Taiwan Train Guide: How to Ride the MRT, TRA, and Bullet Train Like a Local

ABBEY: I admit that the first time I saw the Taiwan railway network map, I was completely intimidated. Like most train maps, it looked like a plate of spaghetti. Lines everywhere, different colors, unfamiliar names. I was so confused that I closed my laptop and decided to deal with it another day. Haha.

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.

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.

***

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

(W) https://en.thsrc.com.tw/

Alishan Forest Railway

(W) https://afrch.forest.gov.tw/EN

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The Real Hogwarts Express: Jacobite Steam Train Review – Magical or Overhyped?

ABBEY: Our adventure began bright and early at 7 AM, as we joined the much-anticipated Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour. The crisp morning air greeted us as we made our way to the meeting point at St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh. Shortly after our tickets were checked, our cozy tour bus pulled in—and just like that, the journey began.

From the start, our tour guides made the trip unforgettable. Far from being dull, they filled our ride with interesting facts, local legends, and witty stories that kept everyone laughing, clapping, and thoroughly entertained.

Our first stop was a charming little town, the perfect place to warm up with a hot cup of coffee. While some of us grabbed caffeine, others took the chance to enjoy a quick breakfast bite. Then, we had a brief but breathtaking stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct—the iconic bridge made famous by the Harry Potter films. Standing there, watching the sweeping curves of the viaduct against the rugged Highland backdrop, felt like stepping into the wizarding world.

As we continued our journey, the Scottish landscape unfolded around us in all its glory—majestic mountains, serene lochs, and cinematic vistas. One of the highlights was catching a glimpse of the film location used as Dumbledore’s grave, nestled quietly in the distance.

By lunchtime, we arrived at the coastal town of Mallaig. We tucked into a hearty serving of traditional fish and chips at Jaffy’s and enjoyed another brew at The Tea Garden Café. The seaside views and fresh Highland air made it a perfect midday break.

Then came the moment we were all waiting for—boarding the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express. As the steam curled into the sky and the whistle blew, it felt like we were truly heading to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Although we didn’t get window seats, the magical atmosphere more than made up for it.

Our cheerful and enthusiastic train conductor made the ride even more enjoyable, sharing stories and pointing out sights like Neptune’s Staircase, a remarkable series of canal locks near Fort William, where our steam train journey ended.

Back on the bus with our Highland guides, we had one more surprise waiting—meeting the adorable Highland Cattle, often affectionately called “emo cows” for their shaggy hair. We even got to feed them before making our way back to Edinburgh.

The Real Hogwarts Express: Jacobite Steam Train Review – Magical or Overhyped?

WILL: If you’re a true Harry Potter fan, the Jacobite Steam Train ride is likely on your UK bucket list. Even for non-fans, this is the exact steam train featured in the first Harry Potter movie — and that alone makes it worth looking into.

So how can you ride the real Hogwarts Express?
Option 1: Do-It-Yourself (DIY Route)
You can travel independently to Fort William or Mallaig, which are the departure and arrival points for the Jacobite Train.

However, there are some drawbacks:
•The journey from London takes about 9 hours by train
•Limited accommodation options in both towns
•The towns themselves are quiet, and not ideal for extended stays
This option can be complicated and requires a lot of planning.

Option 2: Join a Guided Tour from Edinburgh
We chose the Highland Tours experience via GetYourGuide, and it turned out to be the smarter option.

Compared to booking directly, this tour saved us over SGD100 and included convenient transportation from Edinburgh, scenic stops, and entertaining guides.

From the start, guides/bus drivers — Rich and Mat — were both informative and engaging. They kept the mood light and fun throughout the long day trip. It felt like a field trip, complete with stories, music, and a few Harry Potter trivia moments.

Please note:
•The Jacobite Steam Train does not run year-round. It closes during winter and usually resumes service around April.
•We paid SGD641 for two people, not including meals.
•Bus do not have built-in toilet so plan your drinks.

Is It Worth the Price?
➡️Yes, if:
•You’re a Harry Potter fan looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience
•You enjoy scenic rides through the Highlands
•You want to be surrounded by fellow Potter fans and share the excitement

➡️Maybe not, if:
•You expect a luxurious experience or dramatic reenactments
•You’re not familiar with the Harry Potter series and may not connect with the nostalgia

Alternative Option
If the full experience is out of your budget, GetYourGuide also offers tours that stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the iconic bridge featured in the films. You won’t ride the train, but you’ll still capture that postcard-perfect moment.

If you’re still undecided, think of it this way: if you grew up watching Harry Potter, this isn’t just a ride — it’s a small piece of your childhood coming to life.

***

From Edinburgh: Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour

(W) https://gyg.me/38Pye1nz

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Why We Skipped the Plane and Took LNER First Class to Edinburgh

ABBEY: If you’re planning a trip from London to Edinburgh, one of the best ways to travel is by train—and for a truly comfortable experience, we highly recommend booking first-class tickets.

We began our journey at the iconic King’s Cross Station in London. Before boarding, we had access to the First Class Lounge, which offers a lovely view of the trains arriving and departing. The lounge provides light refreshments, including chips, tea, and coffee. While I wasn’t a fan of the coffee’s taste (perhaps something to do with the water), the shortbread cookies were a delicious treat—definitely worth grabbing a few before the ride!

Boarding the train was smooth. We easily found a spot for our luggage and settled into our assigned seats, which were spacious, clean, and comfortable. Shortly after departure, staff came around to check our tickets and offered hot drinks. I’m glad to report that the coffee on board was much better, especially enjoyed with the scenic countryside viewsrolling by the large windows.

For our onboard meal, we were served a roast chicken brioche roll, a tasty option that hit the spot. The onboard toilet facilities, however, were a bit underwhelming and could use some updating—but that was a small drawback in an otherwise pleasant journey.

After nearly five hours, we arrived in Edinburgh, greeted by a light drizzle and chilly air—exactly the kind of weather we had anticipated in this historic and charming city.

If you’re considering train travel between London and Edinburgh, especially in first class, it’s a comfortable and scenic alternative to flying. Plus, it’s a great way to see more of the British countryside while traveling in style.

Why We Skipped the Plane and Took LNER First Class to Edinburgh

WILL: Another trip, another train ride — and yes, I’m still loving it! I don’t know when exactly I fell in love with long train journeys, but I do know that they’ve become one of my favourite ways to travel. Especially when Abbey and I are together.

This time, we needed to get from London to Edinburgh. Flying? Nope. We wanted to avoid the long airport lines, baggage hassles, and all the stress that comes with flying these days. So once again, we turned to the train — and not just any train, but LNER First Class.

There are a few ways to travel this route, but here’s why we picked LNER First Class:

🚫 Sleeper trains were out of the question for us. We’d read too many reviews saying the ride wasn’t comfortable, sleep was impossible, and the toilets — well, let’s not go there. 

🚫 Regular economy class didn’t appeal to us either — crowded carriages and stories of missing bags weren’t very reassuring.

✅ So we chose LNER First Class — and it was the right choice.

Before boarding, we hung out in the LNER lounge. It was a decent waiting space — quiet, clean, and had chips, tea, and coffee. Not exactly luxurious, but still better than standing around at a crowded platform.

Once we got on the train, though, it felt like First Class for real. The seats were spacious and comfortable, and our steward was genuinely cheerful, always walking by with more tea and snacks. There was a calm, relaxed vibe that you don’t usually get in crowded public transport. And yes — the toilet was clean the entire trip! That may seem like a small thing, but on long journeys, it really matters.

What I appreciated most was the peace of mind. I wasn’t worried about my belongings. I didn’t have to deal with overhead luggage bins or people bumping into me. We could just sit back, enjoy the views, sip on tea, and enjoy the ride together.

So, would we travel this way again? Absolutely. And if you’re someone who values comfort, quiet, and a smoother travel experience, I’d definitely recommend LNER First Class.

What about you — have you ever tried this train? Or would you still prefer to fly? Let me know in the comments!

***

LNER - London North Eastern Railway

(W) https://www.lner.co.uk/

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KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

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Inside LNER First Class train from London to Edinburgh, showing spacious seats and calm travel atmosphere