Taiwan : Safety by City
Taiwan is an island nation in East Asia, located about 100 miles off the southeastern coast of China, between Japan and the Philippines.
Roughly the size of the Netherlands, it stretches about 245 miles from north to south but packs a huge amount of diversity into that space—coastal cliffs, marble gorges, coral islands, tea-covered hills, and some of Asia’s most dynamic cities.
Historically, Taiwan was inhabited by Indigenous groups before being colonized by the Dutch and Spanish in the 1600s, followed by Chinese and Japanese rule.
After the Chinese Civil War, the Nationalist government fled to Taiwan in 1949, and ever since, China has claimed the island as its own—despite Taiwan having its own government, military, and democratic elections.
That unresolved status fuels ongoing political tension.
Still, Taiwan remains open, modern, and welcoming.
In 2024, nearly 8 million international travelers visited for its mix of urban energy and natural beauty.
What draws people in isn’t just the temples or night markets—it’s the way you can go from a glass tower to a misty mountain village on the same day, or from snorkeling a coral reef to soaking in a remote hot spring.
Taiwan is not only a diverse place to visit, but it’s also one of the safest—even for solo travelers.
Warnings & Dangers in Taiwan
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia, and most travelers won’t run into anything more serious than a language barrier. With low overall risk, you can explore comfortably, even at night. Petty crime is rare, locals are helpful, and violent crime is almost nonexistent in tourist areas.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transport is reliable and safe, and taxi drivers are generally honest. The overall risk here is low, though traffic can feel chaotic if you're not used to scooters zipping past. Always buckle up, avoid unlicensed rides, and if you're nervous, stick to Uber or call-a-cab apps. Keep reading to find out about proper etiquette on public transportation.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Taiwan has a very low risk of pickpocketing, even in busy areas like night markets or train stations. That said, keep an eye on your bag in crowded places, especially in Taipei. The usual precautions apply—zip your bags, don’t flash cash, and don’t assume safety means invincibility.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Typhoons hit during the summer and fall, and earthquakes happen year-round. These natural threats push Taiwan into medium-risk territory, depending on the season. Stay weather-aware, sign up for emergency alerts, and follow hotel instructions if alarms sound.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
The risk of mugging is extremely low. Street crime isn’t a major issue in Taiwan, and armed robbery is rare. Stay aware but not paranoid—it's not the kind of place where you need to watch your back constantly.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Taiwan doesn’t have a history of terrorism, and there are no active threats, making this a low-risk concern. Authorities are proactive, and airport and transit security are efficient but not intrusive. That said, you’ll still see routine security checks at certain venues and public events, just like in most countries.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Tourist-targeted scams aren’t widespread, so the risk is low. You might encounter overpriced goods in night markets or a sketchy taxi meter, but aggressive cons are rare. As always, avoid handing over your passport or personal data, and be cautious if someone’s trying way too hard to “help.”
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Taiwan is considered safe for solo women travelers. The risk level here is low, thanks to respectful social norms, well-lit public spaces, and helpful locals. Women should still take the usual precautions—watch drinks, avoid walking alone in isolated areas late at night—but most report feeling very safe.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
Technically, tap water is treated and safe, but most locals don’t drink it straight. This falls in a medium-risk zone—not due to contamination, but because of old pipes in some buildings. Boiling or using bottled water is a common practice. For brushing your teeth or cooking, tap water is generally fine.
Safest Places to Visit in Taiwan
Look for the website “eng.taiwan.net.tw”.
That’s the official website of the Tourism Administration.
Let’s break down the highlights of Taiwan by region.
Northern Taiwan
Taipei is as safe as major cities get. Explore the National Palace Museum, shop your way through Ximending (Taiwan’s version of Harajuku), or take the Maokong Gondola for hillside tea views.
Shilin Night Market is one of Taiwan’s biggest and most iconic night markets.
Hike Elephant Mountain for skyline views or relax in Beitou’s hot springs.
Day trips to Jiufen or Tamsui are also low-risk and easy via public transport.
Jiufen is a mountaintop town famous for its narrow alleyways, red lanterns, and teahouses clinging to the hillside.
Tamsui is a laid-back waterfront district with colonial history and great sunsets.
Central Taiwan
Taichung is safe, modern, and packed with great attractions.
The Rainbow Village, National Taichung Theater, and National Museum of Natural Science are top picks.
Fengjia Night Market is one of Asia’s largest and stays buzzing (and safe) into the night.
Sun Moon Lake is ideal for biking or boating and great for families.
Southern Taiwan
Southern Taiwan has a relaxed pace and low crime.
Kaohsiung’s Love River, Pier-2 Art Center, and Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum are popular and safe for all travelers.
Liuhe Night Market offers great food in a tourist-friendly setting, and Cijin Island is great for biking.
In Tainan, explore centuries-old temples and Chihkan Tower.
Transit is improving, but renting a scooter is common here—just wear a helmet and go easy on rural roads.
Eastern Taiwan
Eastern Taiwan’s calling card is nature. Taroko Gorge offers jaw-dropping hikes that are well-maintained and safe for most travelers.
Hualien has a peaceful vibe with local parks, beach trails, and Dongdamen Night Market, which is lively but not chaotic.
Taroko National Park is the star of eastern Taiwan.
Hike the Shakadang Trail for an easy, scenic riverside walk, or try the more adventurous Zhuilu Old Trail (permits required) if you’re into cliffside views.
Eternal Spring Shrine, Swallow Grotto, and Tunnel of Nine Turns are accessible and photogenic stops.
Between the Central and Coastal Mountain Ranges lies the East Rift Valley, a rural stretch full of rice paddies, hot springs, and Indigenous culture.
Head to Ruisui or Antong for hot springs, or stop by Luye Highland for paragliding and tea-tasting.
You can also visit Matai’an Wetland Ecological Park, run by the Indigenous Amis community.
Offshore Islands
Taiwan’s offshore islands—Penghu, Kinmen, Green Island, and Lanyu—offer a safe, relaxed escape from the mainland.
Penghu has stunning beaches and historic forts; Kinmen has WWII-era sites and peaceful villages.
Green Island’s saltwater hot spring is one of only a few in the world.
Lanyu is home to the Tao Indigenous culture and rugged natural beauty.
Places to Avoid in Taiwan
Taiwan doesn’t really have “bad neighborhoods” in the way some travelers might expect.
Violent crime is rare, and most areas are safe to walk around, even at night.
Still, it’s smart to stay on main streets and in well-lit tourist areas, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the surroundings.
Locals value politeness—don’t speak loudly in public, avoid touching people unnecessarily, and always remove shoes when entering a home.
Even leaving chopsticks upright in a bowl at the end of a meal can be seen as offensive.
For natural disasters like earthquakes or typhoons, stay informed through local alerts and know your hotel’s emergency procedures.
Pack a small go-bag with essentials in case you need to evacuate quickly. When in doubt, get out.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Taiwan
- In Taiwan, police are called “Jǐngchá” (警察). For emergencies, dial 110 for police assistance. Many officers in major cities speak some English, and stations often have dedicated foreign affairs officers. If you lose your way or feel unsafe, locals are generally helpful and can assist you in reaching the nearest station.
- Taiwan uses a bilingual text alert system for emergencies like typhoons, earthquakes, and public safety threats. You don’t need to sign up—your phone will automatically receive messages if you’re using a local SIM or roaming. These loud alerts can be startling but are crucial for timely warnings.
- Taiwan is prone to typhoons and earthquakes, so let someone back home know where you’re staying and your general plans. U.S. citizens can register with the STEP program to get safety updates and help in a crisis. If disaster strikes, embassies rely on this info to locate and assist travelers.
- If you’re arrested in Taiwan, you won’t be allowed to leave the country until the case is resolved—even for minor charges. This could take months. Foreigners must follow local laws, and claiming ignorance won’t help. Legal proceedings are serious, and your embassy can’t get you out of them.
- Taiwan screens incoming passengers using infrared thermal scanners to spot fevers. If you have symptoms, you may need to fill out a health form, give a sample, or talk to health officials. It’s part of their effort to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Cooperation is expected at the airport.
- Dengue fever is a risk in Taiwan, especially in summer and in southern regions. There’s no vaccine, so the best defense is avoiding mosquito bites. Use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves, and stay in places with screens or air conditioning. Mosquitoes that carry dengue bite during the day.
- To drive in Taiwan, you need either an International Driving Permit (IDP) valid for Taiwan or a local license. Some countries have reciprocal agreements for easy license conversion. Scooter rentals are popular but require a valid license, too. Driving without the correct paperwork can lead to fines or deportation.
- In Taiwan, the number four sounds like the word for “death” in Mandarin, so it’s avoided in elevators, license plates, and even hotel room numbers. You’ll often see floors skip from three to five. Don’t joke about it—cultural superstitions are taken seriously and should be respected during your visit.
- Taiwan considers itself self-governing, while China views it as part of its territory. This is a politically loaded topic, and it’s best to avoid commenting on whether Taiwan is a country or not. Most locals appreciate visitors who focus on the culture and people, not politics.
- Taiwan’s transit is clean and efficient, and the unspoken rule is: don’t be loud. Offer seats to elderly or pregnant passengers, stand on the right side of escalators, and never eat or drink on the MRT—it’s strictly banned.
So... How Safe Is Taiwan Really?
Taiwan ranks at the lowest possible advisory from several major governments, including the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Australia.
I’ve read hundreds of these advisories over the years, and it is definitely rare for the U.S. State Department to say, “There is minimal street crime in Taiwan, and violent crime is rare.”
Taiwan has also ranked as one of the safest countries for solo travelers, thanks to its low crime rates.
The bigger risk in Taiwan is natural disasters.
Of course, you can’t predict earthquakes or tsunamis, but you can prepare for them.
During typhoon season, be prepared to depart quickly and have a plan in place.
Even with the low advisory levels, it’s important to check your country’s latest updates before your trip.
How Does Taiwan Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Taiwan | 54 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Austria | 92 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Italy | 77 |
| Malaysia | 69 |
| Finland | 86 |
| Spain | 83 |
| Botswana | 77 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, the EU, and several Asian countries can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months. Entry requirements can shift, so double-check with the Bureau of Consular Affairs before your trip.
Currency
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). Credit cards are accepted in cities and larger businesses, but cash is helpful at night markets, local shops, and small towns. ATMs are easy to find. Currency exchange is best done at banks or the airport.
Weather
Taiwan’s climate is subtropical in the north and tropical in the south. Summers are hot, humid, and prone to typhoons (June–October). Winters are mild, though the north can get chilly and rainy. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather—great for outdoor activities, mountain hiking, and coastal road trips.
Airports
Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the main international hub, about 40 minutes from downtown Taipei. Songshan Airport handles some regional flights. In the south, Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) also serves international routes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance isn’t required for Taiwan, but it’s strongly recommended. It can cover medical costs, trip cancellations, typhoon-related delays, and theft. Taiwan’s healthcare system is excellent, but non-residents must pay out of pocket. Those considering extreme activities should look into adventure insurance.
Taiwan Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 16 | 18 | 22 | 26 | 29 | 32 | 34 | 33 | 31 | 26 | 22 | 18 |
| Low °C | 13 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 19 | 16 | 14 |
| High °F | 61 | 64 | 72 | 79 | 84 | 90 | 93 | 91 | 88 | 79 | 72 | 64 |
| Low °F | 55 | 57 | 61 | 66 | 72 | 77 | 79 | 79 | 75 | 66 | 61 | 57 |
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.