General info
The City
Tainan is one of the oldest cities in Taiwan, with over 400 years of history. Known as the “Cultural Capital” of Taiwan, its streets are filled with ancient temples, historical architecture, and a vibrant mix of tradition and creativity.
Weather
The season in December is winter. Weather is cool, dry and cloudy, with occasional cold fronts. Please refer to Central Weather Administration Observatory Home Page for 7-day weather forecast. (Select Tainan City/ East District)
Arrival & Useful Information
Most visitors arrive through Taoyuan International Airport (North) or Kaohsiung International Airport (South).
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange counters are available in the airport arrival halls. Major banks and post offices in the city also provide exchange services.
SIM Cards & Internet
Major telecom companies (Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, FarEasTone) have counters at the airport offering prepaid SIM cards with data and call plans (3, 7, or 30 days).
Transportation in Taiwan
Taiwan has a well-connected transportation network, with high-speed trains and metro systems linking major cities.
Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)
The THSR connects Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung in just 1.5–2 hours. Tainan HSR Station is connected to the TRA Shalun Station, with local trains to downtown Tainan (about 25 minutes).
Metro / MRT
• Taipei Metro：EasyCard
• Taoyuan Airport MRT：EasyCard
• Kaohsiung Metro：iPASS
- It takes about 35-40 minutes by Taoyuan MRT to Taipei directly.
- Both EasyCard and iPASS are rechargeable transportation cards usable on MRTs, buses, and convenience stores across Taiwan.
Explore Tainan — A Blend of Culture and Art
Tainan is the perfect place to experience Taiwan’s rich culture and history, where tradition and creativity coexist beautifully. (https://www.twtainan.net/en/)
Must-See Attractions:
• Fort Zeelandia: A 17th-century Dutch fortress.
• Chihkan Tower: A stunning mix of Chinese and Western architecture.
• Confucius Temple & Fuzhong Street: A charming area filled with shops and cafés.
• Tainan Art Museum: A modern landmark blending art and architecture.
• Blueprint Cultural Park: A creative hub in renovated warehouses.
• Anping Harbor (Whale Bay): Perfect spot for sunset views.
Tainan — The Heaven of Street Food
Tainan is the birthplace of Taiwanese street food, known for its slightly sweet flavor and authentic local charm.
Local Favorites:
Beef Soup, Danzai Noodles, Milkfish Congee, Coffin Toast, Savory Rice Pudding, Sticky Rice with Pork.
Night Markets & Snacks:
• Garden Night Market/ (Wed, Sat)
• DaDong Night Market / (Tue, Fri)
• Wusheng Night Market / (Thu, Sun)
Near National Cheng Kung University: (QFort) (Link)
Around NCKU (University Rd, Shengli Rd, Yule St), you’ll find endless local eateries and cafés — perfect for a food walk.
NCKU Campus Map:
• https://nckumap.ncku.edu.tw/map.php,
• https://virtualcampustour.ossd.ncku.edu.tw/
Souvenirs & Local Gifts
After enjoying the food, take home a piece of Tainan’s charm.
• Anping Old Street: Shrimp crackers, black sugar cookies, handmade soaps.
• Fuzhong Street: Local design shops and handmade crafts.
• Hayashi Department Store: Historic department store with local brands.
• Blueprint Park: A vibrant spot for local art and design.
• Hesheng Canvas Shop: Famous handmade canvas bags, a true Tainan classic.
Traveling Beyond Tainan
From Tainan, the High-Speed Rail connects easily to all major cities in Taiwan.
• Kaohsiung: 20 min away; visit Love River and Pier-2 Art Center.
• Taoyuan: 1.5 hr; direct access to Taoyuan Airport MRT.
• Taipei: 1.5–2 hrs; the capital full of culture, food, and shopping.
Whether departing from Kaohsiung or Taoyuan Airport, returning flights are easy and convenient.
