Last Updated on 2025 年 12 月 24 日 by 総合編集組
Taipei 2026 Travel Safety Report: Why It Remains One of the World’s Safest Cities
Taipei continues to stand out as one of the safest travel destinations globally in 2026. According to the latest Numbeo data from mid-2025, Taipei’s safety index reaches 83.8, ranking third worldwide and leading Asia ahead of Tokyo and Seoul. The crime index is remarkably low at 19.86, compared to London’s 49.21 and New York’s 44.49. Daytime walking safety perception stands at 92%, with nighttime safety exceeding 85% — figures far above global averages.
This high safety level stems from strong social cohesion, strict law enforcement, and extensive surveillance networks. Taipei also excels in health and digital security, ranking in the global top 10 for health safeguards and top 25 for digital protection, according to The Economist.
Response to the 2025 Metro Incident and Ongoing Enhancements
On December 19, 2025, a rare random stabbing attack occurred in Taipei’s main metro stations and nearby areas, resulting in three fatalities and eleven injuries. The 27-year-old suspect used smoke grenades to create chaos before attacking passersby and later died during a police pursuit.
The incident prompted immediate and sustained upgrades. By 2026, armed police deployments at major hubs and events have doubled. AI-based anomaly detection systems are being rolled out across the 117 MRT stations. Police staffing has increased, with enhanced equipment like tasers and body armor. High-risk individuals are now under closer monitoring through inter-agency cooperation.
These measures have transformed Taipei’s approach from reactive to proactive, boosting resilience against isolated threats. Travelers may notice slightly stricter security checks, but overall public safety has improved significantly.
Transportation Safety: Progress Toward a More Pedestrian-Friendly City
Taipei has long faced criticism for pedestrian challenges, but substantial reforms are underway. Since 2024, the government has invested heavily in a multi-year plan to enhance pedestrian safety.
By 2026, over 1,901 hazardous intersections have been upgraded with shorter crossing distances and protective islands. Road lighting has been modernized with high-visibility LED at 400 key locations. Sidewalks have been widened and cleared of obstacles, with 216 km repaired by 2025 and ongoing work in schools and demo zones. Stop lines have been set back further to reduce blind spots for large vehicles.
Stricter enforcement includes higher fines and full-time tech monitoring for drivers failing to yield. While cultural changes take time, travelers should remain vigilant when crossing roads — always stop, look, and listen, especially in older neighborhoods.
Taipei MRT: Among the World’s Cleanest and Safest Systems
The Taipei MRT is renowned for its cleanliness, punctuality, and safety features. In 2026, stations include emergency stop buttons near platform doors and escalators, intercoms for direct contact with staff, manual door overrides for power failures, and under-platform refuge spaces for track falls.
Women traveling alone at night are advised to use designated “women’s waiting zones,” which feature dense surveillance and bright lighting.
Natural Disaster Preparedness: World-Class Early Warning Systems
Taiwan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, but Taipei’s buildings meet strict seismic standards. The Central Weather Administration integrates data from international satellites for precise typhoon and earthquake forecasts.
During earthquakes, stay indoors under sturdy furniture or outdoors away from buildings. Typhoon warnings trigger work and school closures, with reduced transit services. Tsunami risks are low in the city center, but coastal areas require immediate evacuation to higher ground if unusual sea behavior occurs.
Medical Care: High-Quality and Accessible for International Visitors
Taipei’s healthcare remains world-class, affordable, and foreigner-friendly. Major hospitals offer English services and international centers:
- National Taiwan University Hospital (central location, comprehensive emergency care)
- Taiwan Adventist Hospital (Muslim-friendly, international priority care)
- Mackay Memorial Hospital (long history of foreign patient support)
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital (specialized in cancer and cardiology)
- Taipei Medical University Hospital (advanced robotic surgery, convenient location)
Hospitals operate on a pay-first system — settle bills and claim from insurance later. Call 119 for ambulances, which provide basic life support en route to the nearest emergency hospital. Carry prescriptions for controlled medications and declare them upon entry.
Digital and Financial Security: Common Scams to Avoid
While violent crime is minimal, digital scams target tourists. Use VPNs on public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions. Prefer cash or trusted apps like LINE Pay or Apple Pay at small vendors. Hang up on unsolicited calls demanding money or personal info — verify via the 165 anti-fraud hotline. When meeting online contacts, confirm identities through video calls.
Inclusive Society and Legal Essentials
Taipei is welcoming to diverse groups, including LGBTQ+ travelers, with strong anti-discrimination laws. Public order is high — follow MRT rules like no eating and right-side standing on escalators. Taiwan enforces zero tolerance on drugs, including marijuana, with severe penalties up to the death penalty.
Real Traveler Feedback from 2025-2026
Solo female travelers frequently praise Taipei as one of the safest cities they’ve visited, with comfortable late-night walks in parks. Some note minor issues like interrupted sidewalks in older areas or language barriers in markets — carry translation apps. Summer heat requires hydration and frequent breaks in air-conditioned convenience stores.
Final Assessment and Practical Tips
In 2026, Taipei maintains its exceptional safety record while addressing recent challenges through advanced measures. It offers a secure, vibrant environment for all travelers.
Key recommendations:
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical and evacuation.
- Download official apps for weather alerts and emergency reporting.
- Respect local laws on drugs and public transport etiquette.
- Stay alert when crossing streets.
- Keep passport copies handy and originals in hotel safes.
Taipei remains a top choice for worry-free exploration in 2026.
