But once I took the time to understand how Taiwan’s train system works, it became one of the easiest and most efficient ways to travel around the country. If you are planning a Taiwan trip and feeling overwhelmed by MRT, TRA, and HSR, here is how I understood it and how we managed to navigate everything smoothly.
Taiwan’s train system is mainly divided into three types: MRT, TRA, and High Speed Rail (HSR). The MRT is the metro system within cities like Taipei. It is clean, efficient, and tourist-friendly. For MRT rides, we used an EasyCard, which you can tap in and out of stations. It can be topped up at machines inside the station, but do note that top-ups are cash only. The EasyCard is very convenient and can also be used on buses and even in convenience stores.
For intercity travel, we used both TRA and HSR. The TRA, or Taiwan Railways Administration, operates regular and limited express trains that connect different cities and towns across the island. We booked our limited express TRA tickets online in advance. Once we arrived at Taipei Main Station, we exchanged our online booking for physical tickets at the ticket booth. Booking online allowed us to reserve seats, which gave us peace of mind knowing we had guaranteed seats as long as we arrived at the station on time.
The Taiwan High Speed Rail, or HSR, is perfect for longer distances along the west coast. It significantly reduces travel time between major cities like Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. We also booked our HSR tickets online and collected the physical tickets at the station. If you want a fast, comfortable, and efficient way to travel between cities, HSR is the way to go.
Getting to and from Taoyuan International Airport was also very easy. We took the Airport Express Train, which takes around 40 minutes to reach Taipei Main Station. After a red-eye flight, this was a convenient and stress-free option.
One of the highlights of our trip was taking scenic train rides. We rode the scenic train from Alishan to Chiayi, and it was truly memorable. The views of the mountains and forests made the journey just as beautiful as the destination. Here is a useful tip: do not rely solely on the official Alishan Forest Railway website when booking tickets because it often shows as fully booked. Try searching on third-party platforms like Alishan Easy Go, which may offer advance tickets. While in Alishan, you can also ride the iconic cypress wooden train, but it operates only on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.
We also experienced the Bong Bong Train at Taipingshan. This train was previously used to transport wood, and today it serves as a short heritage ride through the forest. It is a quick ride but offers a charming glimpse into Taiwan’s logging history.
Once you secure your tickets, the rest is simple. Arrive at the station early, check your platform, secure your luggage, find your seat, and enjoy the view. Taiwan’s train system may look confusing at first, but once you understand the difference between MRT, TRA, and HSR, it becomes one of the most efficient ways to explore the island.
If you are planning to travel around Taiwan by train, do not let the railway map scare you. With a little research and the help of online booking, navigating Taiwan’s trains can be smooth, convenient, and even one of the most enjoyable parts of your trip.
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| Taiwan High Speed Rail bullet train at the platform with spacious seating. |
WILL: When visiting a new country, figuring out the transportation system can either make your trip smooth… or slightly chaotic. During our recent trip to Taiwan, we realized that although the trains are incredibly efficient, there are actually three different train systems, and each one serves a different purpose.
Once you understand how they work, traveling around Taiwan becomes super easy and enjoyable. Yayyy!! Here’s a simple guide to help you get around.
1. The Taipei MRT (Subway/Metro)
If you’re staying in Taipei, the MRT will be your best friend. It’s the easiest way to hit all the famous spots like Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and those legendary night markets.
• The Cleanliness is Real: It is one of the cleanest systems in the world. Important: No eating, drinking, or even chewing gum is allowed once you pass the gates. The locals are very strict about this!
• The "Priority Seat" Culture: You’ll see dark blue seats reserved for those who need them. Even in a packed train, Americans are often surprised to see these seats left empty out of respect. It's such a beautiful part of the culture!
• How to Pay: Grab an EasyCard at any station or 7-Eleven. It’s a "tap-and-go" card you can also use for snacks and buses. Super easy!
Pro-Tip for Taipei Main Station: This place is a massive underground city. We got lost twice! 😅 If you feel like you're walking in circles, just follow signs for "Street Level" to reset your GPS.
2. Taiwan Railway (TRA / TRC) – Regional & Scenic
The TRA (now called TRC) is the traditional rail that loops around the entire island. We took this from Taipei to Jiaoxi and then to Nangang.
• The Experience: It’s slower than the bullet train but way more scenic.
• The Famous Bento Boxes: Unlike the MRT, you can eat here! You have to try a Railway Bento. It’s a classic Taiwanese experience—usually a pork chop, rice, and veggies in a cute box. Many stations have "vending machines" for drinks on the platform, too.
• Booking: For express trains (like the Puyuma), book your seats online in advance! They sell out fast, especially on weekends.
3. High-Speed Rail (HSR) – The "Bullet Train"
If you’re heading from Taipei down to Chiayi or Kaohsiung, the HSR is the way to go. It’s basically Taiwan’s version of the Japanese Shinkansen.
• Speed: Taipei to Chiayi takes about 90 minutes. It's a total game-changer!
• Standard vs. Business: We skipped Business Class because Standard Class is amazing. The legroom is huge—you can put a large suitcase in front of your feet and still have room to wiggle your toes. (Wink-wink!)
• Vibe: Even if the trains look a little "classic" on the outside, they are squeaky clean and whisper-quiet inside.
4. Alishan Forest Railway – The Bucket List Ride
This is widely considered the most beautiful train ride in Taiwan, but it is the hardest ticket to get. Luckily, Abbey is a booking wizard and handled it for us! 🤗
Is it worth the hype? YES. It makes you feel so small as you wind through giant ancient trees and misty mountain crevasses. You get to see the history of the logging industry and how they used to transport these massive trees.
Travel Hack: Take the train instead of the bus! The mountain roads to Alishan are super "zigzag," and the train is much better if you're prone to motion sickness.
🤫 A Quick Note on "Train Etiquette"
Taiwanese trains are quiet. You’ll notice people don't take phone calls or play videos out loud. It makes the ride so peaceful! Just bring your headphones and enjoy the view.
Taiwan’s trains aren't just a way to get around; they are part of the adventure. Whether you're grabbing a bento on the TRA or flying down the coast on the HSR, you’re going to love it.
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Metro Taipei
(W) https://english.metro.taipei/Default.aspx
Taiwan Regional Railway
(W) https://tip.railway.gov.tw/tra-tip-web/tip?lang=EN_US
Taiwan Highspeed Railway
Alishan Forest Railway
(W) https://afrch.forest.gov.tw/EN
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