Verified Facts
Taiwan is divided into several cities and regions, with the main administrative divisions being six special municipalities, three provincial cities, and thirteen counties, offering a diverse range of cultural, economic, and natural attractions for visitors.
Quick Facts
How Taiwan Is Divided
Taiwan is divided into a multi-level administrative system, with the central government overseeing six special municipalities, three provincial cities, and thirteen counties. The six special municipalities, which include Taipei, New Taipei City, Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung, are governed directly by the central government and have a higher degree of autonomy than the counties and provincial cities. The counties and provincial cities are further divided into districts, towns, and townships, each with their own local government and administration.
The administrative divisions of Taiwan are designed to provide a framework for governance, economic development, and public services, with each level of government having its own responsibilities and powers. The system has evolved over time, with the most recent changes being the creation of the six special municipalities in 2010, which aimed to promote economic growth, improve public services, and enhance the overall quality of life for citizens.
Major Cities
Taipei (2.7 million)
Role: capital, economic hub, cultural center
Known For: Taipei is known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic landmarks such as the Longshan Temple, and its modern skyscrapers, including the iconic Taipei 101 building.
Best For: visitors interested in history, culture, and entertainment, as well as business travelers and shoppers.
New Taipei City (3.9 million)
Role: economic hub, cultural center, port city
Known For: New Taipei City is known for its bustling night markets, historic sites such as the Tamsui Old Street, and its scenic coastline along the Pacific Ocean.
Best For: visitors interested in shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as those looking for a mix of urban and natural attractions.
Taichung (2.8 million)
Role: economic hub, cultural center, educational hub
Known For: Taichung is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic sites such as the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, and its scenic natural attractions, including the Sun Moon Lake.
Best For: visitors interested in art, culture, and education, as well as those looking for a more relaxed pace of life.
Kaohsiung (2.7 million)
Role: economic hub, port city, cultural center
Known For: Kaohsiung is known for its bustling harbor, historic sites such as the British Consulate at Takow, and its scenic natural attractions, including the Lotus Pond.
Best For: visitors interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities, as well as those looking for a mix of urban and natural attractions.
Taoyuan (2.2 million)
Role: economic hub, industrial center, transportation hub
Known For: Taoyuan is known for its international airport, industrial parks, and its scenic natural attractions, including the Daxi Old Street.
Best For: visitors interested in business, industry, and transportation, as well as those looking for a convenient base for exploring northern Taiwan.
Key Regions
| Region | Character | Known For | Major City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Taiwan | urban, industrial, cultural | night markets, historic sites, scenic coastline | Taipei |
| Central Taiwan | scenic, cultural, educational | Sun Moon Lake, National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, historic sites | Taichung |
| Southern Taiwan | industrial, economic, cultural | Kaohsiung harbor, Lotus Pond, historic sites | Kaohsiung |
| Eastern Taiwan | scenic, natural, indigenous | Taroko National Park, East Coast National Scenic Area, indigenous tribes | Hualien |
| Western Taiwan | coastal, agricultural, cultural | scenic coastline, historic sites, traditional festivals | Tainan |
| Penghu Islands | island, scenic, natural | beaches, coral reefs, scenic coastline | Magong |
| Kinmen Islands | island, historic, cultural | historic sites, traditional festivals, scenic coastline | Jincheng |
| Matsu Islands | island, scenic, natural | beaches, coral reefs, scenic coastline | Nangan |
Regional Differences
- The regions of Taiwan differ in terms of culture, with the north being more urban and industrial, while the south is known for its traditional festivals and cultural heritage.
- The economy also varies by region, with the north being a hub for technology and industry, while the south is known for its manufacturing and trade.
- The climate differs significantly between the regions, with the north being cooler and more temperate, while the south is warmer and more tropical.
- The language and dialects also vary by region, with Mandarin being the official language, but with different dialects and accents being spoken in different parts of the island.
Getting Around
Taiwan has a well-developed transportation network, with domestic flights, trains, buses, and highways connecting the major cities and regions. The high-speed rail network is a convenient and efficient way to travel between cities, with trains running frequently throughout the day. Buses and taxis are also widely available, and driving is a viable option, although traffic can be congested in urban areas. The scenic coastal roads and highways offer a picturesque way to explore the island, with many scenic stops and attractions along the way.
The public transportation system in Taiwan is generally efficient and reliable, with English signage and announcements making it easy for visitors to navigate. The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus service is a convenient way to get around, with routes connecting major tourist attractions and cities. Rental cars and scooters are also available, offering a flexible way to explore the island at your own pace. Overall, getting around Taiwan is relatively easy, with a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.