Main cities of Taiwan

2011-06-28 08:100:53 GMT2011-06-28 16:100:53(Beijing Time)  SINA.com

Taiwan has many large cities and towns. Below is a list of nine of the most notable. Other cities are listed under their specific regional section.

Taipei (台北 or 台北) is the seat of government of the Republic of China and its center of commerce and culture. Taipei is home to the world's second tallest skyscraper, Taipei 101.

Hsinchu (新竹) is a center of hi-tech industry, and one of the world's leading manufacturers of hi-tech components. Hsinchu Science Park [2] is the home to many hi-tech companies.

Hualien (花莲) is located near Taroko Gorge, and is considered one of the most pleasant of Taiwan's cities.

Jiufen (九份) - this former gold mining town located on the northeast coast is now a popular tourist destination.

Kaohsiung (高雄) is the second-largest city on the island. It has one of the busiest sea ports (the Port of Kaohsiung) in the world and it has the island's second-largest airport, Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) [3].

Keelung (基隆) is the a center of transshipment in the north, and is located about a thirty minute drive from downtown Taipei.

Puli (埔里) is located at the geographical center of the island, and it serves as a good base for exploring the central mountains and Sun Moon Lake.

Taichung (台中 or 台中) is the third largest city in Taiwan, and has an abundance of interesting cultural amenities and activities.

Tainan (台南 or 台南) is the oldest city in Taiwan and was the capital during imperial times. It is famous for its historic buildings and snack food.