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southernmost tip of Taiwan for a relaxing vacation. or attend include the Amis Harvest Festivals, the
The round-island railway system, combined with the Saisiyat Pas-taai, the Yami Flying Fish Festival, the
high-speed rail and a dense highway system, gives Puyuma Vasivas, and Bunun Mapavkis. In particular,
access to all corners of Taiwan within a day. Whether the Bunun eight-part polyphony is a beautiful chorus
for business or for pleasure, travelers are able to reach that has been heard around the world.
their destinations quickly and conveniently. Taiwan's
comprehensive mass transit network includes buses In the past, the Spanish, Dutch and Japanese all
that travel even to remote mountain settlements and used Taiwan as a base and subsequently left distinct
seaside fishing villages. While the quantity of buses that historic, architectural and culinary heritages behind.
go to these locations does not compare to the frequent Today, Han Chinese customs, festivals, traditional
service in metropolitan areas, with the proper planning, arts, lifestyles and cultures serve as the foundation
practically all destinations can be reached easily. of Taiwanese culture. Western cultural influences
contribute lively modern artistic performances
and activities. The diverse ethnic culture makes
A Unique, Charming Cultural Grace Taiwanese society tolerant and open toward different
groups while giving it a unique set of creative
Taiwan is a beautiful Pacific island that is home to
Austronesian indigenous peoples. Aesthetic elements capabilities.
from 16 ethnic tribes are reflected in handicrafts,
weaving, music and architecture, while indigenous An Open, Tolerant Society with
festivals and ceremonies portray a peaceful coexistence Diverse Religious Systems
and mutual respect between people and nature. Noted
festivals and activities that visitors can participate in Taiwan is a religiously diverse land. Besides
traditional polytheistic folk beliefs, Taiwanese society
is tolerant and respectful of Buddhism, Taoism,
Protestantism, Roman Catholicism, Mormonism,
Islam and other religions. The ceremonies that are
a part of folk belief systems are known for their
bustling nature and reflect the passion and optimism
inherent in the Taiwanese people. In par ticular, the
"welcoming Mazu"ceremonies, held at the time of
the goddess'birthday, make up the oldest, largest set
of religious celebrations in Taiwan.
Comprehensive Education in
line with International Standard
Taiwan has 22 foreign schools for foreign residents,
including 16 American schools, the Taipei European
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