Taiwan: Mountains, Technology, and Ancient Traditions

Introduction

Taiwan is an island off the southeastern coast of China, known for its tall mountains, vibrant cities, and a blend of old traditions and modern technology. Although Taiwan is small in size, it has a powerful economy, beautiful nature, and a unique identity that makes it stand out in East Asia.

Geography and Landscape

Shaped like a sweet potato, Taiwan lies across the Taiwan Strait from mainland China, with the Pacific Ocean to the east.

About two-thirds of the island is covered by mountains, including the Central Mountain Range. The highest peak is Yu Shan (Jade Mountain), standing 3,952 meters tall.

The western plains are fertile and host most of Taiwan’s population and farms. Taiwan’s climate ranges from subtropical in the north to tropical in the south. Summers are hot and humid, and typhoons sometimes bring heavy rain and wind.

Cities and Regions

The capital, Taipei, is famous for its skyscrapers, night markets, and street food. Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building, dominates the skyline.

Other major cities:

• Kaohsiung – a major port and industrial center in the south
• Taichung – known for museums and parks
• Tainan – the oldest city, famous for temples and history

Each region has its own local foods, dialects, and traditions.

People, Language, and Culture

Taiwan has about 23 million people. Most are Han Chinese, with indigenous groups preserving their own languages and customs.

The main language is Mandarin Chinese, but Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, and various indigenous languages are also spoken.

Religious and cultural life blends Buddhism, Taoism, and traditional Chinese beliefs. Colorful temples with dragon-carved roofs are found across the island.

Taiwan is famous for:

• Festivals like the Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival
• Calligraphy and traditional arts
• Night markets, where people shop and eat late into the evening

Family ties and respect for elders are integral to Taiwanese culture.

Food and Daily Life

Taiwanese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and influenced by Chinese and indigenous cooking.

Popular dishes include:

• Beef noodle soup – a comforting favorite
• Xiao long bao – soup dumplings
• Oyster omelets – made with fresh seafood
• Bubble tea – a sweet drink with chewy tapioca pearls

Night markets are hubs for tasting snacks and shopping for clothes and gadgets.

Children start school around age 6. Education is highly valued, with extra classes common. Students study Mandarin, math, science, English, and social studies.

History of Taiwan

Indigenous peoples settled Taiwan thousands of years ago. In the 1600s, Dutch and Spanish colonists ruled parts of the island before it became part of China’s Qing Dynasty.

In 1895, Japan took control of Taiwan for 50 years. After World War II, Taiwan returned to Chinese rule. In 1949, following the Chinese Civil War, the Republic of China government relocated to Taiwan.

Since then, Taiwan has emerged as a democratic society and a leading technology producer. Its political status remains debated, but most Taiwanese focus on peaceful prosperity.

Nature and Wildlife

Taiwan’s forests and mountains host rare flora and fauna, including:

• Formosan black bear – the island’s largest mammal
• Sika deer
• Macaques – native monkeys
• Colorful butterflies and birds

National parks like Taroko Gorge and Kenting protect Taiwan’s natural beauty.

Vocabulary List

Kid-Friendly Summary

Taiwan is a mountainous island known for its night markets, tasty street food, and high-tech cities like Taipei. People celebrate colorful festivals, explore national parks, and enjoy a mix of ancient traditions and modern life.