Taiwan: Modernist Architecture and Japanese Influence

Tainan’s nostalgic blend of Chinese shop signs and Japanese urban design.

Taiwan is peculiar—in the best way. It’s a fascinating blend of Chinese and Japanese influences, the latter evident in its architecture. You’ll find Modernist and Brutalist buildings throughout the city, but what stands out most are the white-tiled houses I also saw in Tokyo. These houses, with walls covered in tiny ceramic tiles (like the inside of a bathroom), are a practical response to the humid climate and frequent earthquakes—a detail I learned from this article.

Walking through Taiwan feels like stepping into a nostalgic anime summer dream. The streets are visually chaotic, with oversized vintage Chinese signs, yet strangely quiet, creating an eerie feeling. Unlike many busy Asian cities, Taiwan doesn’t have that typical “drowning in the crowd and noise” vibe. Occasionally, you’ll come across a kawaii gas station, bubble tea shop, giant dragon temple, or a cat café, reinforcing the cinematic, Ghibli-like atmosphere—unsurprising, considering Hayao Miyazaki was reportedly inspired by some places in Taiwan.

Most of the photos below were taken in Tainan, a photogenic city on Taiwan’s west coast—the island’s ancient capital and oldest city.

Written and photographed by Alexandra van der Essen