Things to Do and Don’t Do When Visiting Taiwan

If you were to ask about the top destinations in the hearts of Thai travelers, "Taiwan" would undoubtedly be at the top of the list! Beyond being a paradise for foodies—home to world-famous mala hotpot and pearl milk tea—Taiwan remains a dream to explore. Its seamless MRT network makes getting around a breeze, and perhaps most importantly, the cost of living is so similar to Thailand that many have come to call it their "second home."

But before you pack your bags for a check-in at Ximending or strike a pose at the iconic Taipei 101, there is one thing just as vital as booking your flight: understanding "Taiwanese Etiquette" and "Local Laws." Taiwan is renowned for its impeccable discipline and strict regulations. To ensure your trip is smooth and free from unexpected fines, we’ve summarized the essential Do’s and Don’ts in this article. Let’s dive in!

When it comes to Do's and Don'ts in Taiwan, the first thing Gother wants you to keep in mind is the discipline within the Taipei Metro (MRT) system. Taiwan is world-renowned for its strict regulations aimed at maintaining international standards of cleanliness and service. To ensure a smooth trip, here are the top 3 rules:

• Strictly No Food or Drinks: The moment you cross the "Yellow Line" at the ticket gates, this rule is in full effect. Whether it’s a sip of water, chewing gum, candy, or even just holding an open snack, you risk being fined. (Fines can reach up to 7,500 TWD!)
• Keep It Quiet: Taiwanese people highly value personal space and tranquility. Talking loudly or using your phone’s speaker on the train is considered very rude. Gother suggests lowering your voice or using headphones to respect the quiet environment of the carriage.
• Orderly Queueing: Cutting in line is a major taboo. You’ll see clear markings on the platform floor indicating where to stand. Please line up accordingly and always "let passengers exit the train first" before boarding.

Taiwan is home to one of the world's most efficient recycling systems, which means waste disposal is strictly regulated by Taiwanese Law. To ensure your trip goes smoothly and you stay on the right side of the regulations, here are the essential practices you need to know:

• The 3-Category Waste System: Generally, you will find bins separated into three distinct sections: General Waste, Recyclables (further divided into plastic bottles and cans), and Food Waste. We highly recommend checking the labels carefully and sorting your trash accordingly every time.
• Specialized Trash Bags: In many residential areas, you cannot use regular plastic bags for disposal; instead, you must use official, government-certified trash bags. If you are staying in an Airbnb, be sure to ask your host about the specific trash disposal rules to avoid unexpected fines later on.
• Strict "No Littering" Policy: Leaving a bubble tea cup on a public bench, a wall, or even in a YouBike basket is considered a serious offense. Taiwan has extensive CCTV surveillance, and littering can result in heavy fines. Always dispose of your trash in designated areas and remember to sort it correctly before throwing it away.

• Prohibited Smoking Areas: Smoking is strictly forbidden in all indoor facilities, including restaurants, shopping malls, bus stops, public parks, and educational institutions. Violators face fines starting from 2,000 TWD.
• Designated Smoking Areas: Please look for glass booths or specific areas equipped with ashtrays. If you are unsure, it is best to check with convenience store staff or hotel personnel for guidance.

• Crossing the Street: Even when the road appears clear, jaywalking is a punishable offense with actual fines. More importantly, vehicles in Taiwan, especially when turning, tend to drive at high speeds. For your safety, always wait for the pedestrian signal and use designated crosswalks.
• Escalator Etiquette (Standing Right, Walking Left): Although authorities have recently campaigned for standing on both sides for safety, "social etiquette" in Taiwan still largely follows the practice of standing on the right and leaving the left side open for those in a hurry.

Social integration and systematic culture (Zhongzheng District)

• Impeccable Queuing Etiquette: Experience a culture of patient waiting that offers a visually pleasing perspective at every turn of your journey.
• Premium Pedestrian Spaces: Expansive sidewalks featuring non-slip interior textures, fully equipped with comprehensive facilities for persons with disabilities.
• Smart Waste Management: Stylishly designed waste sorting stations around the area that reflect a commitment to international environmental standards.
• Quiet Zone: The surroundings of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall offer a charming "urban oasis" vibe, but strict noise control is enforced to maintain the tranquility of the site.

• Strict Ban on All Pork Products: To prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), Taiwan strictly prohibits bringing any pork-related products into the country. This includes pork floss, Chinese sausages, pork-flavored instant noodles, and even bread with pork filling. First-time offenders face a starting fine of 200,000 TWD, which can escalate to 1,000,000 TWD for repeat offenses.
• Cannabis and Narcotics: Although cannabis may be legal in certain countries, it remains a serious illegal narcotic in Taiwan. Importing any products containing cannabis (CBD/THC) in any form—including oils, skincare, or edibles—is strictly forbidden. Violators face severe penalties, including imprisonment and deportation.