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Heritage destination · TW

Plan a roots trip to Taiwan

Trace ancestors through Japanese, Chinese and modern records.

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Taiwan's genealogical records reflect its complex history: Han Chinese settlement from the 17th century, Japanese administration (1895–1945), and the arrival of Nationalist forces in 1949. Family historians researching Taiwanese ancestry will encounter records in Chinese, Japanese, and sometimes Hokkien romanization, depending on the era and origin of their line. The island's vibrant heritage sites—temple records, lineage associations, and town archives—offer genealogy researchers direct contact with local communities. Civil registration began under Japanese rule and continues today. Visitors can explore ancestral villages in the western plains and mountains, attend festivals tied to lunar calendar traditions, and consult with local genealogy societies.

Taiwan's political status is disputed internationally; this page refers to the territory as a destination for genealogy research without taking a position on sovereignty.

Genealogy highlights

  • Japanese period household registers (koseki, 1895–1945) are essential for pre-1945 lines; originals held in local offices and National Taiwan University.
  • Civil registration (戶口登記) from 1945 onwards; apply to household registration offices (戶政事務所) in relevant cities or counties.
  • Temple and lineage-association records often preserve clan genealogies (族譜) and ancestral data; many temples welcome respectful inquiries.
  • Land and property deeds (契約) held in county/city archives, useful for tracing settlement patterns and family holdings.
  • Emigration/naturalization records: Taiwan's national archives hold records of movement to and from the island, especially post-1949.
  • Census data: Taiwan conducted regular household censuses; some microfilm available through FamilySearch and local archives.

Record types to know

  • Household registers (koseki, 戶籍謄本)
  • Civil registration (戶口登記)
  • Temple and lineage records (族譜, 廟宇記錄)
  • Land deeds and property registers (地契)
  • Census data
  • Emigration and naturalization records
  • Japanese colonial administrative records

Emigration patterns

Large-scale emigration from Taiwan occurred primarily during the Japanese colonial period (1895–1945) and post-1949. Destinations include Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand), North America (United States, Canada), Australia, and elsewhere. Earlier waves saw settlement in southern China and maritime regions. Post-1949 emigration often reflected political circumstances; records are held in Taiwan's national archives, overseas Chinese affairs offices, and destination-country immigration authorities.

Heritage trip tips

  • Learn basic Mandarin phrases or use translation apps; many rural villages and older record-keepers speak limited English.
  • Visit in autumn or spring (October–November, March–April) for pleasant weather and lower humidity in mountain regions.
  • Hire a local guide or genealogy researcher if tracing a specific village; they can navigate language, access family associations, and introduce you to community members.
  • Respect temple protocols: remove shoes, dress modestly, and ask permission before photographing altars or records.
  • Explore night markets and local festivals to experience cultural continuity with your ancestors' traditions.
  • Inter-city buses and trains are efficient; consider renting a car or joining organized heritage tours for remote mountain or coastal villages.

Practical notes

  • Household registration offices (戶政事務所) require proof of relationship to access some records; bring identity documents and be prepared to explain your genealogical interest.
  • Archive hours vary; plan visits in advance and confirm opening times, as many smaller county archives have limited schedules.
  • Taiwan has universal healthcare; travel insurance is still recommended. Tap water is safe in cities.
  • Verify entry requirements with your government before traveling; visa policies for Taiwan differ by nationality.
  • Many genealogy societies and local history groups welcome foreign researchers; contact them before arrival for volunteer opportunities or research assistance.

Next steps