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32 channels
Taiwan's television landscape reflects the island's layered identity. Mandarin dominates most news and variety programming, but you'll hear Taiwanese Hokkien (Min Nan) on grassroots talk shows, puppet theatre broadcasts, and certain religious channels, a linguistic split that tells you as much about local politics as about audience habits. The state-backed public broadcaster aims for factual neutrality, while commercial news networks lean into rapid-fire punditry and scrolling tickers that never rest. Religious broadcasting is unusually prominent here: Buddhist, Taoist, and Christian channels coexist, airing sermons, ritual ceremonies, and call-in blessings. They draw steady viewership, especially among older demographics. Entertainment channels lean heavily on variety game shows, idol dramas, and imported Korean series, usually subtitled in traditional characters (not simplified). Primetime hits around 20:00, but the late-night news roundups, often featuring cross-strait political analysis, keep a loyal audience awake. Live sports coverage is limited compared to neighbours, but baseball (CPBL) commands national attention during the season. The small channel count (51) masks a fragmented market: cable and IPTV dominate, while over-the-air TV is largely a relic. Taiwan’s TV culture is unusually self-aware, with many shows referencing the island's own media history, a rare trait in a region where most broadcasters borrow formats wholesale.