Communication
Messaging Apps: LINE Dominates
In Taiwan, LINE isn’t merely a popular messaging app: it’s the default communication method. Over 90% of Taiwanese use LINE regularly, making it the equivalent of WhatsApp in Europe or WeChat in China. Tour companies communicate through LINE, restaurants may offer reservation through LINE, and locals you meet will ask for your LINE ID rather than phone number. The app originated in Japan and spread throughout East Asia, establishing dominance before Western alternatives like WhatsApp gained traction. LINE offers messaging, voice/video calls, group chats, and integrated payment services. Its sticker culture - elaborate, often animated emoji sets - forms a distinct communication style you’ll notice immediately in Taiwanese conversations.
As for other messaging apps, younger, internationally-connected Taiwanese may use Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger, or WhatsApp. WeChat has minimal presence outside interactions with Chinese tourists or businesses. Telegram and Signal exists but remains niche. If coordinating with other Western travellers, these alternatives function fine, but for local interaction, LINE is non-negotiable.
Calling: When Voice Matters
Despite messaging dominance, traditional phone calls remain necessary in specific situations, and understanding when and how to make them prevents communication failures.
If you purchase a local SIM card, domestic calls are inexpensive and typically included in tourist packages or charged minimally. For calling Taiwanese numbers, dial the area code (02 for Taipei, 04 for Taichung, 07 for Kaohsiung, etc.) followed by the number. Mobile numbers begin with 09 and don’t require area codes.
Below are some useful numbers to remember when travelling in Taiwan:
Police: 110 — This connects to police services for crime, accidents requiring police reports (necessary for insurance claims), or situations requiring law enforcement. English-speaking operators are available in major cities, though expect some communication challenges. Police boxes (small police stations) are common in city centres and near tourist areas, marked with red lights. Officers at these stations may have basic English and can help with immediate issues.
Fire and Ambulance: 119 — This single number covers both fire emergencies and medical ambulances. Taiwan’s emergency medical services are efficient and professional. Ambulance transport to hospitals is remarkably affordable (often under NT$1,000) compared to Western countries, though it’s not free. In major cities, some operators speak English; in rural areas, expect Mandarin only. If you’re calling for someone else, having their location precisely identified (using Google Maps coordinates if needed) helps immensely.
Foreigner-specific assistance: The Tourism Bureau’s 24-hour hotline (0800-011-765, toll-free from within Taiwan, or +886-2-2349-1500 from mobile) provides English, Japanese, and Korean assistance for tourists. They can help with translation, connecting you with emergency services, resolving disputes with businesses, or providing information during crises. This number is invaluable when you need help but face language barriers with standard emergency services.