Metro Systems: Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taoyuan, and Taichung

Taiwan’s metro systems represent the easiest transport for travellers, combining English signage, intuitive layouts, and reliable service. However, each city’s system reflects different development priorities.

Taipei Metro (台北捷運, MRT)

Taiwan’s most extensive metro serves the capital with six major lines distinguished by colour. The system is clean, safe, and efficient, running roughly 06:00-midnight with trains every 3-8 minutes. In-train displays announce upcoming stations in Mandarin, Taiwanese, Hakka, English, Japanese and Korean.

Usually, it is not difficult to navigate at stations. Platforms clearly mark train directions by listing terminus stations with line colours. Most confusion arises from the system’s two main rail operators (Taipei Metro and separate airport lines) using the same stations. Just follow colour-coded signs carefully. Also it causes confusion when having a transfer in a huge station like Taipei Main Station. Follow the line colour signs and you will be fine.

Food and drink are prohibited inside stations and trains, with fines for violations. Priority seating at each carriage should be offered to elderly, pregnant, disabled, injured, illed passengers.

Kaohsiung Metro (高雄捷運)

Southern Taiwan’s metro is smaller but well-designed, with just two main lines: Red (north-south) and Orange (east-west). The system opened in 2008 and feels modern and spacious, with impressive station architecture.

You can use Kaohsiung Metro for reaching Zuoying HSR station, the airport, Formosa Boulevard (famous for its Dome of Light), Love River area, Pier-2 Art Centre, and Cijin Island ferry terminal. Limited coverage means many destinations still require buses, trams or taxis, but where the metro goes, it’s the best option.

Taoyuan Metro (桃園捷運)

Primarily serving travellers between Taipei and Taoyuan International Airport, this airport line offers two services: Express (skipping stops, 35-40 minutes) and Commuter (stopping at all stations). Both use the same line and charge by distance. The metro also serves some Taoyuan suburbs and connects to regular TRA trains and Taiwan Metro at various stations.

Taichung Metro (台中捷運)

Taiwan’s newest metro, opening in 2021, currently consists of one Green Line running north-south. Coverage is limited, missing the city centre and most tourist areas. Most travellers in Taichung rely on buses, taxis, or scooters instead. If your accommodation or destinations happen to align with the Green Line, use it. Otherwise, expect to use other transport modes.