EasyCard vs iPASS – Which Transport Card to Buy in Taiwan
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
If you’re heading to Taiwan, you’ll quickly discover that the most convenient way to pay for transport, convenience stores, and even some attractions is by using a rechargeable smart card. The two main options are the EasyCard and the iPASS. Both are popular, widely accepted, and tourist-friendly—but which one should you buy?
How to use Taiwan High Speed Rail as a tourist
How to use Taiwan High Speed Rail as a tourist
Taiwan’s High Speed Rail (HSR) is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to explore the island. Stretching along the western coast from Taipei in the north to Kaohsiung in the south, the HSR connects major cities in just a fraction of the time it would take by car or conventional train. For tourists, it’s a game-changer—whether you’re planning a short city break, a full island loop, or a return trip to hidden gems.
Why Take the Taiwan High Speed Rail?
- Speed and Efficiency: Travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung (over 345 km) in about 90 minutes.
- Comfort: Spacious seating, luggage storage, clean facilities, and air-conditioned trains.
- Punctuality: Delays are extremely rare, making it reliable for time-sensitive itineraries.
- Scenic Access: Many stations connect seamlessly to metro lines, local trains, and buses.
Planning Your Trip
1. Buying Tickets
You can buy HSR tickets:
- Online via the official Taiwan High Speed Rail website, app, or partner platforms like Klook or KKday (these often include discounts or tourist passes).
- At stations from ticket counters or vending machines.
- With a travel pass: Consider the Taiwan High Speed Rail Tourist Pass, which allows unlimited travel for 2 or 3 consecutive days.
💡 Insider Tip: Book in advance for weekends and holidays—trains sell out quickly.
2. Costs
- Taipei → Taichung: ~NT$700 (US$22) one way, ~1 hour.
- Taipei → Tainan: ~NT$1,350 (US$42) one way, ~1.5 hours.
- Taipei → Kaohsiung (Zuoying Station): ~NT$1,490 (US$46) one way, ~1.5 hours.
Discounts are often available if you book 5–28 days in advance or use early-bird deals.
3. Seating
- Standard class: Comfortable with reserved seating.
- Business class: Wider seats, more legroom, complimentary snacks and drinks.
- Non-reserved cars: Cheaper, but first come, first served.
How to Use the HSR as a Tourist
- At the Station
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early. Stations are large but well-signed in English.
- Ticket gates work like Japan’s Shinkansen—tap your ticket or QR code.
- On Board
- Keep your ticket for inspection.
- Food, drinks, and bento boxes are available from trolleys or station kiosks.
- Free Wi-Fi and power outlets are available on most trains.
- Connections
- Taipei Main Station, Taichung, Tainan, and Zuoying are linked to metro systems.
- Shuttle buses or local trains connect to tourist attractions like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, or Tainan’s temples.
Suggested HSR Itineraries
- Day Trip from Taipei to Taichung
- Visit the National Taichung Theater, Rainbow Village, and Gaomei Wetlands.
- Two Days in Tainan
- Taiwan’s oldest city, famous for its temples, street food, and history.
- Weekend in Kaohsiung
- Explore the Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, and take a ferry to Cijin Island.
💡 Hidden Gem Tip: From Hsinchu Station, rent a bike and ride around the Hakka villages and rice terraces—a less touristy slice of Taiwan.
Tours and Passes
Many tour operators combine HSR tickets with local sightseeing:
- HSR + Sun Moon Lake: Bundle includes round-trip train tickets and shuttle buses.
- HSR + Alishan: A popular package for nature lovers, with hotel pick-up and mountain transport.
- HSR Multi-City Passes: Ideal for those who want to explore multiple cities within 2–3 days.
Platforms like Musement, Klook, and Viator sell these bundles in English, making them tourist-friendly and often cheaper than booking separately.
Insider Tips for Tourists
- Travel light: Overhead racks and luggage compartments are available, but they fill quickly.
- Avoid rush hours: Early morning and evening trains are busiest with commuters.
- Pair with EasyCard or iPASS: These transit cards work seamlessly with local buses and metros at your destination.
- Download the HSR app: Live timetables, seat selection, and mobile tickets.
- Weather watch: Summer typhoons can cause occasional disruptions—check updates before traveling.
Final Thoughts
For first-time visitors, the Taiwan High Speed Rail is the fastest way to see more of the island without the stress of domestic flights or long bus journeys. For repeat travelers, it’s a springboard to uncover hidden corners of Taiwan—from bustling Taichung art districts to tranquil southern beaches.
Whether you’re riding for just a day or planning a multi-stop adventure, the HSR makes travel in Taiwan not only practical but part of the experience itself.
Quick Picks: Book Trusted Tours & Tickets
- Museum/attraction tickets: Check availability on Tiqets
- Guided day trips: See options on Viator
- City highlights & food tours: Find tours on Musement
FAQ
Is English widely spoken?
A: In major cities and tourist areas, yes. Carry hotel cards and use translation apps for taxis and rural areas.
Do I need cash?
A: Cards are common, but small eats and rural buses may be cash‑only. ATMs are easy to find.
What’s the best transport card?
A: EasyCard and iPASS both work on most public transport and convenience stores—buy whichever you see first.
Is Taiwan safe for solo travellers?
A: Very safe. Use standard city smarts and keep an eye on personal items in crowded night markets.
How far in advance should I book tours?
A: Popular day trips and high‑demand dates (festivals, weekends) can sell out—book 1–2 weeks ahead when possible.
Published 2025-08-27 on UnusedRooms.com
Traditional tea houses in Jiufen – where to sip with a view
Traditional Tea Houses in Jiufen – Where to Sip with a View
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Perched on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most atmospheric destinations. Known for its lantern-lit alleyways and old mining history, Jiufen is also famous for its traditional tea houses. These spots combine Taiwan’s tea culture with breathtaking views of the mountains and sea. Here are the best places to sip tea in Jiufen, plus practical tips to make the most of your visit.
Best museums to visit in Taipei for a rainy day
1. National Palace Museum
One of the world’s premier collections of Chinese imperial artifacts—from jade carvings to intricate scrolls. A truly indoor escape to dive into thousands of years of history.
With nearly 700,000 pieces, you could easily spend 2–3 hours or more exploring.
Located in Shilin—reachable via MRT plus a short bus or shuttle ride.
2. Taipei Fine Arts Museum
Contemporary art lovers, this is your stop. Home to the famous Taipei Biennial, and features rotating global and local exhibitions.
Located in Zhongshan District, easily accessible via MRT.
3. National Taiwan Museum
Charming and imaginative—featuring miniature models from fairy tales to architectural wonders, plus the world’s smallest working TV.Taipei Travel GeekWikipedia
Cozy, indoor and perfect if you’re looking for something unique.
5. Beitou Museum & Tittot Glass Art Museum
In Beitou’s historic spa area, the Beitou Museum (a restored Japanese-era building) houses folk and Aboriginal art.Travels With Elle+7Lonely Planet+7Alamy+7Palmera+3Wikipedia+3yesyoucan.info+3
Nearby, the Tittot Glass Art Museum showcases live glasswork in an intimate setting.WikipediaCombine with a hot spring soak for a relaxing rainy-day experience.
Why These Work for Rainy Days
Fully indoors: Ideal for avoiding downpours.
Diverse appeals: From centuries-old artifacts to tiny models and avant-garde art.
Accessible via MRT: Rain-friendly and easy to reach.
Suggested Rainy-Day Museum Crawl
| Destination | Best For |
|---|---|
| National Palace Museum | Iconic collection; rich cultural immersion (North Taipei day trip option) |
| Taipei Fine Arts Museum | Contemporary art & rotating exhibits |
| Miniatures Museum + National Taiwan Museum | Unique, playful, and history-rich for families |
| Beitou area combo | Culture + relaxation with museum and hot springs nearby |
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Dragon Boat Festival in Taiwan – what to expect
The Dragon Boat Festival (端午節, Duānwǔ Jié) is one of Taiwan’s most exciting and colourful traditional celebrations. It’s held annually on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (usually in May or June) and combines thrilling dragon boat races with cultural rituals and festive foods. Whether you’re in Taipei, Kaohsiung, or a smaller riverside town, here’s what you can expect.
🐉 The Origins
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Commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in protest against corruption over 2,000 years ago.
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Villagers raced their boats to save him and threw rice dumplings into the water to keep fish away—traditions that live on in the form of dragon boat races and zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
🚣 What to See and Do
1. Dragon Boat Races
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The festival’s highlight, with ornately painted longboats racing to the beat of pounding drums.
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Top places to watch:
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Taipei – Dajia Riverside Park on the Keelung River.
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Kaohsiung – Love River, famous for its night races with illuminated boats.
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Lukang & Tainan – traditional southern celebrations with strong community spirit.
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2. Try Zongzi (Sticky Rice Dumplings)
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Pyramid-shaped dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.
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Fillings vary by region: pork belly, salted egg yolk, mushrooms, peanuts, or sweet red bean.
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Families often make and share them as part of the celebration.
3. Balancing Eggs at Noon
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A fun folk custom where people try to stand a raw egg upright at midday, said to bring luck for the year ahead.
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Easy to join in—kids especially love this tradition!
4. Folk Performances & Rituals
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Expect lion dances, temple fairs, and offerings to ward off evil spirits.
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In some towns, locals hang mugwort and calamus on doors for protection.
📍 Where to Experience the Festival
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Taipei: Dajia Riverside Park – large-scale races with international teams.
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Kaohsiung: Love River – night races, fireworks, and carnival atmosphere.
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Tainan & Lukang: Smaller, authentic festivals with strong local traditions.
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Hualien & Taitung: Coastal celebrations with indigenous cultural performances.
🚆 Getting Around
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Taipei: Easy MRT access to Dajia Riverside Park.
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Kaohsiung: MRT Orange Line → Yanchengpu Station, then walk to Love River.
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Other towns: TRA trains connect Lukang, Tainan, and Hualien with ease.
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Tours: Many operators run Dragon Boat Festival day tours with transport, guides, and reserved viewing areas.
🏨 Where to Stay
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Taipei: Zhongshan or Ximending for central access to races.
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Kaohsiung: Riverside hotels with Love River views.
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Tainan: Boutique inns near temples and historic lanes.
🎟️ Best Bookable Tours
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Dragon Boat Festival Cultural Day Tour (Viator)
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Taipei Food & Festival Experience (Klook)
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Kaohsiung Night Dragon Boat Race & Market Tour (Musement)
💡 Insider Tips
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Arrive early: Popular races get crowded—secure your spot along the riverbanks.
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Stay hydrated: Taiwan’s summer heat can be intense.
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Respect local traditions: Festivals often include temple rituals—observe respectfully.
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Try regional zongzi: Each area has its own flavour—don’t miss the chance to sample!
✨ Final Thoughts
The Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most thrilling times to visit Taiwan. With its mix of high-energy races, traditional food, and folk culture, it offers travellers a perfect chance to dive into local life.
Whether you’re cheering at Taipei’s Keelung River, strolling Kaohsiung’s Love River at night, or enjoying zongzi with locals in a smaller town, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of one of Taiwan’s most colourful celebrations.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Pingxi Lantern Festival – dates, tips, how to go
- The festival returns on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Pingxi Junior High School, celebrating under the theme “Golden Snake Brings Prosperity”—a nod to the Year of the Snake.Edison Tours+10Taiwan Travel Blog+10Culture Trip+10AP News+6New Taipei City Travel+6New Taipei City Travel+6
- A second mass lantern release will unfold on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 (the Lantern Festival, marking the 15th day of Lunar New Year), at Shifen Square, themed “Golden Snake Spreads Love”.Take your Backpack+6New Taipei City Travel+6New Taipei City Travel+6
- Thousands of glowing lanterns will drift skyward in timed waves between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM.Taiwan Obsessed+4Rove+4Take your Backpack+4
Exploring Taiwan’s indigenous culture respectfully
Exploring Taiwan’s Indigenous Culture Respectfully
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taiwan is home to 16 officially recognized indigenous groups, each with unique traditions, music, cuisine, and festivals. From the Amis on the east coast to the Paiwan and Rukai in the south, Taiwan’s indigenous heritage is a vital part of the island’s identity. As a visitor, you can experience this culture in enriching and respectful ways.
Top temples to visit in Taiwan (north to south)
Top Temples to Visit in Taiwan (North to South)
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taiwan’s temples are not just religious sites—they’re cultural hubs blending Taoist, Buddhist, and folk traditions. Each temple tells a story through intricate carvings, smoky incense, and lively festivals. Here’s a north-to-south route covering the most iconic temples in Taiwan.
Bubble tea shops you must visit in Taiwan
Bubble tea shops you must visit in Taiwan
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Craft beer bars in Taipei – a local’s guide
Craft beer bars in Taipei – a local’s guide
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Taiwan
Vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Taiwan
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Quick Picks: Book Trusted Tours & Tickets
- Museum/attraction tickets: Check availability on Tiqets
- Guided day trips: See options on Viator
- City highlights & food tours: Find tours on Musement
Street food to try at Liuhe Night Market, Kaohsiung
Street food to try at Liuhe Night Market, Kaohsiung
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Quick Picks: Book Trusted Tours & Tickets
- Museum/attraction tickets: Check availability on Tiqets
- Guided day trips: See options on Viator
- City highlights & food tours: Find tours on Musement
FAQ
Is English widely spoken?
A: In major cities and tourist areas, yes. Carry hotel cards and use translation apps for taxis and rural areas.
Do I need cash?
A: Cards are common, but small eats and rural buses may be cash‑only. ATMs are easy to find.
What’s the best transport card?
A: EasyCard and iPASS both work on most public transport and convenience stores—buy whichever you see first.
Is Taiwan safe for solo travellers?
A: Very safe. Use standard city smarts and keep an eye on personal items in crowded night markets.
How far in advance should I book tours?
A: Popular day trips and high‑demand dates (festivals, weekends) can sell out—book 1–2 weeks ahead when possible.
Published 2025-08-27 on UnusedRooms.com
