Is Taipei safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Taipei is one of the safest cities in Asia, with very low street crime, and walking at night is normal. The realistic risks are scooter traffic, typhoons in summer and early autumn, and earthquakes. Lost wallets and phones are often returned.
The real risks
Traffic and scooters
Scooters turn quickly and fill junctions. Look both ways, even on green signals, and use crossings.
Typhoons
July to September is typhoon season. Follow Central Weather Administration warnings; transport and sights may close for a day or two.
Earthquakes
Taiwan is earthquake-prone. Know the exits in your hotel and follow official instructions if one happens.
Heat and humidity
Summer highs of about 31–33°C with high humidity can cause heat exhaustion. Drink water and rest in air-conditioned places.
Night-market crowds
Very crowded markets are a chance for petty theft, though it is rare. Keep bags in front of you.
Areas and times to take care
Visitors can walk freely in all central districts, including late at night. Ximending and the bar areas of Xinyi get busy and loud at weekends but are generally safe. Normal precautions are enough everywhere.
Getting around safely
The MRT is clean, safe and efficient, and runs until about midnight. Taxis are metered, safe and affordable; ride-hailing apps such as Uber also work. YouBike bicycles are everywhere, but take care with traffic. From Taoyuan Airport, the Airport MRT reaches Taipei Main Station in about 35–50 minutes.
Solo and women travellers
Taipei is very comfortable for solo women, including late at night. Harassment is uncommon, and there are women-only waiting areas on MRT platforms for late-night travel. Normal precautions in bars apply.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is treated, but locals usually boil or filter it; drink bottled or filtered water, which is easy to find. Summers are hot and humid, and dengue occurs occasionally in southern Taiwan more than in Taipei. Medical care is excellent and affordable.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Taipei safe for tourists?
Yes, it is one of the safest cities in Asia. The main risks are traffic, typhoons and earthquakes.
Can I drink tap water in Taipei?
Locals boil or filter it. Drink bottled or filtered water.
What is the emergency number in Taiwan?
110 for police, 119 for ambulance and fire.