15 Places That Don't Mean What You Think: Explained
Discover 15 places that don't mean what you think—from Paris, Texas to Greenland—and the surprising stories behind their misleading names.

Taichung is the third-largest city in Taiwan and a major cultural and economic center in the central part of the island. It is known for a pleasant climate and a high quality of life, with wide streets, leafy parks, and plenty of modern cafes and shopping districts. The National Museum of Natural Science is one of the city's most visited attractions, drawing families and students with its exhibits on science and the environment. Taichung is also famous for its tea culture, and many travelers credit the region with the origins of bubble tea, a drink that has spread across the world. Visitors can explore historic temples, night markets, and creative neighborhoods that showcase local art. With convenient rail and highway links, Taichung makes a comfortable base for discovering Taiwan's scenic mountains and coastline.
Want to explore where Taichungers live? Here's the atlas that does it best:
Highly detailed, stunning visuals
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
From Chinese, meaning 'Taiwan center'. Located in central Taiwan.
Other places in the region and their demonyms
Discover 15 places that don't mean what you think—from Paris, Texas to Greenland—and the surprising stories behind their misleading names.
From Montenegro to Naples, these 20 place names that were literally translated show how languages rebuild geography — and what the originals mean.
Want to explore where Taichungers live? Here's the atlas that does it best:
Highly detailed, stunning visuals
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!
Take a Quiz →Challenge yourself with our demonym quizzes and see how many you can get right!
Take a Quiz →