Taiwan : Safety by City
Taiwan is an island country located in East Asia, off the coast of southwest of Okinawa, Japan and north of the Philippines.
Taiwan is actually governed by the Republic of China since 1945 and with more than 23 million people, it is the most populous state and largest economy that is not a member of the United Nations.
But apart from the crowded cities that Taiwan is known for, it also offers rocky mountains and lush forests.
When you go to Taiwan, expect an urban adventure in the country’s impressive capital, Taipei that’s brimming with vibrant culture, entertainment, cuisine (with numerous restaurants offering delicious food that is so cheap that the Japanese often take short trips just to taste it), contemporary clubs and bars and a uniquely energetic feel to it.
Many describe Taiwan as what China could’ve been like if it hadn’t been for centralized government and communism.
Warnings & Dangers in Taiwan
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Taiwan is generally safe to travel to, but it's not without its dangers. The only concern is a petty crime on the streets, but if you apply the basic precaution measures, your trip should go smoothly.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Though public transport is mostly safe and reliable, it is filled with pickpockets and petty thieves. Always negotiate everything in advance and never pay upfront. Transportation stations are also risky, as they are known to attract criminals. Bear in mind that Taiwan is filled with unlicensed taxi vehicles that don't use meters and might try to rip you off.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
There is a heightened risk of pickpockets in Taiwan since it has around 10 million visitors a year. Don‘t leave anything valuable in your back pockets and be especially vigilant in crowded places.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
As for natural disasters, Taiwan has a high risk of earthquakes. There are also risks of typhoons, especially between July to November and tourists are recommended to refrain from visiting the mountains during these periods.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Taiwan, on the whole, is extremely safe. Crime against foreigners is rare, and violent crime, and incidents such as mugging and rape, against foreigners are extremely rare.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Even though in Taiwan's recent history there haven't been any terrorist attacks, one can never be too cautious, and things such as terrorist attacks can never be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK: HIGH
The most common scams are connected with the ATMs. There is the popular scam of someone calling you, impersonating a bank employee or a hotel staff and asking you to confirm your credit card information. There is also the risk of ATM fraud so try and use the machines that are inside.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Taiwan is safe for solo women travelers. Just use your common sense and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid wearing purses and do not walk alone or ride in taxis at night.
So... How Safe Is Taiwan Really?
Taiwan is relatively safe to visit.
Though the rates of violent crime are low by world standards, you are recommended to remain vigilant at all times.
Petty crime rates are low as well, but pickpocketing and bag-snatching do occur, especially in locations frequented by tourists.
The shady, criminal side of Taiwan usually happens around barbershops and nightclubs which act as fronts for prostitution.
However, it is easy to differentiate the dodgy ones from real, legitimate businesses.
Real barber shops openly advertise their business and you can see through their windows barbers cutting hair, and if you can’t – that’s the dodgy one.
Apart from this, you should keep in mind that there have been reports of people being assaulted by taxi drivers: this happened a couple of time, and though it received unreasonably more media coverage than it should’ve since it only happened a couple of times, it still pays to remain vigilant.
Women, for example, should be cautious when taking taxis alone late at night and it is even recommended for them to only tell taxi drivers the street name and section, instead of their exact address.
How Does Taiwan Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Taiwan | 54 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Singapore | 90 |
| Sweden | 83 |
| Uruguay | 77 |
| Switzerland | 89 |
| South Korea | 82 |
| Oman | 76 |
| Canada | 88 |
Useful Information
Visas
Many countries in Europe, U.S.A, Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa to enter Taiwan, for any stays shorter than 90 days. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Currency
The New Taiwan dollar is the official currency in Taiwan. ATMs are widely available throughout the country, except in rural areas, while credit cards are accepted at most establishments.
Weather
There are two climates in Taiwan: the north part of Taiwan has a sub-tropical climate zone, while the southern part has a tropical climate zone. Winters in Taiwan are warm and mild while summers are hot and wet, with typhoons and thunderstorms.
Airports
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is an international airport in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan. It is located about 40 km west of Taipei in Dayuan District. The airport is Taiwan's largest and busiest.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Taiwan, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.
Taiwan Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 19 | 20 | 22 | 26 | 29 | 32 | 34 | 33 | 31 | 27 | 24 | 21 |
| Low °C | 13 | 14 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 18 | 15 |
| High °F | 66 | 68 | 72 | 79 | 84 | 90 | 93 | 91 | 88 | 81 | 75 | 70 |
| Low °F | 55 | 57 | 59 | 66 | 72 | 77 | 79 | 79 | 75 | 72 | 64 | 59 |
Taiwan - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Taipei | 61 |
Taiwan is ranked the 2nd safest country in the world by the FBI.
Not as Safe
Taiwan law requires the VICTIM to record video of the crime. The victim has to prove the guilt before the police will even investigate. The crime rates are very low because of this law. Basically the police under report or they do not even investigate. There is more crime than people realize. The AIT website (acts like U.S. Embassy in Taiwan) will give a clear picture of this problem on there website. It is shocking, but I have experienced it.
The biggest problem is Taiwanese driving is horrible. They have no problem running red lights or even driving on the sidewalks. The country has 8 deaths per day related to this. To put this in perspective, Japan population is 5x’s bigger. They average 10 a day. Taiwan has the worse fatality rate in Asia.
I was struck by a moped in the cross walk. The moped ran a red light really late because I was halfway across when I was struck down. The old man fell off his moped, but got on right away and left. I got only 3 of the numbers off the license plate. The police cameras at the intersection were not operating properly, so no video. No video, no case for the police.
Just be aware and safe on your travels.
CCTV is everywhere!!
You do know there are CCTV EVERYWHERE right? You can simply request a copy of the video or by police so I don’t buy that BS. Every day we see something so stupid on the news, I’m sure a foreigner got hurt/robbed would make the deadline (yes, really!)
Current Health Issue
How do we save in this current health issue?the ncorona virus from Wuhan China, and 1 confirm cases in Taiwan, do we save to travel to Taiwan now ( chinese new year 2020)
Very safe, except traffic
Spent lot of time in Taiwan. Indeed, probably one of the safest places to visit if you leave the traffic out. Super nice and helpful people, safe 24h no matter the location. Nightclubs, bars, mountain hikes, beaches, all super chill.
Traffic looks fine at the first glance but once you’re in there it can be very unexpected. Overuse of traffic lights that not many seem care and lack of knowledge in basic rules can be a deadly combination. So keep your eyes open, be careful and don’t expect to survive just because you know the rules.
Had more than few Taiwanese asking me “Don’t you trust my driving?” just because I’m buckling the seat belt. That says some…
At least you hear the garbage truck coming 😉
It is not really safe, FBI got it wrong
Why is Taiwan lower on the list then Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand?
Because the report is of error
Cuz this article is bs
Taiwan is AMAZING
Taiwan is AMAZING!!!
Even UK has more points…. This is scam or UK paid money to spread false information.
I’ve been to Taiwan and I never felt more safe than there. Brits are super dangerous because of lack of education and they drink a lot!
I suspect it’s because of the threats the CCP (i.e. FAKE China) has been making towards Taiwan (i.e. REAL China), but the website’s owners are afraid to openly acknowledge that fact.
This is crazy. As a UK person that has visited 70+ countries, Taiwan is far and away the safest country (well done for getting the second part right, at least) I have ever been to.
Which country is the safest?
This is crazy. As a UK person that has visited 70+ countries, Taiwan is far and away the safest country (well done for getting the second part right, at least) I have ever been to. Can’t take the rest of the list seriously because of that.
safe
it is safe
Agreed with Rye – It is very save !
Taiwan is on top of the safest country in the world according to other research.
OMG, Taiwan is probably the safest country in the world. Portugal is safe too. do, this list is a joke.
True!
Very safe
I have travelled around cities in Taiwan at least once a year. Taiwan is a very safe country. No issues of walking alone at night. Most Taiwanese are friendly. Definitely much safer than neighbouring country, PRC.
Have you ever been to China?
Mugged in china, not in Taiwan
Yep, only got mugged 2 times in my life, both in donguan china..
Taiwan is a very safe country. I visit Taiwan frequently and travelled the whole country. No problem during the day or night.
Very safe
I would say Taiwan is even safer than most European countries to travel to and definitely one of the safest countries in Asia. This safety index is absurd.
Extremely Safe
I live in Taipei for more than three years and I am really surprised to read these warnings. Taipei is really the safest country I have been too far safer than any European country especially about pickpocketing. People leave their phones and wallets in Starbucks to reserve a table when they order or go to the restroom, no one takes anything.
yeah and I’ve accidentally left my iPhone and AirPods Pro at a hotel playground room with an xbox 360 for an hour and no-one bothered to take it
Relatively safe = the safety index of 54?
Relatively safe = the safety index of 54? I’m utterly confused.. Overall risk is also low, so what gives?
I guess Taiwan got reviewbombed by mainland chinese? (in that case, confused lol?)
I mean it is rated around the same as india here, so something is definitely not right (plus their own risk-judgement says something else than the points.
Taiwan is one of the safest countries I know. You’ll find out about this if you actually travel there. The index is simply ridiculous.
Does Taiwan still safe to visit during CoronaVirus outbreak
Yup
Well yeah….. if you can get here. We’ve been on 0 cases for at least 2 weeks
And we still get to go to school
PRC website?
This website must be operated by the PRC… another attempt to alienate Taiwan from the rest of the world.
Well I would not go that far but it is weird that Taiwan is ranked lower than Communist China.
When you really know the situation, it really seems like a joke.
Have you ever been to China? You really seem like a joke.
Yes I've too both Taiwan and China
I totally dumbfounded by the rating. Taiwan and China are both safer compared to US and many European countries. Taiwan is safer than China especially considering you can expect rule of law to apply equally to both Taiwanese and expats. Foreigners needs to carefully the current political situation. China is ruled by authoritarian not rule of law.
This review is Ill informe There are no pickpockets in Taiwan.
Taiwan is Safe
Taiwan is the safest country I have ever visited. this list or article is way off. Taiwan should have a safety rating of 96. 4 points knocked off for the crazy scooters. i’m OK with that. Taiwanese are awesome.
DANGER
Taiwan is NOT a safe country at all!!
This one time, I was climbing the stairs near the 101 metro station.
It was at night, and very bright, but somehow I tripped on the last set of stairs.
Fell and scraped my knee, almost bled out right there. AVOID.
Bottom line, what an unreliable index…
Seriously?!
Seriously?! How does that have to do with safety?! I personally think that review is completely biased.
I think he is joking tho…
He did say that this is a horrible index at the end.
bruh not sure about the stairs but
it’s u that tripped on the stairs
not the stairs that tripped you
Taiwan is the literal safest country
Taiwan is the literal safest country in the world according to the World Population Review Crime Index. This article is completely incorrect:
DON"T UNDERSTAND!!
What do you mean the safety index is 54 Taiwan is way safer than America and Sudan so why is Sudan safety index is 57???????????????
PLEASE UPDATE THIS FALSE IMFORMATION!!!!!!!
Inaccurate safety data
Taiwan is very safe please update the safety index
Taiwan is safe
Taiwan is on the top 10 list of safety
Taiwan isn’t safe. I faced many sexual assault and when I went to the police station I got slut shamed and they refuse to help. The police only help Taiwanese. And locals have this idea that Taiwan is the best and safest so they refuse and block any opinion different and refuse to believe when someone said something bad happened
This can’t be further away from the truth. I lost my purse a couple times there and was called by the police because someone found it. People are very friendly and willing to help. It’s the safest country in the world.
HellaTy# You must been jokin’
Taiwan’s scoring should be over 90 !!!! Check what Youtubers said about their lives in Taiwan
100% SAFE!
My wife & I got married at age 17 in the mountains of Taiwan. I am American, she is Taiwanese. We have now been married for 38 years and have two grown sons. Although we live in the US, we have traveled to Taiwan every year at least once and many times twice per year. Our sons spent every summer school vacation in Taiwan, learning the language, culture, etc. while staying with their grandparents and other relatives. We have NEVER had a single safety issue happen to us, our visiting friends and or relatives or anyone else that we know of. Taiwan is MANY times over, safer than the US and I’ve never met friendlier people in any of my travels. I think this “rating” is complete BS.
Taiwan is one of the safest place to tea el
I don’t know who wrote this page, Taiwan is NOT part of China or ruled by them by any means.
Complete different government and you don’t need visa like if you were to visit China. And Taiwan is not a communist country, you don’t have to worry about getting out in jail if you say something bad about the president or government.
Taiwanese are one of the nicest people that you can encounter. Extremely friendly and a lot of people (especially in bigger cities) can speak English.
Traveling in Taipei is very easy with all the public transportation.
And the low rate of COVID is one of the best in the world because everybody respect each other and themselves enough to wear masks everywhere!
Taiwan’s traffic is terrible. Do not visit Taiwan before the problems are solved.
Please explain to readers what this means – “Many describe Taiwan as what China could’ve been like if it hadn’t been for centralized government and communism.” That is a load of nonsense! I have lived in China. I first visited in 1980. In that time it has dragged many hundreds of millions out of poverty, omre than at any other time in the history of our planet. Has your writer ever actually been to Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou? Or even Harbin, Hangzhou, Xi’an or Kunming for that matter. These are bustling cities with virtually the same great restaurants, sightseeing, entertainment venues as Taiwan plus a far greater range of sights to see. Please be accurate when you make your descriptions.
Truth
Taiwan is the safest country in the world.
It has some problems with Chinese people who are members of the KMT party who wants to sell the country to China, but otherwise it is safe.
This article needs to review its score
I’m shocked that Taiwan is less safe than the majority of the countries in the world… if you leave your bag on the street and on the table and forget about it, rest assured that when you go back to retrieve it you get everything back. This is a bunch of bullocks and you have to watch the traffic like any other counties except for European countries maybe (actually not even France or Italy!!)
Taiwan - safest country you will ever visit
Who came up with this rating? Taiwan is the safest place you will ever travel to. How can it be rated 54?
It is ranked 54 for a reason: The Chinese are trying to invade Taiwan, but you refuse to admit it and that’s why you’re confusing me.
Public transport is very safe in Taiwan
I’m not sure I agree with the statement ‘Though public transport is mostly safe and reliable, it is filled with pickpockets and petty thieves.’ I lived in Taipei for many years and NEVER had a problem in all that time.
Taiwan at 54??? Gotta be a joke. This is the safest country besides Japan by far.