Voters in Taiwan pick a new president a week from now, and the three candidates are ramping up their efforts on the campaign trail.

The election takes place on January 13.

The candidates are Lai Ching-te of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, Hou Yu-ih of the biggest opposition Kuomintang party, and Ko Wen-je of the second-largest opposition Taiwan People's Party.

All three are set to hold rallies in major cities on Saturday and Sunday.

Taiwan's relationship with China is a key issue. Lai, who is seen as the frontrunner, has said, "In reality, Taiwan is already a sovereign, independent country."

He has also criticized his rivals for supporting Beijing's position that Taiwan is part of China's territory.

Hou and Ko are keen to enhance ties with Beijing. They have criticized Lai for describing himself as a "pragmatic worker for Taiwan independence."

Hou is attempting to gain votes by stressing the need to back a single opposition candidate.

Ko is trying to stop people voting for Hou. He says his rival is supported by China.