About Taiwan: General Information

Taiwan is a beautiful island nation, situated in East Asia. At a size of 35 801 kilometres and a population of over 23 million people, Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Straddling the Tropic of Cancer, Taiwan's climate combines both tropical and temperate characteristics.

Taiwan also boasts stunning scenery, from charming deep-sea resorts to majestic mountain scenery. Taiwan's highest peak, named Jade Mountain, stands at 3952 metres high, is located centrally within Taiwan's central mountain range. In addition to the national park at Jade Mountain, there are four other national parks, with Kinmen and Taroko parks among the most popular. Natural hot springs are also a very popular tourist destination in Taiwan, including one of only three salt water hot springs. Such beautiful landscape explains Taiwan's other name, "Formosa", which means "beautiful" in the Portuguese language, given by Portuguese sailors that saw Taiwan for the first time in 1583.

Away from Taiwan's natural scenery, Taiwan's dynamic cities display an energy and vitality rarely seen in other parts of the world. From its well known night markets, to "snake alley" where one can dine on snake meat, to intricately constructed Taoist temples, visitors and residents of cities such as Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Taipei can never complain of boredom.

With the modernisation of Taiwan, the island nation now boasts one of the world's most dynamic economies. Industries such as semi-conductor manufacturing and electronics form the basis of Taiwan's high economic performance. A large trading nation, engaged in commerce, Taiwan's exports are found all over the world. Other well-known exports of Taiwan include ultra high quality tea, grown in the scenic mountainous regions of the country.

Cultural riches are prevalent in Taiwanese culture. A variety of influences from aboriginal, Chinese, Japanese, and European sources make Taiwan's culture very unique. Taiwan recognizes 12 different aboriginal groups, each with their own traditions and rituals.

Taiwan is a fully functioning multi-party democracy that respects the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens. The Taiwanese have overcome many decades of harsh dictatorship to build one of the most dynamic democracies in East Asia.

For even more information, you can read a short history of Taiwan.