TAIPEI, TAIWAN: THE CROWN JEWEL OF FORMOSA

The capital of Taiwan, Taipei is the political, financial, and cultural lifeline of the island. It is a modern metropolis with world-class shopping, dozens of great museums, a wide variety of excellent restaurants, and history, all connected seamlessly by one of the best public transportation systems in the world.

Accessibility

There are two international airports in Taipei:

  • Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the most convenient airport for traveling to Taipei, with airlines from all around the world flying in on regular schedules. Located approximately 53 kilometers from TaiNEX 2, we recommend hopping into a taxi or airport shuttle for the most direct and seamless way to get to the congress venue.
  • The Taipei Songshan Airport primarily provides services to locations in Taiwan, as well as other locations in Asia, including Seoul, Tokyo, mainland China, and other countries. It is significantly closer to TaiNEX 2 (30 mins drive to TaiNEX 2).

Climate

Northern Taiwan has a subtropical climate. Daytime temperatures in Taipei in November are around 25°C (77°F), falling to around 18°C (64°F). Participants are advised to bring light clothing and appropriate rain gear.

Language

The Official language in Taiwan is Mandarin. English is widely spoken, and the Taiwanese are friendly, you can easily ask for or clarify directions as needed; and most signs for destinations and on public transportation are in English too. However, some taxi drivers might have limited ability to speak English. We recommend you carry Mandarin translations for places you’re going to and hotel address card to show to the driver.

Getting Around in Taipei City

TAXI

In Taiwan, taxis are in yellow and can be found at taxi ranks in the city and at major locations such as hotels and airports. Taxis can also be hailed in the street in Taipei City.

UBER

Uber is available 24/7 in Taipei, offering multiple ride options and accepting various payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
The app also allows riders to schedule trips up to 90 days in advance for added convenience. Simply enter your pick-up and drop-off locations to view estimated fares and driver details for a smooth travel experience.

METRO (MRT)

The Taipei Metro remains one of the fastest and most convenient modes of public transportation in the city. Trains typically arrive every 2 to 4 minutes during peak hours and every 4 to 7 minutes during off-peak times. The average travel time between stations is approximately 2 minutes.

Smoking, eating, drinking, and chewing gum are not allowed inside the metro.

One-way tickets can be purchased at ticket machines located at each station before entering the gates. For more convenience, travelers can opt for a Taipei Metro one-day pass, multi-day passes, or an EasyCard (pronounced ‘yo-yo card’), which can be purchased at station information counters or EasyCard customer service centers. EasyCards can be recharged at ticket machines, convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, and OK Mart, or at EasyCard service kiosks located in many stations.

View more information on the Metro (MRT)

BUSES

Taipei buses cover the whole city and are a good way to explore Taipei in depth.
Fares: Fares can be paid in coins or with the electronic EasyCard travel card. One trip or segment costs NT$15
If paying by EasyCard, swipe (tap) the card both upon getting-on and getting-off the bus and the bus fare will be deducted accordingly.
View more information on bus routes

YOUBIKE

The YouBike network is integrated with the metro. YouBike stations are located outside every metro station and near most major sites in Taipei.

CURRENCY

The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD), which is available in the following denominations: (coins) $1, $5, $10, $50; (notes) $100, $200, $500, $1000

Shops in Taiwan do not accept traveler’s checks, so visitors should convert them into New Taiwan Dollars at a bank before making purchases.

SMOKING

Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, as well as on the MRT system and at bus stops.

TIME DIFFERENCE

Taipei is 8 hours ahead of GMT.
For more travel information to Taipei City, please visit the official Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City.