How to Navigate Taipei’s Public Transit with Ease
Traveling solo in Taipei? Good news — getting around this vibrant city is not only safe and affordable, but also super efficient. Whether you're heading to a bustling night market, a quiet café in Da’an, or up to Elephant Mountain for sunset views, Taipei’s public transit system has your back.
Here’s everything you need to know to ride like a local — confidently and solo.
🛫 Getting Started: How to Get an EasyCard
First things first: if you’re wondering how to get an EasyCard, it’s super simple and 100% worth it. The EasyCard is a rechargeable smart card that works across the MRT (metro), city buses, trains, and even at some taxis and convenience stores.
Where to Get One:
Klook! You can buy an pre-loaded card on Klook.com & pickup at the airport kiosk
At Taoyuan Airport MRT Station upon arrival
Any MRT station at the EasyCard vending machines or service counters
Most 7-Eleven or FamilyMart convenience stores
Once you’ve got it, just top it up at any MRT station. Machines have English options, and the whole process is super intuitive. Tap in and out at the gates — no need for paper tickets.
Pro Tip: Look out for cute or limited-edition EasyCards that double as souvenirs!
🚇 Riding the MRT (Metro): Clean, Fast, and English-Friendly
Taipei’s MRT is a solo traveler’s dream: clean, punctual, safe, and easy to understand even if you don’t speak Chinese.
What to Know:
Lines are color-coded (Red, Blue, Green, etc.) and stops are numbered (e.g., R10, G07).
All signs and announcements are in Mandarin and English.
Most stations have elevators, escalators, and accessible facilities.
Trains run from around 6:00 AM to midnight.
Solo Travel Bonus:
MRT cars are well-lit and monitored.
There are women-only waiting zones on platforms at night for extra comfort.
🚌 Taking the Bus: A Little Trickier, But Worth It
Taipei’s buses cover areas the MRT doesn’t, like smaller neighborhoods or mountain areas. Routes can be confusing at first, but Google Maps and Taipei Bus apps help a lot.
Key Tips:
Board through the front door, exit through the back.
Tap your EasyCard when you get on and off (unless the screen says otherwise).
Some buses show stop names in English — if not, use your GPS to track your stop.
Feeling unsure? Sit near the driver or press the stop button when your stop approaches.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
🚊 What About Trains and the High-Speed Rail?
If you’re taking a day trip (like to Jiufen, Hualien, or Tainan), you might hop on:
Taiwan Railways (TRA) – Local trains for short trips
High-Speed Rail (HSR) – For longer distances like Taipei to Kaohsiung in 2 hours
Both offer reserved seats and English ticketing online or at the station. Solo riders can almost always grab a seat on short notice.
📱 Must-Have Apps for Smooth Navigation
Google Maps – Great for both MRT and bus routes
Taipei Metro App – MRT maps, station info, and train times
Bus+ or BusTracker Taipei – Live bus arrivals
Uber or LINE Taxi – For late-night returns or off-grid areas
🧭 Safety & Comfort Tips for Solo Travelers
Public transit is very safe, even late at night.
Locals are polite but reserved — don’t expect small talk, but feel free to ask for help.
Stand on the right side of escalators (left is for passing).
Eating and drinking is not allowed on MRT trains — keep that bubble tea sealed!
✨ Final Thoughts
One of the best things about traveling solo in Taipei is how effortless it is to get around. Now that you know how to get an EasyCard and navigate the MRT and bus system, the city is wide open for you to explore. From temples and teahouses to trendy cafés and street eats, Taipei makes solo travel stress-free and full of discovery.
So go ahead — hop on that train, grab your cardamom bun, and make Taipei your own. You’ve got this.
