Transportation in Taiwan: A Complete Guide
Taiwan has a well-developed and efficient transportation network. Whether you’re staying in a major city or exploring rural areas, there are various ways to get around. In this guide, we’ll cover all transportation options, from public transport to renting a car. Let’s dive in.
Public Transportation in Taiwan
Public transport in Taiwan is reliable, clean, and affordable. For most travelers, it’ll be the easiest way to get around, especially in larger cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung.
High Speed Rail (HSR)
The High Speed Rail (HSR) system is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel between cities. Running along the west coast, it connects major cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung with frequent departures. Trains are modern, clean, and depart on time.
A one-way ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 1,500 TWD and takes just under two hours. You can buy tickets online, at the station, or using a machine.
Tip: If you book your ticket in advance online, you can save up to 35%.
TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration)
The TRA network covers all of Taiwan, including the eastern coast, which the HSR doesn’t serve. Although slower than the HSR, it’s great for shorter trips. TRA trains are comfortable and cost less than the HSR. A trip from Taipei to Hualien takes around 2.5 hours and costs about 440 TWD.

There are different classifications of trains. The Tze-Chiang Express is the fastest option, while the Local trains stop at every station.
It’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
Metro Systems
Taipei and Kaohsiung both have modern metro systems (MRT). The Taipei MRT is the largest and most used. It’s easy to navigate, affordable, and clean. The fare is distance-based and ranges from 20 TWD to around 65 TWD.
Kaohsiung MRT is smaller, with two lines, but still covers key parts of the city.
Get yourself an EasyCard or iPass for convenience. You can use these stored-value cards on metros, buses, and even at convenience stores.
Buses
Intercity buses are comfortable and cost less than the HSR or TRA. Big bus companies like UBus, Kuo-Kuang, and King Bus operate routes between all major cities.
For example, a bus from Taipei to Tainan takes about five hours and costs 450-600 TWD, depending on the company and type of bus. Some offer premium seating with more legroom.

City buses in Taiwan are also simple to use. You can pay with your EasyCard or iPass. Routes in cities like Taipei are marked in English. But for smaller cities or rural areas, it’s a good idea to check in advance.
Taxis in Taiwan
Taxis are plentiful and available in all cities and towns. They are bright yellow and usually easy to spot.
Taxis are metered, and the rates begin at around 70 TWD in Taipei and 85 TWD in Kaohsiung. The fare increases based on distance and time. For longer journeys, you can negotiate a flat fare with the driver.
Drivers generally speak little English, so it’s helpful to have your destination written in Chinese. You can also show them your location on Google Maps.

Taxis are a good option for groups or if you have luggage, as some public transit can get crowded during peak hours. Safety-wise, taxis are generally reliable, but it is recommended to use official taxis (those with the “Taxi” sign and yellow license plate).
Tip: Use cash for taxis, as most don’t accept credit cards.
Rideshare Services: Uber in Taiwan
If you prefer to use rideshare, Uber operates in Taiwan’s major cities, including Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.

The app works exactly the same as in other countries: open it, set your destination, and request a car. Pricing is competitive with taxis but can sometimes be cheaper, especially with promotions. You can pay via the app using a credit card, so it’s convenient if you don’t have cash.
Uber drivers are professional, and the service is widely used by locals and tourists alike. It’s a good alternative if you prefer not to communicate with a taxi driver, as the app takes care of everything.
Renting a Car in Taiwan
If you want to explore more remote areas or enjoy greater flexibility, renting a car is a good option. Driving is common for visitors planning to explore Taiwan’s east coast or mountainous regions.
Requirements for Car Rental
To rent a car, you need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your driver’s license from your home country. Some rental agencies may ask for additional proof of identity, like your passport.
You can rent a car at most airports and downtown car rental agencies. Big international companies like Avis, Hertz, and Budget are available alongside local rental operators.
Review the rental agreement carefully: most rental companies will include basic insurance. However, you may want to purchase extra coverage if you’re unfamiliar with local driving conditions.
Cost of Renting a Car in Taiwan
Renting a car typically costs around 1,500-3,000 TWD per day, depending on the car type and rental company. Smaller, compact cars are cheaper, while large SUVs and vans are more expensive.
Gas prices are moderate, with gasoline costing around 30 TWD per liter. Taiwan’s road network is efficient, with well-maintained highways, so gas mileage can be pretty good.
Before renting, make sure you know the toll road system. Most highways have tolls that are automatically charged to the car when passing certain points: rental cars will usually come with an ETC card to handle payments electronically.
Driving Conditions in Taiwan
Driving in Taiwan can be challenging in urban areas because of heavy traffic and scooters. Taipei and other major cities have congested roads, especially during rush hour.
Drivers in Taiwan can be aggressive, so you’ll need to stay alert. Scooters zip between cars, and pedestrians sometimes cross outside of marked crosswalks. Defensive driving is key.
But outside the cities, the roads are generally easier to navigate. Highways and rural roads are mostly well-maintained and well-signposted. Taiwan also has scenic roads, like the East Coast Highway and the Central Cross-Island Highway, which have great views of mountains and the ocean.
Tip: It’s best to avoid driving in mountainous areas in bad weather, as landslides can occur.
Biking in Taiwan
Taiwan is a great place for cycling. There are designated bike paths in major cities, and many smaller towns are bike-friendly.
YouBike, a public bike-sharing system, operates in cities like Taipei and Taichung. It’s easy and cheap to rent: simply swipe your EasyCard at a YouBike station to unlock a bike. Prices start at about 5 TWD for the first 30 minutes. You can return your bike at any station.
Biking is especially popular in scenic areas, such as along the Sun Moon Lake or in Taroko Gorge National Park.
Final Thoughts
Getting around Taiwan is easy and affordable if you know your options. Whether you’re relying on public transport, taxis, rideshares, or a rental car, you’ll have no trouble exploring the country.
Remember: an EasyCard is your best friend for public transportation, and Uber is a solid option for rides in big cities. If you plan to drive, take extra care in cities but enjoy Taiwan’s beautiful open roads.
Travel safe, and enjoy your journey across this amazing island!
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