Metro of Taipei

Taipei Metro (MRT)

In addition to the Taipei Metro, Taiwan has other rapid transit systems, such as the Kaohsiung Metro and the Taoyuan Airport MRT, which connect different regions of the country and provide a modern and efficient alternative to public transportation. These systems form a key network for urban mobility in Taiwan, supporting the growth of cities like Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taoyuan.

The Taipei Metro is managed by the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC), which is responsible for its operation and maintenance. In 2019, the metro system recorded an approximate total of 789.5 million passengers, translating to over 2 million daily trips on weekdays, making it one of the most widely used transportation systems in the city.

Since its opening, the Taipei Metro has played an essential role in improving urban mobility, allowing users to move quickly and comfortably throughout the city. This system has significantly reduced travel times, making it possible to travel from one end of Taipei to the other in less than an hour, which has optimized the daily lives of millions of people.

The development of the metro has also been key in the urban transformation, boosting the growth of residential and tourist areas such as Danshui. In addition to its functionality as a means of transportation, the system has integrated additional elements that enhance the user experience, such as the Maokong Gondola and underground shopping malls, making it a driver not only of mobility but also of entertainment and economic development in the region.

Main Features of the MRT

• Network and Lines: The Taipei Metro has 6 main lines, covering more than 152 km of tracks and 131 stations. The main lines include the Tamsui-Xinyi Line (red), the Bannan Line (blue), and the Songshan-Xindian Line (green).
• Operating Hours: It operates from 6:00 a.m. to midnight every day.
• Frequency: Between 1.5 to 12 minutes.
• Fares: Single tickets range from 20 to 65 NT$, depending on the distance traveled. Additionally, there are options such as a daily ticket, which allows unlimited travel throughout the day.
• The system has both underground and elevated sections.

Complementary Shuttle Services

In addition to the six main lines, the Taipei Metro has two shuttle lines that complement the system:

• Xinbeitou Shuttle: Connects Beitou station on the red line with the Xinbeitou area, famous for its hot springs.
• Xiaobitan Shuttle: This line connects Qizhang station on the green line with the residential area of Xiaobitan.

Both shuttles provide additional connections to key areas of the city, improving system coverage and facilitating access to tourist and residential destinations.

Taipei Metro Schedule

The Taipei Metro begins operations at 6 a.m. and runs until midnight. During holidays and special events, the metro extends its operating hours.

Off-peak frequency: 4-10 minutes (06:00-07:00 and 09:00-17:00)

Nighttime frequency: 12 minutes (after 23:00)

Weekend and holiday frequency: 8-10 minutes (until 23:00), 12 minutes (after 23:00)

Taipei Metro Lines

The lines of the Taipei Metro have a radial layout, extending from the city center to the peripheral areas. This configuration facilitates access to suburban areas and improves connectivity between different parts of the city. The metro lines are easily identified by their color and name, making it simple to use the system for both residents and tourists.

Wenhu Line (Brown)

Route: Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center - Taipei Zoo

Length: 25.7 km

Stations: 24

Inauguration: March 1996

Speed: 80 km/h

Peak Hour Frequency: 2.5 minutes (07:00-09:00 and 16:00-19:00, Monday to Friday)

View stations

Wenhu Line (Brown): Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Kunyang, Houshanpi, Yongchun, Taipei City Hall, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, Zhongxiao Dunhua, Zhongxiao Fuxing, Daan, Technology Building, Liuzhangli, Linguang, Xinhai, Wanfang Hospital, Wanfang Community, Muzha, Taipei Zoo.

This line connects key areas in East Taipei, including commercial districts and residential areas.

Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red)

Route: Tamsui - Xiangshan

Length: 32.3 km

Stations: 30

Speed: 80 km/h

Branch: Xinbeitou Branch

Peak Hour Frequency: 3-6 minutes (07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:30, Monday to Friday)

View stations

Stations: Tamsui, Hongshulin, Zhuwei, Guandu, Zhongyi, Fuxinggang, Beitou, Qiyan, Qilian, Shipai, Mingde, Zhishan, Shilin, Jiantan, Yuanshan, Minquan West Road, Zhongshan, Taipei Main Station, NTU Hospital, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, Dongmen, Daan Park, Daan, Xinyi Anhe, Taipei 101/World Trade Center, Xiangshan.

Zhonghe-Xinlu Line (Orange)

Routes:

• 4A: Nanshijiao - Huilong
• 4B: Nanshijiao - Luzhou

Length: 32 km

Stations: 28

Duration: 50 minutes (Nanshijiao - Huilong), 40 minutes (Nanshijiao - Luzhou)

View stations

Nanshijiao - Luzhou: Nanshijiao, Jingan, Yongan Market, Dingxi, Guting, Dongmen, Zhongxiao Xinsheng, Songjiang Nanjing, Xingtian Temple, Daqiaotou, Taipei Bridge, Cailiao, Sanchong, Xianse Temple, Touqianzhuang, Sanmin Senior High School, Luzhou.

Nanshijiao - Huilong: Nanshijiao, Jingan, Yongan Market, Dingxi, Guting, Dongmen, Zhongxiao Xinsheng, Songjiang Nanjing, Xingtian Temple, Daqiaotou, Taipei Bridge, Sanchong, Xinzhuang, Fu Jen University, Danfeng, Huilong.

This route connects a wide variety of areas in Taipei and New Taipei, linking key residential and commercial zones.

Bannan Line (Blue)

Route: Nangang Exhibition Center - Dingpu

Length: 27 km

Stations: 23

Duration: 50 minutes

View stations

Nangang Exhibition Center - Dingpu: Nangang Exhibition Center, Nangang, Kunyang, Houshanpi, Yongchun, Taipei City Hall, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, Zhongxiao Dunhua, Zhongxiao Fuxing, Zhongxiao Xinsheng, Shandao Temple, Taipei Main Station, Ximen, Longshan Temple, Jiangzicui, Xinpu, Banqiao, Fuzhong, Far Eastern Hospital, Haishan, Tucheng, Yongning, Dingpu.

There are no additional branches or routes in this line.

Songshan-Xindian Line (Green)

Route: Songshan - Xindian

Length: 24.5 km

Stations: 21

Branch: Xiaobitan Branch

Speed: 80 km/h

Peak Hour Frequency: 3-6 minutes (07:00-09:00 and 17:00-19:30, Monday to Friday)

View stations

Songshan - Xindian: Songshan, Nanjing Sanmin, Taipei Arena, Nanjing Fuxing, Zhongxiao Fuxing, Daan Park, Dongmen, Guting, Taipower Building, Gongguan, Wanlong, Jingmei, Dapinglin, Qizhang, Xiaobitan, Xindian District Office, Xindian.

This line includes a branch to Xiaobitan, which is integrated into the list.

Circular Line (Yellow)

Terminals: Dapinglin (connection with the Green Line) - New Taipei Industrial Park

Connections: Connects with the Green Line at Dapinglin and the Blue Line at Banqiao

Length: 15.4 km

Stations: 14

Speed: 80 km/h

Peak Hour Frequency: 4-7 minutes

View stations

Section in operation (Dapinglin - New Taipei Industrial Park): Dapinglin, Shisizhang, Jingan, Zhonghe, Qiaohe, Yongan Market, Zhongyuan, Xinzhuang, New Taipei Industrial Park.

This section of the Circular Line connects key areas in the south and west of Taipei.

Circular Line (Yellow) of the Taipei Metro

The Circular Line is the newest addition to the Taipei Metro system, inaugurated in January 2020. This line was designed to improve connectivity in the city’s suburban areas, as it does not pass through the city center but acts as a crucial link between several main metro lines. The line’s primary function is to alleviate congestion on older lines and improve mobility in peripheral districts.

Key Features of the Circular Line

The Circular Line, identified by its yellow color, currently has a length of 15.4 kilometers and 14 operational stations. While only a part of the line is functional, future expansions are expected to complete the ring around the city. This future expansion will connect more suburban areas without requiring passengers to pass through central Taipei, significantly improving mobility across the region.

Connections and Functionality

The Circular Line facilitates connections with other major MRT lines, such as the Zhonghe-Xinlu Line (Orange) and the Bannan Line (Blue), allowing passengers to easily switch lines without needing to travel to the city center. This feature is crucial in reducing system overload during peak hours.

Future Expansion

The expansion plan for the Circular Line aims to complete the loop around Taipei, connecting more areas through this line. Once complete, the line will have over 30 stations and cover a significantly larger distance. This development will further enhance the MRT system’s coverage, making it a more comprehensive and efficient transportation option.

In summary, the Circular Line of the Taipei Metro is a key infrastructure project, and its expansion will contribute to improving urban mobility in the coming decades, aligning with Taipei’s goals for sustainable and efficient public transportation.

Tickets and Fares for Taipei Metro

The Taipei Metro system charges based on the distance traveled. For instance, for distances under 5 km, you pay NT$20, and for distances between 5 and 8 km, the price is NT$25. The highest fare is NT$65 for distances over 31 km.

• Minimum fare: NT$20 (approximately 0.65 USD)
• Maximum fare: NT$65 (around 2.10 USD)

For updated fares, please check the official Taipei Metro website.

Single Journey Tickets

Users can purchase single journey tickets or tokens, valid for a one-way trip. These tokens are available at vending machines at all stations and must be returned at the end of the journey.

One-Day Passes

The One-Day Pass allows unlimited travel on the Taipei Metro for one day, from the time it is first validated until midnight on the same day. It costs NT$150 and can be purchased at any information desk at Taipei Metro stations.

24-Hour Metro Pass

The 24-hour Metro Pass is valid for 24 hours after the first use. It costs NT$200 and is available at information desks in Taipei Metro stations. This pass is valid for one person.

Group Tickets

Group tickets are available with a discount of up to 20% for groups of 10 or more people. The maximum group size is 40 people, and the discount for such large groups can go up to 30%. These tickets must be stamped by the TRTC (Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation) and can be purchased at station information desks.

Single Journey Ticket for Cyclists

There is a ticket that allows cyclists to bring their bicycles on the metro (Single Journey Ticket for Cyclists). It costs NT$80 and must be stamped by the TRTC. This ticket is only valid at specific stations and during specific times. It is not valid at the following stations:

• All stations on the Wenhu Line
• Tamsui Station
• Taipei Main Station
• Daan Station
• Zhongxiao Fuxing Station
• Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Station
• Nanjing Fuxing Station

EasyCard in Taipei: The Smart Card for Public Transport

The EasyCard is a contactless smart card used widely in the Taipei Metro system and other public transport services across Taiwan. It provides a convenient and efficient way to pay for metro fares, bus fares, and even purchases at convenience stores, supermarkets, taxis, and other retailers.

Main Features of the EasyCard

• It is a rechargeable card that uses RFID technology.
• It can be used not only in the Taipei Metro (MRT) and buses but also in convenience stores, supermarkets, taxis, and other shops.
• It offers discounts on public transportation and some tourist activities.

Using the EasyCard on Taipei Metro

• To use the MRT, simply swipe the card at the entrance and exit gates of the stations.
• The fare is deducted automatically based on the distance traveled.
• Frequent users can receive discounts of between 10% and 30% on MRT fares, depending on the number of trips made per month.

Where to Buy and Recharge the EasyCard

• The EasyCard can be purchased at MRT stations, convenience stores (such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart), and other authorized outlets.
• The initial cost is NT$500, which includes NT$400 of usable credit and a NT$100 deposit.
• It can be easily recharged at MRT stations, convenience stores, and automatic vending machines.

Types of EasyCards Available

• Adult Card: The standard card for most users.
• Student Card: Offers additional discounts for students on buses and other transport.

Additional Benefits of the EasyCard

• It offers discounted transfers between buses and the MRT within a one-hour period.
• It is valid for the Maokong Gondola and can also be used in other cities such as Kaohsiung and Taichung.
• It is accepted at multiple retailers, making it a versatile payment option across the city.

Discount System with EasyCard

• Discounts vary depending on the number of trips made in a month, encouraging users to rely more on public transportation.
• The discount is automatically applied when using the card on the MRT, buses, and other transport services.

The EasyCard is an essential tool for moving around Taipei and other cities in Taiwan, offering savings and flexibility to both residents and tourists alike. Whether for frequent travel or city exploration, this card is a practical and economical choice.

The Taipei Pass: The Best Option for Tourists

The Taipei Pass, also known as the Taipei Tourism Passport, is a pass designed for tourists that allows unlimited use of the metro system (MRT) and buses in Taipei for a specific period. Below is all the information you need to make the most of this option.

Features of the Taipei Pass

• Availability: It is available for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days, and there is also a version that includes the Maokong Gondola.
• Prices:
  • 1 day: NT$180
  • 2 days: NT$310
  • 3 days: NT$440
  • 5 days: NT$700
  • 1 day + Maokong Gondola: NT$250
• Usage: The pass allows unlimited rides on the MRT and buses within Taipei during the validity period, starting from the first use.
• Purchase: It can be purchased at MRT station information counters and the EasyCard Customer Service Center at Taipei Main Station.

Advantages of the Taipei Pass

• Unlimited Travel: Enjoy unlimited trips on the MRT and Taipei buses during the pass's validity period without worrying about the cost of individual trips.
• Cost Savings: The Taipei Pass is an economical option for those planning to make several trips a day. For example, with a one-day pass costing NT$180, you can save significantly compared to purchasing individual tickets.
• Convenience and Flexibility: Avoid queues for individual tickets and the hassle of carrying cash, making your travel more convenient.
• Access to Tourist Attractions: This pass allows easy access to major tourist attractions connected by the MRT network, enhancing the visitor experience.
• Additional Options: Some types of Taipei Pass include access to the Maokong Gondola, perfect for those wanting panoramic views or visiting tea plantations in the mountains.

Where to Buy the Taipei Pass?

• Information Counters: Available at all MRT stations.
• EasyCard Customer Service Center: Located at Taipei Main Station.

The Taipei Pass is not available for online purchase and must be bought in Taipei. This pass is ideal for those wanting to maximize their experience in the city, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to travel to key tourist spots.

Accessibility and Services

• Taipei Metro is known for its cleanliness and safety, with trains and stations equipped with air conditioning and elevators.
• The system is also accessible for people with disabilities and offers platform safety doors for added protection.

Integration with Other Services

Taipei Metro is integrated with the YouBike bike-sharing system, making it easier for users to combine metro rides with bike travel around the city.

Park'n Ride in Taipei

Park and Ride facilities are available at almost every station in Taipei. With the EasyCard, you can park at up to 21 stations.

Interesting Facts

There are designated waiting areas for women at night in the stations. Intercoms are available in all stations and trains to contact security personnel.

Free and paid Wi-Fi is available in all stations.

Taipei Metro announcements are made in four languages: Mandarin, Taiwanese, Hakka, and English.

How to Get from Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei City Center using the MRT

The most convenient way to get from Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei city center is by using the Taoyuan Airport MRT, which directly connects the airport with Taipei Main Station. Here’s how to do it:

1. Taoyuan Airport MRT

The Taoyuan Airport MRT is a train that connects the airport to downtown Taipei. There are two options:

• Express Train: It reaches Taipei Main Station in about 35-40 minutes.
• Local Train: It makes more stops along the way, taking around 50-60 minutes to reach the city.

2. Connection with Taipei Metro (MRT)

Once you arrive at Taipei Main Station, you can transfer to Taipei Metro lines, such as the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi) or the Blue Line (Bannan), to reach other parts of the city. From here, you can connect to Taipei’s main tourist and commercial areas.

3. EasyCard Payment

Both the Taoyuan Airport MRT and the Taipei Metro accept the EasyCard, a rechargeable card that allows for easy payment across all public transportation systems.

4. Operating Hours and Frequency

• The Taoyuan Airport MRT operates from 06:00 to 23:00.
• Express trains run every 15 minutes, while local trains run every 10-15 minutes.

With this system, you can comfortably travel from the airport to the city center and then use the Taipei Metro to reach your final destination.

Tourist Attractions Accessible by Taipei Metro

The Taipei Metro offers convenient access to numerous tourist attractions in the city. Here are some of the highlights, organized by metro line:

Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi)

• Taipei 101: One of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, with an observatory offering panoramic views of the city.
• National Palace Museum: Home to a vast collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.
• Shilin Night Market: Famous for its street food and vibrant nighttime atmosphere.

Green Line (Songshan-Xindian)

• Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: A historic monument dedicated to the military and political leader.
• Scenic Areas: The green line connects to areas of scenic interest.

Blue Line (Bannan)

• Longshan Temple: A historic Buddhist and Taoist temple, popular with both tourists and locals.
• Ximending District: A youthful shopping and entertainment district.

Brown Line (Wenhu)

• Yangmingshan National Park: Known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and natural landscapes.
• Miramar Entertainment Park: Offers various attractions and recreational activities.

Orange Line (Zhonghe-Xinlu)

• Xingtian Temple: A major Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu.

Other Attractions Accessible by Metro

• Taipei Aquarium: A family attraction featuring a wide variety of marine life, accessible from the Blue Line.
• Maokong Gondola: A cable car offering panoramic views and access to tea plantations, connected to the metro system.

Taipei Metro not only provides access to these tourist spots but also offers a cultural experience. Many stations are decorated with local art, giving passengers a glimpse of Taiwanese culture.