Golf

Golf is a major sport in Taiwan. It is also considered the oldest organized sport there. Most of Taiwan's golf clubs, which opens all year round, allow foreigners to become guest members.

Hotels and local travel agencies can make arrangements for those who would like to engage in a golf game at the clubs. Facilities at the golf clubs are quite enhanced. Golf gears, caddies, and buggy cars can be rented at the clubs. Food is also available for those who would like to snack or have refreshments after a game.

Inquiries regarding golf in Taiwan may be directed to :

Chinese Taipei Golf Association
12F-1, 125 Nanking E. Rd., Sec. 2. Taipei.
Tel: (02) 516 5611 Fax: (02) 516 3208

Tennis

Tennis is another fast growing sport in Taiwan. There are now an abundance of tennis courts in Taipei alone, be it public or private. Even most hotels now have their own tennis courts to cater to their guests.

Information on the game can be referred to :

Chinese Taipei Tennis Association
11F, 20 Chulun St., Taipei.
Tel: (02) 772 0298 Fax: (02) 771 1696

Swimming

For those who enjoy swimming, there are plenty of swimming pools at hotels, clubs, resorts, and public beaches around the island. Public pools are also available, but it is usually packed and noisy.

Martial Arts

Martial arts come in many different forms. 'Taiji', martial arts, yoga, sword dances, and easy aerobics are all related to this sport. It is common for Chinese to be out at dawn exercising in the parks and streets of Taipei. Visitors may join in the group and participate while keeping in shape at the same time.

Those interested in ma

Mountain Climbing

As you may notice, Taiwan is mainly covered with lush evergreen mountains that provide great pleasures to lovers of mountain climbing. Two ideal climbs are the peak of Yu Shan (Jade Mountain), which is the highest in Taiwan at 3,952m (12,966ft) and the Snow Mountain, Taiwan's second highest at 3,884m (12,743ft).

For a less appalling climb, Taiwan also offers its beautiful scenic mountains located between Taipei and the northern coastline. The popular one is the Seven Star Mountain, which is the tallest of the northern peaks at 3,675ft. Prior arrangement is not necessary to climb these mountains.

For arrangements to climb the two highest peaks, contact :

Alpine Association
10 Fl., 185 Chungshan N. Rd., Sec 2. Taipei
Tel: (02) 594 2108 Fax: (02) 593 5662

Skiing

Skiing is available during the months of January and February when enough snow falls on the slopes of Hohuan (Harmonious Happiness Mountains). Hotels, ski facilities, and proper transportation are available up on Hohuan Mountain.

To make bookings, contact :

Chinese Taipei Ski Association, ROC Ski Association
Rm 606, 20 Chunlun St., Taipei.
Tel: (02) 771 2374 Fax: (02) 775 3311

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Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Tremendous colonies of live coral form one of Taiwan's great underwater attractions, which includes a kingdom of colorful and unique sea creatures and vegetation. A great place to explore the underwater world would be near Oluanpi at the southernmost tip of the island. Those visiting the north can take advantage of the underwater coral kingdoms off the coast of Yehliu, popular for its unusual formations of coral-rock elevated from its seaside cape.

There are several diving clubs that organize excursions to these diving areas. These clubs will provide all diving equipment.

Interested divers can contact :

ROC Diving Federation
123 Chiuchuan St., Taipei.
Tel: (02)596 2341 Fax: (02) 593 6405
Or
Friendship Divers Association International
2-1 Taishun St., Taipei.
Tel: (02) 362 9658 Fax: (02) 362 9658

Barber Shops and Asian Bath

A unique way of relaxation for the Chinese is to be pampered by luxurious barber shops and bath houses. In Taiwan, this activity is thought to be grand and is more than just a necessity.

Bath houses and barber shops can be found all over Taipei and are identified by their bright neon-lit signs. Taiwan barber shops are not like any other barber shops. As you enter the shop, you will be spoiled by young barbermaids who will take you to an empty seat, refresh you with a hot towel, offer hot tea and cigarettes, and move on to grooming you. Even if you do not wish to have your hair cut, try their shampoo, manicure and massage. You will definitely not regret it.

Bath houses are also plentiful in Taipei. The Chinese would often go in for hours of soaking, scrubbing and relaxing themselves. Different bath houses offer different facilities but most normal baths have showers, hot and cold pools, whirlpools, saunas, massages, snack bars, lockers, and lounging areas. Note that the Chinese are very particular about hygiene, therefore it is recommended that you clean yourself thoroughly with soap and water before jumping into any of the communal baths or whirlpools.

A trip to the bath house would cost around NT$500 to NT$1,500 depending on the services you request.

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