Taiwan Transportation Guide 2023 – MRT, Bus, Train, High-speed railway, Sharing Bike, Ferry, Airplane, Rental Car

In this article, we will guide you through the best ways to explore Taiwan, with a primary focus on utilizing its well-developed public transportation system and convenient car rental options. Taiwan boasts an extensive transportation network, encompassing buses, trains, and highways, making it easy to navigate the country and tailor your journey to your preferences. For exploring big cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, the most convenient options include the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), buses, and Ubike sharing bikes. Traveling between cities in western Taiwan is best served by trains and the High-Speed Rail, both of which provide efficient and comfortable transportation. In contrast, for travel between cities in eastern Taiwan, the TRA is the primary mode of transportation, although car rentals can also be a viable option. To reach the captivating outlying islands, travelers have the choice of ferries or airplanes, ensuring convenient and accessible transportation options for island exploration. Whether you prefer the convenience and affordability of public transportation or the flexibility and independence of driving, Taiwan’s diverse transportation options ensure that you can find the perfect way to have an unforgettable adventure.

Public Transportation

1. MRT / Metro

If you’re planning to visit Taipei, New Taipei, Taichung, or Kaohsiung cities, the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is a convenient way to get around within the town. The MRT operates similarly to subway systems in cities like New York and Tokyo. Among them, Taipei boasts the oldest and most extensive MRT network. With the MRT, you can easily travel from Taipei Main Station (臺北車站) to Tamsui (淡水) and explore various destinations along the way.

The photo above shows a typical entrance/exit of the Taiwan MRT station. After each station, there are ticket vending machines for passengers and a top-up machine for your card. Also, you should notice that it is not allowed to eat and drink once you enter the platform. (That’s why MRT in Taiwan is so clean!)

Below are links for metro routes and websites in each city
Taipei & New Taipei MRT 
Taoyuan Airport MRT 
Taichung MRT
Kaohsiung MRT

2. Bus

There are various types of buses available for transportation. For example, the bus network in Taipei is extensive, and a single-segment trip costs NT$15. In certain instances, for longer routes, you may need to purchase a 2-segment or 3-segment ticket. Usually, you will have to wave at the bus to let the bus driver know that you want to get on. Otherwise, bus drivers may not stop by and just go on his/her merry way (especially in rural areas). Similarly, you should ring the bell by pressing a “stop” button to let drivers know you would like to get off at the next stop.

Cash payment is accepted on the bus, but it is important to have the exact fare since no change will be given. If you prefer electronic payment, you can obtain an Easycard or iPass. Once you’ve topped up your card, you can conveniently use it to access most public transportation in Taiwan by simply swiping it.

In addition to city buses, Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Service, known as “臺灣好行” (Taiwan Hao Xing), offers a variety of curated tour routes that allow passengers to explore the countryside, which may not be accessible by train. With the bus network reaching all corners of Taiwan, there is surely a destination you’d like to discover. Take a moment to visit their website.

3. Train – Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA)

When it comes to traveling around Taiwan’s main island, taking the train is highly recommended. The train system in Taiwan is known as the Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA), which operates a comprehensive network encompassing the entire island. Whether you’re visiting major cities or exploring picturesque mountain areas, the train provides convenient access.

TRA offers a range of ticket options and passes to suit your travel plans:

• Single / Return ticket
  Four days prior to the departure date (including the day itself), tickets can be booked.

• TR-Pass General: 3-Day / 5-Day
  🎫 3 Day | Adult NT$ 1,800 / Child NT$ 900 / Senior NT$ 900 / Adult Special NT$ 900 / Companion NT$ 900
  🎫 5 Day | Adult NT$ 2,500 / Child NT$ 1,250 / Senior NT$ 1,250 / Adult Special NT$ 1,250 / Companion NT$ 1,250

⚠️ Notice for TR-Pass General Pass ⚠️
1. Unlimited rides on all train with seat reservatio-
   ns within a designated period.
2. Must ensure seat reservations before boarding Tar-
   oko Express, Puyuma Express, and group trains.
3. Not valid for travel on tour trains, cruise-type 
   trains, Old Mountain Lines, Alishan Forest Railway
   and other trains specified by the Taiwan Railway 
   Administration (TRA).

• TR-Pass for international students
  🎫 5-Day | NT$ 599
  🎫 7-Day | NT$ 799
  🎫 10-Day | NT$ 1098

• TRA & THSR Joint-pass
  🎫 5-Day standard Joint-Pass | Adult NT$ 2,800 / Child NT$ 1,400
  1. Unlimited rides on THSR for any two days within the designated five days.
  2. Unlimited rides on Taiwan Tailway Chu-Kuang (莒光) Express or trains at a lower price than Chu-Kuang Express for five days
  
  🎫 5-Day premium joint pass | Adult NT$ 3,600 / Child NT$ 1,800
  1. Unlimited rides on THSR for any two days within the designated five days.
  2. Unlimited rides on Taiwan railway Tse-Chiang (自強) Limited Express or trains at a lower
  price than Tze-Chiang Express for five days

• Day pass: Pinxi Line / Neiwan Lin / Northeast area / Xinzuoying – Fangliao station

You can buy TRA tickets either through the TRA website or on a ticket machine at each station. If you haven’t purchased a ticket or if your ticket is expired, you can board the train first and proactively seek assistance from the train conductor to purchase a ticket. (Only for single / return ticket )

4. Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)

The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) operates a network that connects major cities in western Taiwan. Passengers can travel from Taipei Station to Zuoying Station (Kaohsiung) in just 1.5 hours on an express train, thanks to the high-speed rail system.

Passengers can purchase THSR tickets on the website or at the ticket vending machine at each station. We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially if you plan a trip on Fridays and weekends! Discounted THSR tickets (20% off!) have been provided on Klook for travelers holding non-Taiwanese airports. Go check it out! THSR also offers various ticket options or passengers to choose from, catering to different travel needs and preferences.

• Flexible 2-Day pass
  Adult NT2,500 / Child NT1,250
  Unlimited rides for any two days of a designated seven-day period.
• 3-Day pass
  Adult NT$ 2,200 / Child NT$ 1,100
  Unlimited rides for three consecutive days.
• 5-Day standard joint pass
  Adult NT2,800 / Child NT1,400
  1. Unlimited rides on THSR for any two days within the designated five days.
  2. Unlimited rides on Taiwan Tailway Chu-Kuang (莒光) Express or trains at a lower price than Chu-Kuang Express for five days
• 5-Day premium joint pass
  Adult NT$ 3,600 / Child NT$ 1,800
  1. Unlimited rides on THSR for any two days within the designated five days.
  2. Unlimited rides on Taiwan railway Tse-Chiang (自強) Limited Express or trains at a lower price than Tze-Chiang Express for five days

5. Bike sharing – YouBike

The most common sharing bike is the yellow YouBike. For one-time users, simply go to the self-service kiosk (YouBike 1.0) or download the YouBike app (YouBike 2.0) where you can find “Single rent” function. Follow the lead and pay with your credit card, then your bike is ready to go! You can also join the YouBike membership so you can rent a bike simply by swiping your card. For registering as a member, you will need a Taiwanese phone number, ID and an Easycard/iPass card. You can register on the Youbike website, YouBike app or on-site kiosk.

The YouBike website details rental fees for different regions:

• Taipei: NT$ 5 in the first 30 min. NT$ 10 per 30 minutes in the first 4 hr.
• Taichung: Free in the first 30 min. NT$ 10 per 30 minutes in the first 4 hr.
• Kaohsiung: NT$ 5 in the first 30 min. NT$ 10 per 30 minutes in the first 4 hr.

You can return the bike at any YouBike stop. Just stop your bike in a vacant site and you’re good to go.

6. Ferries

Ferries are the preferred mode of transportation for travelers heading to outlying islands such as Lanyu (aka Orchid Island 蘭嶼), Lyudao (aka Green Island 綠島), Penghu (澎湖), and Liuqiu (小琉球). It is advisable for passengers to purchase their tickets in advance, as some ferries tend to be fully booked during holidays. Additionally, it is important to note that ferry services may be canceled in the event of strong winds or typhoons. It is recommended to check the website of the ferry corporation for updates before boarding.

7. Airplane

If you are planning to travel to outlying islands such as Kinmen (金門), Matsu (馬祖), and Lyudao (綠島), taking a flight is one of the fastest and most convenient options. Flights between the main island and these outlying islands have limited availability per day and tend to be fully booked during holidays. Therefore, it’s crucial to book your flight ticket in advance.

You can book your flight through platforms like Skyscanner or directly on the airline’s website for a hassle-free experience.

It is important to note that certain flights to destinations like Lyudao (綠島) have limited availability and are primarily reserved for residents. Only a small number of seats, typically four, are allocated for non-resident travelers on each of the three daily flights. This limited availability makes it crucial to book your flight ticket as early as possible if you prefer flying over taking a boat. By securing your ticket in advance, you increase your chances of securing a seat on the desired flight.

Bus Tracker Taiwan (台灣等公車)

Useful application that you must download for traveling in Taiwan

✅iOS ✅Android

We highly recommend downloading 台灣等公車 application on your phone. You can use it to track buses, MRT, Ubike vacancies, railways, and even high-speed railways all in one app! Most importantly, it is now available in English!

Car rental

Taiwan boasts an extensive highway system, making car travel a favorable option for exploring the country. While public transportation efficiently connects cities along the west coast, accessing beautiful mountain areas like Taroko and Qalang Smangus can be challenging without a car. Renting a car offers greater flexibility in visiting various tourist attractions.

Car rental services are readily available at airports and major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung. However, since Taipei has a well-developed public transportation system that covers the city comprehensively, we recommend considering renting a car after exploring Taipei to optimize your travel experience.

Before renting a car in Taiwan, you should know…

• Driver aged below 20 is not allowed to rent a car.
• Required documents :
  1. Valid passport
  2. Driver’s License from Origin Country or Region + International Driving Permit (IDP)
  The International Driving Permit (IDP) is just a translation of your license. You must bring your original driver’s license with you.
  3. Credit card The car rental companies need the main driver’s credit card at pick up.
• Deposit payment
  1. Rental companies usually charge a security deposit between NT$ 10,000 – 30,000. At pick-up, you will need to provide 2 credit cards under the main driver’s name for premium rental cars based on the car rental company’s policy.
  2. The full amount will only be returned if the car is not damaged/stolen or there is no payment due after the car is returned,

We recommend Klook for car rental in Taiwan as it offers the best price. Make sure to book your car before your trip!

Now you know so many ways to travel in this beautiful country! Follow us for more tips about exploring Taiwan or drop a comment below if you have any questions regarding Taiwan. We will reply to you ASAP.