Taiwan & Taipei — Everything I Wish I'd Known Before Going

In February 2026, Sina and I spent 9 days in Taiwan — six days in Taipei, a rental car to the east coast, Hualien, Jiufen, and back again. Here's everything we wish we'd known before going: 10 things that surprised us, our rough itinerary, and the full list of hotels, night markets, bars, coffee shops, and ceramics worth your time.