Local Transportation Tips for US Citizens Traveling to Taiwan

What are the main modes of public transportation in Taiwan, and how reliable are they?

The main modes of public transportation in Taiwan are buses, trains, and taxis. The bus system in Taiwan is extensive, with routes covering most of the major cities and towns. The trains in Taiwan are reliable, modern, and efficient. They connect the major cities and many of the smaller towns as well. Taxis are also available, but it is recommended to use apps like Uber or Gogoro to ensure a safe ride. Overall, public transportation in Taiwan is generally reliable and convenient.

Are there any specific cultural norms or etiquette when using public transportation in Taiwan?

1. Be respectful of your fellow passengers by speaking softly and keeping your belongings to a minimum.
2. Follow the rules and instructions of the staff on board the train or bus.
3. Give up your seat to elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
4. Stand in line when getting on and off the bus or train.
5. When speaking on your phone, please keep your voice down so as not to disturb other passengers.
6. Eating and drinking inside the train, bus or metro is not allowed.
7. Refrain from smoking inside the public transportation area or vehicle.

What is the best way to purchase and use public transportation tickets or cards in Taiwan?

The best way to purchase and use public transportation tickets or cards in Taiwan is to use the EasyCard. This card is a convenient and easy way to pay for rides on buses, trains, and taxis. You can buy an EasyCard at any convenience store, metro station, bus terminal, or online. To use the EasyCard, you just need to tap it against the scanner at the entrance of the bus or train. The fare will be deducted from the stored value in the card. The EasyCard can also be used to pay for certain services at convenience stores, restaurants, and other retailers.

How accessible are public transportation services for individuals with mobility challenges in Taiwan?

Public transportation services in Taiwan are generally accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Buses, metro, and trains all have wheelchair accessibility and most services also have special seating for elderly or disabled passengers. There are also several organizations in Taiwan that provide transportation assistance services for people with physical disabilities and other mobility needs.

Are there ride-sharing services available, and how do they compare to traditional taxis in Taiwan?

Yes, ride-sharing services are available in Taiwan. Popular ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are operational in the country, as well as local ride-sharing services like JET and GoGoCar. Compared to traditional taxis, ride-sharing services tend to be cheaper and more convenient. They often offer discounted rates during peak hours and have flexible payment options such as cashless payments and credit card payments. They also allow users to track their drivers in real-time and provide estimated arrival times. Additionally, some ride-sharing services offer additional safety features such as driver ratings, real-time GPS tracking, and the ability to share trip details with friends.

What is the local protocol for negotiating fares with taxi drivers in Taiwan?

Generally, it is acceptable to negotiate fares with taxi drivers in Taiwan. It is common practice to agree on an amount before the journey begins. Passengers should always ask the driver for their estimated cost before getting in the car. If the cost is too high, it is acceptable to negotiate a lower fare. It is also important to make sure the driver knows the destination before getting into the taxi in order to avoid any misunderstandings.

Are there bike-sharing or scooter-sharing programs for getting around in Taiwan?

Yes, there are several bike-sharing and scooter-sharing programs available in Taiwan. YouBike is the most popular bike-sharing program, and it is available in over 100 cities across Taiwan. Gogoro is the most popular scooter-sharing program, and it is available in Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.

What are the driving laws and regulations in Taiwan, and is it advisable for tourists to rent cars?

The driving laws and regulations in Taiwan are similar to those in most other countries; drivers must obey the speed limit, wear seatbelts, and abide by all traffic signals. Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and strictly enforced. The minimum age for driving is 18 years old.

It is generally advisable for tourists to rent cars in Taiwan, as long as they are familiar with the roads, traffic laws, and local customs. The country has a modern road system with highways connecting major cities. Rental cars are available from a variety of companies, and international credit cards are usually accepted for payment.

How reliable and safe are local trains and buses for intercity travel in Taiwan?

Local trains and buses for intercity travel in Taiwan are generally considered to be reliable and safe. Taiwan’s public transportation system is well-maintained and has world-class safety standards, and the government has implemented a number of measures such as CCTV cameras in train stations to ensure its safety. In addition, trains and buses are often well-staffed, and there are English announcements on many of the major routes. All in all, travelers can feel secure when using public transportation in Taiwan.

What are the options for airport transportation, and is it recommended to arrange them in advance in Taiwan?

There are several options for airport transportation in Taiwan, including taxis, airport shuttles, car rental, private transfers, and public transport. It is recommended to arrange transportation in advance to ensure availability and convenience. Taxis are a popular option as they provide door-to-door services and are usually the most affordable. Airport shuttles are a good option for large groups, as they offer discounts for multiple people travelling together. Car rental is also an option but can be expensive depending on the length of the trip. Private transfers can also be arranged in advance with trusted companies and typically offer a more comfortable ride than other forms of transport. Public transport is also available with buses and trains connecting most major cities in Taiwan.

Is it common for locals to walk or use bicycles as a mode of transportation, and are there pedestrian-friendly areas in Taiwan?

Yes, it is very common for locals to walk or use bicycles as a mode of transportation in Taiwan. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas to explore in Taiwan, such as the many walking paths and cycling trails around the country. In cities such as Taipei, you will find an extensive network of dedicated pedestrian and cycling lanes. You can also find many green parks with hiking trails and bike lanes.

What is the typical cost of transportation for daily commuting within Taiwan?

The cost of transportation for daily commuting within Taiwan will vary depending on the type of transportation used and the distance traveled. According to the 2018 Taiwan Ministry of Transportation report, the average cost of transportation for a 30 km (18.6 miles) trip is around NT$145 (US$4.80).

Are there any apps or online resources for navigating public transportation routes and schedules in Taiwan?

Yes, there are several apps and online resources for navigating public transportation routes and schedules in Taiwan. The most popular apps for this purpose are the Easy Card app, the iPass app, and the Taipei Metro app. These apps provide real-time information on bus routes, schedules, and fares, as well as other features such as fare discounts, journey planning, and service alerts. Additionally, the Taiwan High Speed Rail website provides detailed information on train services across Taiwan.

What are the safety considerations for using public transportation, especially at night, in Taiwan?

1. Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and stay aware of your surroundings at all times. If you notice any signs of suspicious activity, leave the area immediately.

2. Travel in groups: Whenever possible, try to travel in groups, especially at night. Having someone with you can make you feel safer and provides an extra layer of protection.

3. Use well-lit and well-traveled routes: When traveling at night, try to use well-lit and well-traveled routes. Avoid dark alleys, side streets, and other places where you may be more vulnerable to potential threats.

4. Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right or if someone is making you uncomfortable, trust your instinct and take another route or find another form of transportation.

5. Carry a cell phone: Carry a cell phone with you so that you can contact someone or call for help if needed.

Are there any specific rules or considerations for travelers with young children when using public transportation in Taiwan?

Yes, there are several rules and considerations for travelers with young children using public transportation in Taiwan.

1. Strollers are allowed on most public transportation, including buses, trains, and ferries. However, it is recommended that you collapse the stroller before boarding to make it easier for other passengers to move around.

2. Children aged under 6 ride free on public transportation in Taiwan. For those aged 6-12, half price tickets are available.

3. Parents should also use caution when taking small children on escalators and should always hold their child’s hand.

4. When traveling on buses and trains, be mindful of your surroundings and make sure that your child is not blocking the aisle or causing any disruption to other passengers.

How can I navigate transportation in areas where English may not be commonly spoken in Taiwan?

One way to navigate transportation in areas where English may not be commonly spoken in Taiwan is to use a translation app or website on your phone, such as Google Translate, to help you communicate with locals. You can also learn some basic words and phrases in Mandarin before you leave for Taiwan, such as “Where is the nearest bus stop?” and “How much for a ticket?”. Additionally, you can ask your hotel or hostel staff for help in understanding the local transportation system, or use maps and guidebooks that provide information on transportation in English.

What are the options for renting bicycles or scooters for short-distance travel in Taiwan?

1. Bicycles: Most cities in Taiwan offer rental bicycles for short-distance travel. Popular rental companies include YouBike, which has locations in Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Tainan. YouBike offers a wide range of rental options, including daily, monthly and yearly plans.

2. Scooters: Many cities in Taiwan offer scooter rentals for short-distance travel. Popular rental companies include U-Bike, Gogoro Smartscooter, and eRider. U-Bike is available in Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Tainan. Gogoro Smartscooter is available in Taipei and New Taipei. eRider is available in Taipei and New Taipei. All of these companies offer a wide range of rental options, including daily, weekly and monthly plans.

What are the common scams or pitfalls related to transportation that tourists should be aware of in Taiwan?

1. Fake Taxi Drivers: Fake taxi drivers can be found in Taiwan. Be sure to take only authorized taxis with a meter or flat-rate ride-hailing services.

2. Unauthorized Tour Guides: Some tour operators may try to offer cheaper tour packages but provide unreliable services. Be aware of unauthorized tour guides and make sure all services are from legitimate companies.

3. Overcharging for Train Tickets: Train tickets can be more expensive than necessary if travelers are not careful. Book tickets online to avoid overcharges.

4. Bicycle Theft: Bicycle theft is fairly common in Taiwan, so it is important to always lock up bicycles when not in use.

5. Unmetered Mopeds and Motorcycles: Some mopeds and motorcycles may not have meters, so watch out for overly high fares and only use metered services.

How does the local transportation system accommodate tourists, and are there any tourist passes or discounts available in Taiwan?

The local transportation system in Taiwan is very accommodating to tourists. There are multiple types of passes and discounts available that can be used for travel on buses, trains, and the metro system. The EasyCard is the most commonly used pass in Taiwan, and it can be used on the Taipei Metro, buses, High Speed Rail (HSR) services, and for select intercity buses. The EasyCard can be purchased at any metro station, convenience store, or designated HSR station.

In addition to the EasyCard, tourists can also purchase the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Pass or the Taiwan Fun Pass. The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Pass provides unlimited rides on any of the tourist shuttle buses for one day, three days, five days, or seven days. The Taiwan Fun Pass offers discounts on travel on the metro system and on select inter-city buses.

Finally, for those who plan to use public transportation extensively during their stay in Taiwan, there are half-price passes available to foreign visitors that provide discounts on tickets for trains and buses. These passes can be applied for at major train stations or at regional tourist offices.

Are there any cultural considerations or expectations when tipping or thanking transportation service providers in Taiwan?

In Taiwan, it is not expected to tip transportation service providers since most services are already at a low cost. However, it is always polite to thank service providers for their service.