Taiwan Millions Tournament 18 Set to Blow the Roof in July

The spotlight shines once again on Taipei as Asia’s largest poker festival gears up for its highly anticipated return from July 10 to 28. Taiwan Millions Tournament 18 (TMT 18), a beloved homegrown event, will take center stage across two premier venues – CTP Asia Poker Arena and the brand new Red Space, welcoming thousands of players to the capital for nearly three weeks of nonstop poker action. Founder of the Chinese Texas Hold’em Poker Association (CTP), David Tai expressed,

We warmly welcome players from around the world to join us in Taiwan this July for the Taiwan Millions Tournament (TMT). Come experience one of the best tournaments in Asia, and enjoy Taiwan’s incredible cuisine and culture—I promise you’ll fall in love with this place!

Last July, the TMT Main Event set a new Asian poker record with 6,953 entries. With a low $300 USD buy-in, it generated a massive $1.8 million prize pool, awarding $210,000 to the champion along with a trophy made from Taiwan’s treasured Formosan Cypress.

This year, we anticipate even more international players joining us. That’s why we’re moving the Main Event, held from July 20–28, to the brand-new Red Space venue, which can accommodate 120 tables. We’re committed to providing the best tournament experience possible!

Taiwan Millions Tournament 18

Set in the peak of summer, players from across the globe will be turning up the heat with an 80-event schedule that includes 49 numbered events, 16 high roller showdowns, and 15 daily tournaments. With a staggering NT$ 56 million (~USD 1.85 million) in festival guarantees, this low-stakes favorite is expected to deliver yet another unforgettable celebration of cards, chips, and winners’ dreams.

The momentum behind Taiwan’s poker boom is undeniable, with TMT surging in popularity each edition by drawing record-breaking fields and gaining international recognition. Organized by the Chinese Texas Hold’em Association, this season’s festivities ramps things up even further with expanded Main Event options and accessible qualifiers, opening the door for players across the region to take their shot at glory.

TAIWAN MILLIONS TOURNAMENT 18 – Full Schedule

TMT 18 Main Event – $1,000,000 GTD

For the third consecutive season, the Taiwan Millions Tournament returns with its signature NT$ 31,000,000 (~USD 1,000,000) guaranteed Main Event, holding steady with a highly accessible NT$ 9,000 (~USD 300) buy-in. As in past editions, this modest entry is expected to draw a massive field once again, appealing to players of all levels eager to chase the lion’s share of the seven-figure prize pool.

Eight Day 1 flights will run from July 20, followed by a brief two-day break before action resumes from July 23 to 26. The final push happens over the festival’s last two days, as the field is trimmed down and the battle for the trophy intensifies. Another hefty payout is up for grabs, much like last season’s champion, Youngkyu Kim, who took home NT$ 4,124,500 (~USD 125,285) for rising above the enormous crowd. 

While the previous 6,466 turnout was more than enough to crack the million-dollar guarantee, TMT 16’s 6,953 record field remains to be its biggest to date. The local favorite stop has come a long way since its drawing board days in 2018, which only attracted a modest field of 420 entries, growing over ten-fold seven years later.

TMT 18 Main Event Schedule

• Dates: July 20-28, 2025
• Buy-in: NT$ 9,000 (~USD 300)
• Guarantee: NT$ 31,000,000 (~USD 1,000,000)
• Day 1A – Early Bird: Sunday, July 20
• Day 1B Turbo: Sunday, July 20
• Day 1C: Wednesday, July 23
• Day 1D: Thursday, July 24
• Day 1E: Friday, July 25
• Day 1F Turbo: Friday, July 25
• Day 1G: Saturday, July 26
• Day 1H Turbo: Saturday, July 26
• Day 2: Sunday, July 27
• Final Day: Monday, July 28

TMT Main Event Stats – Previous Editions

Multiple Paths to Qualify

Overseas Flights

TMT continues to broaden its reach, making it easier than ever for players to join the action with several overseas Day 1 flights planned across key poker hubs, located in Cebu, Hong Kong, Gyeonggi-do, and Seoul. Most recently, a newly formed partnership was confirmed with Metro Card Club, the largest poker room in Manila, Philippines, set to host its leg of the qualifiers in just two weeks. The Manila stop will feature the most number of Day 1 flights at three, along with a slate of satellite events starting at just PHP 3,000 (~USD 53), a budget-friendly route into one of Asia’s most attended events.

All overseas Day 1’s will play down to 15% of the field, with surviving players advancing to the Main Event Day 1 Plus in Taipei on Friday, July 25th, where the field will be further trimmed to 8% for entry into Day 2. With the shortened trip significantly cutting travel costs for international players, those who missed to take their shot will have two more live flights to hop on July 26, giving everyone another chance to advance through.

Online Qualifiers

For those who prefer to qualify from the comfort of home, TMT 18 offers an online route through iPoker. Running until July 6, the platform will be awarding up to 70 Main Event tickets, each worth NT$ 9,000 (~USD 300). These tickets are fully transferable and can be used for online, onsite or overseas Day 1 qualifiers, giving runners added flexibility on how and where they decide to enter the action.

MTT Sports on the other hand, promises to award 100 TMT Main Event seats across its online stage, with all paths leading down to the first three live flights (Day 1A, 1B, and 1C) at Red Space, Taipei. With at least two satellites running daily until July 6, players have ample opportunities to secure their seats at a fraction of the buy-in.

Key Events

Spanning nearly three weeks, TMT 18 delivers an extensive schedule filled with exciting tournaments from start to finish. The lineup features a strong mix of guaranteed prize pools, varied formats, and both single-day and multi-day events to suit every type of player. With buy-ins ranging from NT$ 2,500 to NT$ 9,000 (~USD 85–300), the series undeniably remains accessible while still offering serious value. Whether you’re a casual grinder or a volume-focused pro, there’s something in the lineup for every individual.

For those eyeing more than just cash, TMT 18 offers multiple chances to win the prestigious Incense Cedar Trophy Plate, a beautifully hand-carved award made from Taiwan’s rare Nanmu wood, crafted by local artisans. Beyond the Main Event, five marquee side events will also feature this coveted prize – the Kick-Off, Taipei City Cup, Mini Main Dreamer, Poker Queen, and the popular Mystery Bounty tournament.

In line with TMT’s commitment to inclusivity and growing the game, four additional dedicated Women’s Events will be held on July 11, 15, 23, and 25. Each offering features an accessible NT$2,500 (~USD 80) buy-in, making it easy for more women to test their skills on the felt and bring some fierce yet friendly competition at the tables.

High Roller Specials

A total of sixteen high roller events are slated throughout the festival, offering intense action for those looking to play big. The first half of the HR lineup features events with a NT$ 15,000 (~USD 500) buy-in, giving deep pocketed players plenty of opportunities to warm up. The stakes build up as the festival progresses, culminating in the NT$ 70,000 (~USD 2,340) Super High Roller, the most prestigious event on the TMT 18 roster.

Millions War Team Challenge Returns

Making a comeback this season is the Millions War Team Challenge, where teams will compete for top honors on a GPI-based points leaderboard. Using the Global Poker Index (GPI) scoring system, the challenge tracks performance throughout the series, with the top three teams earning exclusive rewards and entry perks for upcoming TMT Championship events.

Each team must consist of three players and is required to purchase a minimum of NT$50,000 in tournament credits, which can be used across TMT 18 events. Prizes are awarded as follows:

• 1st Place – TMTC Passes (3), each valued at NT$33,000, plus Team Champion trophies
  
• 2nd Place – NT$20,000 TMTC Discount Vouchers (3)
  
• 3rd Place – NT$10,000 TMTC Discount Vouchers (3)
  

To be eligible, teams must register by July 12 at 11:30 p.m.

Early Bird Packages

Take advantage of limited early bird promotions designed to help players maximize value while minimizing expenses. For those aiming to grind through the festival, the NT$ 22,000 (~USD 735) Early Bird Package offers great value bonuses including entry to Main Event Flight A, bubble protection, multiple tournament tickets, exclusive TMT 18 x Gotnofears sunglasses, and full access to the VIP Rest Area throughout the series.

For players targeting the high-stakes action, the NT$ 250,000 (~USD 8,350) High Roller Package grants entry to all five high roller highlight events, plus five complimentary nights at the FX Hotel and exclusive VIP privileges. Only 20 packages are available, so don’t miss your chance to upgrade your TMT experience!

VIP Privileges include:

• Fast registration lane
• 5 x coffee coupons (CTP Cafe)
• CTP Cafe food & beverage discounts
• Chance to win exclusive TMT merchandise
• Eligibility: Past champions, top GPI players, special guests, etc.

Off the Felt Activities

A vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, Taipei offers rich cultural sights, breathtaking nature, and unforgettable cuisine. Whether you’re wandering historic streets or hiking mountain trails, there’s always something incredible to discover in this energetic capital.

• Yangmingshan National Park

Just a 30-minute drive from downtown, Yangmingshan National Park is a sanctuary of volcanic landscapes, misty forests, and seasonal cherry blossoms. Popular for its hiking trails, hot springs, and scenic views, this national park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Address: Jhuzihhu Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City
Phone: +886 2 2861 3601

• Maokong Gondola & Tea Houses

Take a cable car ride through the mountains to Maokong, a peaceful tea-growing village. The views over Taipei are stunning, and the traditional tea houses offer the perfect setting to enjoy a fresh pot of locally grown tea.

Address: No. 8, Section 2, Xinguang Rd, Wenshan District
Phone: +886 2 2181 2345

• Taipei 101 Observatory & Shopping Mall

Visit the Taipei 101 Observatory for panoramic city views from one of the tallest buildings in the world. Afterward, you can take the chance to explore the world-class shopping mall, art installations, and the impressive food court offering everything from Taiwanese comfort food to global cuisine.

Address: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District
Phone: +886 2 8101 8898

• National Palace Museum

With over 600,000 artifacts, the National Palace Museum is a treasure trove of Chinese art, history, and craftsmanship. Don’t miss the famous jade cabbage and meat-shaped stone, two iconic pieces that showcase the creativity of ancient artisans.

Address: No. 221, Section 2, Zhishan Rd, Shilin District
Phone: +886 2 2881 2021

• Shilin Night Market

Bustling and iconic, Shilin Night Market is a must for food lovers. Known as Taipei’s largest and most famous night market, it offers a maze of vendors serving up classic Taiwanese snacks, many of them beloved by locals, featured on travel shows, and praised by food critics. Must-try dishes include the chewy, savory Oyster Omelet, comforting Braised Pork Rice, the quirky yet delicious Peanut Ice Cream Roll, crispy Sweet Potato Balls, and the bold, flavorful Stinky Tofu, best enjoyed with pickled cabbage.

Address: Shilin Night Market, No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei

Local Eats

Regardless if you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Taipei’s culinary scene offers a delightful journey through bold flavors, diverse textures, and centuries-old food traditions. From bustling breakfast joints to comforting street food staples, these local favorites are perfect for experiencing authentic Taiwanese cuisine.

• Fuhang Soy Milk

Start your morning like a local at this iconic breakfast spot, often with lines out the door. Fuhang is beloved for its freshly made soy milk served hot or cold, and flaky shao bing (baked flatbread) stuffed with egg or paired with crispy youtiao (dough sticks).

Address: No. 108, Section 1, Zhongxiao East Road, Zhongzheng District

• Lao Shan Dong

Tucked inside the Wan Nian Building near Ximending, Lao Shan Dong is a go-to for beef noodle soup, one of Taiwan’s most iconic dishes. Choose between a rich, deeply braised broth or a lighter, clear soup, both brimming with tender chunks of beef and quality house-made noodles.

Address: No. 8, Section 2, Zhonghua Road, Wanhua District 

• Jin Feng Lu Rou Fan

No trip to Taipei is complete without a bowl of lu rou fan, and Jin Feng is widely considered one of the best. Their braised pork rice features finely minced pork slow-cooked in a savory soy-based sauce, served over a bed of hot rice. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of deep umami flavor.

Address: No. 10, Section 1, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District 

Venue

This season’s TMT 18 will unfold across two dynamic locations, each tailored to deliver a seamless, high-capacity poker experience. The festival kicks off at the CTP Asia Poker Arena, widely regarded as the heart of Taiwan’s poker scene. As the country’s largest permanent poker venue, it will host the first stretch of the series from July 10 to 19.

As the Main Event approaches and the field swells, the action shifts to Red Space, a newly constructed, state-of-the-art venue located in the Songshan District. Built to handle large-scale tournaments, Red Space boasts over 100 tables and ample space to accommodate the expected surge of players and spectators during the most anticipated leg of the festival from July 20 to 28.

CTP Asia Poker Arena
Address: B1F, No. 80, Sec. 1, Jianguo N. Rd., Zhongshan Dist., Taipei City

Red Space
Address: B1F, No. 15, Fuxing North Road, Songshan District, Taipei City