBuying 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.
63
Traditional MarketsTaiwan 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 PetIf 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 Website Telephone
Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine, Council of Agriculture
http://www.baphiq.gov.tw/mp.asp?mp=2
0800-039131
Animal Protection Information Website, Council of Agriculture
http://animal.coa.gov.tw/html/english/index.htm
02-2381-2991
National Veterinary Hospital(with English Services Emblem)
http://www.vet.com.tw/National/address.htm
0800-284666
64
RecyclingThe 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 Symbol Explanation
Recycling logoThis logo on product and container packaging indicates that the contents are recyclable.
Taipei garbage bag logo
Taipei City currently exacts garbage collection fees by in-cluding 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 the“Authorized Garbage Bag Sales”sign. Other counties and cities are gradually imple-menting this system.
▼ Recycling Information Line: 0800-085717
▼ Environmental Protection Administration: http://www.epa.gov.tw/en (02) 2311-7722
▲
National Health Insurance
▲
Bilingual Healthcare Service
▲
Hospital Gradation and Fees
▲
Chinese Medicine
▲
Drug Safety
▲
Medical Tourism
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.
66
National Health InsuranceNational 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.
67
Bilingual Healthcare ServiceSeeing a Doctor with an InterpreterMost 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 before you arr ive in Taiwan, provide transportation information after your arrival, and offer you information on medical tourism services.
How Foreigners Apply for Insurance
Insured Person Insuring Unit Method of Payment
Person working in Taiwan
EmployerPremium deducted and paid by employer
Responsible person of a company
His or her companyPremium deducted and paid by employer
Dependent of foreignerThrough insurer of spouse or lineal relative
Paid together with family member
MissionaryReligious organization to which the missionary belongs
Collected and paid by the organization
Overseas Chinese or foreign student
Through the student’s instituteCollected and paid by the institute
Those without fixed occupations and family dependants
Through township, city, or district office at place of residence
Monthly notification for payment mailed to insured person by NHI
68
Hospitals Offering Foreign-language Medical Services
Northern Taiwan
Hospital Website Telephone/Address
National Taiwan University Hospital, International Medical Service Center
http://www.ntuh.gov.tw/en/IMSC/default.aspx
02-2356-29007, Zhongshan S. Rd., Taipei City
Mackay Memorial Hospi-tal, International Medical Service Center
http://www.mmh.org.tw/imsc/
02-2562-720092, Sec. 2, Zhongshan N. Rd., Taipei City
Taipei Medical University Hospital, International Patient Center
http://www.tmch.org.tw/tmuh%20english/index.htm
02-2737-2181 ext. 3329252, Wuxing St., Taipei City
Cathay General Hospital, International Health Care Services
http://www.cgh.org.tw/en/
02-2708-2121 ext. 1312280, Sec. 4, Renai Rd., Taipei City
Taipei Medical University – Wan Fang Hospital
http://www.wanfang.gov.tw/
02-2930-7930 ext. 7766111, Sec. 3, Xinglong Rd., Taipei City
Taiwan Adventist Hospitalhttp://www.tahsda.org.tw/en/
02-2771-8151424, Sec. 2, Bade Rd., Songshan District, Taipei City
Shin Kong Wu Ho-su Memorial Hospital
http://www.skh.org.tw/SKHenglish%20website/index.htm
02-2833-221195, Wenchang Rd., Shilin, Taipei City
Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
http://www.cgmh.org.tw/isc/
03-319-6200 5, Fuxing St., Guishan Township, Taoyuan County
Hospital Website Telephone/Address
Tungs’ Taichung MetroHarbor Hospital
http://www.sltung.com.tw/04-2658-3899699, Sec. 1, Zhongqi Rd., Wuqi Town, Taichung County
China Medical University Hospital
http://www.cmuh.org.tw/htdocs/english/e_index.htm
04-5260-0770 ext. 51782, Yude Rd., North District, Taichung City
Show Chwan Memorial Hospital
http://www.cbshow.org.tw/en/04-781-38886, Lugong Rd., Lugang Town, Changhua County
Central Taiwan
69
Hospital Website Telephone/Address
Yuan’s General Hospitalhttp://yuanhosp.inks.com.tw/
07-335-1121162, Chenggong 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City
Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, International Medical Services Center
http://www.kmuh.org.tw/english/
07-312-110111, Ziyou 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City
St. Martin De Porres Hospital
http://www.stm.org.tw/05-275-6000565, Sec. 2, Daya Rd., Chiayi City
National Cheng Kung University Hospital
http://www.hosp.ncku.edu.tw/nckm/english
06-235-3535138, Shengli Rd., Tainan City
Southern Taiwan
Hospital Website Telephone/Address
Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital
http://www.pohai.org.tw/03-954-313183, Nanchang St., Luodong Town, Yilan County
Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital
http://www.tzuchi.com.tw/tzuchi_en
038-561-825 707, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien City
Eastern Taiwan
Hospital Gradation and FeesGraded Medical Care with Convenient, Reasonable ServicesIn 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
70
of partial payments, please consult the Bureau of National Health Insurance website.
Hospital Registration Fees Unit: NT$
Grade of Facility Outpatient Treatment Emergency Treatment
Medical Center 50~300 450
Regional Hospital 50~250 300
Area Hospital 50~200 150
Basic-level Medical Institution
50~200 150
▼ Bureau of National Health Insurance, Information for Foreigners: http://www.nhi.gov.tw/english
Protector of Community HealthHealth clinics are Taiwan’s 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 MedicineLooking, Listening, Asking, Pulse-taking for Maintenance of HealthTraditional 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
71
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 ConsultationHospital or Clinic Website Telephone/Address
Department of Traditional Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital
http://www.tmch.org.tw/02-5552-2850252, Wuxing St., Taipei City
Chinese Medicine Center, Taipei City Hospital
http://temp.tpech.gov.tw/02-2388-7088100, Kunming St., Taipei City
Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan Branch
http://www2.cgmh.org.tw/eng2002/index.asp
03-319-6200123, Dinghu Rd., Jiulu Village, Guishan Township, Taoyuan County
Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital
http://www.cmuh.org.tw/htdocs/english/e_index.htm
04-2205-21212, Yude Rd., Taichung
Department of Chinese Medicine, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital
http://www.tzuchi.com.tw/tzuchi%5Fen/
04-3606-066666, Sec. 1, Fengxing Rd., Tanzi Township, Taichung County
Kaohsiung Municipal Chinese Medical Hospital
http://www.kmcmh.gov.tw/synopsisE.htm
07-761-31866, Fucheng St., Kaohsiung City
Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital
http://www.kmuh.org.tw/english/
07-312-1101 ext. 6410100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Kaohsiung City
72
Drug SafetyGet Proper Medicine with a PrescriptionTaiwan 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 PrescriptionsPatients 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 TourismThe quality of Taiwan’s healthcare hardware, software, and services is fully up to world standards, and the cost of medical care is reasonable. This gives the island’s 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 Taiwan’s beautiful scenery and delicious cuisine, tourists can improve their health at the same time!
▲
Currency and Money Exchange
▲
Traveler’s Check
▲
Opening an Account
▲
Automatic Teller Machine (ATM)
▲
Credit Card
▲
Internet Banking
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.
74
Currency and Money ExchangeCurrencyThe 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
75
Money ExchangeForeigners who come to Taiwan to sightsee or live and need to exchange foreign cash or traveler’s 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 traveler’s 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,
NT$50 NT$20 NT$10
NT$5 NT$1
76
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 Telephone Website
Bank of Taiwan 0800-025168 http://www.bot.com.tw/English
Taiwan Cooperative Bank
0800-033175http://www.tcb-bank.com.tw/tcb/home/frame_eng.htm
First Bank 02-2348-1111 http://www.firstbank.com.tw/en_index.html
Chang Hwa Bank 0800-365889https://www.chb.com.tw/wps/wcm/connect/web/common/English
Hua Nan Commercial Bank
02-2181-0101 http://www.hncb.com.tw/eng
Shanghai Commercial and Savings Bank
0800-003111http://www.scsb.com.tw/english/eng_default.jsp
Citibank Taiwan 02-2576-8000http://www.citibank.com.tw/tw_citi_eng.html
Land Bank of Taiwan 02-2348-3456 http://www.landbank.com.tw
Cathay United Bank 0800-818001https://www.cathaybk.com.tw/cathaybk/english/eindex.htm
Mega International Commercial Bank
0800-016168 https://www.megabank.com.tw/en/
Traveler’s CheckNot many general businesses in Taiwan accept traveler’s checks. We recommend that you take your passport and identity documents with you, and exchange your traveler’s checks for New Taiwan Dollars at a bank. Most banks provide this service.
77
Opening an AccountOpening 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 haven’t 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.
Funds Transfer Restrictions
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.)
Card Replacement Process
If you lose your bank card, you can use your bank’s 24-hour 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.
Card ReplacementFees
Different banks collect different fees for card application, lost card, and replacement card; for details, check with the individual bank.
78
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 CardsForeign 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 BankingMost of Taiwan’s 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.
▲
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
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.
80
Work Permits for Foreign ProfessionalsA “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.
81
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 Supplementary and Continuing Education Law; E.) Athletic 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
Council of Labor Affairs, Executive Yuan
Foreign sailorsMinistry of Transportation and Communications
Foreign professionals and technical personnel hired by enterprises in Science Parks
Science Park Administration
Foreign professionals and technical personnel hired by enterprises in Export Processing Zones
Export Processing Zone Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Courtesy Treatment for Foreign Professionals in TaiwanEmployment Pass CardThe Employment Pass Card is issued to foreign workers of a professional or technical nature and combines the funct ions of a res ident 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
Categories of Work Permits for Foreign Professionals, and Issuing Agencies
▼ 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
82
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 CardInternational 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
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.
83
Work Permits for Overseas Chinese and Foreign StudentsForeign 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
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
Working in Taiwan: Rights and ObligationsRegular Medical ExaminationForeigners 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
84
Personal Tax PreferencesTo 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
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.
VisaForeigners 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 1—December 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/
85
Labor ProtectionLabor InsuranceAll 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 worker’s 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,
Agency Telephone Address
Foreign Taxpayers Section, Services Division, Taipei National Tax Administration
02-2311-37112, Sec. 1, Zhonghua Rd., Taipei City
National Tax Administration of Northern Taiwan Province
03-339-3789 ext. 1430
15F., 286, Sec. 3, Sanmin Rd., Taoyuan City
National Tax Administration of Southern Taiwan Province
06-222-3111 ext. 1203
6-17F., 7, Fubei St., Tainan City
Foreign Taxpayers Section, Services Division, Kaohsiung National Tax Administration
07-725-6600 ext. 7020, 7021
148, Guangzhou 1st St., Kaohsiung City
Tax Information
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 children’s educational costs as expenses that can be deducted from taxable income.
8686
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 TaiwanTaiwan 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 Taiwan’s investment environment. Two major sections of the website, “Investment Environment” and “Investment Guide,” give clear and complete information on Taiwan’s 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 island’s 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/
▲ Foreign Schools
▲ Taiwan Education Centers
▲ Study in Taiwan
▲ Scholarships in Taiwan
▲ Studying Chinese in Taiwan
Taiwan’s 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 children’s education.
88
Foreign SchoolsTaiwan 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 Program Telephone Website
Taipei City
(8 schools)
Taipei American School
Kindergarten through 12th grade
02-2873-9900http://www.tas.edu.tw
Grace Christian Academy
Kindergarten through 9th grade
02-2785-7233http://www.gcatai-pei.org
Dominican International School
Kindergarten through 12th grade
02-2533-8451http://www.dishs.tp.edu.tw
Morrison Academy – Bethany Campus
Kindergarten through 9th grade
02-2365-9691http://bethany.mca.org.tw
Taipei Adventist American School
First through 8th grade
02-2861-6400http://www.taas-taiwan.com
Taipei European School
Kindergarten through 13th grade
02-2862-2920http://www.taipeieu-ropeanschool.com
Taipei Japanese School
First through 9th grade
02-2872-3801http://www.taipeijs.org
Taipei Korean School
Kindergarten through 6th grade
02-2303-9126http://taipeikoes.com
89
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/
Location School Program Telephone Website
Hsinchu City
(3 schools)
Hsinchu American School
Kindergarten through 12th grade
03-520-3211http://www.has.hc.edu.tw
Hsinchu International School
Kindergarten through 12th grade
03-538-8113http://www.hdis.hc.edu.tw
Pacific American School
First through 12th grades
03-571-7070http://pacificameri-can.org
Taichung City
(2 schools)
American School in Taichung
First through 12th grade
04-2239-7532http://www.ast.tc.edu.tw
Morrison AcademyKindergarten through 12th grade
04-2297-3927http://k8.mca.org.twhttp://hs.mca.org.tw
Taichung County
(1 school)
Taichung Japanese School
First through 9th grade
04-2567-2079http://tjs97.myweb.hinet.net
KaohsiungCity
(4 schools)
Kaohsiung American School
Kindergarten through 12th grade
07-583-0112http://www.kas.kh.edu.tw
Dominican School Kaohsiung
Kindergarten through 6th grade
07-552-3989 http://www.dskg.org
Kaohsiung Japanese School
First through 9th grades
07-224-9314http://takaojs.hihosting.hinet.net
Kaohsiung Korean School
Kindergarten through 6th grade
07- 551-3918 --
KaohsiungCounty
(1 school)
Morrison Academy Kaohsiung
Kindergarten through 9th grade
07-356-1190http://kaohsiung.mca.org.tw
90
Taiwan Education Centers Overseas (Last updated: May 1, 2009)
Taiwan Education CentersTo 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 domest ic univers i t ies to se t 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, Vie tnam, Ma lays i a , Mongo l i a , and Korea, providing international education and exchange services.
EstablishingSchool
Country/CityTelephone(Taiwan)
Telephone(Overseas)
Website
National Taiwan Normal
University
Thailand/Bangkok
02-2363-7559 ext. 22
+66-2-6670183http://www.Taiwan-center.com
National Chung Hsing
University
Thailand/Chiang Mai
04-2284-0206 ext. 25
+66-53-873181http://www.tec.mju.ac.th/
Wenzao Ursuline
College of Languages
Vietenam/Hanoi
07-342-6031 ext. 3203
+84-4-33535118http://cfd.wtuc.edu.tw/survey/ctet/index
National Chi Nan
University
Vietnam/Ho Chi
Minh City
049-291-0960 ext. 2561
+84-08-39103105http://www.techcmc.com.vn
National Changhua University
of Education
Malaysia/Kuala Lumpur
04-723-2105 ext. 5452
+603-5121-3100ext. 114
http://www.cts.edu.my/educenter/index.htm
91
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 master’s 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).
EstablishingSchool
Country/CityTelephone(Taiwan)
Telephone(Overseas)
Website
Ming Chuan
University
Mongolia/Ulaanbaatar
03-350-7001 ext. 3705
+976-9980-6188http://www1.mcu.edu.tw/Apps/SB/SB_Site.aspx?PageID=583
Ming Chuan
UniversityKorea/Seoul
02-2882-4564 ext. 8317
+82-2-2757-9371http://www1.mcu.edu.tw/Apps/SB/SB_Site.aspx?PageID=583
92
Scholarships in TaiwanThe 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 ROC’s MOFA website and click on “List of Embassies & Missions Abroad.” For more in format ion on Taiwan 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.
Schools that Admit Foreign StudentsEach 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
93
(Last updated: Jan. 14, 2009)
Scholarships Offered by Different Institutions
Name Recipient Amount
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Scholarship
Primarily countries having diplomatic ties with the ROC; for university and graduate courses.
NT$30,000 per month, plus round-trip economy-class air ticket for most direct route to Taiwan.
Ministry of Economic
Affairs Scholarships
Countries outside those provided scholarships by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for graduate programs in high-tech science, engineering, medicine, and agriculture.
NT$30,000 per month.
National Science Council
Scholarships
Countries outside those provided scholarships by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for graduate programs.
NT$30,000 per month.
Ministry of Education
Scholarships
Countries outside those provided scholarships by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; for university and graduate programs.
NT$25,000 per month, for university and pre-university language programs; NT$30,000 per month, for graduate programs.
▼ 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 TaiwanColleges 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.
94
Location Education Center Website Telephone
National Central University (NCU), Language Center
http://www.lc.ncu.edu.tw/main/clp/
03-422-7151ext. 33807
National Taipei University of Education (NTUE), Chinese Language Education Center
http://r9.ntue.edu.tw/
02-2732-1104ext. 3331, 2025
National Taiwan University (NTU), Language Center, Chinese Language Division, Language Center
http:/ /homepage.ntu.edu.tw/~cld222/
02-3366-3417
National Taiwan University, International Chinese Language Program
http://iclp.ntu.edu.tw 02-2363-9123
National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), Mandarin Center
h t t p : / / w w w. m t c .ntnu.edu.tw/
02-232-18457
National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), Chinese Language Center
http:/ /aadm.nctu.edu.tw/mandarin/
03-513-1231
National Chengchi University, Chinese Language Center
h t tp : / /mandar in .nccu.edu.tw/
02-2938-71411
Chinese Culture University, Mandarin Learning Center
http://mlc.sce.pccu.edu.tw
02-2700-5858ext. 8131-8137
Tamkang University, Division of Continuing Education, Chinese Language Center
http://www.dce.tku.edu.tw
02-2321-6320ext. 24, 34
Fu Jen Catholic University, Language Center
ht tp: / /www.lc. f ju.edu.tw
02-2905-2414/02-2905-3721
Ming Chuan University, Mandarin Studies & Culture Center
h t tp : / /www.mcu .edu.tw/admin/mscc/english/index.htm
02-2882-4564ext. 8321
Kainan University, Chinese Learning Center
http://www.knu.edu.tw/CLC/
03-341-2500ext. 4639, 4640
Chung Yuan Christian University, Center of Mandarin Learning
ht tp : / /www.cycu.edu.tw/cycu/cce/mandarin/
03-265-1308
Chung Hua University, Language Centre
http://international.chu.edu.tw/
03-518-6176
Technology and Science Institute of Northern Taiwan, Mandarin Center
h t tp : / /www. ts in t .edu.tw/chinese/
02-2892-7154ext. 2730
Universities with Attached Chinese Language Centers
North
ern
Taiw
an
95
Location Education Center Website Telephone
National Chung Hsing University (NCHU), Language Center
ht tp: / /www.nchu.edu.tw/~cnpm/chi-nese/index_en.htm
04-2284-0326 ext. 399
Tunghai University, Chinese Language Center
h t tp : / /www2. thu.edu.tw/~clc/
04-2359-0259
Feng Chia University, Chinese Language Center
http://www.clc.fcu.edu.tw
04-2451-7250 ext. 5871
Providence University, Chinese Language Education Center
http://clec.pu.edu.tw 04-2664-5009
National Kaohsiung Normal University, Center of Language and Culture Teaching
ht tp: / /www.nknu.edu.tw/~clct/
07-342-6031 ext. 3303, 3302
National Cheng Kung University, Chinese Language Center
http://kclc.ncku.edu.tw
07-717-2930 ext. 2603~2605
National Sun Yat-sen University, Chinese Language Center
http://www2.nsysu.edu.tw/CLC
07-525-2000 ext. 3030, 3031
National University of Kaohsiung, Chinese Language Center
ht tp: / /www2.nuk.edu.tw/clc/chinese/index.htm
07-591-9261
National Pingtung University of Education, Language Center
http://b037.npue.edu. tw/ f ront /b in /home.phtml
08-722-6141 ext. 24000~24002
Southern Taiwan University, Chinese Language Center
http://clc.stut.edu.tw/
06-253-3131 ext. 6010, 6011
Wenzao Ursuline College of Languages, Center of Chinese Language
http://c016.wtuc.edu.tw/f r o n t / b i n / c g l i s t .phtml?Category=39
07-342-6031 ext. 3303, 3302
Tzu Chi University, Center for Language Studies
h t t p : / / w w w. l a n -guage.tcu.edu.tw/
03-8572-677 ext. 1681, 1682
Fo Guang University, Chinese Language Instruction Center
http://www.fgu.edu.tw/~chinlang/clic.htm
03-931-3343 ext. 1562
Centra
l Taiw
an
South
ern
Taiw
an
Easte
rn Ta
iwan
(Last updated on March 31, 2009)
Publisher: Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, Executive YuanChief Editor: Juang Li-LanEditorial Coordinator: Tseng Shu-ChuanTranslator: Earl WiemanEnglish Editor: Y.Y. ChuanEnglish Copy Editor: Yang Jui-Yun; Sunny Yen; Ted LiuPlanning 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 YuanAddress: 6F., 2-2, Sec. 1, Jinan Rd., Taipei, 10051, Taiwan, R.O.C. Tel: +886-2-2341-9066Website: 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 / 研考 VII-0010
The Handy Guide for Foreigners in Taiwan