How to Use Taiwan’s MRT and Buses: A Beginner’s Guide (Part 2)

Hello everyone!

In the first part, we introduced Taiwan’s MRT, which is super convenient. However, sometimes you want to go to places a bit farther from the MRT stations. In this second part, we’ll explain how to use the buses.

First, to find out which bus route to take to your destination, the easiest and quickest way is to use Google Maps. Just enter your destination, and it will show you the bus routes and schedules—just follow the directions and you’re good to go!

When you see the bus you want to take, raise your hand to signal the driver.

In Taiwan, if you don’t raise your hand to show you want to get on, the bus will pass right by, so be sure to remember this!

Image:臺北旅游網

How to Pay the Bus Fare

You can pay your bus fare using an EasyCard or cash.

If you pay with cash, note that you won’t get any change back, and you can’t recharge your card on the bus, so make sure to prepare the exact amount before boarding. You can recharge your EasyCard at convenience stores or MRT ticket machines.

When paying with your EasyCard, you need to tap it on the reader twice—once when you get on and once when you get off. It’s easy to forget the tap when getting off, but be careful! If you don’t tap twice, your fare won’t be properly processed.

Press the Button When You Want to Get Off

When you’re approaching your stop, press the button to let the driver know you want to get off.

If you don’t press the button, the bus may just keep going, so be sure to remember this!

How Much Is the Bus Fare?

Bus fares in Taiwan vary depending on the distance you travel. The base fare starts at 15 New Taiwan Dollars.

The fare increases in steps—15 NTD, 30 NTD, or 45 NTD—depending on the section you ride.

Image：にじいろ台湾

Both the MRT and buses are very convenient and affordable for getting around Taipei city. However, until you get used to the differences from your home country, and especially when traveling to sightseeing spots a bit outside the city center, it can feel a little stressful.

In such cases, we recommend using a private charter service!

No need to worry about checking routes, departure times, or payment methods—when you’re already feeling the pressure of traveling abroad, you want to relax as much as possible. With a charter service, a driver picks you up right at your hotel and takes you comfortably anywhere in Taiwan.

For a safe, comfortable, and hassle-free trip, leave your transportation to RelaxGoTaiwan!

Start Your Journey Here!