Neotectonics of Taiwan is mainly controlled by the oblique convergence between the Eurasian plate and the Philippine Sea plate. In addition to this oblique convergence mechanism, the shape of the backstop and structural highs significantly influences most of the foreland structures. Sandbox experiments have been conducted to simulate the neotectonics of western Taiwan. The kinematics of deformation comprises a combination of compression, rotation and extension, which results in a local partitioning between thrusting and strike-slip movements. Most of the deformation in association with the 921 Taiwan earthquakes appears to be indicated by such a deformation mechanism.