Last Updated on 2025 年 8 月 11 日 by 総合編集組
2025 Taiwan Travel Guide: Essential Tips for a Safe and Memorable Journey
Introduction: Why Taiwan in 2025?
Taiwan remains a top-tier travel destination in 2025, blending vibrant urban life, serene natural landscapes, and a rich cultural tapestry. From the bustling night markets of Taipei to the tranquil beaches of Kenting, this island offers an unforgettable experience. However, a successful trip requires careful preparation. This comprehensive guide highlights critical aspects of health, safety, transportation, cultural etiquette, and practical information to ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit to Taiwan.
Health Precautions: Guarding Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases
In 2025, Taiwan faces heightened risks from mosquito-borne diseases like Chikungunya and Dengue Fever, with global Chikungunya cases surpassing 250,000 across 119 countries. Taiwan has reported a six-year high of 17 imported Chikungunya cases by August, primarily from Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Guangdong, China. Both diseases, spread by Aedes mosquitoes, share symptoms like fever, joint pain, and fatigue, but Chikungunya’s prolonged joint pain and Dengue’s potential for severe complications pose unique risks, especially for pregnant women, seniors, and those with chronic conditions.
Preventive Measures: Travelers should wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing, apply repellents containing DEET or Picaridin, and avoid mosquito-prone areas during peak hours (9-10 AM and 4-5 PM). Staying in accommodations with air conditioning or screens and eliminating standing water around lodgings are crucial. After returning from high-risk areas, monitor health for 14 days and seek medical attention for symptoms like fever or rashes, informing doctors of travel history. Taiwan’s CDC emphasizes that Chikungunya is not transmissible person-to-person, reducing panic but underscoring the need for mosquito prevention.
Food and Water Safety
Taiwan’s tap water is generally safe but may be compromised by aging pipes or unmaintained water tanks. Boiling tap water or opting for bottled water is recommended. For food, avoid raw seafood, undercooked dishes, or questionable street food. Choose peelable fruits and thoroughly washed vegetables, and maintain rigorous hand hygiene. When exploring night markets, prioritize vendors with high turnover and visible hygiene practices to minimize foodborne illness risks.
Medical Resources and Insurance
Taiwan boasts world-class medical facilities, with 24/7 emergency services in major cities. Foreign travelers must pay out-of-pocket for medical care, with costs varying by service (e.g., registration, consultation, and tests). Some hospitals offer premium services with dedicated guides, albeit at higher fees. Travel Insurance: A policy covering infectious diseases like Chikungunya and Dengue is essential, particularly for families with children or seniors, as these groups face higher risks. Insurance plans from providers like Fubon and Shin Kong include coverage for medical expenses, isolation, or trip cancellations due to infectious diseases, offering peace of mind at a modest premium increase.
Transportation: Navigating Taiwan Safely
Taiwan’s public transportation system is efficient, with high-speed rail, trains, MRT, and buses connecting major destinations. The EasyCard simplifies payments across transport modes and convenience stores, while Taipei’s MRT offers tourist-friendly passes (e.g., 24-hour or 48-hour tickets). The “Taiwan Good Travel” bus routes provide discounted fares until August 31, 2025, ideal for sightseeing.
Self-Driving: Renting a car requires an international driver’s license (mainland Chinese licenses need conversion via a third region like Hong Kong). Taiwan drives on the right, with speed limits of 40-50 km/h in cities and 100-110 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory, and child safety seats are required for young passengers. However, Taiwan’s chaotic traffic—marked by aggressive motorbike behavior and disregard for pedestrian rights—has earned it the nickname “pedestrian hell” in international advisories. Drivers and pedestrians must stay vigilant, especially in urban areas with heavy scooter traffic.
Pedestrian Safety: Always follow traffic signals, avoid distractions like phones or earphones, and be cautious of large vehicles’ blind spots.
Disaster Preparedness: Earthquakes and Typhoons
Located on a seismic fault line, Taiwan experiences frequent earthquakes. Travelers should prepare an emergency kit with three days’ worth of food, water, and medical supplies. During an earthquake, adopt the “Drop, Cover, Hold On” protocol, seeking shelter under sturdy furniture. Outdoors, avoid buildings and power lines. Post-earthquake, check for gas leaks and use apps like KNY Taiwan Weather or CWA Earthquake Alerts for real-time updates.
Typhoon Season (June-September): Stock up on supplies, secure accommodations, and cancel outdoor activities during warnings. Avoid coastal areas and report fallen power lines to authorities. The Central Weather Administration’s app provides timely typhoon alerts.
Cultural Etiquette: Respecting Local Customs
Understanding Taiwan’s cultural nuances enhances your experience. Avoid the number “4” (sounds like “death”), favor red for auspiciousness, and refrain from gifting clocks, umbrellas, or knives due to negative connotations. In interactions, address older women as “sister” to show respect, and avoid placing cash directly on counters when paying. Be cautious of picking up red envelopes on the ground, as they may relate to traditional “ghost marriage” rituals. Indigenous groups like the Amis consider sneezing inauspicious, so be mindful in their communities.
Safety Concerns: Pickpocketing and Scams
Despite Taiwan’s high safety ranking (4th globally per Numbeo 2025), pickpocketing is a concern in crowded areas like Jiufen, Yongkang Street, and night markets. Carry bags in front, secure zippers, and store valuables in hotel safes. Report thefts to police immediately and contact card issuers for lost credit cards. Scams, often via social media, lure travelers with fake deals—stick to reputable agencies and retain receipts.
Connectivity and Payments
Purchase prepaid SIMs or eSIMs at airports for reliable internet, essential for navigation, translations, and emergency alerts. iTaiwan Wi-Fi offers free access in public spaces but has speed and time limits. Cash dominates night markets, while Visa cards are widely accepted. The EasyCard doubles as a payment tool, and Taiwan Pay supports digital transactions. For young travelers, the 2025 Culture Voucher, valid for arts and entertainment, expires December 31.
Conclusion
Taiwan in 2025 is a safe, vibrant destination with manageable risks. By prioritizing health precautions, navigating traffic cautiously, preparing for natural disasters, respecting cultural norms, and staying vigilant against petty crime, travelers can fully immerse in Taiwan’s charm. Download disaster apps, secure comprehensive insurance, and embrace local customs to make your journey unforgettable.
