Fascinating Taiwan
We welcome you to our friendly island paradise! Taiwan is a modern, free, democratic society whose people are hardworking, fun-loving, educated and friendly. While eagerly embracing the future, the people of Taiwan hold onto traditional values and ideals. The family, including ancestors, is of utmost importance; education and scholarship are held in high esteem. Traditional forms of writing, architecture and art are part of everyday life. Yes.....
History
The name “Taiwan,” meaning “terraced bay,” was first used in 1430 by Admiral Cheng Ho of the Ming court. In the 16th century, the Portuguese named the island “Ilha Formosa” meaning “Beautiful Island.” The name Formosa was used until the end of WWII. Situated between northern and southern Asia, Taiwan has long played a crucial role in trade and politics. Taiwan’s location brought frequent inv.....
Geography
Taiwan lies along the western edge of the Pacific Ocean, 193 km (120 miles) off the southeastern coast of mainland China. Taiwan has a land area of about 36,000 square km (14,400 square miles) and is nearly bisected by the Tropic of Cancer. The island is shaped somewhat like a sweet potato. Taiwan has broad plains, rolling hills, and precipitous mountains that form the spine of the island. There are six peaks over 3,500m — the highest is .....
Climate
In subtropical, northern Taiwan, the temperature during the cool, mild winters averages 18˚C / 64˚F. The average temperature rises to 31˚C / 88˚F during the hot, humid summers. Southern Taiwan has a tropical, marine climate with generally warm and relatively dry weather. In the mountains, temperate conditions prevail. Snow may accumulate on some of the highest peaks, such as Yu Shan and Ho-Huan Shan. Rain may fall at any time, but the greatest .....
Culture
The culture of Taiwan is a blend of modern and traditional, national and international, unique and universal. Due to Taiwan’s complex political history, the influences of indigenous culture, Confucianism, Japan, and Western civilization all can be seen at the same time. The Japanese occupation of Taiwan from 1895 to 1945 influenced language, culture, and architecture. Visitors can still find a Japanese-style mansion and hear old Japanese .....
Cuisine
In Taiwan, where it seems the people live to eat, it is said that there is a snack shop every three steps and a restaurant every five. Foods and dishes from around the world are available in Taiwan. However, Taiwan's native cuisine, which has gained worldwide attention, is unforgettable - try it just once and you will remember it forever. Memorable dishes include: Pearl Milk Tea, Danzai Noodles, Shrimp Pork Soup, Oyster Omelet, Meat Rice T.....
Excellence in IT Products
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), a renowned British think tank, recently announced the results of a global study of IT industry competitiveness. Based on the study, Taiwan’s IT industry rose to second place from sixth place in the previous year out of a total of 66 nations included in the study. The report noted that the country’s rise in the rankings owed mainly to its strong performance in R&D, particularly regarding patente.....
