Categories: Daily

by Superray

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If you’re a foreigner living or traveling in Taiwan, you’re in luck—Taiwan has one of the most efficient, affordable, and user-friendly public transportation systems in Asia. Whether you’re staying in Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, or smaller towns, this guide will help you understand how to get around with ease.

🚆 Taiwan’s Public Transportation Overview

Taiwan offers a wide range of public transit options, including:

  • MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) in major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung

  • Buses in every city and town

  • Taiwan Railway (TRA) and High Speed Rail (HSR)

  • YouBike bike-sharing services

  • Taxis and ride apps like Uber and LINE Taxi

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  • how to use MRT in Taiwan

  • Taiwan transportation card

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Step 1: Get an EasyCard or iPASS

The first thing you need is a transportation smartcard. These cards can be used on MRTs, buses, trains, and even for purchases at convenience stores.

Where to buy:

  • MRT station kiosks

  • 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life

  • Cost: Around NT$100 + top-up

There are two main cards:

  • EasyCard (used mostly in northern Taiwan)

  • iPASS (used mostly in southern Taiwan)

Either one works almost everywhere.

Step 2: Using the MRT (Metro System)

The MRT is clean, safe, and easy to use. Taipei and Kaohsiung both have MRT networks.

How to use:

  1. Tap your EasyCard/iPASS at the entrance gate.

  2. Check the color-coded maps and signs (in English and Chinese).

  3. Get off at your stop and tap again at the exit gate.

⏰ MRT runs from about 6 AM to midnight.

📱 Tip: Download the Taipei MRT app or use Google Maps to plan your route.

Step 3: Taking the Bus

Buses in Taiwan are cheap and go almost everywhere, but they can be confusing at first.

Bus tips:

  • Tap your EasyCard when you board and/or get off (look for the sign that says “Tap On” or “Tap Off”).

  • Bus stop names are in English and Chinese.

  • Google Maps is accurate for real-time bus info.

🚌 In Taipei, many routes overlap with the MRT, making it easy to combine both systems.

Step 4: Riding Trains (TRA & HSR)

If you’re traveling between cities:

TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration):

  • Covers most towns and smaller cities.

  • Slower and cheaper than HSR.

  • Buy tickets online or at the station.

HSR (High-Speed Rail):

  • Very fast and convenient for long distances (e.g. Taipei to Kaohsiung in 1.5 hours).

  • Tickets can be bought on https://www.thsrc.com.tw

🎫 You can also use your EasyCard for local TRA rides!

Step 5: YouBike (Bike Sharing)

Taiwan’s bike-sharing system is a great way to explore cities.

How to use:

  1. Register with your EasyCard and a local phone number.

  2. Download the YouBike app.

  3. Rent a bike from any station and return it to another.

💡 First 30 minutes are free or very cheap in most cities!

Step 6: Taxis & Ride Apps

Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive.

  • No need to tip.

  • Most drivers don’t speak English—show the address in Chinese.

  • Use apps like Uber, LINE Taxi, or Taiwan Taxi App for convenience.

Final Tips for Foreigners

  • Public transport is very safe, even late at night.

  • Always stand on the right side of escalators.

  • Don’t eat or drink in MRT stations or on the train—it’s illegal and fined.

Conclusion

Getting around Taiwan is easy once you get used to the system. With your EasyCard in hand and a few apps downloaded, you’ll be able to explore the island like a local. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading to a night market, or taking a weekend trip, Taiwan’s transportation has you covered.

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