How to Buy & Top Up
You can purchase these cards at any Convenience Store (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, OK, Hi-Life) or MRT station service counters. They are sold as standard cards or as cute keychains (3D shapes). Just look for the rack near the cashier!
Price: A card usually costs NT$100 (non-refundable deposit). You then need to top it up with cash.
Top Up: You can recharge at any MRT station machine or directly at convenience stores.
Mobile App: Both EasyCard (EasyWallet) and iPASS (iPASS MONEY) offer apps that can link to credit cards for mobile payments, adding extra convenience.
Where Can I Use It?
MRT (Subway): Accepted in Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. While single-journey tokens are available, using an IC card is standard.
Buses: Almost all city buses accept card tapping (both front and rear doors). Some buses do not even accept cash/coins anymore.
Shopping: You can pay for snacks and drinks at major convenience stores using your card balance.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Train Rules (TRA & HSR)
While IC cards are convenient, they cannot be used for everything. Please note the following exceptions:
1. Taiwan Railways (TRA)
You CAN use EasyCard/iPASS for most local trains and standard express trains (standing ticket). You just tap in at the gate.
HOWEVER: For specific express trains like the Puyuma Express (普悠瑪) or Taroko Express (太魯閣), you MUST buy a reserved seat ticket. You cannot use an IC card to enter.
👉 Read our TRA Train Guide for details2. Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR)
Tourists generally CANNOT use a standard EasyCard for the HSR (unless it is a specific co-branded credit card). You must buy a physical ticket or e-ticket.
