The Ghost Month Festivities

In Taiwan, the seventh month of the lunar calendar is known as Ghost Month, during which it’s believed that the spirits of the dead roam the earth. Taiwanese people engage in several practices to appease these wandering spirits. Some of these include:
Burning faux money and paper replicas of material goods: This is done to ensure that the spirits have plenty of good things in the afterlife.
Offering food: Placing meals out for the ghosts on the street corners or in front of businesses is a common sight.
Entertainment: Empty rows are left at concerts and outdoor movie screenings to provide seats for the ghosts.
This month is wrapped in a mix of reverence and a festive spirit, making it a unique time to visit Taiwan.

The Love for Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu, as the name suggests, is known for its strong, pungent odor. It’s a popular street food in Taiwan, typically deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. For many visitors, the smell might be off-putting, but for locals, it’s a beloved snack. The fermentation process, which can vary from a few days to several months, adds to the unique flavor of stinky tofu. Despite its divisive smell, trying stinky tofu is considered a must-do for a complete Taiwanese cultural experience.

Convenience Store Capital

Taiwan could easily be named the convenience store capital of the world. With more than 10,000 stores across the island, Taiwan boasts one of the highest per capita rates of convenience stores globally. These aren’t your average convenience stores, as they offer services beyond snacks and drinks:
Utility bill payments: Residents can pay their electricity, water, and gas bills.
Ticket booking: Whether it’s for a concert or a train, tickets can be booked at a local convenience store.
Postal services: Sending packages or letters can also be done here.
These stores are hubs of activity 24/7 and are integral to daily life in Taiwan, making them much more than just a place to grab a quick bite.

Motorcycle Madness

In Taiwan, motorcycles are not just a mode of transport; they are a way of life. The country has one of the highest densities of motorcycles in the world. The sight of large swarms of scooters waiting at traffic lights is common in cities like Taipei. These motorcycles are crucial due to the high population density and the need for agile, easy-to-park vehicles in urban areas. The reliance on motorcycles is so pronounced that many households own more than one.

The Toilet-themed Restaurant

Modern Toilet is a popular theme restaurant in Taiwan where everything is based on bathroom decor. The seats are actual non-working toilets, dishes are served on miniature toilet bowls, and drinks in small urinals. Despite its bizarre theme, the restaurant has gained fame and sparked curiosity among tourists and locals alike. It’s a testament to the quirky, innovative spirit of Taiwan’s dining scene.

Polite to a Fault

Taiwanese people are renowned for their politeness, often attributed to the influence of Confucian values in their culture. This politeness extends to some quirky practices:
Apologizing excessively: It’s not uncommon to hear someone apologize multiple times for minor inconveniences.
Refusing compliments: Often, compliments are met with denial or deflection, as accepting a compliment outright is considered boastful.

The Pineapple Cake Obsession

In Taiwan, pineapple cakes have reached an iconic status. These sweet treats consist of a buttery, crumbly outer shell filled with caramelized pineapple. They are a popular gift for many occasions and are a symbol of hospitality. The obsession with pineapple cakes even extends to annual festivals celebrating this beloved pastry.

Each of these funny and fascinating cultural facts about Taiwan offers a glimpse into the complex tapestry of this vibrant island nation. From quirky food preferences to unique social practices, Taiwan’s cultural landscape is as diverse as it is amusing. Whether you’re navigating through seas of scooters or marveling at the entrepreneurial spirit evident in the myriad services offered at convenience stores, the cultural quirks of Taiwan are sure to leave a lasting impression.