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Taiwan shares peak past 46,000- point mark during trading session

TSMC distributed its cash dividends for the first quarter on Wednesday, to the sound of NT$7 per share. Over in the stock market, the chipmaker’s shares opened NT$5 lower, dragged down by a slump in US stocks. But buying sentiment quickly picked up, and TSMC shares recovered their prior ex-dividend level in the first half hour of the trading session. Market confidence was strong, with Taiwan shares peaking at 46,077 points. Ultimately the market closed up 337 points, or 0.74%, at 45,848. Analysts say the next big event to watch out for is on Thursday, when the US Federal Reserve will announce whether interest rates will be adjusted. Let’s hear from an analyst.

Wayne Chen
President Capital Management
There are two key factors at play. The first is Hermes Testing’s IPO subscription. The allotment results were announced today, which may free some funds going forward. The second factor is that investors are watching interest-rate policies in the US, Japan, and Taiwan. Trading volume tends to contract ahead of these policy decisions, and that also affected TSMC’s trading volume. At this stage before trading volume picks up, Taiwan shares may oscillate within the range of the quarterly and monthly moving averages. That is until interest-rate decisions are announced. Taiwan’s market fundamentals are quite strong, so fourth quarter earnings should still perform well.

TSMC switched to quarterly dividends in 2019. Since then, it has successfully recovered to prior ex-dividend levels within one day 22 out of 28 times. This time around, TSMC founder Morris Chang is estimated to have received about NT$875 million in dividends, while CEO C.C. Wei got NT$52.16 million. But by far, the biggest winner was Taiwan’s National Development fund, which collected NT$11.57 billion.

#shares #dividends #tsmc #stockmarket #earnings

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Time：2026-09-16

最新消息 Latest News

Puma Shen causes night market vendors to sell out

Groups of people flooded Gongguan Night Market as Puma Shen, DPP’s Taipei mayoral candidate, campaigned there on Tuesday. Streets were packed with an estimate of a thousand people. Supporters brought him designer bags and certificates to sign, a female student from NTU who was getting married that day even asked him to be her witness. The crowd created a surge in sales for nearby vendors, who joked they closed up more than an hour early.

A wave of visitors surge through Taipei’s Gongguan Night Market! The place was completely packed with people even filling the second floor of Shuiyuan Market. Locals said they hadn’t seen anything like this in 20 years! Fans weren’t just asking for autographs on motorcycles, but also on expensive designer bags. Even junior high students lined up to have their award certificates signed.

- Can we sign here?
- Cross out Tang Chih-min
- He’s not the mayor; he was just the director of the Education Bureau

- Wow! Marriage contract! That’s rare!
- Use this to cover it up
- The third witness is perfect
- Thank you, thank you.

Even a law student from NTU, brought her marriage certificate so that Puma Shen could be a witness at her wedding. Someone presented him with a No. 1 house plate on Shifu Road, a symbol of the Taipei City Government. Shen is incredibly popular, with crowds not only lining the streets but also appearing on the second floor.

Ms. Chiu
Supporter
During the 2024 Hualien earthquake, I encountered some difficulties in the area. Many people sought help from Puma Shen, and I really hope he is elected.

Shen madness brought crowds of people. Supporters caused a surge in sales at night market stalls, buying them out. Shops that usually close at midnight were sold out by 11 pm due to the crowds.

- What time do you usually close?
- 12 o’clock
- And today?
- Since you are here today, I can close in a bit.
- Before 11 o’clock today.
- The fried chicken is sold out.
- He used to stay up until 11:30. Business is much better now. You should come every day as mayor.
- No problem.

The impact of Shen’s popularity made night market vendors even more supportive of him. A stinky tofu stall owner rushed up to Shen and gave him a big hug as soon as he saw him. After Puma Shen finished his two-hour street canvassing, he walked back to thank the vendors.

Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
Whether the crowds are real or not, everyone can see for themselves. Ocean currents, of course, are varied. Some cold and some warm. But no matter how warm an ocean current is, it brings warmth. If an ocean current is scalding, it will burn people and that’s not right.

Chiang Wan-an
Taipei Mayor
I respect every candidate’s election strategy and plans. I will continue to promote the various municipal construction projects.

With just 73 days left until the election, a commentator predicts a butterfly effect will occur in Taipei, turning this ocean of support for Shen into a tsunami.

#pumashen #taipeimayor #nightmarket #politics #沈伯洋 #dpp

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2026-09-16

25 innovations on show at ITRI Innovation Day held in Tainan

Cutting edge technology met centuries of history at the most recent edition of the ITRI Innovation Day, which was held in Tainan this year. The theme this time around was “Cross-Domain Innovation: Driving the Future.” With special showcases of AI applications, smart robots and unmanned vehicles, the event was a hotbed for innovation across different disciplines and industries.

Tainan’s Shalun Green Energy Technology Demonstration Site hosted this year’s ITRI Innovation Day on Sept. 15. It was bustling as can be.

An ultramodern, high-tech deer gallops ahead, taking participants on a journey from Tainan’s storied past to its present and into the future. Centuries of progress and evolution are displayed with life-like realism on the screen in a fusion of art and AI. The theme for this year’s ITRI Innovation Day is “Cross-Domain Innovation: Driving the Future.”

Chang Pei-zen
ITRI President
At ITRI and other research institutions under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, we work to turn the most advanced scientific findings into technology that can be then put into practical use in industries. Our goal is also to create opportunities so that new industries can emerge.

The international community has noticed Taiwan’s outstanding technological prowess. The event featured an exhibition of 25 cross-domain technologies and applications, many of which were recognized with international awards. Among them was the Prognosis Monitoring System, which achieves more than 90% prediction accuracy for rotating machinery and has already been implemented in the semiconductor, machine tool, and railway industries. Another highlight was the SafeCare AI Collaborative Care Robot, which can help reduce the burden on healthcare workers. From AI and smart robots to unmanned vehicles, ITRI brought together research teams to show how innovation can expand from the lab into real-world industrial applications.

Chao Ching-hui
Tainan Deputy Mayor
We hope ITRI’s innovation can provide technical services for a lot of these projects, as well as upgrade traditional industries by automating factories, for example. As AI becomes more common, we hope to take advantage of the AI boom to incorporate more firms in traditional sectors into the tech supply chains.

Scientific research is more than just producing papers. From the tech demonstrations to real-world partnerships with industry players, the ITRI Innovation Day moved to Tainan to connect industrial clusters in Southern Taiwan. By bringing together tech, talent, and industry needs from different domains, the event was fertile ground for innovation and industry opportunities.

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#innovation #ITRI #industry #technology #Taiwan

2026-09-16

Six cars and scooters fail to stop for ambulance crossing intersection

It’s common knowledge that you have to yield to emergency vehicles, but apparently some road users haven’t got the memo. Not one, not two, but six cars and scooters failed to let an ambulance through at an intersection in Changhua’s Huatan Township. Despite the fact that the siren was blaring and emergency lights were flashing. The vehicles didn’t stop and went on their merry way cutting the ambulance’s path in a moment that felt like an eternity. Let’s hear more.

Voice of member of the public
Commenting on incident
It’s bad. Just based on manners, you should let them through.

Member of public
Commenting on incident
The ambulance is trying to save someone’s life. You can’t cut them off. It’s against the rules.

Member of public
Commenting on incident
It was between two vehicles, so they could only hear the siren. The ambulance should’ve moved forward a little, so that more people would see it. That way they would stop to let it pass.

Lee Yi-chen
Police officer
According to Article 45 on the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, the drivers face a fine of between NT$6,000 and NT$30,000. Their driver’s license may be revoked and their car license suspended for six months. We will investigate the matter and handle it in accordance with the law while we continue to raise awareness about the rules of yielding to emergency vehicles.

Some people said the drivers needed to become more aware of traffic rules. But others said that perhaps the ambulance should’ve driven further into the intersection to make itself more visible. Though no reports were filed on the matter, police say failing to yield to an ambulance can carry a fine of up to NT$30,000. So, if you see or hear an emergency vehicle approaching, you better stop or get out of the way to avoid paying a hefty fine.

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#ambulance #redlight #changhua #outrageous #emergencyvehicle


2026-09-16

Hualien battles dust storms following devastating Matai’an River floods

Massive flooding caused by the overflow of a barrier lake on the Matai’an River last year continues to impact Hualien County. The newly arrived northeast monsoon has whipped up riverbed silt into swirling dust storms, severely affecting residents’ quality of life and road visibility. In response, the Water Resources Agency is using a “water curtain” to suppress dust and is considering expanding the project, alongside planting lalang grass to keep the soil in place.

This otherwise clear road is enveloped in a haze of white fog, completely obscuring Hualien’s scenic mountains. Visibility is limited to only a few dozen meters.

It’s not just on land. Over on the river, swirls of dust float on the wind. Locals jokingly say there’s no need to wash your car. In conditions like this, it’ll get dirty again immediately.

Resident
Accepted the dust
There’s no way around it. It’s no different if you wash your car. The moment the winds pick up, it’ll get dirty again.

Mr. Kung
Resident
On a scooter, you can’t see anything in front of you. This has been happening for years now. It’s also dangerous in a car. You always have to turn on your brights.

These dust storms have persisted for a long time. Whenever the northeast monsoon arrives, the dust follows closely behind. Due to last year’s Mataian River flood, there’s more silt than usual in the riverbed. Air quality has further deteriorated this year, blowing inland as far as Yuli 80 kilometers to the south.

Wu Ming-hua
Water Resources Agency official
We’ll use the water curtain method to suppress airborne dust. Before the end of the year, we’ll finish the tender. If it works well, we’ll expand the system.

Water Resources Agency officials noted that whenever PM2.5 levels exceeded safety standards during previous heavy dust events, the water curtain would be activated to suppress dust using water sprays. Plans are currently underway to expand the system. They’re also working with local universities to plant lalang grass in the hopes of reducing fugitive dust.

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#duststorm #Hualien #Mataian #dust #roadconditions #WaterResourcesAgency #watercurtain #monsoon #airquality

2026-09-16

35 Indonesians arrive in Taiwan to ease hospitality labor shortage

A group of 35 Indonesian nationals have arrived in Taiwan, with the goal of helping Taiwan’s hospitality sector grow.

They are the first batch of foreign skilled workers recruited under a special program to ease labor shortages in the hotel industry. The fresh arrivals will work as receptionists and housekeeping staff. In addition, the Tourism Administration has rolled out subsidies to encourage local businesses to support domestic tourism. One of the first to take advantage of the program is memory chip maker Phison. The company has signed a deal with travel agency Lion Travel to give each employee NT$25,000 in travel subsidies for trips in Taiwan. That’s in addition to an extra month’s salary as a bonus to encourage workers to travel around the country.

#taiwan #travel #hospitality #indonesian #hotel

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2026-09-16

Train overshoots platform after forgetting to stop

Tuesday evening at around 6, a local train missed the stopping mark at North Hsinchu Station and had five carriages exceed the platform. It continued south to Hsinchu Station, where passengers were requested to take another train back. The Taiwan Railway released an official statement claiming the train overshot the station because the driver was too focused on signal lights and forgot that North Hsinchu was a stop.

A train enters the station and begins to slow down. Many passengers are eagerly waiting for this train, yet what seems like a regular Tuesday quickly turned into a massive blunder. Passengers watched as the train passed them by one carriage at a time until it finally rolled to a stop exceeding the platform by five carriages.

Member of public
Witnessed the incident
Passengers who wanted to get on or off must be quite confused. It seems like a very basic mistake. If I were a passenger on board, about to get off, and then it skipped the station, I would think, “What are they doing?”

- Did it forget to stop?

Taiwan Railway issued a statement explaining that the driver was too focused on the traffic signals and forgot to stop at North Hsinchu Station. Since another train was approaching from behind, the overshot train had to continue south to Hsinchu Station, five minutes away. Passengers who wanted to get off at North Hsinchu Station were asked to take another train back.

Member of public
Witnessed the incident
Recently, Taiwan Railway has had quite a few incidents. Despite increasing the fare, safety doesn’t seem to have improved. Taiwan Railway needs to pay more attention to this.

A similar incident occurred in 2024. It seems that despite its restructuring as a state-owned corporation, Taiwan Railway’s screws haven’t been tightened yet.

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#taiwanrailway #trainovershoot #hsinchu #trainincident #train #TRA

2026-09-16

MacKay ER doctor registers to run for Taitung county councilor

One of the candidates running to represent Taitung’s first district in the county council is Wu Pei-shan, an ER doctor at MacKay Memorial Hospital. She’s gone to the front lines in Ukraine multiple times to provide medical support, with her heroic efforts earning her the Ten Outstanding Young Women Award. Explaining her move from medicine into politics, Wu said she wishes to emulate Dr. MacKay and leverage her medical values to create policies that can help more people.

This candidate for Taitung County’s first council district, Wu Pei-shan, is also an ER doctor at Taitung MacKay Memorial Hospital. She said she decided to go into politics to carry forward the spirit of Dr. MacKay himself.

Wu Pei-shan
Councilor candidate/ER doctor
Dr. MacKay said he would “rather burn out than rust out.” From the start, my belief has been that we only have one life, so we should use it as much as we can.

Wu has signed life-and-death waivers six times to provide medical support in Ukraine, and for 10 years has traveled to the remote villages and islands of Taitung practicing medicine. After already winning the Young Sustainability Leader Award, she also won the Ten Outstanding Young Women Award this year.

Wu Pei-shan
Councilor candidate/ER doctor
Working on the front lines helps me see the issues more clearly to inform my policymaking. I hope to have the opportunity to create change and better the lives of people in Taitung.

Colleague
Admires Wu
She’s often working in the emergency room and is extremely enthusiastic. She’s the kind of doctor who’s exceptionally dedicated.

Wu is one of 17 candidates hoping to fill 10 seats in Taitung’s first district. As most are veterans with established voter bases, along with prominent newcomers such as County Commissioner Yao Ching-lin’s sister, Yao Ching-yu, and Legislator Huang Jen’s wife, Wang Chun-mei, it’s shaping up to be a fierce contest.

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#elections #Taitung #countycouncilor #politician #ER #doctor #Ukraine #WuPeishan #localpolitics

2026-09-16

Yilan exports inaugural batch of speciality red pomelo to Singapore

Taiwan’s top-quality produce is about to meet another market! Specialty red pomelo from Yilan’s Dongshan Township has been exported overseas for the first time, as the first batch heads to Singapore thanks to the combined efforts of the county government and local farmers’ association. The first 2.4 metric tonnes of a planned 8 tons total were recently loaded into containers and shipped off to customs. With its appealing pink flesh and delicate, juicy texture, the limited-supply red pomelo is sure to make a strong debut in Singaporean supermarkets.

Crystalline pink flesh glistens from this cut pomelo, plump and close to bursting. This isn’t any old fruit. It’s a specialty red pomelo from Yilan’s Dongshan Township.

The red pomelo is not only delicate and juicy, but has a perfect balance of sour and sweet. With help from the county government and local farmers’ associations, it’s set to make its overseas debut with 8 metric tons bound for Singapore. The first 2.4 tons is already on its way.

Huang Shih-hung
Dongshan Farmers’ Association manager
Like other large fruits, the red pomelo retains its water content, and it keeps its sugar content as well. Of course, it has a natural acidity as well, so the ratio of sweet to sour is well balanced.

The harvest season for red pomelo is relatively short with limited supply, so the farmers are using a limited-edition approach. Through rigorous grading, they maintain sweetness at 11 degrees Brix or higher to ensure only the finest produce enters Singapore’s supermarkets.

Huang Shih-hung
Dongshan Farmers’ Association manager
We want to test the Singapore market and see if we can promote our seasonal fruits in a place that also has an ethnic Chinese population to provide greater income for our farmers.

Singapore is strict with food safety rules, proving that Yilan’s red pomelo can meet international standards. The county plans to help farmers keep strengthening their brand and export to more markets, becoming a source of pride for Taiwan.

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#pomelo #redpomelo #Yilan #produce #agriculture #Singapore #fruit

2026-09-16

Group develops locally made AI drones with non-Chinese supply chain

Amid growing demand for national defense, non-Chinese supply chains, and drones, a group in Tainan that began in the luxury housing business is now adopting AI and entering the drone industry. It’s developing AI-powered drones made in Taiwan, covering R&D, chip design, and complete-supply-chain manufacturing.

A drone flies over the fields, using AI to precisely control pesticide use and water consumption. Another drone is tethered to a power supply to overcome the battery limitations of conventional drones, allowing it to run for up to 20 hours.

Chang Yu-ming
Group chairman
Drones are no longer judged by how high or how far they can fly, but by how smart they are and whether they can help us carry out tasks. With drones integrating edge AI computing, they can now be used for applications such as counting wildlife and monitoring barrier lakes.

This group started out in the luxury housing business, but shifted into technology, focusing on the chips and control systems that power drones. It’s building its own technological capabilities covering key components and complete drone systems, joining the government’s push for a non-Chinese supply chain and targeting the global market.

Chang Yu-ming
Group chairman
We’ve focused on IC design and chips for the past 30 years. Our core technologies are in communications and flight control. We’ve also integrated communications into counter-drone systems, allowing us to use a communications control platform to integrate drones, uncrewed boats, and counter-drone systems.

The group has established a local supply chain without any Chinese parts, and is actively investing in Taiwan’s drone industry, working toward its goal of joining the country’s national drone team.

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#drone #MadeinTaiwan #MIT #AI #nonred #supplychain #technology #defense #nationaldefense

2026-09-16

Young woman suspected of spying on Taiwanese officers in Italy

Taiwan’s Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim recently made a short trip to Italy to attend the Ventotene Conference for Freedom and Democracy, demonstrating Taiwan’s determination to safeguard these principles. However, there are suspicions that this diplomatic trip was targeted by the Chinese Communist Party intelligence to gather information. Shieh Jhy-wey, Taiwan’s representative to the EU, revealed on Tuesday that a woman appeared at a restricted area where Taiwanese security personnel were gathering. Though she claimed to be a cleaning worker, she is suspected to have been sent by the CCP for intelligence gathering.

During her speech at the Ventotene Conference for Freedom and Democracy, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim spoke about Taiwan’s determination and commitment to protecting its democratic way of life. She also engaged with European partners to deepen bilateral ties. But there were many challenges to make the trip happen.

Lin Chia-lung
Foreign Minister
This trip was like a three-pronged operation involving land, sea, and air, because the route was very complex; it wasn’t just a point-to-point journey. We also experienced poor sea conditions. Indeed, we faced many unpredictable circumstances.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lin Chia-lung, who was present during the entire trip, revealed the challenges they faced behind the scenes upon returning home. Given the complex international geopolitical situation, President Lai Ching-te chaired two decision-making meetings for pre-travel preparations. Not only was security ensured, but contingency planning was also conducted to test various scenarios. Despite the meticulous planning, China still attempted to sabotage the trip.

Taiwan’s Representative to the EU, Shieh Jhy-wey, released photos showing security personnel conducting a pre-meeting reconnaissance. They spotted a young woman looking at her phone. Since the venue was empty, the woman sitting alone on a nearby bench immediately raised suspicion. The woman claimed to be a cleaning lady, leading everyone to believe she was a spy sent by the CCP.

Lin Chia-lung
Minister of Foreign Affairs
I think the Italian police are aware of such situations.

China’s diplomatic suppression of Taiwan is relentless. In 2026, on the eve of President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Eswatini, a friendly nation, China blocked his flight route. In 2024, Hsiao Bi-khim, as Vice President-elect, was invited to secretly visit the Czech Republic. During her visit, Chinese agents even followed her convoy, nearly causing a major car accident. These outrageous methods demonstrate China’s tyrannical and arbitrary actions.

Wang Ting-yu
Legislator
China is attempting to make Taiwan disappear from the international stage to portray Taiwan as China’s internal affair. If China takes any action against Taiwan, we will lose international support. Therefore, no matter how difficult diplomacy becomes for us, we must strive to make the world see Taiwan.

Meanwhile, there has been significant progress in Taiwan-Philippines relations, with preparations underway to open a representative office in Cebu, Philippines.

#taiwandiplomacy #蕭美琴 #eswatini #italy #CCP

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2026-09-15

Taiwan’s new national ocean radar network makes beach days safer

Taiwan is setting up a national ocean radar observation network, linking 59 radar stations across the island’s surrounding seas. It’s the result of interagency collaboration from the likes of the Ocean Affairs Council, National Academy of Marine Research and other ministries. By integrating AI with real-time ocean current data, the system can do things like help predict the drift paths of people who have fallen overboard, securing precious time for rescue operations. Aside from contributing to beach safety, it’s also strengthened surveillance of strategic areas. Let’s find out more.

Combining live-action footage with animation, we take you on a journey through the process of developing Taiwan’s ocean radar observation network.

Kuan Bi-ling
Ocean Affairs Council
We are moving forward from this starting point, and there is certainly a great deal of work ahead of us—ensuring system stability and data accuracy, achieving precise interpretation, and enabling effective utilization. We have reached a total of 59 units to date, as the systems at Yuguang Island and Cijin are now operational; we will continue to press ahead with this initiative.

Marine radar systems are being progressively deployed across Taiwan and integrated with AI applications to create a connected network covering the nation’s waters. This initiative not only enhances safety for marine activities and recreation but also eliminates previous monitoring blind spots, prioritizing the reinforcement of key strategic maritime areas.

Chen Chung-ling
National Academy of Marine Research
Following the deployment of marine radar systems, we will further implement AI applications—such as for detecting rip currents near beaches. Looking ahead, the ability to monitor rip currents and broader ocean currents will prove immensely beneficial for civilian disaster prevention, maritime navigation safety, oil spill dispersion tracking, and search-and-rescue operations.

Through interagency cooperation and technical exchanges, maritime security monitoring and disaster response capabilities are being enhanced, adding another layer of protection to Taiwan’s maritime security.

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#radarsystems #marine security #Taiwansecurity #beachsafety #watersafety

2026-09-15

Manhole goes flying after underground cables blow up

A sudden underground explosion sent a manhole cover flying into the air on Tuesday morning in Kaohsiung’s Fongshan District. It all happened without a warning. Locals report being scared witless, as a deafening explosion echoed around the neighborhood and the area filled with smoke. Let’s hear more.

Member of public
Heard explosion
It went “Bang!” Thankfully, we’re fine. But if a car had been there… it would be over.

Member of public
Heard explosion
I heard a really loud boom. Yeah. It was deafening.

Mo Shang-chung
Guopi Borough Warden
The explosion was caused by a 500-volt power line. Local residents informed me about it at around 10, and we quickly notified the relevant authorities. From what we know, the 500-volt power line blew up. Taipower technicians are conducting repairs. The electrical supply hasn’t been affected.

The explosion occurred on Fongding Road, which was busy with traffic at the time. The manhole cover was blown right off the asphalt, cracking the road surface and scattering debris all over. Taipower technicians have since inspected the site. They confirmed that the explosion was indeed caused by a short circuit in the high-voltage cables under the road surface. Despite the road damage and the impactful images, nobody was injured.

#highvoltage #manhole #kaohsiung #taiwannews #explosion

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2026-09-15

Monthly NT$7,400 tiny capsule rooms highlight Taipei’s rental crisis

Skyrocketing rents in Taipei are pushing some renters into a rather unusual solution, living in a capsule barely bigger than a bed. These futuristic-looking rooms cost as little as NT$6,600 a month, but they offer just over three square meters of space. So, is this the future of affordable housing, or a sign of just how bad Taipei’s rental crisis has become?

White and glowing with a blue light, a row of sleek futuristic capsules oozes sci-fi style. Located in Taipei’s Wanhua District, these capsule pods are a little over 3 square meters in area. Beds on the upper level go for NT$6,600 while the lower-level beds are NT$7,400. The deals include water, internet, gas, cleaning and management services. When the listings hit rental websites, it left people in total disbelief.

Member of the public
Shocked
It’s like that youth hostel, it offers little privacy.

Member of the public
Surprised
Since you’re renting it for such a low price, why are you nitpicking so much?

Member of the public
Thinks it’s a bad deal
I stayed in a capsule hotel in Sanchong before, and I thought it was too small; the space was too small. It’s not worth NT$6,600 because you share common space with other people, and it is not very big inside.

Even netizens on Threads are posting things like: “Has the standard of rental housing in northern Taiwan really dropped to this level?” They’ve pointed out that places like Sanchong, Luzhou, and Taoyuan all have options priced between NT$7,000 and NT$8,200 a month. Additionally, rental websites show landlords advertising space capsule beds for rent with a full pink aesthetic style, all-inclusive for NT$6,500. This has triggered alarm from netizens: “If landlords keep trying to outdo each other with shoddier options, and housing prices keep getting hyped up, Taiwan’s living quality will sooner or later become the next Hong Kong.”

Voice of Weng Chung-yao
Space capsule rental operator
During the pandemic, the monthly rent was NT$6,000 to NT$7,000. Of course, over the years since the pandemic, we’ve only made slight adjustments. In fact, our occupancy rate generally hovers between 80% and full capacity.

Although the rent for space capsule apartments has increased, it still comes to just over NT$200 per day. Compare this with tiny apartments in Taipei: rents easily start at over NT$10,000 as a baseline. With rents soaring year after year, capsule apartments have become highly sought after. It’s no wonder that more and more landlords are converting their apartments into capsule apartments and entering the rental market.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#spaceodyssey #Taipeirentals #spacecapsules #highrents #sciencefiction

2026-09-15

Two men blow up statues at popular urban exploration site

Two young men acting out of boredom, decided to blow up a set of statues at a popular urban exploration site in Keelung. The delinquents brought explosives to the abandoned “Eighteen Arhats Cave,” where they blew up several artworks depicting practitioners of Buddhism who reached enlightenment. To add insult to injury, they uploaded the videos of the damage online, causing outrage among local residents. Let’s hear more.

Lu Mei-ling
Keelung City Councilor (Independent)
Many parts of the site were damaged already, and there was mud and rubble piling up in places. I think the worrying part is the impact on public safety.

Local resident
Keelung
They crossed a line. No class!

Lu Shun-cheng
Police officer
Two men used explosives to damage several statues at the Eighteen Arhats Cave. We have formed a task force to handle the case.

The cave was established by local community leaders and renowned Chinese medicine practitioner Kuo Yu-shui in 1971. The artificial cave was filled with statues depicting 18 enlightened individuals, as well as several historical and legendary heroes. The popular tourist site in Keelung was abandoned a few decades later, after damage from a typhoon in 1996. Despite safety concerns, the ruinous and unusual appearance attracted many urban explorers over the years. Police have arrested the two suspects, surnamed Chen and Tseng, both in their 20s. They were immediately arrested and transferred to the prosecutor’s office for investigation on charges of endangering public safety and property damage.

#cave #urbanexploration #buddhism #keelung #tourism

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2026-09-15

Pitcher left bloodied after getting bludgeoned by speedy line drive

A baseball game suddenly turned bloody on Monday evening, after a speedy line drive came straight back at the pitcher, hitting him square in the face. Rakuten Monkeys pitcher Chuang Hsin-yen, immediately collapsed on the mound, as stunned teammates and medics rushed onto the field to help. The game was forced to stop as Chuang was carried away on a stretcher and rushed to hospital. Thankfully, he later posted a message reassuring worried fans, but doctors found he had suffered multiple serious facial injuries.

The batter smashes the baseball, sending a powerful line drive towards the mound, hitting pitcher Chuang Hsin-yen slap bang in the middle of the face. He collapsed to the floor from the impact.

Teammates and medics rushed over to help. He was quickly loaded on a stretcher and taken to hospital.

- Wang Po-hsuan’s powerful strike got him to first base. But everyone is more concerned if Chuang Hsin-yen is alright.

The incident took place on Monday evening at a CPBL game between the Rakuten Monkeys and the TSG Hawks. Chuang had come in to pitch at the bottom of the 8th inning, and didn’t last long, as he was quickly bludgeoned by Wang’s fast line drive, which gave him no time to dodge it. Even the batter was shocked, and he immediately went to check on his rival.

- Wang Po-hsuan is rushing over to check how Chuang Hsin-yen is doing.

The game was brought to a halt while Chuang was taken away. After the game, many fans flocked to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.

- I’m so sad.
- Were you scared for him?
- Yes! It looked so bad.

Baseball fan
Worried about Chuang
I hope that the sound of our cheers and blessings will reach him.

Team staff
Rakuten Monkeys
- They’re fixing him up.
- They are? Thank you.

At 9 in the evening, Chuang made a post on social media saying, “No need to worry about me, I’m fine.” The batter also posted a story on his Instagram, saying how sorry he was and explaining that he had spoken with Chuang privately. On Tuesday, the Rakuten Monkeys released a statement with more details, saying that Chuang had sustained a facial fracture, lacerations and broken teeth, and was scheduled to undergo surgery that same day. They also conveyed Chuang’s gratitude for all the fans who reached out to him.

#baseball #linedrive #pitcher #batter #rakutenmonkeys

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2026-09-15

First flocks of black-faced spoonbills arrive in Taiwan

Changing winds have brought the first flocks of black-faced spoonbills to Taiwan. These early migratory birds were spotted by members of the Formosa Wild Bird Conservation Association in two wetlands: in Chiayi’s Budai Township and Tainan’s Beimen District.

In Chiayi, birdwatchers from the association spotted some 20 black-faced spoonbills resting and foraging. The flock in Tainan, was slightly smaller at 17 individual birds. Two of the birds had leg bands, and were identified as individuals that the birdwatchers had been tracking for a long time. There was also one spoonbill with a broken leg, showing remarkable resilience and strength flying across Asia to reach Taiwan.

#birdwatching #wetland #migratorybird #birds #tainan

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2026-09-15

One of Paris’ largest concert halls will host Taiwan-themed events in 2028

Located next to the Eiffel Tower, the Théâtre National de Chaillot’s [tay-ATR, na-see-o-NAL day chay-YO] world-class stage will once again be filled with Taiwanese culture. The theater has a long-standing partnership with Taiwan’s arts community, and has hosted performances including Cloudgate Dance Theatre and singer ABAO. Minister of Culture Li Yuan visited the theater for the first time earlier this week. He received a warm welcoming from the theatre’s director, who shared the theatre’s history and announced a collaboration to launch a series of Taiwan-themed events in 2028.

Upon arriving in French dance central, Minister of Culture, Li Yuan, met with the Director and Chairman of Théâtre de Chaillot, Rachid Ouramdane. They happily shook hands and posed for a photo. Ouramdane was impressed by Taiwanese artists and fondly recalls the “Foco-Taiwan” events from 2024.

Under the collaboration of the Taiwan Cultural Center in France and the National Theatre and Concert Hall, dance troupes, singers, and puppet troupes from Taiwan presented a wonderful performance at the Théâtre de Chaillot. The center also hopes to launch another Taiwan-themed arts event in 2028 to strengthen the cultural ties between Taiwan and France.

Rachid Ouramdane
Director of Théâtre National de Chaillot
The Taiwanese artists at the time displayed an unrestrained freedom of expression, perhaps reflecting the characteristics of Taiwanese culture. We are delighted to have invited them to showcase Taiwanese arts and culture. This is a small performance hall; we can also fold the seating to create a larger event space.

The Théâtre National de Chaillot is located within the Palais de Chaillot, the site where United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights was signed. Adjacent to the Eiffel Tower, it offers spectacular views and also houses a mysterious attraction over 120 years old.

Lin Yung-chi
FTV reporter
The Palais de Chaillot also allegedly boasts one of the world’s oldest escalators, which they claim was built at the same time as the Eiffel Tower, remaining accessible since its completion in 1889.

The historic theater is an important stage for artistic exchange between Taiwan and France. In May 2027, the Taiwan Riverbed Theatre will be invited to present an immersive theatre performance showcasing Taiwan’s soft power in the arts to international audiences.

#france #palaisdechaillot #softpower #theatre #chaillot

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2026-09-15

Lost dolphin surprises tourists at Pingtung harbor

An unexpected visitor recently made an appearance at Shanfu Fishing Harbor in Pingtung’s Xiaoliuqiu. Appearing to have lost its way, a dolphin wandered into the port, delighting nearby snorkelers. Authorities were immediately notified, and the dolphin eventually found it way out again after a few hours. For safety, an expert warned against approaching or disturbing dolphins if spotted inside a harbor.

A dolphin’s dorsal fin breaks the surface of the water, eliciting exclamations of awe from onlookers on shore and snorkeling in the water. But they’re not here on a whale-watching tour.

As you can see by this warning painted just beyond where it’s swimming, it’s an area frequented by boats. But this time, it isn’t a vessel they have to watch out for—it’s a dolphin. They usually keep to open waters, but this one found its way into a fishing port.

Snorkeling guide
Saw the dolphin
There was only one. When I came this morning, I thought it was a sea turtle. But then I thought, a turtle isn’t that big. Turns out it was a dolphin. It was stuck for a few hours. It couldn’t find its way out.

Tourists were surprised to see the unusual visitor inside the port. They immediately notified authorities, concerned an illness might have caused it to make the unusual trip.

Wang Hao-wen
NCKU marine research center director
It was likely in the blackfish family. Turtles will occasionally enter this port in Xiaoliuqiu, but it’s rare to see a dolphin there. It’s hard to tell whether something was wrong with it, as there isn’t enough information to make a concrete assessment.

Everyone goes to Xiaoliuqiu to see sea turtles, but who knew you could spot dolphins there too? While the reason for the unexpected visit remains elusive, it fortunately found its way back out to sea without incident. Hopefully now it’ll stay out in open waters.

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#Xiaoliuqiu #dolphin #marinelife #wildlifeencounter #snorkeling #Pingtung

2026-09-15

Deluxe sukiyaki restaurant opens in historic Tainan building

A deluxe sukiyaki restaurant in Taipei famous for being impossible to book has just opened in Tainan! Nestled inside an old Japanese-style residence in South District, the shop offers a set with three quality cuts of wagyu from Kobe, Yonezawa, and Omi served with an uni roll, offering southerners another delicious gourmet option.

Delicate pink with perfect, even marbling. Diners find it impossible to get a table at this sukiyaki restaurant in Taipei. Now it’s opened its first Tainan location, in an old converted Japanese-style building in South District. Fans have been flocking there since opening.

Customer
Made trip for sukiyaki
It really melts in your mouth, and has a rich flavor. I’ve had it in Taipei before, so I made a special trip here today after hearing about it.

Customers have high praise for the “three wagyu” set, featuring cuts of Kobe, Omi, and Yonezawa beef. The restaurant group has strong roots in Japanese fine dining, integrating flavors from the Kansai and Kanto regions. They even pay meticulous attention to the kind of sugar used in their recipes.

Huang Chien-chih
Restaurant manager
For the sirloin cut, we use Yonezawa beef from a 32-month-old cow, making it a bit sweeter and with a meatier flavor. For the Kobe cut, we use a chuck flap, which is a little bit chewier.

There’s also this luxurious shiso uni roll, made with fresh sea urchin wrapped in Kobe beef chuck and pan-seared in the Kansai style.

Huang Chien-chih
Restaurant manager
For the shiso uni roll, we use the chuck flap cut from Kobe beef. Inside is our vinegar sushi rice, shiso leaf, and uni. Then we roll it into a triangle before pan-frying it in the Kansai style.

This fine dining experience has made a strong debut in meat-loving Tainan. Blending a luxurious Japanese ambiance with artisanal skill, they’re staking a bold claim in Taiwan’s food capital.

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#wagyu #Japanesecuisine #beef #sukiyaki #Tainan #restaurant #finedining #gourmet

2026-09-15