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How to Use Taiwan’s MRT and Buses: A Beginner’s Guide (Part 1)
- easyta
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Transportation in a new country can be a bit overwhelming, right...?
Public transportation systems in Taiwan have some unique features that may differ from what you're used to in other countries. So in this guide, we'll walk you through how to use them and share some important tips to keep in mind!
First off, the main modes of public transportation in Taipei are the MRT (subway) and city buses.
Taipei is a relatively small city, so with just these two options, you can get pretty much anywhere—super convenient!
No matter which one you use, one thing you’ll definitely want to have is an EasyCard (also called 悠游卡 in Chinese). It’s a rechargeable transportation IC card.
Not only can you use it for the MRT and buses, but it also works for payments at convenience stores and other shops—making it incredibly useful to have during your trip!
This is the most basic type of EasyCard.
There are also special editions, like collaboration cards featuring popular characters or even 3D-shaped cards (which barely qualify as “cards” anymore!). Some of these limited editions are extremely popular and can be quite hard to get your hands on.
This is a 3D EasyCard shaped like the transformation wand from Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon, a famous Japanese anime.
It’s so cute, you’d never guess it could actually be used to ride the MRT or bus!
This card even made headlines in Japan, and there are many other adorable designs out there—so be sure to check them out!
Where can you get one?
You can buy an EasyCard at MRT ticket machines, station service counters, and convenience stores.
Picking one up at a convenience store or MRT station at the airport makes your travels much smoother right from the start.
At convenience stores, you’ll often find an EasyCard display near the checkout counter—and if you’re lucky, you might even come across a cute design that’s just your style!
Let’s Ride the MRT!
Once you’ve got your EasyCard, it’s time to hop on the MRT.
It’s super easy to use—just tap it on the gate sensor when entering and exiting the station.
If You Don’t Have a Card, You Can Buy a Ticket at the Machine.
MRT tickets in Taiwan are actually coins!
Just tap the coin on the gate sensor to enter, and when you exit, insert it into the slot at the gate.
Important MRT Rules to Keep in Mind!
One major rule you must follow when using the MRT in Taiwan is: No eating or drinking!
Not just on the train—even once you cross the yellow line before the ticket gates, all food and drink is strictly prohibited throughout the station.
Violations can result in a fine between 1,500 and 7,500 NTD, so be extra careful not to eat or drink by accident.
Even water is not allowed, so make sure to stay hydrated before entering the station—especially in the hot season!
In Summary
For getting around Taiwan, an EasyCard is your best friend!
Using the MRT is simple and convenient—but don’t forget the strict no eating or drinking rule!
It might feel a bit strict, but thanks to this rule, MRT stations and trains stay impressively clean.
In the next part, we’ll dive into something a bit more local: how to ride the bus in Taiwan!
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