Taiwan Promotes Tourism in California with Cultural Event

On October 1, 2026, Taiwan's Tourism Administration organized a vibrant tourism promotion event titled "100 Ways to Wonder" at the Irvine Spectrum Center in Southern California. The event received positive feedback from attendees, highlighting Taiwan's friendly atmosphere, convenient lifestyle, and safety.

Event Highlights

The event featured a traditional glove puppetry performance by the Kuang Hsing Ko Hand Puppet Troupe, along with cultural displays that included sky lanterns and xiaolongbao soup dumplings. The venue was strategically chosen for its high foot traffic, allowing the event to attract both those familiar with Taiwan and those who had little knowledge of the island.

Visitor Impressions

Many attendees expressed their admiration for Taiwan. Some, like Eldred, who has Taiwanese friends but has never visited, noted the island's reputation for being "positive, happy, and very friendly." Others, such as Todd, who lived in Taiwan for three years, praised its safety and the warmth of its people. Many visitors expressed a desire to experience Taiwanese culture and cuisine firsthand.

Promoting Taiwanese Culture

Irvine City Council member Melinda Liu, of Taiwanese descent, emphasized the importance of showcasing Taiwanese culture at such a popular venue. She described Taiwan as "very beautiful and modern, with a rich culture," and highlighted the significance of food and hospitality in her promotion of the island.

Overall, the event successfully introduced many Americans to the diverse attractions and cultural heritage of Taiwan, potentially inspiring future travel to the island.