Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is a country located in East Asia. The main island, historically referred to as Formosa, sits in the northwestern Pacific Ocean between the East and South China Seas. Taiwan shares maritime borders with the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south, placing it at a strategic crossroads of the region.
Geography
The main island of Taiwan covers an area of approximately 35,808 square kilometers. Its geography is marked by a striking contrast between the eastern and western regions: mountain ranges dominate the eastern two-thirds of the island, while flatter plains stretch across the western third. It is in these western lowlands that the majority of Taiwan's population and urban development is concentrated.
Beyond the main island, the Republic of China administers a total of 168 islands, bringing the combined territory under its control to about 36,193 square kilometers. These islands are scattered across the surrounding waters, adding to the country's maritime significance.
Population and Urban Centers
Taiwan is home to around 23.9 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. This population is heavily concentrated in the western plains, where cities and towns have grown rapidly amid the island's limited flat terrain.
The largest metropolitan area in Taiwan is formed by the combined urban regions of Taipei, New Taipei City, and Keelung. This northern metropolitan hub serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country, drawing a significant share of Taiwan's population and economic activity.
Regional Position
- To the northwest lies the People's Republic of China, separated from Taiwan by the Taiwan Strait.
- To the northeast is Japan, another key neighbor in the East Asian maritime region.
- To the south lies the Philippines, marking Taiwan's connection to Southeast Asia.
This positioning between the East and South China Seas has historically made Taiwan an important point of contact for trade, migration, and cultural exchange across East and Southeast Asia.