Taiwan

Get to know Taiwan

Taiwan, officially the Republic of China , is a country in East Asia. The main island of Taiwan, formerly known as Formosa, lies between the East and South China Seas in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, with the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south. It has an area of 35,808 square kilometers , with mountain ranges dominating the eastern two-thirds and plains in the western third, where its highly urbanized population is concentrated. The combined territories under ROC control consist of 168 islands in total covering 36,193 square kilometers . The largest metropolitan area is formed by Taipei , New Taipei City, and Keelung. With around 23.9 million inhabitants, Taiwan is among the most densely populated countries. Taiwan has been settled for at least 25,000 years. Ancestors of Taiwanese indigenous peoples settled the island around 6,000 years ago. In the 17th century, large-scale Han Chinese immigration began under Dutch colonial rule and continued under the Kingdom of Tungning, the first predominantly Han Chinese state in Taiwanese history.

Explore places in Taiwan

Taipei →

Compare Taipei for seasonal weather, housing and everyday journeys. Open its guide for the local introduction, monthly climate and sources.

Planning a move or a longer stay

National averages are a starting point, not a neighbourhood budget. Shortlist specific places in Taiwan, compare housing for your dates and check the journey to work, school or the activities that matter to you.

For a move, confirm residence and work requirements with the relevant government authority for your nationality. For a holiday, compare transport, accommodation and daily spending separately.

Understanding national conditions

These figures describe Taiwan as a whole. Check the dates when comparing these national indicators with current local conditions.