I’ve just arrived in Taiwan, and honestly… Day 1 was full of surprises.

I started my trip in Kaohsiung, a vibrant city in southern Taiwan known for night markets, modern transport, and warm weather. I expected great food and friendly people—but I didn’t expect so many little cultural surprises.

If you’re planning a Taiwan trip soon, here are the things that shocked me on my first day 👀

1. Arcade Culture Is HUGE in Taiwan 🎮

One of the first things I noticed was how many arcade centers there are.

Not just for kids either.

I saw:

• Pachinko-style machines

• Balloon shooting games 🔫🎈

• Mahjong-themed machines 🀄

• Claw machines everywhere

• Adults seriously focused on playing

In many countries, arcades feel like a thing of the past. But in Taiwan, they still feel alive and popular.

It looked like entertainment for all ages.

2. Even 7-Eleven Has Claw Machines 😳

This really surprised me.

Many convenience stores in Taiwan—especially 7-Eleven—have claw machines outside or near the entrance.

Imagine buying water… then casually winning a toy.

Taiwan convenience stores feel like mini lifestyle hubs, not just places to buy snacks.

3. The Smell of Stinky Tofu Is REAL 😂

You hear about it before coming to Taiwan.

But once you smell it in person… you understand.

The aroma is strong, unforgettable, and impossible to ignore.

Some people love it. Some run away.

I’m still deciding 😅

4. Taiwan Noodle Culture Is Serious 🍜

I quickly learned that “noodles” here is not just one category.

There are so many varieties such as:

• Oil noodles

• Yi mein

• Soup noodles

• Dry noodles

• Thick noodles / thin noodles

Taiwan food culture has much more depth than many travelers expect.

5. Taiwanese Promotions Are Smart 💡

At drink stalls, I saw deals like:

Buy 3 cups, get the 4th free

Very simple. Very effective.

And yes… it almost worked on me 😂

Taiwan street vendors know how to attract customers.

6. Delicious Drinks Everywhere… But Toilets Are Harder to Find 🚻🥤

Taiwan has amazing drinks:

• Bubble tea

• Fruit tea

• Milk tea

• Fresh juice

But one travel tip:

Public toilets are not always easy to find quickly, especially when walking around busy areas.

So if you see a restroom—use it.

Trust me.

7. One of the World’s Most Beautiful Metro Stations Is Here 🚇✨

I visited Formosa Boulevard Station, and wow.

It’s famous for being considered one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world.

The colorful Dome of Light inside feels more like an underground art museum than a train station.

If you visit Kaohsiung, don’t skip it.

8. I Visited Liuhe Night Market Instead of Ruifeng 🌙

Originally, I planned to visit Ruifeng Night Market, but it was closed on Wednesday.

So I went to Liuhe Night Market instead.

And honestly? Great decision.

It was lively, colorful, and full of street food energy.

Final Thoughts: Taiwan Feels Familiar… But Full of Surprises 🇹🇼❤️

That’s what made Day 1 so fun.

Taiwan feels comfortable and easy to travel—but at the same time, full of unexpected details that make it exciting.

From claw machines in convenience stores to world-class metro stations, I already know this trip will be memorable.

Have you been to Taiwan?

What surprised you the most? Let me know below 👇