Culture

Skyline of Taipei featuring Taipei 101 during sunset with a dramatic urban cityscape.

5 Cultural Values That Make Taiwan One of the World’s Safest Countries

In a world where safety often feels uncertain, Taiwan stands out. According to Numbeo’s 2025 global ranking, Taiwan ranks as the 4th safest country, ahead of nations like Japan, Singapore, and even some Western powerhouses. This is remarkable not only because of Taiwan’s high ranking but also because it shows that safety is about more […]

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You Don’t Need to Know Your Past Life to Create a Better Future

For centuries, people have been fascinated by the idea of reincarnation and past lives. From ancient traditions in Asia to modern hypnosis sessions in the West, the possibility of having lived before sparks both curiosity and hope. Perhaps the struggles we face now are echoes of a forgotten existence. Maybe the talents we possess are

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Who Speaks the Best Mandarin in Taiwan? Lessons from 中文怪物 (Zhōngwén guàiwù) on Learning Bopomofo, Tones, and Taiwanese Culture

The Video that went viral One of the videos from the YouTube channel Ku’s Dream recently went viral. It’s titled “Who Speaks the Best Mandarin in Taiwan | 誰才是中文最好的外國人?(Shéi cái shì Zhōngwén zuì hǎo de wàiguórén?)” and is part of a multi-episode series. You’ve probably already seen it. Let me share my insights after watching

Who Speaks the Best Mandarin in Taiwan? Lessons from 中文怪物 (Zhōngwén guàiwù) on Learning Bopomofo, Tones, and Taiwanese Culture Read More »

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Is Past Life Regression Real? My Hypnosis Experience and What It Taught Me

When people hear the word hypnosis, they often imagine entering a dreamlike state and traveling back in time to witness scenes from a mysterious past life. I know the existence of past lives is debatable, and I’m not here to give a definitive answer. But the idea itself is undeniably captivating—who wouldn’t be curious to

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Why Emotional Management Matters More Than Effort: Lessons from the Dragon King’s Downfall

When people talk about success, the conversation almost always revolves around effort. We hear phrases like: “Work hard and you’ll achieve anything,” or “If you just put in enough hours, success is guaranteed.” And while effort is undeniably important, I believe this perspective misses a critical element: emotional management. Think about it—how many talented, hardworking

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Close-up of diverse hands holding each other in a symbol of unity and togetherness.

Cultural Encounters on the Basketball Court: A Story of Inclusion and Rejection

Filipino Life Near Hsinchu Science Park Near Hsinchu Science Park, there are several communities where many Filipino workers live. Most of them work for semiconductor manufacturers in the Science Park. I used to be part of one of those companies, so I know that these workers are well-educated and speak excellent English. That’s why many

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Unlocking Taiwanese Culture: The Meaning Behind Numbers in Chinese Idioms

Numbers are mostly used for calculation. But in Taiwan, particularly in Chinese culture, it’s beyond the figure itself. They are meaningful in some ways. ​ Numbers in Chinese Expressions From this week’s episode, I explored how numbers in Taiwan go far beyond simple counting. From the lucky power of 8 to the spooky chill of

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The Myth of the Gu Luán Year and What Truly Makes a Marriage Work

In Taiwan, many major life events—such as moving to a new house, starting a business, honoring ancestors, or getting married—are deeply influenced by cultural traditions and taboos. Why is this the case? Because timing is believed to be essential. People often consult the Farmer’s Almanac to select an auspicious day, hoping that the right timing

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