Top Ten Cultural Tips for Living in Taiwan

Are you gearing up for an unforgettable student experience in Taipei? As you dive into this vibrant city's dynamic culture, bustling streets, and mouthwatering cuisine, one of the most exciting decisions you'll make is choosing where to live. With an array of neighborhoods catering to various lifestyles, finding your perfect spot is key to your experience. So, let’s discover the best areas to call home in Taipei as a student!

Taiwanese people are famously friendly and welcoming. As a foreigner, you'll often find locals eager to help you, whether you’re lost, struggling with Mandarin, or simply trying to navigate daily life. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to dinner by someone you’ve just met – it's part of the Taiwanese charm.

1. Warmth and Hospitality

You are welcomed like a family

In Taiwanese culture, respect for elders is deeply ingrained. You'll notice this in everyday interactions, where younger people often defer to older ones, using honorifics and speaking in a softer tone. As a foreigner, showing respect to elders, such as by offering them your seat on public transport, will be greatly appreciated.

2. Respect for Elders

Hierarchical politeness

Taiwanese society places a strong emphasis on group harmony (和諧, héxié). Decisions are often made with the group’s welfare in mind, whether in the workplace, family settings, or social circles. This can be a bit of a shift if you come from a more individualistic culture, but adapting to this mindset will help you integrate smoothly.

3. Group Harmony Over Individualism

The collective mindset

While many young people and professionals in Taiwan speak some English, Mandarin Chinese is the dominant language. Learning basic Mandarin phrases not only makes daily life easier but also earns you respect from the locals. You’ll find that even a little effort goes a long way.

4. Language Barrier

Learning Mandarin pays off

Taiwan is a food lover's paradise, famous for its night markets, where you can find everything from stinky tofu (an acquired taste) to bubble tea. Taiwanese people are proud of their culinary heritage, and sharing meals is an important social activity. Note that leaving food on your plate is seen as wasteful, so try to finish everything you’re served.

5. Food Culture

Night markets and dining etiquette

Tea isn’t just a beverage in Taiwan; it’s a cultural experience. Whether it’s sipping oolong tea in a traditional tea house or enjoying a quick bubble tea on the go, you’ll quickly discover that tea is woven into the fabric of daily life. Accepting tea when offered is a sign of politeness and appreciation.

6. Tea Culture

More than just a drink

Gift-giving in Taiwan is more than a mere formality; it’s an art. When invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as fruit or pastries. Avoid giving anything in sets of four, as the number is associated with death. Instead, opt for items in pairs or other even numbers, which are considered lucky.

7. Gift Giving

Thoughtful gestures matter

Taiwanese customs are a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. For example, when meeting someone, a light handshake is common, but in more formal settings, a slight bow might be added as a sign of respect. When entering a home, it’s customary to remove your shoes and wear the provided indoor slippers. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, so it's best to keep things modest in public. Traditional holidays like the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival are celebrated with family gatherings, special foods, and various rituals, giving you a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.

8. Taiwanese Customs

Blending tradition with modern life

The concept of "face" (面子, miànzi) is deeply embedded in Taiwanese society. Saving face is about maintaining dignity, respect, and social harmony. As a foreigner, it's essential to be mindful of this in both professional and personal interactions. Avoid direct confrontation, criticism, or public embarrassment, as these can cause someone to "lose face." Instead, approach sensitive issues tactfully and consider the feelings of others. Complimenting colleagues or giving credit in group settings can help people gain face, which in turn fosters positive relationships.

9. 'Face' Culture

The importance of saving face

Taiwan is remarkably clean, thanks in large part to the strict recycling rules and the civic pride taken in public spaces. You’ll notice that finding a public trash bin can be a challenge, as people are expected to take their garbage home for sorting. As a foreigner, following these practices shows respect for the local culture and contributes to the community’s well-being.

10. Environmental Awareness

A clean and green society

Thinking of moving to Taiwan?

Our Relocation Services support individuals and businesses with general orientation, arrival and settling-in support, overview of the local education and housing systems, cultural training and departure support. Contact us to discuss your needs.

Living in Taiwan as a foreigner offers a rich cultural experience, full of warmth, traditions, and learning opportunities. By embracing these cultural tips, you’ll not only enhance your daily life but also gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances that make Taiwan such a special place. Whether you’re here for a short stay or planning to make Taiwan your home, these insights will help you build meaningful connections and truly enjoy your time on the island.