There is one essential companion that you shouldn’t forget about when travelling across Taiwan, and that is your EasyCard. It’s the key to seamless exploration, unlocking a world of convenience that locals use on a daily basis. From effortlessly hopping on public transportation to grabbing a quick snack at a convenience store, and even indulging in retail therapy at busy malls, Taiwan’s EasyCard does it all for you.
What is the EasyCard?
The EasyCard, also known as 悠遊卡 (Yōuyóu kǎ) in Chinese, is a versatile smart card used for various transportation and payment purposes in Taiwan. It’s similar to contactless smart cards used for public transportation in other parts of the world.
Important Benefits
Seamless Transportation
Your EasyCard is your golden ticket to effortless travel across Taiwan’s extensive public transportation network. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the serene countryside, you can hop on and off buses, subways, trams, and even some ferries with a simple tap of your card. No need to fumble for change or waste time lining up to buy separate tickets at the ticketing machine – the EasyCard streamlines your journey.
Cost Savings
You’re probably going to be taking a lot of public transportation when traveling in Taipei, these costs will add up fairly quickly. The EasyCard offers savvy travelers a budget-friendly solution. Enjoy 10% discount on fares for public transportation, including MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses.
Convenience Beyond Transportation
The EasyCard isn’t only limited to getting around the city. It’s a versatile tool used by locals on a daily basis. Use it to make quick purchases at 24-hour convenience stores, vending machines, and major retailers. It’s the ultimate convenience for everything from a midnight snack run to souvenir shopping.
YouBike
Your EasyCard also serves as your key to unlock and ride these city bikes, available at multiple stations across Taiwan. To get rolling, tap your EasyCard at a YouBike station, grab a bike, and pedal away. You’ll find these bikes scattered throughout cities, making it an eco-friendly and convenient way to explore urban landscapes, parks, and neighbourhoods. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in local life and explore with ease.
[Image Placeholder: Close-up of the Taiwan EasyCard with Taiwanese snacks and tea]
Getting Your EasyCard
To maximize your EasyCard experience, we recommend getting yours right after you land. You can buy one online and pick up at the airport at either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 of Taoyuan Airport.
The card costs $100 NTD (non-refundable) and can be used indefinitely. But make sure to load it up so you can enjoy your discounted ticket right away and ride the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei City.
If you don’t end up buying on online, you can always purchase one at any airport, train stations or convenience stores.
How to Use Your EasyCard
Got your card? Great! Now, whenever you are at an MRT station, on a bus, or at a store’s counter, look for the following symbol below and tap your EasyCard on the card reader.
Using your EasyCard for YouBikes is a little more complicated for first-time users, we recommend checking out our detailed guide here.
Tips for using EasyCard
Download the EasyCard App
- Check your remaining balance, top up your card, and view transaction history
Topping up your card
- You can top up your EasyCard at any convenience store in Taiwan or at an EasyCard kiosk at all MRT stations.
[Image Placeholder: Mobile app in action – balance check and top-up process]
EasyCard for Students
Students, you’re in luck. Students get to enjoy some additional discounts when using EasyCard.
If you are enrolled at a Taiwan school, you will be given a Student EasyCard. For more details on how to get your Student EasyCard, it’s best to ask your school.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Lost Your Card? Don’t panic! Report it, and you’ll be sorted in no time.
- Ready for a Refund? Fortunately, if you have any remaining balance on your EasyCard, you can go to any MRT station ticketing service counter and request a refund. However, you can only make this request if the balance on the card is below $3,000. Also, the $100NTD you paid for the card itself is non-refundable.
With your EasyCard in hand, you’re ready to explore Taiwan with ease and convenience. Whether you’re zipping through the city on the MRT, pedaling a YouBike, or savoring local treats, your EasyCard is your trusted travel companion. Embrace the savings, efficiency, and versatility it offers as you embark on your Taiwanese adventure.
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