Ultimate Guide to Taiwan TPASS 2023
You must be wondering what this newly found card system is taking place in Taiwan. Well, I was skeptical at first, why would we want to pay NTD 1,200 every month to use Taipei’s public transport? Does this subscription-type fee work well with travelers and locals?
I have been living in Taipei for a few years and commute daily using buses, which in some cases are cheaper than the MRT. I decided to try Taipei TPASS for 1 month to see whether it is worth it.
Here I will discuss the benefits of using Taipei TPASS as a traveler and resident for everyday transportation based on my own experiences. In this guide you will know the pros and cons, aswell as decide whether Taiwan TPASS is the best choice for you.
>> If this is your first time in Taiwan, then consider my ultimate 3 day Taipei itinerary guide to help you navigate your way through Taipei. <<
What is Taiwan TPASS?
TPASS is a convenient travel card designed primarily for local residents and long-term visitors in Taiwan. This card offers unlimited access to a wide range of public transportation options, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to commute to Taiwan’s diverse regions and cities.
Did you know that the Taipei Monthly Pass (generation before TPASS) costs NT$1,280 and provides unlimited MRT and bus rides only in New Taipei and Taipei cities?
With TPASS, you gain unrestricted access to various modes of public transportation, including:
Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): The MRT, often referred to as the subway, is a key component of TPASS, allowing you to navigate major cities and their surrounding areas seamlessly.
Taiwan Railway Association (TRA): This includes local train services, allowing you to easily navigate different parts of Taiwan.
YouBike: TPASS provides access to the YouBike system, which offers a convenient way to explore urban areas on two wheels.
Buses: TPASS covers both intercity and city bus services, making it easier to travel between different regions and explore local attractions.
Light Rail Transit (LRT): TPASS includes above-ground transit systems, such as light rail, providing efficient transportation within certain areas.
Ferries: TPASS extends its coverage to include certain ferry routes to outlying islands, enhancing your ability to explore Taiwan’s beautiful coastal destinations.
>> It’s important to note that TPASS is valid for a duration of 30 days from the date of activation. If you plan to stay longer or continue exploring, you’ll need to renew your pass. <<
Did you know the “T” in TPASS represents both “Taiwan” and “Transport,” some might wonder why it’s not called “TTPASS”, but the Ministry of Transportation officially named it TPASS and launched this card on July 1, 2023.
Initially available in 11 cities and counties with high commuter activity, efforts are underway to expand its coverage to include even more regions, further enhancing its utility for travelers and residents alike.
Now that you got the basics down, let’s get on which how much does TPASS cost in different regions of Taiwan:
How much is Taiwan TPASS?
If you are in Taipei, you would need to pay NT$1,200 for the Northern TPASS. Do keep in mind that depending on which region you are at, the pricing will differ:
| Region | Price | Available Public Transportation |
| Keelung City, New Taipei City, Taipei City, Taoyuan City version | TWD1,200 | Bus, Long-distance bus, MRT, Taiwan Railway, YouBike |
| Taichung City, Miaoli City, Changhua City, Nantou City version | Taichung Citizen: TWD 299 Non-Taichung Citizen: TWD 599 | Bus, MRT, Taiwan Railway, YouBike |
| Taichung City, Miaoli City, Changhua City, Nantou City social circles | Taichung Citizen: TWD 699 Non-Taichung Citizen: TWD 999 | Bus, Long-distance bus, MRT, Taiwan Railway, YouBike |
| Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Pingtung City version | Bus, YouBike only: TWD 299 Railway, Bus, YouBike only: TWD 399 | Bus, MRT, Taiwan Railway, YouBike |
| Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Pingtung City social circles | TWD 999 | Bus, Long-distance bus, MRT, Taiwan Railway, YouBike |
>> Each TPASS you purchase is specific to the region where you make the purchase, ensuring that you can efficiently use it in your chosen area. <<
Where to Buy Taiwan TPASS
You can obtain a TPASS by purchasing it outright, or you can link it to your EasyCard (this is what I did). Go to the Top Up Machines in any MRT stations and where you usually would add value to your EasyCard, there will be a new option to upgrade the card to TPASS by adding NT$1200 inside the card.
If you don’t have an EasyCard already, you’ll need to pay NT$100 for an empty card in addition to NT$1,200. The easiest way is to go to the Information Desks situated in any MRT station, where you can choose cute card designs!
EasyCard has various unique designs to it and almost every station will either sell a different design or sell out. I recommend buying it at the Taoyuan Airport first if it is your first time in Taiwan.
You can also buy them at these places:
North TPASS
Central TPASS
South TPASS
>> If you are looking for places to visit in Taipei, then consider reading my guide on the best old streets in Taipei that are waived with TPASS.
TPASS Vs EasyCard
Now you might be asking what’s the different between the two? I will try to differentiate the two as clear as possible:
TPASS
It’s like an all-you-can-ride pass for 30 days, which is fantastic if you’re a local or planning an extended stay.
You can breeze through Taiwan Railway Association (TRA) trains, cruise on YouBike (although not unlimited here), hop on intercity and city buses, glide on light rail transit (LRT), zip through the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway, and even catch certain ferries to outlying islands. It’s an adventure waiting to happen!
But, there’s a catch. TPASS is region-specific, so choose wisely when you buy it. You can’t use it everywhere. Also, once those 30 days are up, TPASS turns into a pumpkin, and you’ll need to renew it if you want to keep the magic going. No topping up, no refunds for unused travel credits – it’s a bit like a time-limited Disneyland pass, thrilling while it lasts.
Normal EasyCard
Now, let’s talk about the regular EasyCard. It is widely used for navigating Taiwan’s public transportation, especially in Taipei.
The best part? You can recharge it with more credit whenever it’s running low. So, it’s not a one-and-done deal. If you find yourself back in Taipei within those two years, your EasyCard is ready to roll.
What if you’ve got some travel credits left when your adventures come to an end? No problem! Head over to the metro ticket office, and they’ll give you a refund – well, almost. There’s a small NT$20 administrative fee, but it’s a small price to pay for the flexibility of your trusty EasyCard.
Is TPASS Worth It? Who Benefits?
Now the question we have been waiting for, is it actually worth it? The TPASS is like a tool in your toolbox – it’s fantastic if you’re going to use it, but not necessary if you don’t need it. In other words, it’s most valuable for those who rely on public transportation every day, like residents and regular commuters.
If you’re a tourist, the TPASS might catch your eye, but before you rush to get one, let’s break it down.
For Locals and Long-Term Visitors:
If you’re a local or plan to stay in Taiwan for an extended period, TPASS can be a game-changer. It offers 30 days of unlimited travel within your chosen region – a sweet deal if you’re hopping on buses, trains, and subways regularly. It’s like having a golden ticket to explore your surroundings without constantly reaching for your wallet.
For Tourists:
Now, if you’re a tourist, the TPASS may not be your best bet. Here’s the deal – before you decide, plan your entire trip. Note down every bus ride, subway journey, and ferry trip you intend to take. Then, do some quick math to estimate the total cost.
Once you’ve got that number, compare it to the TPASS price for your specific region. If the pass saves you money compared to paying for each ride separately, it might be worth it. But if you plan to travel for less than 30 days, you are better off using the Taipei Fun Pass, an unlimited pass suited for travelers.
So, for tourists, it’s all about doing your homework and figuring out whether TPASS or paying as-you-go is the better deal. It might not be straightforward, but it’s all part of the adventure!
Conclusion: Is it worth it to buy TPASS?
It depends. If you are a traveler and won’t be staying for at least 30 days, then it is a no-go, instead, go for Taipei Fun Pass (more suited for travelers).
If you are a student in Taiwan or a resident, then you might want to consider whether TPASS is a good choice for you. NT$1,200 for 30 days worth of commute is pretty decent considering you use the MRT on a daily basis.
I hope that this guide will give a better understand of Taiwan TPASS and answer your question about whether you should buy it or not.
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