The Unspoken Rule about Bags in Taiwan

Spend a day walking around Taiwan and you might notice something curious. People here almost never put their bags on the floor. Whether they are on a train, in a restaurant, or waiting at a clinic, their bags always seem to find a spot of their own. On a chair, on their lap, on a table, or even balanced on their feet. Almost anywhere but the ground. 

Why? The answer is simple. The floor is considered dirty. Very dirty.

While some people may connect this habit to traditional ideas about luck or feng shui, most Taiwanese today avoid placing bags on the floor for one practical reason: cleanliness. 

Floors in public places are seen as some of the dirtiest surfaces around. Think about what touches them. Shoes, rainwater, food crumbs, dust, and the occasional mystery puddle. Now imagine setting your backpack or handbag down there and later placing it on your bed or desk at home. Not exactly appealing. 

Even if the floor looks clean, people assume it is not. And that is not being dramatic. It is just part of daily life. 

What People Do Instead

Pretty much anywhere else.

On the seat next to you. On your lap. On your shoes. On the table if the setting is casual. Or in baskets, stools, or small shelves that some cafés, salons, and restaurants provide. These are not fancy. They are simply part of the setup. 

Many places in Taiwan even offer baskets for customers to place their bags. This thoughtful detail is not a luxury. It is simply a practical way to keep belongings clean and off the ground. 

And yes, some people take this very seriously. If there is truly no space, they will hold their bag the entire time. Even while eating. Even while holding chopsticks or a drink. They would rather deal with the inconvenience than let their bag touch the floor. 

It may seem extreme to outsiders, but in Taiwan it is simply normal. This habit reflects a broader culture of cleanliness. People take off shoes before entering homes, carry tissues or alcohol spray in their bags, and avoid bringing outside dirt indoors. 

But it is also about respect. Respect for the things you use every day. Many Taiwanese people treat personal items with care. Whether it is a lunchbox, a pair of shoes, or a backpack, there is a shared understanding that you do not just toss things aside. 

A Cultural Contrast

In many Western countries, placing your bag on the floor is completely normal. In fact, putting a bag on a seat might be seen as inconsiderate when space is limited. That is why this habit often stands out to foreign visitors in Taiwan. It is one of those quiet details that reveals a lot about local values. 

So next time you are in Taiwan and see someone carefully placing their bag on a chair or holding it close throughout a meal, now you know why. It is a habit shaped by tradition, practicality, and a quiet sense of respect. It might seem like a small thing, but it is one of those everyday details that makes Taiwanese culture easy to appreciate.