Taiwan Transport Unleashed: Your Ultimate Guide to MRT, Buses, & Taxis!

Taiwan, a captivating island nation, is renowned for its vibrant night markets, stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and incredibly welcoming people. But to truly experience all it has to offer, you need to master its highly efficient and surprisingly affordable public transportation system. Forget about costly private tours – with a few clever tips, you can navigate Taiwan like a local! 🚀

This ultimate guide will break down everything you need to know about getting around Taiwan’s cities and beyond, focusing on the MRT, buses, and taxis, plus essential inter-city travel. Let’s dive in!

1. The Golden Rule: Get an EasyCard (or iPass)! 💳

Before you even think about stepping onto a train or bus, your first mission should be to acquire an EasyCard (悠遊卡, Yōuyóukǎ) or an iPass (一卡通, Yīkātōng). These contactless smart cards are your absolute best friend for seamless travel across Taiwan.

• What it is: A rechargeable stored-value card that allows you to pay for public transport, convenience store purchases, select taxis, and even some tourist attractions with a simple tap.
• Where to Get It:
  • MRT Stations: You can purchase and top up EasyCards at ticket machines or information counters in any MRT (subway) station (e.g., Taipei Metro, Kaohsiung MRT).
  • Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart across Taiwan sell and can top up EasyCards/iPasses. This is often the easiest option!
• Benefits You Can’t Miss:
  • Convenience: No fumbling for exact change. Just tap and go! 💨
  • Discounts: Many public transport rides offer a small discount when paid with an EasyCard compared to single-journey tokens.
  • Versatility: Use it for YouBike rentals, paying for items at convenience stores, and sometimes even a taxi fare.
  • Seamless Transfers: Often provides discounts on transfers between MRT and bus within a certain time frame.
• How to Use & Top Up:
  • Tap: Simply tap your card on the designated reader when entering and exiting MRT stations or getting on/off buses.
  • Top Up: You can add value at MRT station machines, convenience stores, or even at some post offices. Minimum top-up is usually NT$100.
• Example: Imagine arriving at Taoyuan Airport. Head to a 7-Eleven, grab an EasyCard, load it with NT$500, and you’re immediately ready to take the Taoyuan Airport MRT into Taipei city! So much easier than buying individual tickets.

2. Your Digital Navigator: Google Maps & Local Apps 🗺️

While Taiwan’s public transport signage is excellent (often in English), having a reliable navigation app is crucial.

• Google Maps: Your ultimate companion. It provides real-time public transport schedules (MRT, bus, TRA, HSR), walking directions, and even YouBike station availability. It’s incredibly accurate and almost always suggests the most efficient routes.

  • Pro-Tip: Download offline maps of the areas you’ll be visiting, just in case you lose internet connection.

• Local Apps (Optional but helpful):

  • “Taiwan Metro” (臺灣捷運): Specifically for MRT lines across different cities. Good for quickly seeing the full network map.
  • “Taipei Bus” (台北等公車) / “Bus Tracker Taiwan” (台灣公車通): For more detailed bus real-time information in specific cities, though Google Maps usually suffices for tourists.

• Example: Want to get from your hotel in Ximending to Maokong Gondola? Just type “Maokong Gondola” into Google Maps, select the transit icon, and it will give you step-by-step instructions: “Walk to Ximen MRT, take Blue Line to Taipei Main Station, transfer to Brown Line to Taipei Zoo, then take bus to Gondola station.” Easy!

3. Mode 1: The Super Efficient MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) 🚇

Taiwan’s MRT systems (predominantly in Taipei and Kaohsiung) are world-class: clean, efficient, air-conditioned, and incredibly easy to use.

• Why Choose It?
  • Speed: Gets you around quickly, especially in dense urban areas.
  • Reliability: Trains run frequently and on time.
  • Comfort: Modern trains, well-maintained stations.
  • Accessibility: Most stations are wheelchair and stroller friendly, with elevators and escalators.
  • Safety: Very safe, with clear security measures.
• How to Use It:
  • Entry/Exit: Tap your EasyCard/iPass on the reader at the fare gate when entering and exiting. The fare is automatically deducted.
  • Navigation: Follow the colored lines and station numbers. Maps are plentiful and bilingual.
  • Etiquette:
    • No Eating/Drinking: Strictly forbidden inside MRT stations and on trains. Fines are hefty! 🚫
    • Queue Up: Stand in line on the platform, allowing passengers to exit first.
    • Keep Right: Stand on the right side of escalators, leaving the left clear for those who want to walk.
    • Priority Seats: These are marked and should be left for the elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities. Respect them! 🪑
• Pro-Tips:
  • Download an MRT Map: Have a digital copy on your phone or grab a paper map at the station.
  • Mind the Gap: Be aware of the gap between the platform and the train.
  • Last Train Times: Check the operating hours for your desired line, especially if you’re out late. MRTs typically run until midnight or later.
• Example: You’ve just finished exploring Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. To get to Shilin Night Market, simply hop on the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) from C.K.S. Memorial Hall Station and go directly to Jiantan Station (two stops before Shilin). The whole journey is a breeze!

4. Mode 2: Navigating the Bustling Buses 🚌

Buses in Taiwan are extensive, affordable, and can take you to places the MRT doesn’t reach. They might seem a bit daunting at first, but with this key tip, you’ll be a pro!

• Why Choose It?
  • Coverage: Reaches almost every corner of a city and its suburbs.
  • Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than MRT for shorter distances, especially with EasyCard transfers.
  • Scenic: Offers a street-level view of the city.
• The Crucial Payment Rule: Tap On, Tap Off, or Both?! 🤯
  • This is the most common point of confusion for tourists! When you board a bus, look at the sign above the driver’s head or near the door. It will indicate when to tap your EasyCard:
    • 上車刷卡 (Shàngchē Shuākǎ): Tap only when boarding.
    • 下車刷卡 (Xiàchē Shuākǎ): Tap only when alighting.
    • 上車刷卡 / 下車刷卡 (Shàngchē Shuākǎ / Xiàchē Shuākǎ): Tap both when boarding AND when alighting. This is common for longer routes where fares are distance-based.
  • Always check the sign! If you miss a tap, you might be overcharged or unable to tap on your next ride.
• How to Use It:
  • Waiting: Stand at the bus stop. Wave your hand to signal the bus to stop as it approaches.
  • Boarding: Enter through the front door (usually), tap your EasyCard according to the sign.
  • Alighting: When your stop approaches, press the “stop” button (usually a yellow or red button on the handrails) to signal the driver. Exit through the rear door (usually), tapping your EasyCard again if required.
• Pro-Tips:
  • Use Google Maps: It’s indispensable for bus routes, real-time arrival estimates, and identifying your exact stop.
  • Be Patient: Buses can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Night Buses: Many major cities operate night bus routes (usually with “N” prefix) after the MRT closes.
• Example: You’re exploring the bustling East District (Dongqu) in Taipei and want to go to Elephant Mountain for sunset. While there’s an MRT station nearby, a bus might drop you even closer to the trailhead. Google Maps will guide you to the correct bus stop, tell you which bus number to take, and when to tap your EasyCard!

5. Mode 3: Convenient Taxis & Ride-Hailing 🚕

For door-to-door convenience, late-night returns, or when traveling with heavy luggage, taxis are a great option in Taiwan.

• Why Choose It?
  • Comfort: Air-conditioned, private space.
  • Convenience: Door-to-door service, especially useful for less accessible locations.
  • Availability: Plentiful in cities, especially major hubs and tourist areas.
  • Reasonable Fares: Compared to many Western countries, Taiwan’s taxi fares are quite affordable.
• How to Use It:
  • Flagging Down: Look for yellow taxis with a red “TAXI” light on top. In cities, you can usually flag them down on the street or find them at designated taxi stands (e.g., outside MRT stations, hotels, department stores).
  • Ride-Hailing Apps:
    • Taiwan Taxi (台灣大車隊) & 55688: These are the most popular local taxi apps. They offer features like estimated fares, car tracking, and often allow credit card payments. You might need a local phone number to register.
    • Uber: Available in major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, though sometimes local taxis are more readily available or cheaper.
  • Communication:
    • It’s always best to have your destination written in Chinese characters or show it on your phone/Google Maps to avoid misunderstandings.
    • Most drivers don’t speak much English.
• Payment:
  • Cash: Always a safe bet.
  • EasyCard/Credit Card: Some taxis accept EasyCard or credit card, but always confirm with the driver before starting the trip. Apps usually offer card payment options.
• Pro-Tips:
  • Metered Fares: Taxis use meters. Fares are clearly displayed. Don’t haggle unless you’re arranging a private tour (which is a different service).
  • Late Night Surcharge: A small surcharge (usually 20%) applies for rides between 11 PM and 6 AM.
  • Receipts: Ask for a receipt (發票, fāpiào) if you need one for expenses.
• Example: After a fantastic night out at a bustling KTV in Ximending, it’s 2 AM and the MRT is closed. Simply flag down a yellow taxi, show the driver your hotel address on Google Maps, and enjoy a comfortable ride back. The fare will be surprisingly affordable, even with the night surcharge.

6. Bonus Modes for Inter-City Travel: HSR & TRA 🚄🚂

Beyond city limits, Taiwan offers excellent rail options for zipping across the island.

• Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) 🚄

  • The Fastest Way: Connects major cities along the west coast (Taipei to Kaohsiung/Zuoying in about 1.5 – 2 hours).
  • Why Use It? Perfect for quick day trips or covering long distances efficiently.
  • Booking:
    • Online: Book on the official THSR website (www.thsrc.com.tw) up to 28 days in advance.
    • Klook/KKday: Often offer discounted tickets or special passes for tourists.
    • Stations: Purchase at HSR stations.
  • Pro-Tips:
    • Early Bird Discounts: Book well in advance for potential discounts (up to 35% off!).
    • Non-Reserved Cars: If you don’t book ahead, you can still buy a ticket for non-reserved cars (usually cars 10-12) and find an open seat.
    • HSR Stations are sometimes outside city centers: You’ll need to transfer to local transport (TRA, MRT, or bus) to reach the city center.

• Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) 🚂

  • The Scenic Route: Taiwan’s conventional railway network covers almost the entire island, including the beautiful east coast. Slower than HSR, but offers more stops and scenic views.
  • Why Use It? Great for reaching smaller towns, exploring the scenic East Coast (e.g., Hualien, Taitung), or if you prefer a more relaxed journey.
  • Train Types:
    • Tze-Chiang (自強號): Fastest express trains, usually with reserved seats.
    • Chu-Kuang (莒光號): Slower than Tze-Chiang, but still comfortable.
    • Fu-Hsing (復興號): The slowest, often stopping at every station.
  • Booking: Online via TRA website (www.railway.gov.tw), at any TRA station, or convenience stores (for local trains).
  • Pro-Tips:
    • Book Ahead for Popular Routes: Especially on weekends or holidays, trains to Hualien or Taitung can sell out quickly.
    • Train Pass: Consider a TRA Pass if you plan extensive rail travel.

• Example: Want to explore the Taroko Gorge from Taipei? Take the HSR from Taipei Main Station to Hualien (book well in advance!), then take a local TRA train or bus to the gorge. Or, if you prefer a more traditional journey, take a direct TRA Tze-Chiang train from Taipei to Hualien.

7. Other Options: YouBike & Scooters 🚲🛵

• YouBike (公共自行車): Taiwan’s public bike-sharing system is fantastic for short distances within cities, especially for exploring parks or riverfronts.
  • How to Use: Register with your EasyCard (or iPass) and a local phone number. Then simply tap your card to rent and return a bike at any docking station.
  • Cost: Very affordable, often free for the first 30 minutes.
  • Example: Rent a YouBike in Taipei and cycle along the Tamsui River, enjoying the breeze and city views!
• Scooters/Motorcycles: While popular with locals, renting a scooter is NOT recommended for most tourists unless you have extensive experience riding in Asian traffic and possess an international driving permit specifically for motorcycles. Traffic can be chaotic, and safety is a major concern. Stick to public transport for a stress-free trip! ⚠️

Conclusion: Conquer Taiwan’s Roads with Confidence! 🎉

Taiwan’s public transportation system is a true gem, making independent travel a joy. By equipping yourself with an EasyCard, relying on Google Maps, and understanding the nuances of the MRT, buses, and trains, you’ll unlock the freedom to explore this incredible island at your own pace.

So go ahead, plan that adventure, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Taiwan. With these tips in your pocket, you’re ready to conquer its roads with confidence!

What’s your favorite way to get around Taiwan? Share your tips in the comments below! 👇 G