Local Customs & Etiquette in Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
1. Temple Etiquette
Respect temple customs like removing shoes, bowing, and using proper manners when entering temples.
- Removing Shoes: Shoes must be removed before entering most temples.
- Bowing: A deep bow is a sign of respect when entering and praying in temples.
- Proper Manners: Speak softly and act respectfully within temple grounds.
2. Street Food Etiquette
Know the rules when eating street food to avoid offending locals or getting sick.
- Using Chopsticks: Use chopsticks properly and don't stick them vertically in rice.
- Eating Street Food: Avoid overeating or wasting food when eating street food.
- Using Napkins: Use provided napkins instead of using tissues on the table.
3. Bus Etiquette
Follow bus etiquette to avoid misunderstandings or uncomfortable situations.
- Giving Up Seats: Offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or disabled people.
- Line Forming: Queue in an orderly fashion when boarding and disembarking buses.
- Taking Up Space: Avoid taking up more space than necessary on the bus.
4. Restaurant Etiquette
Understand restaurant etiquette to make a good impression and have a pleasant dining experience.
- Ordering Food: Use the menu or point at dishes when ordering in restaurants.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, except in high-end restaurants.
- Eating with Hands: It's acceptable to eat certain foods with your hands, but using chopsticks is the norm.
5. Greetings and Addressing People
Use the correct greetings and address people respectfully in Taipei.
- Formal Greeting: Address others formally until invited to use their first name.
- Bowing: A light bow is a common greeting when meeting someone new.
- Age Differences: Address older people with respect, using honorific titles and polite language.
6. Gift Giving Etiquette
Know the dos and don'ts of gift giving to avoid offending your hosts.
- Appropriate Gifts: Give gifts that are not too expensive or personal.
- Wrapping Gifts: Wrap gifts neatly and avoid using black wrapping paper, as it's associated with funerals.
- Opening Gifts: Wait for your host to open the gift, and don't be offended if they don't open it right away.
7. Dress Code
Understand the dress code to fit in with local customs.
- Formal Occasions: Dress formally for business meetings or formal events.
- Casual Dress: Casual attire is acceptable in most everyday situations.
- Temple Visits: Modest clothing is required when visiting temples.
8. Public Behavior
Follow general rules of public behavior to respect local customs.
- Smoking: Smoking is restricted in many public places.
- Littering: Avoid littering and dispose of waste properly.
- Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in Taiwan.
9. Taxi Etiquette
Follow taxi etiquette to ensure a smooth ride and avoid misunderstandings.
- Seat Belt Usage: Always wear your seat belt when riding in a taxi.
- Payment: Pay the exact fare or slightly more, as drivers often don't have change.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in taxis unless the service was exceptional.
10. Market Etiquette
Know the market etiquette to have a successful shopping experience.
- Bargaining: It's common to bargain for prices at markets.
- Respecting Merchants: Treat merchants with respect and avoid being pushy or rude.
- Packaging: Ask for packaging when purchasing fragile items to protect them during travel.
11. Business Meeting Etiquette
Follow business meeting etiquette to make a good impression and avoid misunderstandings.
- Punctuality: Arrive on time for business meetings.
- Dress Code: Dress formally for business meetings.
- Gift Giving: Offer a small gift as a token of appreciation when attending a meeting.
12. Night Market Etiquette
Know the night market etiquette to have an enjoyable experience.
- Bargaining: It's common to bargain for prices at night markets.
- Respecting Vendors: Treat vendors with respect and avoid being pushy or rude.
- Street Food Safety: Choose stalls that are clean, busy, and have good reviews.
13. Public Holidays Etiquette
Know the etiquette for public holidays to fit in with local customs.
- Respecting Traditions: Respect local traditions and customs during public holidays.
- Dress Code: Follow the dress code for specific holidays, if applicable.
- Gift Giving: Exchange gifts with friends and family during special occasions.
14. Taiwanese Greetings
Understand common Taiwanese greetings to communicate effectively.
- Formal Greeting: Address others formally until invited to use their first name.
- Informal Greeting: Use more casual greetings when speaking with friends or family.
- Tone of Voice: Speak clearly and use a pleasant tone of voice when greeting someone.
15. Street Art Etiquette
Respect street art to preserve its beauty for others.
- Photography: Take photos of street art, but do not touch or deface it.
- Donations: Consider making a donation to support local artists and their work.
- Respecting the Space: Avoid standing too close or blocking others' view of street art.