Generally Safe Taiwan · Last reviewed: August 28, 2026

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Taipei?

Q: Why do Taipei residents boil water if it meets WHO standards?

The treatment plant output meets WHO standards, but many buildings in Taipei are older and have internal plumbing or rooftop storage tanks that may introduce contamination. Boiling is a practical precaution against building-level issues.

Q: Is tap water safe in new Taipei buildings?

Yes, newer buildings in Taipei typically have modern plumbing with lead-free pipes and well-maintained water tanks. In these buildings, tap water is generally safe to drink directly without boiling.

Q: Can I drink water from Taipei MRT station fountains?

Yes, many MRT stations have been fitted with direct-supply filtered water fountains that bypass building plumbing entirely. These are safe and convenient for refilling bottles.

Q: How does Feitsui Reservoir water quality compare?

Feitsui Reservoir is one of the cleanest water sources in Asia, situated in a protected watershed with minimal agricultural or industrial activity. The raw water quality is excellent before treatment even begins.

Yes, Taipei tap water is generally safe to drink. The Taipei Water Department treats water from Feitsui Reservoir and Nanshi River to WHO standards. However, most locals still boil their water as a precaution due to concerns about older building plumbing.

Hardness

Soft to Moderate (around 50–80 mg/L calcium carbonate

Country

Taiwan

Rating

Generally Safe

Soft

Moderate

Hard

Very Hard

Water Source

Feitsui Reservoir and Nanshi River, treated by Taipei Water Department to meet WHO drinking water guidelines

Contaminants & Concerns

Water is clean at the treatment plant. Concerns center on lead or sediment from older building pipes, rooftop storage tank contamination in aging apartments

Tips

•In newer hotels and modern buildings, tap water is generally safe to drink directly
•If staying in older accommodations, use the provided electric kettle to boil water before drinking
•Look for direct-supply water fountains in MRT stations and public buildings—these bypass building plumbing and are safe

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Taipei residents boil water if it meets WHO standards?

Is tap water safe in new Taipei buildings?

Can I drink water from Taipei MRT station fountains?

How does Feitsui Reservoir water quality compare?

Sources & References

The safety rating and guidance on this page draw on the following sources. See our full methodology.

•WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality
•CDC Travelers' Health destination pages
•The municipal water utility's published quality data

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