Visiting
Business hours
Private and government offices are usually open from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday. Many close for lunch from 12:30pm to 1:30pm.
Banking hours are 9.00am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Most shops are open from 11.00am till 10.00pm. Shops are generally open every day, including most public holidays, with the exception of Chinese New Year.
Public holidays
3 January – New Year’s Day (in lieu)
2-4 February – Chinese New Year
4 April – Children’s Day
5 April – Tomb Sweeping Day
22 April – Good Friday
2 May – Labour Day (in lieu)
6 June – Dragon Boat Festival
12 September – Moon Festival
10 October – National Day
26 December – Christmas Day (in lieu)
27 December – Boxing Day (in lieu)
Climate
In Taiwan, there is usually a lot of rain in May to June so it is advisable to travel with an umbrella. Summer is very humid and hot with temperatures in the high 30s. Bring light summer suits and plenty of shirts (preferably cotton).
Earthquakes may occur and if you are caught in one, the safest place to stand is within a doorway. If you are outside, stand well away from power lines and building frontage where signs and objects can fall. If in doubt, stay still as fallen power lines can electrify other fallen material.
Typhoons may also strike, usually in the rainy season (July to September).
For weather details in Taiwan, please visit the World Meteorological Organization.
Currency
Oanda currency converter
The currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar.
Major credit cards are accepted in Taipei. Southern Taiwan (ie. Kaohsiung) is still a cash economy, so it is necessary to carry the equivalent of A$500-A$1000 in your wallet - this is generally a safe practice.
You can access cash through most of ATMs in Taiwan.
Time zones and time differences
Taiwan is two hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
To find out the current time in Taipei, view the World Clock.
Dialling codes
Taiwan's country code is 886.
For calls to Taiwan from Australia dial: 0011 + 886 + area code + telephone number.
For calls from Taiwan to Australia dial: 002 + 61 + area code + telephone number.
For further information (eg. area codes) please visit the White Pages - international dialling codes.
Electricity and water
Taiwan’s power supply is 110 volts, 60Hz 1, 3 phases, 2, 3, 4 wires. The two-pin flat plugs are the most common.
Links and resources
Taiwan Tourism – www.taiwan.net.tw
Please note: this list of websites and resources is not definitive. Inclusion in this list does not imply endorsement by Austrade. The information provided is a guide only.