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Taiwan is an island nation located off the southeastern coast of mainland China in East Asia. Officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan covers an area of 36,193 square kilometers with a population of approximately 23.1 million people. The capital city, Taipei, is a vibrant modern metropolis known for its technological innovation and cultural landmarks like Taipei 101. Taiwan's political status is unique and complex, with the island functioning as a de facto independent state while the People's Republic of China claims sovereignty over it. Taiwan has developed into one of Asia's most advanced democracies and economies since ending martial law in 1987.

Taiwan's geography is dominated by mountain ranges running from north to south, covering approximately two-thirds of the island. The Central Mountain Range includes numerous peaks exceeding 3,000 meters, with Yushan (Jade Mountain) reaching 3,952 meters as the highest point in Northeast Asia. The western side of the island features coastal plains where most of the population lives and agriculture thrives. Taiwan experiences a subtropical climate in the north and tropical climate in the south, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The island is located in a typhoon belt and experiences several typhoons annually. Taiwan's geographic position along tectonic plate boundaries makes it prone to earthquakes. The island's diverse ecosystems range from coral reefs to alpine forests, supporting unique biodiversity.

Taiwan has developed one of Asia's most dynamic economies, with a GDP per capita of approximately $33,000. The country is a global leader in technology manufacturing, particularly semiconductors, with companies like TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) being the world's largest contract chipmaker. Electronics, information technology, and precision machinery are major industries. Taiwan is integral to global supply chains, especially for computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices. The service sector, including finance, retail, and tourism, contributes significantly to the economy. Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) as its currency. Despite limited natural resources and international isolation due to political issues, Taiwan has achieved remarkable economic success through innovation, education, and entrepreneurship. The country maintains extensive trade relationships globally and is a member of the World Trade Organization.

Taiwanese culture blends traditional Chinese heritage with indigenous Austronesian influences and Japanese colonial legacy, creating a distinct identity. Mandarin Chinese is the official language, though Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, and indigenous languages are also spoken. The population practices a mix of Buddhism, Taoism, and folk religions, often simultaneously, alongside Christianity and other faiths. Taiwan has preserved traditional Chinese culture, including classical arts, calligraphy, and festivals like Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival. The night market culture is iconic, offering diverse street foods like bubble tea (invented in Taiwan), stinky tofu, and beef noodle soup. Taiwan is known for its vibrant pop culture, including Mandopop music and film. The island has a thriving arts scene and hosts numerous cultural festivals. Taiwanese society values education highly, and the country boasts excellent literacy rates and universities. Taiwan's democracy, press freedom, and LGBTQ+ rights are among the most progressive in Asia, including being the first in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019.

Major Cities

• Taipei - The capital and largest city with 2.6 million people (7 million metro), home to Taipei 101 and Taiwan's political and economic center
• Kaohsiung - Southern port city with 2.7 million people, Taiwan's main shipping hub and second-largest city
• Taichung - Central Taiwan city with 2.8 million people, known for its cultural attractions and central location
• Tainan - Historic southern city with 1.9 million people, Taiwan's oldest city and former capital with rich cultural heritage
• Hsinchu - Northern city with 450,000 people, known as Taiwan's "Silicon Valley" with the Science Park housing tech companies

Interesting Facts

• TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) is the world's largest contract chipmaker, producing chips for Apple, NVIDIA, and others
• Bubble tea (also called boba tea) was invented in Taiwan in the 1980s and has become a global phenomenon
• Taiwan was the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, making it a leader in LGBTQ+ rights
• Taipei 101 was the world's tallest building from 2004 to 2010 at 508 meters and remains an iconic landmark
• Taiwan has one of the world's best healthcare systems and highest life expectancies, with universal health coverage since 1995
• The island has over 200 mountain peaks exceeding 3,000 meters, earning it the nickname "the roof of East Asia"