Unlock the Magic of Taiwan: A Thrilling Journey of Culture, Nature, and Discovery Awaits!

Published on November 25, 2025

On November 22, 2025, Taiwan Tourism brought a splash of Taiwanese culture and natural beauty to the heart of Northern California. The “Feel Taiwan – Natural. Culture. Discovery.” pop-up activation, held at the popular Westfield Valley Fair shopping mall in the South Bay, attracted large crowds eager to experience a taste of Taiwan. With vibrant 3D photo walls, exciting stamp-collecting sweepstakes, and a range of themed giveaways, this event successfully brought Taiwan’s culture and travel experiences closer to the community.

Held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, traditionally one of the busiest shopping days of the year, the pop-up activation drew massive foot traffic from families, young adults, and those curious about Taiwan. The event was not just a showcase of Taiwan’s tourism appeal, but a celebration of its culture, landscapes, and unique experiences.

Opening Remarks and Welcoming Words from Taiwan’s Key Figures

The event kicked off with an inspiring speech by David Chih-Hsiang Wu, Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in San Francisco. Mr. Wu emphasized Taiwan’s status as a safe, welcoming, and culturally diverse destination for travellers. He also highlighted the significance of the Northern California market to Taiwan’s tourism outreach. His hope was clear – he wanted this activation to encourage people to consider Taiwan as their next travel destination, to explore its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of its people.

A Cultural Celebration with Taiwanese Music

The opening performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. Taiwanese cellist Jung-Hsuan (Rachel) Ko, a talented member of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra, delighted the audience with two iconic Taiwanese songs: “Longing for the Spring Breeze” and “The Moon Represents My Heart.” The performance brought to life Taiwan’s deep cultural roots and connected visitors emotionally to the island. As she played, the crowd felt Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage, resonating deeply with both young and old.

The 3D Visual Art Walls: A Magical Experience

The event’s standout attractions were undoubtedly the 3D visual art installations. These photo walls were designed to give visitors an immersive and fun experience, offering a chance to capture the magic of Taiwan through the lens of creativity.

One of the most popular installations was a recreated scene of Taipei 101, one of Taiwan’s most iconic landmarks. The photo wall allowed visitors to take photos that made it look as if they were standing atop Elephant Mountain, gazing at the towering Taipei 101. This playful perspective illusion captured the imagination of visitors, drawing long queues of both families with children and young adults eager to take part in the fun.

Another fan-favourite was the “Cycling Around the Island” installation. This wall featured scenic views of Taiwan’s stunning cycling routes, with lush green rice fields from Chishang, the tranquil beauty of Sun Moon Lake, and the dramatic Wuling mountain pass. Visitors posed against these vibrant backdrops, bringing Taiwan’s breathtaking landscapes to life, and many shared their photos on social media, further spreading the word about Taiwan’s travel appeal.

Exciting Giveaways and a Chance to Win a Trip to Taiwan

As if the immersive photo walls weren’t enough, the Taiwan Tourism pop-up also offered visitors a chance to win exciting prizes. Taiwanese airlines, including China Airlines, EVA Air, and STARLUX Airlines, were instrumental in making the event a success by offering one round-trip San Francisco to Taipei ticket each for a sweepstakes. This became one of the most anticipated activities at the event, with many visitors eagerly completing the stamp-collecting challenge for a chance to win the coveted prize.

Visitors who participated also walked away with a variety of Taiwan-themed giveaways. These thoughtful mementos helped to keep Taiwan in the minds of attendees long after they left the event.

Learning About Taiwan’s Rich Culture and Educational Opportunities

The event wasn’t just about showcasing Taiwan’s beauty—it was also an opportunity to educate visitors about Taiwan’s cultural richness. The Education Division of TECO San Francisco provided valuable information on Mandarin language programs and study opportunities in Taiwan. This added another layer of engagement, encouraging visitors to consider not just Taiwan as a travel destination, but also as a place to learn and grow through education.

Transit Tourist Voucher Initiative: A Taste of Taiwan’s Hospitality

Taiwan’s Tourism Administration introduced an exciting new initiative during the event—the “Transit Tourist Voucher.” This program offers international travellers who are transiting through Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport NT$600 in vouchers. These vouchers can be used to purchase Taiwanese snacks, meals, or souvenirs, giving travellers a small but delightful taste of Taiwan’s vibrant culture while on a layover. This initiative aims to introduce visitors to Taiwan’s culinary and shopping delights even before they step out of the airport, enticing them to plan a full visit in the future.

A Growing Interest in Taiwan from Northern California

The Taiwan Tourism activation at Westfield Valley Fair also highlighted Taiwan’s increasing appeal to international travellers, particularly in Northern California. According to Director Szu-Hsien (Sylvia) Lee of the Taiwan Tourism Administration’s San Francisco office, the Bay Area is one of Taiwan’s most promising markets.

“The interest in Asian destinations is on the rise, and Taiwan’s combination of natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively cities makes it an especially attractive destination for travellers,” she said. Taiwan’s ability to blend these elements is one of the reasons why it stands out as a travel destination.

By engaging with the local community in the Bay Area, Taiwan Tourism is looking to build deeper connections and inspire more people to embark on a journey of discovery to Taiwan. With a unique combination of nature, culture, and discovery, Taiwan is increasingly becoming a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable travel experience.

Taiwan’s Bright Future in Tourism

As Taiwan continues to innovate in how it engages with international audiences, this pop-up activation serves as just one of the many steps in the ongoing effort to promote Taiwan’s unique offerings. The Taiwan Tourism Administration is committed to using diverse and creative methods to reach potential travellers, from partnerships with airlines and travel agencies to collaborations with local communities and educational institutions.

The success of the event at Westfield Valley Fair demonstrates the growing interest in Taiwan as a travel destination. As more people explore the wonders of Taiwan, it is clear that this island nation will continue to captivate visitors from all around the world with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Taiwan is more than just a place to visit; it’s a destination that offers an experience like no other—one of discovery, adventure, and connection. From its lush mountains and pristine beaches to its vibrant cities and rich traditions, Taiwan is ready to welcome the world.

Why Taiwan Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Taiwan’s “Feel Taiwan – Natural. Culture. Discovery.” pop-up event was a resounding success, bringing Taiwan’s beauty and culture to life in a way that was both fun and engaging. It was a reminder that Taiwan isn’t just about places to visit—it’s about experiences to be had, people to meet, and cultures to discover.

For anyone considering their next travel destination, Taiwan offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and a welcoming environment that makes it stand out among the world’s great destinations. Whether you’re a family looking for an adventurous getaway, a solo traveller seeking new experiences, or someone who wants to learn more about Taiwan’s rich culture and traditions, Taiwan is ready to offer an unforgettable journey of discovery.

So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that will inspire and amaze you. Taiwan is waiting!