Tourism Day in Taiwan is observed every year on the 15th day of the first Lunar month, and takes place on February 5 this year. It is a day to generate awareness about and promote tourism on the island of Taiwan. It highlights its culture, diversity, cuisine, e.t.c., in an effort to draw more tourist traffic and educate the world about what it has to offer.

History of Tourism Day

Taiwan has been around for tens of thousands of years. Around 3000 B.C., peasants settled here, possibly reflecting today’s Taiwanese indigenous people. The island of Taiwan has gone through its fair share of political fluctuation. It was first colonized by the Dutch, and later became part of the Ming Dynasty, the Qing Dynasty, and then the Empire of Japan. After the end of World War II, the Republic of China took control of Taiwan and ruled it as a single-party state for forty years. It was only in 1996 that the first direct presidential elections took place.Taiwan developed pretty quickly. The Bank of Taiwan was created to get Japanese private sectors to invest in it, and by 1905, it became one of the most developed places in East Asia. Taiwan achieved financial independence in no time. The Taiwan rail system was put in place and irrigation systems were employed to promote better and more efficient agriculture and transportation. The economy took a hit after World War II, however, under the rule of the K.M.T. government. Backed by American aid, Taiwan was able to recover quickly.Tourism in Taiwan is one of the major industries and contributors to the economy of Taiwan, with roughly 10 million international visitors in 2015. From museums and national parks to tree plantations and night markets, Taiwan has something for every tourist and every kind of trip. Tourism Day is celebrated annually on day 15 of the first Lunar month to promote the industry.

Tourism Day timeline

3000 B.C.
Welcome to Taiwan

The first-ever inhabitants come to the island of Taiwan.

1895
The Empire of Japan

The Empire of Japan takes control of Taiwan.

1945
R.O.C. & K.M.T.

The Republic of China led by Kuomintang takes over.

1996
Democratic Reforms

The first-ever direct presidential elections are held.

Tourism Day FAQs

Is Taiwan safe for tourists?

Per world standards, Taiwan is relatively safe for tourists and has low crime rates. However, staying vigilant is recommended.

Is Taiwan expensive?

Like many other destinations in Southeast Asia, Taiwan is an affordable place for tourists.

When is a good time to visit Taiwan?

In terms of weather, September to November is a good time to plan a trip to Taiwan. The weather is cold, dry, and pretty pleasant.

Tourism Day Activities

  1. Plan a trip

    What better way to celebrate Tourism Day than by becoming a tourist? Grab your travel buddy, or even fly solo, and build an itinerary of your incredible trip to Taiwan.

  2. Learn about Taiwan

    Taiwan has so much to offer — it is scenic and has a rich culture and history. Take the day to learn more about it, and add to your geographical and political knowledge.

  3. Virtually visit it

    The tourism board of Taiwan recently launched a website with photos, videos, and other sources for tourists to get a glimpse of Taiwan. It is a bilingual website with an array of attractions, restaurants, information, and more.

5 Facts About Taiwan You May Not Be Aware Of

  1. It birthed bubble tea

    Everyone’s favorite bubble tea was created in Taiwan in the 1980s.

  2. It’s tiny

    You can drive around Taiwan in about eight hours.

  3. Smelly but tasty

    One of the most famous snacks here is stinky (but yummy) tofu.

  4. It loves love

    Taiwan was the first Asian country to make gay marriage legal.

  5. It housed the world’s tallest building

    Taiwan’s Taipei 101 was the tallest building in the world until 2007.

Why We Love Tourism Day

  1. We love Taiwan

    It is a beautiful island with an abundance of resources, delicious foods, and scenic tourist attractions. What’s not to love?

  2. Adds a new place to the bucket list

    Tourism Day highlights all the reasons to visit Taiwan and places it on the top of the travel bucket list. It is a great tactic to promote tourism.

  3. It is an opportunity to learn more

    Even if you are unable to visit, there is always something new to learn. Educating yourself about a country is always a good idea.

Tourism Day dates

Year Date Day
2022 February 15 Tuesday
2023 February 5 Sunday
2024 February 24 Saturday
2025 February 12 Wednesday
2026 March 3 Tuesday