Local Customs & Lifestyle: A Cultural Guide to Living in Taipei

Introduction: Understanding the Cultural Landscape of Taipei as an Expat

Moving to a new city, especially one as vibrant and dynamic as Taipei, is both exhilarating and challenging. This metropolis is rich with history, tradition, and modernity, making it one of the most captivating places in the world to live. But adapting to life in Taipei as an expat requires more than just learning the language—you need to understand the city’s cultural landscape to truly thrive here.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the essentials of living in Taipei, from its history and cultural festivals to social etiquette and tips on building a fulfilling social life. By embracing Taipei’s unique way of life, you’ll not only fit in but also find yourself deeply connected to the city’s heartbeat.

A Brief History of Taipei and Its Cultural Influences

Pictured: The blend of traditional and modern architecture in Taipei reflects the city’s cultural evolution, shaped by Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences.

To fully appreciate Taipei’s lifestyle, it’s crucial to understand where it comes from. Taipei’s history dates back to the Qing Dynasty, but it really began to develop as an urban center under Japanese colonial rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, you can see the influences of both Chinese and Japanese culture in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and customs.

Taipei is a melting pot, shaped by indigenous Taiwanese traditions, Han Chinese settlers, and Japanese colonial heritage. In more recent decades, Taipei has embraced global influences, blending East and West in a seamless mix. This diversity creates a rich cultural fabric that makes living here as an expat endlessly fascinating.

Celebrating Local Festivals: Major Taiwanese Festivals and How Expats Can Participate

woman, lanterns, chinese lanterns — Pictured: Lanterns light up the night during one of Taiwan’s vibrant festivals, inviting locals and expats alike to celebrate the culture and traditions.

Taiwanese culture is deeply rooted in festivals, many of which follow the lunar calendar. Some of the most significant festivals include:

Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year): The biggest holiday of the year, celebrated with family gatherings, red envelopes, and firecrackers. As an expat, it’s a great time to experience local traditions, join celebrations, and try traditional foods like dumplings and rice cakes.
Dragon Boat Festival: Marked by exciting dragon boat races and the eating of zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), this is a festival of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Don’t miss the races held on the rivers around the city.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Also known as the Moon Festival, it’s a time to enjoy mooncakes, have outdoor barbecues, and appreciate the full moon with friends and family.

As an expat, the best way to engage with these festivals is to participate in local events. Whether it’s joining a community celebration or simply trying out traditional foods, these festivals offer a unique window into Taiwanese life.

Social Etiquette in Taiwan: What to Expect in Terms of Manners, Greetings, and Behaviors

Pictured: Pedestrians wait to cross at a crosswalk in Taipei’s Neihu district in the bustle and flow of daily life in a busy school district.

Social etiquette in Taiwan is both formal and friendly, with certain unspoken rules that newcomers should be aware of:

Greetings: A simple nod or handshake will do in most situations, but don’t be surprised if people bow slightly. Avoid being overly physical (e.g., hugging or kissing on the cheek) unless you’re with close friends.
Manners: Respect is a big deal in Taiwan. It’s polite to use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially business cards. Also, never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice—this gesture is associated with funerals.
Behavior in public spaces: Taiwanese people are generally quiet and respectful in public. Speaking softly and being considerate of others, particularly on public transportation, is the norm.

By observing these small but significant cultural cues, you’ll blend in smoothly and show respect for local customs.

Building a Social Life as an Expat: How to Meet People, Join Groups, and Build Connections

panda, taipei, exhibition — Pictured: Souvenirs for visitors to the panda exhibit at Taipei Zoo, one of the city’s many cultural and social gathering spots for expats and locals alike.

Making friends as an expat can be daunting, but Taipei offers plenty of opportunities to build connections:

Meetup Groups & Expat Communities: There are countless social groups for expats in Taipei, ranging from language exchanges to sports leagues. Check out Meetup.com or Facebook groups like “Expats in Taipei” for upcoming events.
Join Local Clubs: Whether you’re into hiking, food, or photography, Taipei has a club for it. Joining a local hobby group not only helps you meet people but also immerses you in the culture.
Networking Events: Taipei has a vibrant entrepreneurial scene, so if you’re a business-minded expat, attending startup and networking events can open doors to both professional and personal connections.

Building a social life here is all about taking initiative—attending events, saying yes to invitations, and being open to new experiences.

Staying Connected with Local Culture: Learning More About Taiwan’s History, Traditions, and Way of Life

Pictured: A serene view of the compound behind the Grand Hotel in Shilin district, the most iconic of Taipei’s hotels with its traditional architecture and colorful heritage.

Living in Taipei gives you the chance to deepen your understanding of Taiwan’s rich culture. Here are a few ways to stay connected:

Visit Museums and Cultural Sites: From the National Palace Museum to historic temples, Taipei offers a wealth of places to explore the city’s history and culture.
Take Language Lessons: Learning Mandarin or Taiwanese will help you connect on a deeper level with locals. Even just mastering a few key phrases will go a long way.
Engage in Local Traditions: Whether it’s celebrating Ghost Month or participating in a temple fair, getting involved in local customs will enrich your experience of living in Taipei.

The more you learn about Taiwan, the more you’ll feel at home in this vibrant city.

Top Resources for Expats

taiwan, jiufen, shifen — Pictured: The stunning landscape of Jiufen and Shifen, destinations that highlight the beauty and culture of Taiwan, offering a break from the bustling city life.

To help make your transition to life in Taipei easier, here are some key resources:

Taiwan.gov.tw – Official government portal with information on visas, work permits, and more.
Taipei Expat Community (Facebook) – A lively group where you can ask questions and share advice.
Meetup.com – Find groups and events based on your interests.
Taiwan News – Stay updated on local events, politics, and culture.

Conclusion: Thriving in Taipei by Embracing the Local Culture and Lifestyle

Living in Taipei offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural landscape while enjoying the modern conveniences of a global city. As an expat, the more you engage with the local customs, festivals, and traditions, the more fulfilling your experience will be. By embracing Taipei’s way of life, you’ll find that this city doesn’t just become a place to live—it becomes home.

Taipei Mag