8 Reasons to Get an EasyCard in Taiwan

If you are planning a trip to Taiwan, you have probably come across the EasyCard and wondered if it is actually worth getting.

I had the exact same question before I arrived. But after landing in Taipei, exhausted from a long flight and standing in Taoyuan Airport trying to figure out tickets while a queue built up behind me, I realised very quickly that I should have sorted this out in advance.

After using an EasyCard across Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, I can confidently say it is one of the easiest ways to get around Taiwan without worrying about tickets, language barriers or slowing yourself down.

I’ve used transport cards in places like London and across Europe, but Taiwan’s EasyCard was by far one of the simplest systems I’ve used as a traveller.

I will show you exactly where to buy an EasyCard in Taiwan (including the easiest option), how much it costs and whether you actually need one for your trip.

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Is an EasyCard in Taiwan worth it? 

Short answer: yes, an EasyCard in Taiwan is worth it for almost all travellers, especially if you plan to use public transport more than a couple of times.

If you are short on time, here are the biggest reasons I found it completely worth having:

• it works across all transport in Taiwan
• it saves you time every single day
• it removes language barriers
• it works across multiple cities without any extra effort
• and you can even use it in convenience stores

I’ll break each of these down properly below.

What is an EasyCard?

An EasyCard in Taiwan is essentially the main Taiwan transport card used by both locals and tourists to get around cities quickly. 

If you want the full breakdown of how it works and where it’s accepted, you can check the official EasyCard website for more details.

It is a rechargeable contactless card that you can use for public transport and small purchases across the country.

If you are from the UK, the easiest way to think about it is like using an Oyster card in London. You tap in and out of stations, load credit onto the card, and use it across different types of transport without needing separate tickets.

The difference is that I found using an EasyCard in Taiwan much easier overall. The transport is cheaper, the trains are noticeably cleaner and the whole system feels more straightforward to navigate, especially as a visitor. I can only imagine how tough the London Underground is for tourists to navigate.

You can use the EasyCard for:

• MRT systems like Taipei and Kaohsiung
• Buses across cities including Taichung
• Convenience stores like 7 Eleven and FamilyMart
• Some taxis and tourist attractions

When I first tapped mine through the MRT gates, it felt just like being back in London, but without the stress of fares or overcrowded platforms. 

No language barrier, no guessing prices, just tap and go.

Where to buy an EasyCard in Taiwan

If you are wondering where to buy an EasyCard in Taiwan, you have three main options: the airport, MRT stations or convenience stores.

After trying this myself, I can tell you that where you buy it can make a big difference to how smooth your arrival is.

Buy at the airport (easiest for first-time visitors)

The most convenient place to get your EasyCard is right after landing at Taoyuan Airport.

You can buy one at:

• Airport MRT stations
• Service counters inside the terminal

This is what I wish I had done.

Instead, I landed late, felt completely exhausted, and ended up standing around trying to figure out where to go while people moved past me like they knew exactly what they were doing.

If you land during busy hours, queues can build up quickly, so having a plan here really helps.

Best for: First-time visitors, late arrivals, avoiding stress.

Buy at MRT stations (easy once you’re in the city)

You can also buy an EasyCard at any major MRT station in Taiwan, especially in Taipei and Kaohsiung.

This works well if:

• you already know your way around
• you arrive during quieter hours

But if you are fresh off a flight, navigating ticket areas and machines can feel more overwhelming than it should.

Buy at convenience stores (most flexible option)

You can get an EasyCard from:

• 7 Eleven
• FamilyMart
• Hi-Life
• OK Mart

This is actually the most common option locals use.

I ended up topping mine up at 7 Eleven multiple times during my trip, and it was always quick and easy.

That said, if there is a queue, it can take longer than just tapping straight into the MRT with a card ready to go.

Order online before you go (smoothest arrival)

If you want the easiest possible start to your trip, ordering your EasyCard in advance is honestly the best option.

After my experience arriving tired and unsure where to go, this is what I would do next time without hesitation.

It means you can:

• skip queues completely
• head straight to the train
• avoid figuring things out while jet-lagged

If your flight arrives late or you just want a stress-free start, I would strongly recommend getting it sorted in advance.

EasyCard Taiwan price

The EasyCard Taiwan price is very affordable:

• NT$100 for the card (around £2.50)
• plus whatever credit you choose to load

You can top it up anytime at MRT stations or convenience stores, which makes it very flexible for travel.

If you want the easiest option, especially after a long flight, I’d recommend buying it in advance so you can head straight into the city.

When NOT to get an EasyCard in Taiwan

As much as I loved using an EasyCard in Taiwan, there are a few situations where you might not actually need one.

If you are only staying in Taipei for a very short trip

If you are in Taipei for just a day or two and planning to stick to a small area, you might just get by without it.

The MRT is easy to navigate, and buying single tickets is straightforward enough if you are only using it a couple of times.

That said, I still found the convenience worth it even for a short stay. After a long flight, the last thing I wanted was to figure out ticket machines while people queued behind me.

If you are mostly using tours or private transport

On part of my trip, we hired a driver for a day when visiting places outside Taipei.

In that case, I barely used my EasyCard at all that day.

If your Taiwan itinerary is packed with guided tours, airport transfers or private drivers, you will not get much value from it.

If you prefer using cash for everything

Taiwan is still very cash-friendly, especially in smaller shops and markets.

If you are someone who prefers to manage spending with cash only, you might find yourself defaulting to that instead of using the card for convenience stores or transport.

Personally, I liked having both options. I used my EasyCard mainly for transport and quick purchases, and cash for everything else.

The reality

Even with all of this, I still think most travellers will benefit from getting one.

It is one of those small upgrades that removes friction from your trip, especially when you are tired, navigating a new place, or moving between cities.

But if your trip is very short, highly structured, or mostly private transport-based, it is not essential.

EasyCard vs iPass: Which should you get?

If you’ve been researching transport in Taiwan, you’ve probably seen both the EasyCard and iPass and wondered if there’s actually a difference.

The short answer is: not much.

Both cards now work across Taiwan, but the EasyCard is the simpler and more widely used option, especially for visitors.

Originally, the EasyCard was used in Taipei and the iPass in Kaohsiung. But that’s no longer the case. Today, both are accepted across most transport systems, buses and convenience stores nationwide.

What’s the difference?

In practical terms, there isn’t much.

Both cards can be used for:

• MRT systems in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung
• buses across Taiwan
• convenience stores like 7 Eleven and FamilyMart

In everyday use, they feel almost identical.

Why I recommend the EasyCard

The main reason I recommend getting an EasyCard in Taiwan is simply because it is the most widely recognised option for travellers.

It is easy to find at airports, MRT stations and convenience stores, and it is the one you will see mentioned most often.

When I arrived, I didn’t even come across the iPass as an option. Everything pointed towards the EasyCard, and it worked everywhere I needed it to without any issues.

Does it really matter which one you choose?

Not really.

If you already have access to an iPass, you can absolutely use it.

But if you are deciding from scratch, the EasyCard is the easiest, most straightforward option, especially for a first trip to Taiwan.

If you want a simple, no-thinking-needed choice, go with the EasyCard.

1. You can use it across all transport in Taiwan

The biggest reason I recommend getting an EasyCard in Taiwan is how seamlessly it works across different cities and transport systems.

I didn’t fully appreciate this until I was standing in Kaohsiung, trying to figure out if I needed a different ticket after arriving from Taipei.

In most countries, that’s exactly what happens. New city, new system, new confusion.

But here, I just tapped my EasyCard and walked straight through.

No new machines. No figuring out fares. No second-guessing if I was doing it right.

I used the same card on the Taipei MRT, buses in Taichung and the metro in Kaohsiung.

And every time, it worked exactly the same way.

That consistency made a bigger difference than I expected. When you are moving between cities, the last thing you want is to relearn how transport works each time.

The real benefit isn’t just convenience, it’s mental energy.

Instead of thinking about tickets, I could focus on where I was going next.

That kind of flexibility means you don’t have to stop and figure things out every time you arrive somewhere new, especially if you are following my guides like:

• 40+ Unique Things to Do in Taipei for First Time Visitors
• Things to Do in Kaohsiung for First Time Visitors
• Things to Do in Taichung We Wish We Had More Time For

If you are in Kaohsiung, be sure to check out Formosa Boulevard Station to see the beautiful Dome of Light. It’s one of those places you might not think to visit, but is sure to be one of your favourite metro stops.

My experience on the MRT

The Taipei MRT is incredibly easy to use, but only if you are not fumbling with tickets.

With an EasyCard in Taiwan, I just tapped in and out without thinking. It made navigating busy stations like Taipei Main Station feel far less stressful when moving between stops.

People are super helpful across Taiwan too, so if you’re unsure about whether you’re about to get on the train in the right direction – just ask. There are information desks at most stations, but the other passengers are friendly and helpful too.

It honestly felt like using the London Underground with an Oyster card, just cleaner, calmer and much easier to navigate as a visitor.

2. It works seamlessly alongside Taiwan’s high speed rail

This was something I did not fully appreciate until I started travelling between cities.

While you still need a separate ticket for the high speed rail, using an EasyCard in Taiwan makes everything around it easier. I used mine to get to and from stations in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung without needing to think twice.

The first time we took the HSR, we were travelling by taxi from Jiaoxi Hot Springs back to Taipei to catch our train to Taichung.

We got stuck in so much traffic that we genuinely thought we were going to miss it.

At the last minute, our driver diverted to a different station, and instead of trying to figure out tickets or machines, we just tapped our EasyCard and jumped straight onto a local train.

That one decision saved us.

We made the HSR with minutes to spare, and it was only possible because we didn’t have to stop and think about how to get there.

That’s where the EasyCard really makes a difference, it keeps everything moving when plans don’t go perfectly.

3. It saves you time every single day

I didn’t realise how much time an EasyCard in Taiwan would save until I saw the alternative.

At Taipei Main Station, I watched a couple in front of me trying to use the ticket machine. They were switching between languages, tapping the screen, cancelling, starting again. 

This was us, when we had just landed in Taipei – confused.

Meanwhile, I just tapped my EasyCard and walked straight through the gates.

It took maybe two seconds, compared to a few minutes at the machine.

That might not sound like much, but when you are using transport multiple times a day, it adds up quickly.

Over the course of my trip, it meant:

• no queues at ticket machines
• no slowing down during busy hours
• no stress when rushing for a train

And that’s what really matters when you are travelling.

Because those small delays are the things that turn into missed trains, crowded platforms, or just unnecessary frustration.

It’s not just about saving time, it’s about avoiding those small delays that throw off your entire day. This will be particularly useful if you are following a packed plan like my 3 Days in Taipei itinerary for first-time visitors.

If your flight arrives late like mine did, I’d honestly recommend getting your EasyCard sorted in advance so you can skip the queues and head straight into the city.

4. You can use it for food and convenience stores

This is where using an EasyCard in Taiwan surprised me the most.

I started using mine in 7 Eleven for quick snacks and drinks.

In Taichung, I grabbed a pastry in the morning before heading out for the day, tapped my card and walked out in seconds. No coins, no fuss.

You can use it for:

• Snacks and drinks
• Ready meals
• Bottled water when you are out exploring

When you are travelling all day, it saves you from constantly reaching for coins or slowing down when you’re in the middle of exploring places like Longshan Temple or hopping between cities.

5. It helps you budget better

Because it is a prepaid card, you load a set amount and use it as you go.

I found having an EasyCard really helpful for keeping track of my spending across multiple cities. 

I noticed this most in Taipei, where I would have been constantly pulling out coins otherwise. Instead, I just topped up my EasyCard when needed, every few days. It kept things simple and meant I never overspent without noticing.

6. It works across multiple cities without thinking

One of the biggest benefits of using an EasyCard in Taiwan is that it just works wherever you go.

When I arrived in Kaohsiung, I expected to need a different system, but it worked in exactly the same way without any extra thought. 

That consistency means you can move between cities without having to relearn how everything works. Perfect for if you follow my 1-3 day Kaohsiung itinerary after travelling from the north.

7. It removes language barriers

I remember staring at one of the ticket machines when we first landed, switching languages and still not being sure I’d selected the right option.

Taiwan is incredibly traveller friendly, but there are still moments where things can feel confusing, especially with ticket machines.

I even noticed things like umbrella rental stands in most MRT stations, which just shows how easy they make it to get around, even when the weather turns (which it frequently does!)

London needs to take note!

Using an EasyCard in Taiwan removes that completely. You do not need to:

• Select the right ticket type
• Worry about correct change
• Navigate unfamiliar machines

You just tap and go.

It’s not to say don’t interact with the locals, because that is one of my favourite things to do when I travel.

But this simplicity is exactly what you need sometimes.

8. It makes a surprisingly great souvenir

This was something I did not expect – because I’m not one for traditional souvenirs (or tat, as I like to call it) in any form.

By the end of my trip, my EasyCard in Taiwan had basically become a little keepsake of everywhere I had been. I used it across Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, tapping in and out of stations, grabbing coffees and hopping on buses without thinking.

EasyCards often come in different designs, and some are honestly quite unique or cute. But even a standard one ends up feeling personal because of how much you rely on it during your trip.

Mine now sits in my travel box at home, and every time I see it, it reminds me of:

• navigating the MRT in Taipei for the first time
• early mornings grabbing coffee in Taichung
• arriving in Kaohsiung ready to explore somewhere new

It is a small step that makes a big difference once you land and it might even end up being one of your favourite little souvenirs from Taiwan.

Common mistakes when using an EasyCard in Taiwan

Even though using an EasyCard in Taiwan is incredibly simple, there are a few small mistakes that can catch you off guard if it’s your first time.

Forgetting to tap out

This is probably the easiest mistake to make.

I nearly did this once when leaving a busy MRT station in Taipei, following the crowd and not paying attention.

If you don’t tap out properly, you can get charged incorrectly or run into issues the next time you use your card.

Running out of balance at the worst time

There is nothing worse than getting to the gates and realising your card doesn’t have enough credit.

I got into the habit of checking my balance/topping mine up at 7 Eleven whenever I saw one, just to avoid this.

Luckily, convenience stores are everywhere, so it’s an easy fix.

Assuming it works for everything

While the EasyCard works in a lot of places, it doesn’t cover everything.

For example, you still need a separate ticket for Taiwan’s high speed rail.

Once you know these small things, using an EasyCard in Taiwan is incredibly straightforward.

And honestly, even with these minor quirks, it’s still one of the easiest transport systems I’ve used anywhere.

EasyCard in Taiwan FAQs

Is an EasyCard in Taiwan worth it?

Yes, an EasyCard in Taiwan is absolutely worth it if you plan to use public transport even a few times.

I used mine across Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, and it saved me time every single day. 

Instead of buying individual tickets, you can just tap in and out, which makes getting around much easier, especially in busy stations.

It is one of those small things that makes your whole trip smoother.

Can tourists use an EasyCard in Taiwan?

Yes, tourists can easily use an EasyCard in Taiwan.

There is no registration needed. You simply buy the card, top it up and start using it straight away on MRT systems, buses and even in convenience stores.

I found it especially helpful as a visitor because it removes any language barriers when buying tickets.

Where can I use an EasyCard in Taiwan?

You can use an EasyCard in Taiwan for most types of public transport and everyday purchases.

This includes:

• MRT systems in Taipei and Kaohsiung
• Buses in cities like Taichung
• Convenience stores such as 7 Eleven and FamilyMart
• Some taxis and tourist attractions such as Taipei Zoo, Maokong Gondola, Yehliu GeoPark (which I did not realise on my day trip to Jiufen from Taipei) and several museums

I personally used mine multiple times a day across different cities without ever needing another transport card.

Can you use EasyCard on Taiwan high speed rail?

You cannot use an EasyCard in Taiwan to pay for high speed rail tickets directly.

However, it is still incredibly useful when travelling between cities. I used mine to get to and from HSR stations in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung without needing separate tickets for local transport.

If you are planning to travel between cities, it works perfectly alongside the high speed rail.

How much does an EasyCard in Taiwan cost?

The EasyCard Taiwan price is very affordable; NT$100 (or slightly more for special, limited-edition or souvenir cards) and it comes with zero balance. That is approximately £2.50.

You can then add credit as you go. 

The amount you spend depends on how often you use public transport, but overall it is much cheaper than many transport systems in Europe.

I found it very budget friendly, even when using it multiple times a day.

How do you top up an EasyCard in Taiwan?

You can top up an EasyCard in Taiwan at MRT stations and convenience stores.

I usually topped mine up at 7 Eleven because it was quick and easy. You simply hand over your card, tell them how much you want to add and pay.

It takes less than a minute, which makes it very convenient when you are out exploring.

Tips for using an EasyCard in Taiwan

If you are unsure how to use EasyCard Taiwan systems, do not worry. It works the same way everywhere, just tap in and out.

Keep it topped up

You can top up at MRT stations and convenience stores. I tried to do it before I went out to avoid any delays – you will pass convenience stores everywhere!

Check your balance

Most stations have machines where you can quickly check how much is left.

Do not worry about exact fares

The system calculates everything automatically, which makes life so much easier. I didn’t even think about it once I’d topped it up.

Should you get an EasyCard in Taiwan?

For me, it was one of the easiest yes decisions of my trip.

Using an EasyCard in Taiwan across Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung made getting around effortless, saved me time every day, and worked seamlessly alongside longer journeys on the high speed rail.

After using it multiple times a day across three cities, it quickly became something I relied on without even thinking.

If you are planning to explore more than one city, it becomes even more valuable.

How to make your trip easier

If your flight lands late or you just want to avoid figuring things out when you arrive, you can grab your EasyCard here and head straight into the city.

If you are anything like me, you will be very glad you sorted it before standing in a busy MRT station after a long flight, wondering what to do next.

Found this guide to the EasyCard in Taiwan useful? PIN IT!

Read more about planning a trip to Taiwan:

• The Ultimate 2 Weeks in Taiwan Itinerary for First Time Visitors
• 40+ Unique Things to Do in Taipei for First Time Visitors
• How To Participate in Secret Fortune Telling at Longshan Temple Taipei
• Day Trip to Jiufen: Is it Worth it & How to Plan the Perfect Day
• 3 Days in Taipei: The Best Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• Jiaoxi Hot Springs: What It’s Really Like + Is It Worth Visiting?
• Things to Do in Taichung We Wish We Had More Time For
• Where to Stay in Taichung: Le Méridien Taichung Review
• Sun Moon Lake Guide for First Time Visitors in Taiwan
• Shangri-La Far Eastern Tainan Review A Luxury Stay Without the Price Tag
• Things to Do in Kaohsiung for First Time Visitors
• Kaohsiung Itinerary: 1–3 Days (Easy 2 Day Plan + What to Skip)
• 8 Reasons to Get an EasyCard in Taiwan
• How to Use the Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) Guide