Taiwan is a leaf-shaped island straddling the Tropic of Cancer about 200 kilometres (120 miles) off the eastern coast of mainland China. Named the "Beautiful Island" (Ilha Formosa) by Portuguese merchants, the island has a long history as a centre of trade in the region.

Taiwan's lively and colourful culture celebrates the interesting juxtaposition of the traditional and the modern. Outstanding examples of Chinese heritage co-exist with the recent innovations in technology.