4 ways that Taiwan is embracing sustainable tourism

Swing by the Taiwan stand to learn about the destination’s new tourism strategy, with a focus on ‘Sustainable X Digital’ transformation. This is a forward-thinking approach that aims to enhance the visitor experience while safeguarding the island’s rich, cultural heritage. In the UK, interest in Taiwan is on the rise, with a 33% increase in visitor numbers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. 

These are the main elements to Sustainable X Digital:

1. A key focus of the strategy is empowering local communities to develop unique tourism experiences. This ensures a larger share of tourism revenue stays within the community, supporting local growth and offering visitors authentic, immersive cultural experiences.

2. To find harmony between tourism growth and environmental protection, popular scenic spots are monitored with real-time crowd control. Protected areas, such as Turtle Island, maintain controlled access to ensure ecosystem preservation.

3. Hotels are adopting sustainable practices as well, with a ban on single-use amenities planned by 2025, backed by government support for eco-certifications. Initiatives like the ‘Gold Quality Hospitality B&B’ programme also encourage environmentally responsible accommodations.

4. There’s investment in eco-friendly transport options to reduce environmental impacts, while enhancements to public transport, including the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle, aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles. The Taiwan Pass integrates Taiwan’s major transportation options to enhance the convenience of travelling across the country.

In addition there are city travel passes such as the Fun Pass Taipei, Taiwan Pass Taichung, and Taiwan Pass Kaohsiung, and transportation-oriented passes like the Taiwan Pass High-Speed Rail Version and Taiwan Pass Railway Version, all allowing for flexible itinerary planning.

“Taiwan is a treasure trove of unique experiences for travellers,” said Linda Lin, director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration London Office. “We’re thrilled by the growth in UK interest and believe our new strategy will attract travellers seeking authentic adventures with a minimal environmental footprint.”

Happy Hour event will take place on Wednesday, 6 November starting 15:40, themed around a traditional tea house and aligned with Taiwan’s new “Waves of Wonder” tourism brand. Visitors to the pavilion will be introduced to Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage through live performances, interactive activities such as oilpaper umbrella painting, and tile painting, a tradition that has been sustained for over a century. Attendees can also explore Taiwan’s famed tea culture from its traditional tea houses to the globally popular bubble tea.

AT WTM London: The Taiwan Tourism Administration will be exhibiting at stand N11-220