Local in Taipei City
Getting around Taiwan is easy with a transportation card. There are two major transportation cards commonly used in Taiwan: EasyCard and iPASS.
What are EasyCard and iPASS?
EasyCard: Locals call it Yōu-yōu-kǎ (悠遊卡). Yes, it sounds a little like “Yo-Yo Card,” just like the toy!
iPASS: Locals call it Yī-kǎ-tōng (一卡通), which literally means “one card.”
Public Transit
You can use both EasyCard and iPASS on many types of public transportation, including MRT, buses, Taiwan Railway local services, Taoyuan Airport MRT, and YouBike.
Taiwan’s public transportation is also relatively affordable. For example, Taipei MRT fares range from NT$20 to NT$65, depending on the distance.
Using a transportation card also makes transferring between different types of public transportation more convenient, and eligible transfers may come with additional discounts.
Daily Life
These cards aren’t just for transportation. You can also use them for many everyday purchases around Taiwan.
They are accepted at participating convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores, Starbucks, and other shops and restaurants.
So yes, the same little card you use to take the MRT can also help you buy a drink or a late-night snack. Very convenient, especially when you are too hungry to deal with coins.
Tourist Sites
EasyCard and iPASS can also be used at some tourist attractions and amusement parks, such as Taipei Children’s Amusement Park and Lihpao Land.
However, acceptance varies by attraction, so it’s a good idea to check before you visit.
EasyCard vs. iPASS: What’s the Difference?
For most travelers, there isn’t a big difference between EasyCard and iPASS.
Both can be used on major public transportation systems and at many participating stores across Taiwan. You don’t need to spend too much time worrying about which one is “better.”
If you see an EasyCard first, get an EasyCard. If you find an iPASS design you really like, get an iPASS.
Just choose one and start exploring Taiwan!
You might also see a third card called icash 2.0, which is commonly sold at 7-Eleven. It can also be useful, but if you’re visiting Taiwan for the first time and want the simplest option, I’d recommend sticking with EasyCard or iPASS.
How to Buy It
You can buy an EasyCard or iPASS at several locations around Taiwan, including:
At Taoyuan Airport (TPE): You can purchase transportation cards at the airport after arriving in Taiwan.
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MRT stations: You can buy transportation cards at MRT stations and top them up at the self-service machines.
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Convenience stores: You can also find transportation cards at convenience stores. This is where things get more fun. You may find special-edition cards shaped like floppy disks, food, cartoon characters, or even anime figures.
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Order on KKday [Link] / Klook [Link]: You can also order a transportation card or a travel package in advance and pick it up at the airport. Some packages also include a SIM card or other travel essentials, which can be pretty convenient.
How to Top Up
After purchasing your card, you can top it up at:
MRT station self-service machines
Step 1: Change the screen language to English.
Step 2: Select “Top Up” on the screen. Keep your card on the reader until the transaction is finished.
Step 3: Insert your cash, either coins or banknotes.
Step 4: When the top-up is complete, don’t forget to take your card!
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Convenience stores
Step 1: Go to the cashier.
Step 2: Give them your card and tell them how much you want to top up. The minimum amount may vary depending on the store and card.
Step 3: You can simply say “Top up, please.” You can also say “Jiā zhí” (加值), which means “add value” in Mandarin.
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Good news! Mobile payment options are gradually becoming available for public transportation in Taiwan, making it even easier to travel without carrying a physical card. However, availability depends on the transportation system and the payment service.
How to Use It
On the MRT
Simply tap your card on the sensor when you enter and exit the MRT station.
On the Bus
Depending on the bus route, you may need to tap your card when getting on, getting off, or both.
Just follow the instructions on the bus or watch what other passengers do. Don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly.
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On Taiwan Railway
You can use EasyCard or iPASS on eligible Taiwan Railway services.
Simply tap your card when entering and exiting the station.
Just remember that transportation cards cannot be used for every type of Taiwan Railway train. If you’re planning to take a faster or reserved-seat service, check the current rules before you travel.
You also cannot use EasyCard or iPASS to ride Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR). HSR uses a separate ticketing system.
Ready to start your Taiwan adventure?
An EasyCard or iPASS can make traveling around Taiwan much easier. You can use it for buses, MRT, eligible Taiwan Railway services, YouBike, and even everyday purchases at convenience stores and other participating shops.
It’s one of those small things that makes traveling in Taiwan a little easier.
One card, fewer tickets to worry about, and more time to explore Taiwan! 🇹🇼