| Area |
36,188sq km (13,972 sq miles). |
| Population |
22,560,000 (2003). |
| Capital |
Taipei- population 2,641,856 (2002) |
| Climate |
A subtropical climate with moderate temperatures in the north, where there is a winter season. The southern areas, where temperatures are slightly higher, enjoy sunshine every day, and there is no winter season. |
| Language |
Northern Chinese (Mandarin) is the official language. Taiwanese is widely spoken and English is taught as the foreign language in schools. |
| Religion |
Buddhism; also Taoism, Christianity and Islam. |
| Time |
GMT + 8
|
| Highlights |
Taiwan is a fascinating island, sometimes even seen as North Asia's 'precious stone' with its great influence from China. When the Portuguese discovered the island, they named it the "Ihla Formosa", literally translating 'Beautiful Island' and one can see why with the immense cultural and scenic attractions available. Taipei, the capital of the island is a fast, exciting, colourful place where one will find a combination of both the modern and ancient culture - a fusion that is breathtaking.
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| Country Facts |
Taiwan is commonly referred to as one of the Republic of China's territories - it is also the main island of a group of 86 islands. Approximately thirty-one percent of the country is alluvial plain, most of it on the coastal strip. |