Taipei’s transportation system is modern, efficient, and remarkably easy to navigate, making it one of the most convenient cities in Asia for travellers. The city’s well-connected network includes the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), city buses, taxis, and public bicycles all seamlessly integrated and accessible through the EasyCard, a reloadable travel card used for almost all modes of transport.

For Malaysian travellers, getting around Taipei feels familiar and straightforward. The city’s MRT system operates much like Kuala Lumpur’s, with clear English signage, user-friendly ticket machines, and organised routes that connect major attractions such as Taipei 101, Ximending, and Shilin Night Market. Whether you are travelling for leisure or business, Taipei’s transport options ensure a smooth, affordable, and stress-free experience throughout your stay.

Taipei MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)

The Taipei MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the city’s main mode of transportation and one of the most efficient rail systems in Asia. It is known for being clean, punctual, and affordable, making it ideal for Malaysian travellers who value convenience and reliability. The MRT network connects almost every corner of Taipei, including popular tourist attractions such as Taipei 101, Ximending, Shilin Night Market, Beitou Hot Springs, and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.

The MRT operates across six main lines:

Source: Tealit

Fare and Operating Information

Payment is simple and cashless because you can use the EasyCard (a reloadable smart card accepted across all public transport in Taipei) or contactless payments such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Visa payWave at selected gates. For Malaysian travellers, navigating the Taipei MRT will feel familiar, as it operates much like Kuala Lumpur’s MRT system. All stations feature clear English signage, digital maps, and announcements in both Mandarin and English. Do note that eating, drinking, or chewing gum inside stations and trains is strictly prohibited, and offenders may be fined. With its organised routes, affordable fares, and easy-to-use system, the Taipei MRT offers a pleasant and efficient way to explore the city.

City Buses

Source: Travel.Taipei

Taipei’s city bus system offers an excellent way to explore the city, especially areas not directly served by the MRT. With an extensive network covering nearly every district, buses are a convenient and affordable option for Malaysian travellers who wish to experience Taipei like a local. Each bus route is clearly numbered, and information is displayed in both Chinese and English, making it easy for foreign visitors to navigate.

Fares are determined by zones, with most city rides costing between NT$15 and NT$30, which is approximately RM2.20 to RM4.40. Passengers can conveniently tap their EasyCard when boarding and again when alighting. This ensures you are charged accurately according to your travel distance. For shorter routes within one zone, you usually only need to tap once when entering the bus.

Taipei’s bus routes connect key locations such as Taipei Main Station, Ximending, Shilin Night Market, Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, and Beitou Hot Springs. These routes complement the MRT, allowing travellers to reach cultural sites, residential areas, and scenic spots that may not have direct train access.

Here’s a quick overview of Taipei’s bus system:

Tips for Malaysian Travellers:

• Use Google Maps or the Bus+ app to check bus routes and real-time arrival information.
• Always enter through the front door and exit through the back.
• Keep small change or ensure your EasyCard has sufficient balance before boarding.
• English announcements are available on most buses, and digital screens show the next stop.

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Taxis

Source: lalalocker

Taxis in Taipei are a comfortable and reliable way to travel, especially for Malaysian travellers who prefer convenience and direct routes. They are widely available across the city, including near MRT stations, shopping districts, and major attractions such as Taipei 101, Ximending, and Shilin Night Market. Taipei’s taxis are usually yellow, clean, and equipped with meters, ensuring transparent fares without the need for negotiation.

The starting fare is around NT$85 for the first 1.25 kilometers (approximately RM12.50), with additional charges of about NT$5 for every 200 metres (around RM0.75) or NT$5 for every 80 seconds of waiting time. Late-night surcharges (from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM) apply at a rate of 20% higher than daytime fares. Most short city rides cost between NT$100 and NT$250 (about RM15 to RM37), depending on distance and traffic conditions.

While some taxis accept credit or debit cards, cash remains the most common payment method. To make it easier, Malaysian travellers can also use ride-hailing apps such as Uber or LINE Taxi, which allow digital payments and provide upfront fare estimates similar to the Grab app used in Malaysia.

Here’s a breakdown of taxi fares for your reference:

Tips for Malaysian Travellers:

• Always check that the meter is turned on at the start of your ride.
• Many drivers speak limited English — it helps to show your destination in Chinese characters.
• Cash is preferred, but larger taxi companies and ride-hailing apps accept digital payments.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and look for vehicles with a yellow exterior and registration plate.
• For convenience, download Uber or LINE Taxi to compare prices and pay securely.

Ride-Hailing Services (Uber and LINE Taxi)

Source: The Straits Times

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and LINE Taxi are highly popular in Taipei and provide a convenient and reliable alternative to traditional taxis. For Malaysian travellers familiar with Grab, these platforms will feel instantly recognisable and easy to use. Both apps offer transparent pricing, cashless payment options, and comfortable rides, making them ideal for those who prefer digital transactions or want to avoid language barriers.

Uber operates legally in Taipei and collaborates with licensed taxi companies, ensuring safety and compliance. Travellers can choose between standard cars, premium vehicles, or regular yellow taxis through the Uber app. LINE Taxi, on the other hand, is a locally developed service integrated with the LINE messaging app, making it a convenient option for travellers already using LINE during their stay.

Fares for ride-hailing services are generally similar to or slightly higher than standard taxi fares but provide greater comfort and ease of payment. The apps calculate fares automatically based on distance, time, and demand, offering full transparency before you confirm your booking.

Here’s an overview of ride-hailing fares and features as references:

Tips for Malaysian Travellers:

• Download Uber or LINE Taxi before your trip to make booking easier.
• Fares vary slightly based on time, traffic, and vehicle type.
• Digital payments are preferred, so ensure your card is activated for international use.
• Both apps provide real-time tracking, estimated arrival times, and driver details for added safety.
• Uber and LINE Taxi are especially useful if you are travelling late at night when MRT and buses are no longer operating.

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YouBike (Public Bicycle Sharing)

Source: Eco-Business

For Malaysian travellers who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace, YouBike is one of the best ways to experience Taipei up close. This public bicycle-sharing system is safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly, offering a fun way to discover neighbourhoods, parks, and riverside paths at your own convenience. With thousands of bright orange bicycles available across the city, YouBike is a common sight near MRT stations, universities, and major attractions such as Taipei 101, Daan Forest Park, and the Tamsui Riverside Trail.

Taipei currently operates the YouBike 2.0 system, which allows users to easily rent and return bicycles at any docking station. To rent a bike, travellers can tap their EasyCard or use the YouBike app to scan the QR code on the bicycle. The process is quick and straightforward, even for first-time users.

Fares are calculated based on rental duration, making YouBike a cost-effective option for short city rides. The first 30 minutes typically cost NT$10 (around RM1.50), with small additional charges for longer usage. This makes it ideal for exploring short distances between attractions or connecting to nearby MRT stations.

Tips for Malaysian Travellers:

• Always return the bicycle to an official YouBike 2.0 docking station to avoid extra fees.
• YouBike stations are usually located near MRT exits, parks, and shopping areas.
• Helmets are optional but recommended, especially for longer rides.
• Use the YouBike app or Google Maps to find the nearest station and check bike availability in real time.
• Remember to follow local traffic rules and use designated bike lanes for safety.

Long-Distance and Intercity Travel

For Malaysian travellers who wish to explore beyond Taipei, Taiwan offers an excellent network of long-distance and intercity transportation that is fast, comfortable, and reliable. The two main options are the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) and the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) trains, both of which provide easy access to other major cities such as Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. Whether you prefer the speed of the THSR or the scenic routes of the TRA, travelling across Taiwan is convenient and enjoyable.

The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) operates along the island’s western corridor, connecting Taipei to Kaohsiung in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Trains are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with comfortable seating and onboard facilities. Tickets can be purchased at stations, vending machines, or online. For Malaysian travellers, this is the fastest and most convenient option for intercity travel, similar in experience to Japan’s Shinkansen.

Alternatively, the Taiwan Railway (TRA) provides a slower but more scenic journey, serving smaller towns and coastal areas that the THSR does not cover. It’s perfect for travellers who want to enjoy the countryside, beaches, and traditional towns along the way. TRA tickets are also cheaper and can be booked at stations or through the official TRA app.

Here’s a comparison of both train systems for easy reference:

Tips for Malaysian Travellers:

• Book tickets in advance, especially during weekends or public holidays, as trains can sell out quickly.
• Online booking is available for both THSR and TRA, and many websites support English.
• For convenience, you can collect tickets using your passport at station counters or kiosks.
• The EasyCard can be used for some TRA local routes, but long-distance trips require a separate ticket.
• Both train systems are known for punctuality and cleanliness, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

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Payment and Tickets in Taipei

Getting around Taipei is remarkably simple thanks to the EasyCard, a reloadable smart card that can be used across almost all public transport systems in the city — including the MRT, city buses, YouBike, and some taxis. For Malaysian travellers, the EasyCard functions much like Malaysia’s Touch ’n Go card, offering seamless and cashless travel throughout Taipei and other major cities in Taiwan.

You can purchase an EasyCard at MRT stations, convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart), or at Taoyuan International Airport upon arrival. The card itself costs NT$100 (around RM15), which is a non-refundable deposit, and can be topped up in multiples of NT$100. Reloads can be done at MRT stations, convenience stores, and EasyCard machines located across the city.

For travellers who prefer not to use a physical card, contactless payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Visa payWave are also accepted at selected MRT gates, buses, and vending machines. Additionally, some travellers may choose to purchase transport passes, such as the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass or THSR–MRT combo passes, which are ideal for those planning to use public transport frequently over several days.

Below is a quick overview of the main ticket and payment options available:

Tips for Malaysian Travellers:

• Always keep some cash on hand for smaller shops or rural areas that may not accept cards.
• Tap only once when entering and exiting the MRT or bus to ensure correct fare deduction.
• If you plan to travel frequently, the EasyCard offers the best value and convenience.
• Check your EasyCard balance at MRT gates or convenience store counters.
• Unused balance on the EasyCard can be refunded (minus a small handling fee) at any MRT service counter before departure.