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Lifestyle

Lifestyle
From ”Bicycles Kingdom” to ”Cycling Kingdom”

6 Must-Experience Bikeway Outings in 2024

Taiwan, once celebrated as the "Kingdom of Bicycles" for its prolific bike manufacturing, has evolved into a "Cycling Kingdom." And here are six must-experience bikeways in 2024.

Exploring Taipei’s vibrant indoor markets: A flavorful journey through history and culture

Taipei's vibrant indoor markets are a testament to the city's rich tapestry of history and culture, offering an immersive journey for visitors keen to explore the essence of local life. Join us on a flavorful journey through Taipei's indoor markets, where every stall and alleyway tells a story of Taipei's vibrant heart and soul.

Tianmu: A tapestry of exotic charms

Tianmu (天母), a neighborhood located in Shilin District of northern Taipei, is known as one of the city’s earliest-expatriate enclaves. Home to the Taipei American School and the Taipei Japanese School, the neighborhood boasts an array of international cultures, unique shops, and exotic restaurants that contribute to its distinct community ambiance.

Taipei’s star coffee shops light up the international stage

Third-wave coffee is a marketing movement that prioritizes sourcing, quality, and unique flavors. Unlike the past focus on speed and convenience, it treats coffee seriously, akin to high-end products like wine or whiskey. This global phenomenon has led to the rise of distinctive cafes, including Taipei.

Four keys to better living: Enjoying the cozy life in Taipei

In its annual ranking, British magazine Monocle ranked Taipei as the 10th most livable city in the world for 2022. Several international media outlets, including the BBC, have also consistently ranked Taipei among the globe’s most comfortable cities. What is Taipei’s appeal? And what makes it a top city to live in?

The young professor who discovered a dinosaur fossil in Taiwan

Professor Tsai Cheng-hsiu has a passion for paleontology. His discoveries of dinosaur and saber tooth tiger fossils have put Taiwanese research in the international spotlight. So why is he having such a hard time?

A tour of Taiwan’s most beautiful churches

CommonWealth Magazine visited three Taiwan church buildings that break with tradition. They were built to blend into their surroundings and, on top of being places of worship, they play an important part in bringing people together in everyday life and serving their communities.

Finding bliss in Taiwan with 7 girls and a simple lifestyle

A religious Taiwanese-American couple, who raise seven daughters in a rural part of Miaoli County, have forged a lifestyle that embraces the joys of family togetherness rather than the trappings of material comforts. How have they done it?

How can Taiwanese specialty coffee reach the international market?

Having established a Taiwanese fruit jam brand over a decade ago, Krude Lin recently became chairperson of the Coffee Industrial Alliance of Taiwan. What new potential does he see in Taiwanese coffee?

Gold medalist Kuo: “I am lucky weightlifting chose me”

Olympic gold medalist Kuo Hsing-chun hated weightlifting at first. She thought that the gold medal was what her coach wanted, rather than what she wanted, until someone described her movements as “dancing”. A few years ago, she feared she’d never be able to get up again. Now she thanks herself for never giving up.

The roadmap of regret, curiosity and sound: How I decided to make a podcast with my dying mother

Doreen Wang is the host and director of Ghost Island Media’s newest podcast, the audio documentary “一年的告白 Dos Salidas.” The show features conversations with her mother, Mish Liang Hsu, after her mother is diagnosed with terminal cancer. This is their story.

Lifestyle
What is the beauty of Taichung Social Housing?

A counterattack of social-housing aesthetics that enrich the living lab of social groups through low-profile light and shadow

Taiping Yuhsien Social Housing is the first complete prototype of Common Good Project in Taichung City that won both the Taiwan Residential Architecture Award and Public Construction Golden Quality Award. From taking care of the living style to secure living of young people, the architectural aesthetics of Yuhsien Social Housing forms the co-learning living lab and reinterprets the meaning, aesthetics, and social value of social housing, thereby implements the beautiful and reciprocal group life.

Zutto Wu – The Legal Expert-Turned-Shop Designer

Taiwan’s hottest gastronomic spots, ranging from the No. 1 of the world’s best coffee shops, an Asia Top 50 bar to southern Taiwan’s trendiest restaurant, were all designed by Zutto Wu, who hails from Kaohsiung. How does Wu, a legal expert by training, manage to design unique interiors for Taiwan’s rising F&B stars?

Exquisite Mooncakes of Master Baker Cause Craze in Taipei

The most sought-after Moon Festival gift this year were flaky mooncakes with a filling of salted egg yolk created by master baker Chen Yao-hsun, only the third Taiwanese to win the equivalent of the breadmaking world championship. Yet Chen, who dropped out of school in high school, found his calling only after a winded detour.

Michelin Guide Taiwan – Taipei vs. Taichung

The Michelin Guide Taiwan ventured outside of Taipei for the first time in 2020 and explored Taichung. Four restaurants earned Michelin stars -- JL Studio, Fleur de Sel, Forchetta and Oretachi No Nikuya – and the choices revealed the stark differences between the Taipei and Taichung culinary scenes.

Lifestyle
Island-hopping Cruises with Peace of Mind

The First International Cruise Ship to Resume Operation

The world is troubled by the pandemic, yet in Taiwan the cruise industry has found a new beginning. Setting out from Keelung to visit multiple small islands not only offers Taiwanese tourism a new approach, it has also given bored Taiwanese the feeling of overseas travel. How have the cruise lines dealt with containment?

Bellini Caffe: Very Hot Lasagne

Having experienced my first earthquake today, I’m also wondering whether the tomato and meat sauce will be like molten lava from a volcano? So I cut it open and give it a few minutes. Although it’s not “sideways legendary” like Ristorantino, the lasagne is decent. Somehow the sauce still has a strong red wine flavour, how’s that not evaporated at these “surface of the sun” temperatures ? 

Malaysian Dato’ Sri: Post-epidemic is Taiwan’s Leisure Farms’ Best Opportunity

The COVID-19 pandemic has allowed the world to see Taiwan's ability. This is a perfect opportunity for Taiwan’s leisure farms. It is recommended that in addition to general tour groups and backpackers, the farms should take this opportunity to start expanding horizons by promoting their farms for hosting international incentive travel and conference holidays. This will allow the humanity and ecological beauty of leisure farms to establish a reputation among enterprises.

Bogart’s Smokehouse: Southern-style barbeque

I adore Ribs and these are as good as I’ve ever had. I stop talking for a bit – and start shaking my head in disbelief. Regular readers will know my mantra is “No Food is a Sin, just don’t eat it all” but there’s no way I’m leaving any of these.

DiVino: perfect Italian dinner

Fresh Focaccia cubes have already arrived and then almost immediately the meatballs are here. As soon as I taste I know I’m in trouble. There are 5 larger than a golf ball balls, in a quite incredible tomato sauce. The wine is poured and I’m getting carried away already.

Lifestyle
Guest-writer

Angel Cafe: surprise Hungarian Goulash

When I get to it, I’m taken aback by the goulash’s appearance. It’s not what I’m expecting at all – it’s kind of “goulash – on – the – bone”. Now I recognise I’m a long way from Hungary . . . . but this is nothing like my previous goulash experiences. I can see and smell some paprika, but we’re missing green pepper and onions.

Lifestyle
Guest-writer

Glass of red: a sip of joy

What the World needs now is a nice glass of wine and a sit down. A minute or two later the waiter is back, and pouring me a “glass of red” into a very tall glass. Tells me he’s just opened a new bottle for me, a 2014 Crianza. The wine is smooth and very nice – I’m immediately thinking “wow I wonder what this is going to cost”.

Lifestyle
Guest-writer

Plants: first vegan experience

The food arrives and the appearance is very attractive – I’m not the only person taking pictures. But the portion sizes continue in the usual Taiwan (small / very small) size). I’m definitely regretting not ordering the Rosemary Sweet Potato fries too.

Lifestyle
Guest-Writer

Beyond Basic: Man Cave Gourmet Burgers

Just as I firmly take the bun in hand the wedges arrive with a Cajun seasoning, also beautifully presented – but I can’t take my eyes off the prize. First bite enables me to taste everything – but the Candied Bacon, oh my god. This really is first class and again redefines what I think is possible from something so basic.

Lifestyle
Guest-Writer

Saffron 46: Delicate Indian Cuisine

My Dilli Pani Puri soon arrive and I’m warned that the Spice Water is very spicy and it’s recommended I only pour a little in before eating*. Absolutely delicious – but I’m struggling with the presentation – they’re on a bed of pebbles with a forked twig ?

Lifestyle
Guest-Writer

Jin Ji Yuan - Soup Dumpling Challenge

After some experiences where the “soup” has poured out down my shirt or onto the table (so elegant) I’ve learned how to eat these like an expert and I was looking forward to further refining my technique.

Lifestyle
Guest-Writer

Galerie Bistro: lamb shank heaven

There’s a sauce on the top which I check is the gremolata – everything looks great and tastes delicious. As a Lamb Shank connoisseur I could have done with a few herbs or additional seasoning, but I’m nit-picking, I love it.

Christmas Light Entrepreneur Spends Millions Repurposing Historic Rice Mill and Old Hotel in Rural South

Situated next to the village’s Japanese-era railway station, the Yamato Barn posts annual revenue worth NT$8 million although less than 20,000 people live here.

Not Another Hipster Café : Taipei's Old-School Coffee Shops

Here, we explore five coffee shops that have remained standing in Taipei since as early as the end of World War II.

Lifestyle
A Rising Star in Taiwan’s Gourmet Scene

JL Studio Dishes Out Singaporean Cuisine with an Innovative Twist 

Just two years after launching JL Studio in Taichung in 2017, Singaporean chef Jimmy Lim won the Miele One to Watch Award for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019, the equivalent of a gastronomy Oscar, earlier this year. How does Lin “reinterpret, recompose and reinterpret” his culinary heritage, putting it on Asia’s gourmet map?

Stay Ahead of the Latest Trend with These Old-school Hairdos

What does your hairstyle say about you—are you an all-American hero, a proper British gentleman, or just an average Taiwanese joe? Whatever your style, you get the full package—a shave, a cut, some tea—when you visit a vintage barber shop in Taiwan. Every day is not a wedding, but you’ll always feel like you’re walking the red carpet when you sport one of these fancy coiffures. 

Lifestyle
TAIPEI Magazine

Five Places to Feel the Music in Taipei

Fast forward to the 1990s. Martial law, ended in 1987, is over, and so begins a new and more open era for Taiwanese music and art. SCUM, a Taipei performance space, becomes the first Taipei venue to insist that bands perform at least one original song in their set. Other venues soon follow suit. Punk, post rock, metal, noise — all of it comes rushing in like a flood as artists flourish in a new atmosphere of creative freedom.

Lifestyle
Old New Taiwanese Cuisine

The Taste of Taiwan Recommended by CNN

“When it comes to Taiwanese cooking, people think about stir-fry shops and street stalls. Can’t we refine our cuisine and increase its value?”

Lifestyle
Taiwan Scene

The Best Hiking Trails in Taiwan

From Elephant mountain to Taroko National Park, here are the best places to lace up your hiking boots in Taiwan.

Lifestyle
The Go-to Brew for Starbucks, EVA Air

Why Is This Taiwanese Brewery So in Demand?

Taiwan’s Taihu Brewing Co. is known for its creativity, brewing more than 100 different craft beers since 2013. It has also developed co-branded or specialty beers for EVA Air, Starbucks and the Regent Hotels Group. What is behind this considerable success?

Lifestyle
Female Wine Connoisseurs Take the Lead

Popular with Women, Dining Pubs Are the Latest Fad in Taiwan

The common café, ubiquitous on every street corner in Taiwan, has nearly reached market saturation. In its place, dining pubs where patrons can slowly savor their food and wine in a cozy atmosphere have become all the rage. Is there a sociocultural change to be observed from this latest fad of flourishing Taiwanese dining pubs? 

Lifestyle
Rebirth of the Bamboo Sea

Embracing the Green Shores of Hsinchu County

Hsinchu County's marine ecosystem is among the best in the country.

Lifestyle
Hsinchu City

Realize Your Waterfront Dream in Water-loving Hsinchu City

In the future, Hsinchu's Left Bank, Nanliao fishing port and the 17km coastline will form a “Smiling Waterfront,” turning Hsinchu into Taiwan's most water-loving city.

Lifestyle
Taiwanese Female Tattooists Break the Mold

How Female Tattoo Artists Under 30 Are Making Millions a Year in Taiwan

The tattoo culture has gone through a revamp in recent years. Its aficionados have changed from the blue-collar workers of the past to college students, hipsters, working women, and other white-collar office workers. Their age ranges from 25 to 35, and 97% of them are women.

Why Bike to Work? Benefits for Cyclists Around the World

It’s good for you and great for the environment. So, as millions of cyclists around the world mark Bike to Work Day, here’s why life on two wheels makes sense.

Things You Need to Know About Creativity

As the United Nations’ World Creativity and Innovation Day shows, there are many reasons why we should make space in our daily lives to think, dream and innovate. But did you know…?

Lifestyle
New Entries and Extra Stars

How Did These Michelin Restaurants Make the Cut?

Michelin Guide Taipei has announced its selection for 2019. Let’s look at the five new entries and the two that earned additional stars. What did they do right? What’s their secret to success?

Lifestyle
Florist Takako Mine

Founding A Thriving Floral Business In Taipei

When the catastrophic earthquake of March 11, 2011 struck, Ms. Mine’s child was just three years old. She packed up her belongings and came to Taipei for a short while until the aftershocks calmed down. At first, she intended to stay for only a week, but the stay was prolonged by the warm sense of friendship she discovered in the city and her own maternal instincts.

Lifestyle
Three Recommended Routes

Flower Viewing in Taipei

Taiwan may have blazing hot summers, but its mild weather in other seasons allows flowers to bloom year-round. From January through the spring, there are many places to see flowers in Taipei, and flower festivals abound.

Things about the 30 Year-old World Wide Web

The world wide web is 30 years old this year. On 12 March 1989, Sir Tim Berners-Lee published his proposal for connecting information together so that it could be easily shared and accessed, describing how a “web of notes with links (like references) between them is far more useful than a fixed hierarchical system.” But the astronomical growth of the web could also be its downfall, Berners-Lee warns.

Lifestyle
Building from Discarded Newspapers and PET Bottles

A Canadian-Born Realizing His Green Dream in Taiwan

Can you build a house with repurposed PET bottles? In rural Pingtung County you can find such an entirely handmade, sustainable “low-tech” building. Its architect is a Canadian who came to Taiwan 20 years ago, married a local girl and has meanwhile become a naturalized citizen of Taiwan. Let’s meet with this ingenious builder.

Lifestyle
World Economic Forum

10 Biggest Health Threats Listed by WHO

While some parts of the world have limited access to vaccines, patients in other regions are reluctant to use them, partly because of the anti-vaccine movement. Another area of huge concern is the toll that pollution and climate change take on health.

Lifestyle
World Economic Forum

The Best Countries To Retire In

International Living magazine recently released its latest Annual Global Retirement Index, which lists the top 10 destinations for would-be retirees who want to get away from it all. The survey looks at a number of factors affecting quality of life in each place including climate, local lifestyle, cost of living, healthcare, visa and residency requirements and how easy it is for newcomers to fit in once they arrive.

What to Explore in Taichung

Planning to take a visit to Taiwan’s “Second City” of art, leisure & quirky venues? Located right in the middle of Taiwan’s western coast, Taichung is a quick train ride from either end of the island and offers a serious art and culture scene and some great options for activities and snacking. Here are Taiwan Scene’s suggestions for a Dozen Things to Do in Taichung.

Amazing Ways to Celebrate New Years in Taiwan

Taiwan is an amazing place to ring in the New Year. In this article we’ll be diving into a few ways to spend the New Years holiday in Taiwan, starting with what’s probably the most well known of New Year’s Eve pastimes.

Lifestyle
Travel Tips

Dressing for the Weather in Taiwan

It’s been said that Taiwan has two seasons: wet, hot summers and cool, damp winters. This humble article is designed to help you pack for your upcoming Taiwan visit.

These Cities Attracted the Most Tourists in 2018

A visit to one of the world’s major urban centres has lost none of its appeal, but which cities attract the most tourists?

Lifestyle
Award-winning chocolate

Taiwanese Chocolate Seduces the World

In the front of the farm, cocoa trees grow in a symbiotic relationship with betel nut palms, while in the back, cocoa beans are directly processed into chocolate. Emerging cocoa producer Taiwan can thus be said to provide the shortest distance from tree to bar.

Lifestyle
Colin Chen

Focusing on the Joys of Authentic Nantou Cuisine

Colin Chen became a chef in a radical career change that moved him from a life behind the camera into the social media limelight. Originally working as a print media photographer, Chen discovered his passion for cooking during a stint abroad as he craved the taste of home.

Lifestyle
Dadaocheng Back in Business

Taipei’s New Hotspot for Young Entrepreneurs

The once depressed Dadaocheng in western Taipei recently replaced Beitou’s hot springs as the third most popular destination in the city for overseas visitors, buoyed by innovative new shops and specialty bars. But more needs to be done for the area’s revival to be complete.

Lifestyle
Bar Surfing Taipei Cocktail Festival

Taiwan’s Cocktail Scene Unveiled

Marching into its second year, Bar Surfing – Let’s Go aims to introduce the uniqueness of Taiwanese cocktails, featuring flavors drawn from local fruits, herbs, spices and even teas, customized to the whims and tastes of individual customers.

Lifestyle
Veteran Tourist Guide from the US:

Indigenous Culture, not Food, is Taiwan’s Top Tourist Attraction

Would you be ready to spend NT$8,000 – NT$10,000 per day immersing yourself in the everyday life of an indigenous village in Taiwan? “Never has a tourist tried to haggle over the price. Since they feel it’s worth it, they don’t think of cutting prices,” notes American travel writer and tour guide Cheryl Robbins, who takes visitors on tailor-made tours to the island’s indigenous communities.

Lifestyle
Don't Know What to Wear?

This AI Could Create an Outfit for You

Having troubles choosing your outfit? This AI system jointly developed by the University of California, San Diego, and Adobe Research is capable of inventing new outfits based on personal fashion preferences.

Lifestyle
A Fulbright scholar on Dharma Drum Mountain

Teaching in a Buddhist Pure Land

Life in the mountainous Buddhist community is more than just healthy eating, contemplation, and research. Gender-segregated computer labs for monastics are living proof that Buddhism in general has embraced technology to preserve and spread their scriptures.

Lifestyle
With 120 Years of Distillery Experience

Taiwan Tobacco & Liquor Corporation Creates Whisky Miracle

How does a whisky taste with a hint of tropical fruit aroma? As one takes a sip and the golden liquid fills the mouth with flavor, one cannot help but reminisce about the changes in whisky aromas in recent years. You might have once loved that strong, peaty flavor but now enjoy a more mellow and sweet whisky that, along with its flavor, brings back sweet memories.

Lifestyle
Travel Tips

12 Facts German Travelers Want To Know About Taiwan

At a recent European Travel Fair, the Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s branch in Germany collected several questions about Taiwan from German Travelers. So we asked unseren guten Freund (our good friend) Klaus Bardenhagen, AKA The Taiwan Reporter to pick out a dozen of them to answer in his own mother tongue. So put on some Kraftwerk, crack open a Weißbier and some Erdnussflips , and please enjoy 12 Facts German Travelers Want To Know About Taiwan.

Lifestyle
Guest Writer Submission

Life in Taiwan is Too Sweet to Be Healthy

Taiwan is a country of convenience stores, lunch boxes and street foods. Yet such convenience has a cost: an increase in obesity. What can we do to avoid consuming excessive sugar while living in this “sweet island”?

Lifestyle
Coffee in Taiwan

How an Island of Tea-Drinkers Came to Love the Bean!

On the island historically known for its tea, coffee consumption has once been something more than a niche foreign habit. But in 21st century Taiwan, a perfectly serviceable cappuccino can be bought at any small-town 7-11. What happened to bring about the sea change in Taiwan’s caffeine habits?

Lifestyle
Taking Action for Happy, Healthy Golden Years

The Power of Change at Work!

As Taiwan becomes an aged society, Fubon Life Insurance, honoring its mission of caring for society, is expanding its services and care across the island by actively delving into dementia prevention, creating an elderly-friendly environment and promoting healthy lifestyles. The company endeavors to take action to safeguard happy and health lives in our golden years and become a force for social change.

Lifestyle
A Taste of Taiwan

Danish Photographer Bundles Love for Taiwan in Time Lapse Video

A time lapse video clip called A Taste of Taiwan has recently created a buzz on the Internet. Behind the production is Danish photographer Henrik Matzen. The video celebrates Taiwan’s scenic beauty but is also meant as Matzen’s personal thank you to the island and its people. What made Matzen spend three months shooting this video, paying out of his own pocket?

Lifestyle
GRAND SEIKO Releases 20th Anniversary Edition of 9S Mechanical Movement

Born During Changing Times, Changing the Times 20 Years Later

For Taiwan, the 1990s were a decade of radical change and an important transition period [to full-fledged multi-party democracy]. National politics, society, industry and even culture saw dramatic changes during that period. A very large part – probably the best part – of the face of contemporary Taiwan took shape during that era. For manufacturers of high-end watches around the world, the 1990s were also an important transition period. All of a sudden, wristwatches, previously practical tools in everyday life, became status symbols and tokens of good taste. Mechanical watches, originally squeezed out by the functionally superior quartz watches, had a comeback as luxury items thanks to their classical design and the refined craftsmanship behind their making.

Lifestyle
Slow Fashion

The Kids Clothing that Grows with Your Child

British designer Ryan Yasin has developed what he calls “the most advanced kids clothing in the world” made from a distinctive pleated lightweight fabric which is waterproof, machine washable and recyclable. But most importantly, it will fit a baby and then expand until that child is three years old.

Lifestyle
World Economic Forum

It’s Not Kids’ Screen Time You Should Worry About - It’s Yours

Much has been written about the dangers of screen time for children. Meanwhile, emerging research is starting to look at the role that parents’ screen usage has on a child’s development, and the news isn’t good.

Five Questions asked by the Taiwan-Curious

Tons of people are using the popular crowdsourced Q&A website Quora to ask questions about Taiwan. Since many of these questions concern travel in Taiwan, we’ve recently taken to Quora to offer tips & suggestions for first time visitors and the merely Taiwan curious.

Lifestyle
Voices From Taiwan

Health is the Greatest Wealth: A Conversation with Peter Kurz

Over the past several years, Peter Kurz has become known in Taiwan for more than financial acumen. An accomplished triathlete, Kurz regularly performing feats of strength and endurance that would put most anybody (myself included) to shame, including long distance cycling races, off road marathons and more. I was curious as to what led Peter into the world of extreme athletics. But as he put it, his current fitness regiment wasn’t the result of some sort of mid-life epiphany, but more an evolution from a lifestyle in which exercise played a peripheral role into one in which exercise had become the lifestyle itself.

Lifestyle
Taiwan’s Marathon Tourism

Running the Gamut from Mountains to Sea

Here, you cover scenery as you cover ground on the race course. From sparkling coastal courses, to a stunning route wending through a marble gorge, and a marathon that feels like a banquet on foot; Taiwan hosts an incredible variety of races like nowhere else in the world.

The Battle for Tourists in Asia is On

How can Taiwan bring to bear its touristic attractiveness given that its neighbors have made quality tourism a national strategic goal?

What Does Living Abroad Do to Your Self-Awareness?

If you’re looking for a new challenge or hoping to improve your career prospects, a group of academics has some good news: living in a different country makes you more self-aware.

Lifestyle
Traveling in Taiwan

12 Ways to Embrace and Enjoy Taiwan’s Summer Heat

Summer is at our doorstep here in Taiwan, meaning two things. It’s hot, and getting hotter, so make sure and stay hydrated! (Have you tried fresh watermelon juice?) There are tons of things to do everywhere on the island, both to beat the heat and to embrace it.

Lifestyle
To All Carnivores

Here are 8 ways to Eat Meat While Saving the Planet

A new campaign suggests ways to cut pollution, animal suffering and unfair trade from our diets.

Lifestyle
Going Green in Taipei

Free Coffee for Cyclists at YouBike Stations

From freebies for cyclists, to subsidies and free parking for electronic scooters, measures are taken by the Taipei City Government to encourage citizens to support the green environment.

Lifestyle
World Economic Forum

Countries that Sleep the Most

Do you lie awake at night worrying you’re not getting enough sleep? You’re not alone – some countries are in the middle of a sleeplessness epidemic which has the potential to damage people’s health and productivity.

Lifestyle
MICHELIN Guide Taipei 2018

24 Michelin Stars Bestowed to 20 Restaurants in Taiwan

After the 36 Bib Gourmand honorees unveiled last week on March 6th, 20 dining establishments became Michelin-starred today, among the 110 listed in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Taipei 2018.

Lifestyle
Reflexive Taiwan Series

A British Barber in Taiwan

After meeting his wife in Hualien, Daniel opened up a barber shop in the charming east coast city. In the process, he’s created a most unique experience for himself and thousands of satisfied customers.

Lifestyle
Kaohsiung Main Public Library

A Reading Space of Light and Shade

Kaohsiung Main Public Library is beautiful during the day and charming at night. Its structure composes of unique design and emphasis on humanities, radiating a vibe that is playful and serious at the same time.

Lifestyle
Riding While Working

Sitting All Day is Killing Us—Could a Bicycle Desk Be a Life-saver?

Sitting all day is bad for our health. So why don't we introduce a little exercise? How about riding a bike while doing all the paper work?

Lifestyle
Lunar New Year Cultural Outing

Join Artists in Taitung

In Taitung’s Chishang Township, the Granary Art Museum, ISwell Cultural Boutique, and Bike De Koffie, which makes bagels from local rice, introduce new local aesthetics.

Lifestyle
Baolai Hot Spring Garden

The Hot Spring in Forests of Flowers

Baolai hot spring is known for its crystal clear, transparent and odorless sodium-bicarbonate geothermal hot spring. The water is not only for bathing but also drinkable, making Baolai hot spring one of the most famous hot springs in Taiwan.

Lifestyle
Kaohsiung City Dadong Arts Center

Slowly Rising 'Hot Air Balloons' Reshape the Skyline of Fengshan

Kaohsiung City Dadong Arts Center is right next to the Kaohsiung MRT Dadong Station. It is one of Kaohsiung’s most prominent modern cultural landscapes. The unique design inspired by hot air balloons creates an artistic atmosphere that is both futuristic and welcoming.

Lifestyle
Winter Travel in Taiwan

7 Places to Inhale Snowy Fragrance on The Tropical Island

Nothing is better than a plum-blossom-viewing trip in a cold winter! Lately, blooms of ‘Mei’ (梅) have spread over many tourist spots on the island. The weather might not be fair, yet having a drizzly walk beneath the snow-white blooms might offer a different delight.

Lifestyle
Simple Travel in Taoyuan

Historical Streets, Food Culture and Mountain Scenery (II)

Houcihu, Daxi Tea Factory and Xiaowulai Waterfall, these are the spots you do not want to miss when visiting Taoyuan. With great tips from local travel expert Mu-chin Lee, these beautiful places are perfect last stops before taking off from Taoyuan International Airport.

Lifestyle
Simple Travel in Taoyuan

Bike Riding in Old Town Zhongli

With the Taoyuan Airport MRT and city bike rental service (YouBike) combined, it is easy, leisurely and economic to visit great travel spots in Taoyuan. The old town area of Zhougli is one of those spots that you shouldn’t miss. It is rich of local history and culture. Moreover, the night market and food are astonishing.

Lifestyle
Pier-2 Art Center

Modern Hipsters in Old Warehouse

Do you consider yourself as an artistic, trendy hipster? Or are you just a normal person who occasionally enjoy culture and art? Either way, Pier-2 Art Center in Yancheng, Kaohsiung is an excellent place for you to spend a weekend.

‘Care Café’ Serves Seniors as well as Community

Is long-term care for the elderly only up to the government to provide? Now a corner café serving the community’s seniors has proven that long-term care can be not just innovative, but also attract young people to the field.

Lifestyle
Formosa Boulevard Station

The Most Beautiful MRT Station, Charming from Inside Out

Kaohsiung's Formosa Boulevard Station is globally recognized as one of the most beautiful subway stations in the world.

Lifestyle
Color of the Year for 2018

What Color Best Captures the Mood of the World Today?

As the dark clouds cast a shadow of anxiety and uncertainty over the world throughout the turbulent days of 2017, the color for 2018 reflects our growing need to pause, return, and reconnect.

The Secret to a Happy Working Life

Is the Japanese concept 'Ikigai' a key to a long, happy and meaningful life?

The Arrival of ‘Generation Can’t Commit’

We spend all our energy and efforts on living and on loving ourselves, so that in the end we are too exhausted to love anyone else.

Lifestyle
Round-Island Touring

Circle Taiwan With a Bike – A New Trend for Japanese

Among the 60 % of foreigners who participated in this round-island cycling event, a Japanese journalist talks about him getting deeply moved by the beauty of the east coast, the cheers of the passer-bys, and the potential he sees in Taiwan tourism.

Lifestyle
Icey Tsui:

Climb Every Mountain

Everyone should climb at least one 3,000-meter peak in their lifetime. The path is never easy in the high mountains. Set aside the familiar horizon at sea level and discover that no mountain is too high to climb.

Eco-Tourism off Jiangjun’ao Isle

When the South Penghu Marine National Park was established in late 2014, local fishermen feared for their livelihood due to restrictions on fishing and other conservation measures. Meanwhile, guided snorkeling and scuba-diving excursions are providing new sources of income, putting the area on the eco-tourism map.

Lifestyle
Living Off the Electric Grid

Future’s Power Plant is in Your Home

Most homes already have half of a miniaturized power plant. Here's why and how this could bring us a more sustainable future.

Lifestyle
The Art of Acupressure

Calming the Mind, Soothing the Spirit

Do you often feel like a fire-breathing dragon filled with anger and rage? Fear not. Traditional Chinese medical doctors can teach you how to use acupressure to quell the angst, calm the spirit, and put a smile on your face.

Lifestyle
Sheu Fang-yi

Setback Sets Stage for Fulfilling Life After 40

Taiwan’s contemporary dance legend Sheu Fang-yi failed big with her own dance company, an experience that she is glad she didn’t miss because it made her see life in a different light.

Lifestyle
Japanese National Brand Expands Globally

Why is Uniqlo Opening Stores in Zara’s Territory?

Japanese apparel retailer Uniqlo keeps adjusting its global strategy as it grapples with slowing growth in China and experiments with new store concepts and sales channels.

Lifestyle
Laura Russell

The Curious Case of Q

Laura Russell is a writer and recipe developer based in Portland, Oregon. She is also a regular panelist on the award-winning podcast, The Four Top. Here she shares her experience and journey with the interesting factor in Taiwanese cuisines: "Q".

Lifestyle
The Time Is Now for Taiwanese Cuisine

Let’s Eat, the Taiwan ‘Way’

In Mandarin, “flavor” is pronounced “way,” so we’ve decided to call authentic Taiwanese flavors the “Taiwan Way.” Up to now, it has defied definition but efforts are afoot to give it a clear identity and have it resonate around the world.

High-tech Smart Underwear

A novel piece of underwear combining advanced textiles and innovative wearable technology aims to solve the problem of urine loss, an issue that remains taboo although many women suffer from it.

Preparing for the Golden Years

Have you pictured what your life will be like when you’re old? Whether living alone, or in the company of family, or growing old with a group of good friends, old age can have many forms.

Lifestyle
Angela Duckworth

What is Grit and Why is it the Secret of Success?

Angela Duckworth is an American psychologist, best selling author and professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Her research shows that the key to excellence is not about talent but 'grit'. In an interview with CommonWealth Magazine, Prof. Duckworth shares her insights about the idea of 'grit'.

Lifestyle
People Tree

Slow Shopping Means More Joy

Fair trade starts at the source. That’s why the Japan-born fair trade label People Tree set out to transform the fashion supply chain, making Japanese society realize that buying organic, fairly traded garments brings more joy than pursuing the latest fashion craze.

Everyday Fashion

After four centuries, the fashion realm has descended from the top of the pyramid to embrace the 99 percent. And the 99 percent’s taste is sure to have a tighter focus on the “everyday.”

Lifestyle
A Rising Center of Creativity

‘Hot’ Taipei

Romantic yet practical, Taipei’s free-flowing creative energy is surging beyond Taiwan and into ethnic-Chinese communities around the world. Even countries in the West are showing fascination with the city’s creative expression.

Fanatical Shanghai

Fanatical young Shanghainese are bringing the world to Shanghai, from as far afield as Europe and America, and as nearby as Taiwan, carrying their cultural momentum forward, reproducing, tweaking and surpassing it… with the goal of taking Chinese design to the world.

Going Home Again on Zhongshan North Road

Lyricist Chung Yung-feng and publisher Emily Chuang find their memories intertwine as they discover the warmth and delicious flavors along Taipei’s Zhongshan North Road.

Lifestyle
2016 Golden Service Awards: Muji

Aiming for 'Just Right'

The best service does not mean selling customers the most expensive goods but those they need most. Japanese lifestyle brand Muji took the crown of the 2016 Golden Service Awards with its "just right" approach.

Lifestyle
2016 Golden Service Awards

‘Change’ the Secret to Managing Change

"Change" and "digital experience" are the new mantras in this digital age, concepts embraced by the many innovative upstarts that emerged as leaders in their fields in the 2016 Golden Service Awards.

Lifestyle
2016 Golden Service Awards: Starbucks

Where Staff Are Digital Ambassadors

Starbucks, winner of the Coffeehouse Chains category for six years in a row and number one in online service satisfaction, has become more of a 'tech company that sells coffee,' with digital coffee houses that enable new Starbucks experiences.

Lifestyle
Johan Ku

Fashion – A Mind Game between Intellect and Art

Taiwanese avant-garde fashion designer Johan Ku, who debuted on the international fashion stage in New York and studied in London, decided to build his label from Asia, designing his collections in Taiwan and launching them in Tokyo. His haute couture and ready-to-wear lines are now available at his first flagship store in Taipei.

Lifestyle
Taiwan's First 'Digital Life Survey'

Who Rules the Cloud?

In its first ever "Digital Life Survey," CommonWealth Magazine found Taiwan's Internet users to be among the most avid fans of social media across the globe, and have distinct online behavior patterns that will dictate how companies position themselves in the future.

Lifestyle
Rolling Out

Figure Out Your Own World View

Four young women have designed a mission card that tasks people to summon the courage to get to know the world on a deeper level through travel.

Lifestyle
2015 Golden Service Awards

Healthy Competition within Conglomerates

This year's Golden Service Awards saw seven new winners emerge in their respective industries. What makes these champions special?

Lifestyle
Taiwan's Independent Coffee Culture

Soft Power, Percolated to Perfection

Taiwan produces relative few coffee beans, but it is a prime destination when Asians want to open cafés, roast good coffee, or grow premium beans. How has Taiwan gained renown as a premium coffee hub in such a short time?

Lifestyle
Taiwanese Consumers Learn a Lesson

Bargains Don't Come Cheap

Recent food safety scares in Taiwan have sparked boycotts of a major player, but consumers need to do more, including focusing on value instead of simply on how much they get for their money.

Lifestyle
2013 Golden Service Awards

High-end Trumps Low-cost

Taiwanese consumers are increasingly particular about high quality, and demand it across the board. Those service enterprises that deliver it are winning the race.

Lifestyle
The Nordic Models

Making an Art of the 'Simple Life'

Healing diets, a comfortable home, the simple pleasures of life – Taiwanese are gravitating more than ever to this "simple life." To figure out how to get there, their best bet is to look at Scandinavia.

Lifestyle
South Korea's Food Waste Solution

You Waste, You Pay

South Korea produces three times as much food waste as Taiwan. The South Korean government is now taking aggressive measures to tackle the food waste mountain, imposing weight-based disposal fees.

Lifestyle
Breeze Development's Henry Liao

Tailoring a Fashion Empire with an Italian Cut

Acquiring Giuliano Fujiwara for NT$500 million, a Taiwanese department store group is giving this premium Italian brand a makeover, and a new position on the world fashion map.

Lifestyle
Kanazawa, Japan

Tradition with an Innovative Twist

Founded 400 years ago as a cultural center, Kanazawa boasts a rich artistic heritage, which it lavishes with love, labor and generous investments. How is this city breathing new life into its creative and cultural industries?

Lifestyle
Five-star Free-for-all

Luxury Hotels Converge on Taipei

In the 1990s, the Regent and Grand Hyatt dominated Taipei’s luxury hotel market, but times are finally changing as new five-star hotels pour into the city. The question is, why?

Lifestyle
Hotel Royal Chiao Hsi

Local Nutrients, Rich Experience

Taking home top honors in this year's CommonWealth Magazine Golden Service Awards, the Hotel Royal Chiao Hsi continually challenges itself to create a unique sensory experience for visitors.

Lifestyle
Kaohsiung

Crafting a Corridor of Good Living

No longer content to measure success in terms of cargo shipments, Kaohsiung is expanding green spaces and opening arts districts, to remake itself as a "great city to live in."

Lifestyle
Golden Service Champion

HSR: The New Benchmark for Travel Culture

Unveiling a ticket verification system that has wowed counterparts in Europe and Japan, Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. is starting to shape a new culture of sophisticated travel in Taiwan.

Lifestyle
Golden Service Champion

EVA Air Aims High with 'Taiwanese Quality'

Flat-lying beds, Bvlgari overnight kits, premium steak, lobster feasts… EVA Air targets the top of the pyramid, leapfrogging Singapore Airlines to become the king of airway service.

Lifestyle
2012 Golden Service Award Survey

Who’s the New Service Industry King?

A reshuffle has taken place in many segments of Taiwan's service industry. Which tricks of the trade did the winners of this year's Golden Service Awards use to grab consumers'attention,and money?

Lifestyle
2012 Golden Service Awards

Transit Hubs Sparking New Travel Vogue

Taiwan's high speed rail line and a highway service area earned high marks in the second CommonWealth Magazine Golden Service Awards. What's driving the trend?

Lifestyle
Golden Service Enterprise Ikea

Giving Customers That Perfect Match

In CommonWealth Magazine's recent service industry survey, Swedish home furniture giant Ikea reigned supreme in the "atmosphere" category, enticing the island's consumers with its warm, friendly, real-life ambience.

Lifestyle
Golden Service Enterprise PC Home

The Unbeatable Lightness of 24-hour Delivery

In the world of online retailing, only one question is paramount: "How to deliver the goods to the consumer as quickly as possible." At PC Home, the secret weapon is not working faster, but a 24/7, three-shifts-a-day operational culture.

Lifestyle
Golden Service Enterprise E.Sun Bank

Mastering the Art of Service

E.Sun Bank was rated tops for service among financial institutions in CommonWealth Magazine's first ever Golden Service Awards. What does E.Sun know that others don't?

Lifestyle
2011 Golden Service Awards

Those Decisive Five Seconds

Taiwanese consumers were given the chance by CommonWealth Magazine to evaluate their favorite service brands for the first time. The winners were companies giving customers a deeper level of service.

Lifestyle
Golden Service Entrepreneur Steve Day:

Shutting Out the Competition with Value

In an industry where personal warmth is key, restaurant group Wowprime focuses on keeping employees content, and dishing out value that rivals find hard to match.

Lifestyle
Golden Service Entrepreneur Hsu Chung-jen

My Competitor Is My Customer

Grasping, and even creating, the latest lifestyle trends is what keeps President Chain Stores one step ahead of their customers, making themselves indispensable through constant improvement.

Lifestyle
Mayday's Ashin

A Dream that Fits to a 'T'

This time he's no pop star. Donning the cap of an ordinary small businessman, Ashin is spearheading one of Taiwan's most successful fashion brands. What does Stayreal say about the changing face of "Made in Taiwan?"

Lifestyle
Wisdom of Chinese Medicine Masters

Myths that Aren't Necessarily So

Many of us imagine that experts in traditional Chinese medicine live mysterious lifestyles, boiling up exotic brews, popping pills, practicing kungfu... But what are they really like?

Lifestyle
Wisdom of Chinese Medicine Masters

Eight Secrets to Illness-free Living

Usher in the Year of the Tiger with a mighty constitution and a light heart. Five of Taiwan's most experienced, and long-lived, traditional physicians share the keys to a healthy tomorrow.

Lifestyle
Wisdom of Chinese Medicine Masters

Dining Your Way to Health

Taiwan's most venerable Chinese medicine practitioners reveal the dishes they depend on personally to keep themselves in good health and their bodies free of toxins.

Lifestyle
The Zhongshan-Datong Area

The Soho of Taipei

Independent, relaxed, with a welcoming rhythm of life all its own – this once run-down area has staged a remarkable comeback, thanks to the creativity of its residents. Today its artsy atmosphere attracts the crowds, and offers surprises.

Lifestyle
Taiwan's Gourmet Food Market

Everyone's Learning to Cook

A craze for cooking classes is quietly spreading through the Taipei area. From high-end supermarkets to bookstores, from toddlers to retirees, Taiwan's gourmet industry is taking another stride toward maturity.

Lifestyle
Father Josef Eugster's Reflexology

Boosting the Body's Powers of Self-healing

Father Josef Eugster spreads the word of God in a rather hands-on way – by massaging people's feet. After reflexology healed his own arthritis, he developed a groundbreaking method that has since spread from Taiwan across the world.

Lifestyle
Former Executive Yuan Secretary General Wang Chao-ming:

The Natural Healing Experience

Two decades ago, this busy government official began suffering from an enlarged prostate, but with natural treatment and a regular lifestyle, he regained a state of health that has lasted well into his eighties.

Lifestyle
The Age of Personalized Health Care

Natural Healing Moves into the Mainstream

With conventional treatments unable to get to the root of many medical problems, mainstream hospitals are increasingly embracing holistic therapies, and altering the way patients receive care.

Lifestyle
Taiwan's Bicycling Craze:

Life in the Slow Lane

What is so appealing about bicycling that even corporate managers found bike teams and encourage employees to join challenging cycling tours around Taiwan?

Lifestyle
Thriving in an Atmosphere of Freedom

Hip Taipei Making its Mark

It's a city full of creativity, freedom and laughter. Compared to Beijing, Taipei shines as a fun, multicultural town bursting with vitality.

Lifestyle
Microsoft's Imagine Cup 2007

Twenty-something Rebels Show World-class Creativity

Four Taiwanese university students, once told they 'had no future', placed second in a global creativity competition, highlighting what kinds of talent will be in demand in tomorrow's Taiwan.

Cracking the Oriental Creativity Code

Across the globe, designs from Asia are captivating the imagination. Not only Westerners, but Asians themselves are eager to unlock the secrets of style from the East.

Lifestyle
Executive Producer

Peggy Chiao's Lonely Trip to the Movies

While few Taiwanese show interest in Taiwanese films, internationally recognized filmmaker Peggy Chiao aims to prove that Taiwan can put out major motion pictures that move millions.

Lifestyle
Personal Finance

Four Investment Wizards Share Their Tips

As we begin a new year on the Chinese Lunar calendar, four of Taiwan’s most successful personal finance experts share their best investment secrets.

Lifestyle
Hon Hai Group

Terry Gou's Secret Bases

Big-league industrialist turned would-be movie mogul, Terry Gou has changed. From computers and electronics, he is moving into content, and the sprawling dominion he has established in China is the key to his ascent.