Traveling to Taiwan:Top 5 Risks to Watch Out Stay Safe and Prepared

Last Updated on 2025 年 7 月 25 日 by 総合編集組

Traveling to Taiwan offers an enchanting blend of vibrant culture, cutting-edge technology, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling night markets of Taipei to the serene beauty of Taroko Gorge, Taiwan is a destination that captivates adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

However, like any travel destination, Taiwan presents unique challenges that visitors must navigate to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This comprehensive guide explores the top five risks travelers should be aware of when visiting Taiwan, with detailed insights and practical tips to help you stay safe and prepared. By understanding these risks—ranging from traffic hazards to natural disasters—you can fully immerse yourself in Taiwan’s charm while minimizing potential pitfalls.

Navigating Taiwan’s Chaotic Traffic Environment

The Reality of Taiwan’s “Pedestrian Hell”

Taiwan’s traffic has earned a notorious reputation, often described by international media as a “living hell for pedestrians.” This characterization stems from a combination of high vehicle density, aggressive driving behaviors, and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. According to a 2022 CNN report, Taiwan’s traffic chaos poses significant challenges for tourists, with bustling streets often lacking safe crossing zones or clear signage. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs has also highlighted the assertive nature of Taiwanese drivers, warning travelers to exercise extreme caution.

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Why is this a risk?
Taiwan’s urban areas, particularly in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, are dominated by scooters and cars, with a vehicle density among the highest globally. The country’s roads were historically designed with a “car-first” mentality, prioritizing vehicular flow over pedestrian safety. This has led to:

• Narrow or nonexistent sidewalks: Only 43.86% of Taiwan’s roads have dedicated pedestrian pathways, forcing many to walk alongside fast-moving traffic.
• Frequent road obstructions: Sidewalks are often cluttered with utility poles, parked scooters, or shop displays, pushing pedestrians onto roads.
• Aggressive driving culture: Many drivers fail to yield to pedestrians, even at crosswalks, increasing the risk of accidents.
• High accident rates: In 2022, over 400 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic accidents, with nearly half occurring at intersections, highlighting the vulnerability of road crossings.

Vulnerable Groups at Greater Risk

The elderly, children, and individuals with mobility challenges face heightened dangers. For instance, 69% of pedestrian fatalities in 2022 involved those over 65, reflecting infrastructure that inadequately accommodates vulnerable populations. Tourists unfamiliar with local traffic patterns are similarly at risk, especially when navigating busy intersections or areas with limited pedestrian signals.

Practical Tips to Stay Safe

• Stay vigilant at crosswalks: Always check for oncoming traffic, even when crossing at a designated pedestrian zone. Drivers may not stop as expected.
• Avoid walking on roads: Where sidewalks are absent, stick to the innermost edge of the road and face oncoming traffic.
• Use pedestrian overpasses or underpasses: These are safer alternatives in busy urban areas like Taipei.
• Wear bright clothing at night: Many accidents occur in low-visibility conditions, so reflective or light-colored attire can make you more noticeable.
• Learn basic traffic signals: Familiarize yourself with Taiwan’s pedestrian signals, which may differ from those in your home country.

Pro Tip: When crossing streets, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you. Hesitant or distracted pedestrians are more likely to be overlooked.

Weather-Related Risks and Natural Disasters

Taiwan’s Susceptibility to Natural Forces

Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Taiwan is prone to a range of natural disasters, including typhoons, earthquakes, and heavy rainfall. The island’s subtropical climate brings intense weather patterns, particularly during the typhoon season (June to October), which can disrupt travel plans and pose safety risks.

Key Risks to Understand:

• Typhoons: These powerful storms bring torrential rains, strong winds, and potential flooding. In 2023, Typhoon Doksuri caused widespread disruptions, including flight cancellations and road closures.
• Earthquakes: Taiwan experiences frequent seismic activity, with over 1,000 tremors annually. While most are minor, significant quakes, like the 7.4-magnitude Hualien earthquake in 2024, can cause structural damage and landslides.
• Heavy Rainfall and Landslides: Monsoon rains can trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas like Alishan or Taroko National Park.

Impact on Travelers

Unprepared tourists may face canceled transportation, unsafe hiking conditions, or even evacuation scenarios. For example, heavy rains can make popular attractions like Sun Moon Lake treacherous, while earthquakes may disrupt public transport systems.

How to Prepare

• Monitor weather updates: Check Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau (CWB) website or app for real-time forecasts, especially during typhoon season.
• Pack for variable weather: Bring waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and a portable umbrella to handle sudden downpours.
• Know your evacuation routes: Familiarize yourself with your accommodation’s emergency exits and nearby shelters, particularly in coastal or mountainous areas.
• Avoid risky areas during alerts: Heed government warnings to avoid hiking or visiting remote areas during typhoon or earthquake alerts.
• Register with your embassy: Many countries offer travel alert systems to notify citizens of impending disasters.

Did You Know? Taiwan’s government issues typhoon warnings with clear instructions, often suspending work and school. Stay tuned to local news for updates.

Health and Hygiene Concerns

Navigating Health Risks in a Tropical Climate

Taiwan’s warm, humid climate and dense urban environments create unique health challenges for travelers. While the country boasts an excellent healthcare system, unfamiliar conditions can catch visitors off guard.

Common Health Risks:

• Foodborne Illnesses: Taiwan’s night markets are a culinary delight, but improper food handling can lead to stomach issues. Raw or undercooked street food poses a particular risk.
• Heat-Related Illnesses: High temperatures and humidity, especially in summer, can cause heat exhaustion or heatstroke, particularly for those unaccustomed to tropical climates.
• Air Quality Issues: Urban areas like Taipei occasionally experience poor air quality due to pollution or seasonal dust storms from mainland Asia.
• Infectious Diseases: While rare, diseases like dengue fever can occur in southern Taiwan, particularly during the rainy season.

Staying Healthy on Your Trip

• Choose reputable vendors: Opt for busy stalls with high turnover to ensure fresher food. Avoid raw seafood unless at trusted establishments.
• Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and drink frequently, especially during outdoor activities.
• Use sunscreen and hats: Protect yourself from UV rays, which are strong even on cloudy days.
• Monitor air quality: Check apps like AirVisual for real-time air quality updates, and consider masks in polluted areas.
• Practice mosquito prevention: Use repellent and wear long sleeves in rural or southern areas to avoid dengue.

Health Tip: Taiwan’s convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, FamilyMart) offer affordable, high-quality bottled water and electrolyte drinks to keep you hydrated.

Language Barriers and Cultural Misunderstandings

The Challenge of Communication

While Taiwan is increasingly tourist-friendly, language barriers remain a significant hurdle, particularly outside major cities. Mandarin Chinese is the primary language, with limited English proficiency in rural areas or among older generations. Cultural nuances can also lead to misunderstandings, potentially causing discomfort or safety concerns.

Key Issues:

• Limited English Signage: Many road signs, menus, and public transport announcements lack English translations, complicating navigation.
• Cultural Etiquette: Unfamiliarity with local customs, such as queuing or temple etiquette, can lead to unintentional offenses.
• Emergency Communication: In urgent situations, communicating with locals or authorities may be challenging without Mandarin skills.

Tips for Smooth Interactions

• Learn basic Mandarin phrases: Simple greetings like “Ni hao” (hello) or “Xie xie” (thank you) can go a long way.
• Use translation apps: Apps like Google Translate or Pleco can help with real-time translation, including image-based text recognition.
• Carry a phrasebook: A physical or digital phrasebook can be a lifesaver in areas with poor internet connectivity.
• Respect local customs: Bow slightly when greeting elders, avoid pointing at people, and remove shoes when entering certain spaces like temples or homes.
• Keep emergency contacts handy: Save numbers for your embassy, local police (110), and medical services (119) in both English and Chinese.

Cultural Insight: Taiwanese people are generally warm and helpful. A smile and polite gesture can often bridge communication gaps.

Personal Safety and Petty Crime

Low Crime Rates with Notable Exceptions

Taiwan is one of the safest countries for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing or scams can occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas such as night markets or public transport hubs.

Common Risks:

• Pickpocketing: Busy areas like Taipei’s Shilin Night Market are prime spots for thieves targeting distracted tourists.
• Scams: Overcharging by unofficial taxis or fake tour guides can catch unwary travelers off guard.
• Personal Belongings: Leaving items unattended in public spaces increases the risk of theft.

Staying Secure

• Use anti-theft bags: Backpacks with hidden zippers or money belts can deter pickpockets.
• Verify taxis: Use licensed taxis (yellow in most cities) or ride-hailing apps like Uber, and ensure the meter is running.
• Avoid flashy displays: Keep expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash out of sight.
• Secure belongings: Use hotel safes for passports and valuables, and never leave bags unattended in public.
• Stay aware in crowds: Keep your belongings in front of you in busy areas to avoid theft.

Safety Note: Taiwan’s police are approachable and often speak basic English. Don’t hesitate to seek help if needed.

Practical Tips for Safe Travel in Taiwan

To ensure a smooth and secure trip, consider these overarching strategies:

• Plan your itinerary with safety in mind: Research your destinations, focusing on areas with better pedestrian infrastructure, like Taipei’s MRT-connected zones.
• Invest in travel insurance: Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings can provide peace of mind.
• Stay connected: Purchase a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi for reliable communication and navigation.
• Download offline maps: Apps like Maps.me allow navigation without internet access, ideal for rural areas.
• Join guided tours for remote areas: Professional guides can navigate challenging terrains and provide safety insights.

Emergency Contacts

Conclusion: Travel Smart, Stay Safe

Taiwan is a remarkable destination, blending modernity with tradition, but it’s not without its challenges. By understanding the risks—traffic hazards, natural disasters, health concerns, language barriers, and petty crime—you can prepare effectively and enjoy a worry-free journey. From staying vigilant on the streets to respecting local customs, these precautions allow you to focus on Taiwan’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. With careful planning and awareness, your trip to Taiwan can be both safe and unforgettable.

References

1. CNN: Taiwan’s Traffic Is a ‘Living Hell’
2. LINE TODAY: Taiwan’s Pedestrian Hell
3. Future City: Taiwan’s Pedestrian Safety Data
4. Taiwan News: Fines for Not Yielding to Pedestrians
5. CNA: Why Are Taiwan’s Roads Deadly for Pedestrians?
6. Sustainable Urban Planning: Walkability and Pedestrian-Friendly Design
7. Number Analytics: Urban Walkability Metrics
8. Taipei City Government: Sidewalk Enforcement Guidelines
9. Strong Towns: Dutch Cities and Pedestrian Safety
10. LTA Singapore: Friendly Streets Initiative

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