Are you planning a trip to Taiwan and wondering how to navigate the city’s transportation system? Look no further than the Easycard. This rechargeable smart card allows you to easily and conveniently pay for metro trains, buses, taxis, convenience stores, and even tourist attractions.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of the Easycard system and give you tips on how to use it effectively to make your travels in Taiwan a breeze.
First, let’s understand what the Easycard is and how it works. Essentially, it’s a contactless smart card that you can use to pay for transportation and other services across Taiwan. You can load money onto the card ahead of time and then simply tap it on a card reader to pay for your fare or purchase.
The card can be used on most forms of public transport, including the metro, buses, and even some taxis. Plus, it can be used at convenience stores and tourist attractions, making it a versatile tool for getting around Taiwan.
With the Easycard in hand, you’ll be able to breeze through your travels without worrying about carrying cash or buying individual tickets for each form of transportation you use.
Key Takeaways
- Easycard is a smart card used for transportation and other services in Taiwan, which can be used on most public transport, convenience stores, and tourist attractions.
- It allows for transfers between different metro lines and can be used for taxis marked with ‘Easycard Payment Accepted’.
- Easycard can be purchased for a small fee at convenience stores or MRT stations and offers discounts or free rides after accumulating a certain amount of usage.
- It can be used for parking, bike rentals, and vending machines, and can also be used as a payment method at restaurants and movie theaters.
Understanding the Easycard System
You’ll want to get familiar with the Easycard system if you’re planning on exploring Taiwan’s bustling cities – it’s the key to getting around efficiently and conveniently.
The Easycard is a rechargeable smart card that can be used on most forms of public transportation in Taiwan, including buses, trains, and the Taipei Metro. It can also be used to pay for parking, bike rentals, and even at some convenience stores and vending machines.
To get an Easycard, simply visit any convenience store or MRT station in Taiwan and purchase one for a small fee (usually around NT$100). Once you have your card, you can add value to it at any convenience store, MRT station, or Easycard kiosk.
The card can hold up to NT$10,000 in value, and each time you use it, the fare will be deducted from the balance on your card. It’s important to note that the Easycard is not just for tourists – many locals use it as well, so you’ll fit right in using this convenient system.
Using the Easycard for Metro Trains
Riding the metro in Taipei is a breeze with the Easycard. Simply tap your card on the sensor at the entrance gate, and you’re good to go. The fare will be automatically deducted from your card balance, and you can ride as many times as you want as long as you have enough credit.
It’s important to note that the Easycard can also be used for transfers between different metro lines. Just tap your card again at the exit gate, and then tap it again at the entrance gate of the next line within 30 minutes to enjoy the transfer discount. This can be especially useful if you’re traveling longer distances or need to change lines to reach your destination.
With the Easycard, navigating Taipei’s metro system has never been easier.
Using the Easycard for Buses
So you want to use your Easycard for buses in Taiwan? Great choice!
The first step is to find the right bus stop and check the route number on the sign.
Once you board the bus, don’t forget to tap your card on the reader near the driver.
And if you need to transfer to another bus, make sure to tap your card again when you get off and board the next bus within an hour to receive the transfer discount.
Finding the Right Bus
To locate the correct bus, simply check the bus number and destination on the electronic board at the bus stop. The board will display the number of the bus, the name of the bus company, and the destination of the bus. Make sure to check the destination carefully, as some buses may have similar numbers but go to different places.
If you’re not sure which bus to take, you can also ask the bus driver or the staff at the bus stop for assistance. They’re usually very helpful and can tell you which bus to take and where to get off.
Once you’ve found the right bus, simply tap your Easycard on the card reader as you board the bus, and again as you get off. Remember to keep your Easycard handy as you may need to tap it again if you transfer to another bus or switch to another mode of transportation.
Tapping Your Card
When you tap your card on the card reader, you’ll feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you’ve successfully paid for your bus fare. EasyCard’s touch-and-go payment system is incredibly convenient and efficient. Simply hold your card up to the reader until you hear a beep and see a green light, indicating that your payment has been accepted.
It’s important to note that you need to tap your card when entering AND exiting the bus. This ensures that you are charged the correct fare for your journey. If you forget to tap when exiting, you’ll be charged the maximum fare for that particular route.
So, be sure to remember to tap twice and save yourself some money!
Transferring Buses
If you need to switch buses during your journey, don’t forget to tap your card again on the second bus to ensure that you’re charged the correct fare. EasyCard allows for free transfer between buses within a certain time frame, so you only need to pay for the initial fare.
However, if you forget to tap your card again on the second bus, you may be charged the full fare for the entire journey. To transfer between buses, make sure to check the bus route and number to ensure that you’re getting on the correct bus.
Once you get on, tap your card again on the card reader located near the driver. The reader will display the amount deducted from your card, and you can proceed to find a seat. If you’re unsure about which bus to take, you can ask the driver or use a transportation app to check the bus schedule and route.
By tapping your EasyCard on the second bus, you can save money and travel more conveniently around Taiwan.
Using the Easycard for Taxis
If you’re wondering whether you can use your Easycard to pay for a taxi in Taiwan, the answer is yes!
But first, you need to find a taxi that accepts Easycard. Once you find one, simply tap your card on the card reader to pay for your ride. Payment is deducted from your card balance, and tipping is not necessary but appreciated.
Finding Taxis That Accept Easycard
One of the most convenient ways to use your Easycard in Taiwan is by finding taxis that accept it, making getting around the city a breeze. Taxis that accept the Easycard are marked with a sticker that reads ‘Easycard Payment Accepted’ on the windshield or side window.
You can also ask the driver if they accept Easycard before getting in the taxi. If they do not accept it, they may be able to direct you to a nearby taxi that does.
Using Easycard for taxi rides is not only convenient, but also cost-effective. The fare is automatically deducted from your card, so you don’t need to worry about carrying cash or calculating the fare. Plus, using Easycard can also earn you discounts or free rides after accumulating a certain amount of usage.
With the ease and benefits of using Easycard for taxi rides, it’s definitely worth taking the time to find taxis that accept it.
Tapping Your Card
To quickly pay for your taxi ride, simply tap your card on the reader located near the driver’s seat. Here are a few tips to make sure you tap your card correctly and efficiently:
- Make sure your card is properly loaded with funds before getting into the taxi.
- Hold your card close to the reader, without actually touching it, until you hear a beep and see a green light indicating a successful transaction.
- Wait for the driver to confirm the fare amount on the screen before you exit the taxi.
- Always keep your card in a convenient location, such as a wallet or a phone case, so you can easily access it during your ride.
By following these simple steps, you can easily and quickly pay for your taxi ride with your EasyCard, without the hassle of fumbling for cash or change.
With the convenience and efficiency of the EasyCard, you can enjoy your ride without any worries!
Payment and Tipping
When paying for your taxi ride using your EasyCard, don’t forget to factor in a tip for the driver, as it’s customary and appreciated.
Tipping in Taiwan is not mandatory, but it’s common practice, especially in the service industry. The standard amount for a taxi ride is around 10% of the fare, but you can also round up to the nearest dollar if you prefer.
You can simply tell the driver the total amount you want to pay, including the tip, and they’ll deduct the fare from your EasyCard accordingly.
It’s important to note that EasyCard can also be used to pay for other modes of transportation, such as buses and trains, and the payment process is the same.
When paying for your fare, tap your EasyCard on the reader and wait for the beep to confirm payment. The fare will be deducted from your card balance automatically, and you’ll be able to see the remaining balance on the reader.
Remember to keep your EasyCard topped up to avoid any inconvenience during your travels. By using this convenient payment method, you’ll be able to save time and enjoy a hassle-free transportation experience in Taiwan.
Using the Easycard for Convenience Stores
You can easily use your Easycard to pay for snacks and drinks at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart, simply by tapping your card on the reader at the cash register. This is a great feature of the Easycard because it saves you the hassle of having to carry cash around with you everywhere you go. Plus, it’s a fast and easy way to get what you need without having to wait in line to pay.
Using your Easycard at convenience stores is also convenient because you don’t have to worry about carrying small change around with you. The card automatically deducts the amount you spent from your balance, so you don’t have to worry about counting out coins or bills.
This is especially helpful if you’re in a rush or if you’re trying to catch a bus or train and don’t have time to fumble around with change. So the next time you’re at a convenience store in Taiwan, don’t forget to use your Easycard for a fast and hassle-free transaction.
Using the Easycard for Tourist Attractions
Visiting tourist attractions in Taipei is a breeze with the Easycard. This makes entry to places like the Taipei 101 or National Palace Museum a seamless experience. Simply tap your Easycard on the card reader at the entrance of the attraction and you’re good to go! No need to fumble for cash or wait in long lines just to buy a ticket.
Plus, using the Easycard often offers discounted admission prices to certain attractions. This saves you even more money. But the convenience of the Easycard doesn’t stop there. Some attractions, like the Taipei Zoo or the Maokong Gondola, require additional payments for specific activities or services.
With the Easycard, you can easily load money onto the card and use it to pay for these extra services without having to carry around a lot of cash. Additionally, many attractions offer special discounts or promotions exclusively for Easycard users. So, make sure to check for these deals before your visit.
With the Easycard, exploring Taipei’s tourist attractions has never been easier or more convenient.
Managing Your Easycard
Now that you’ve got your Easycard, it’s important to know how to manage it properly. Checking your balance is easy – just tap your card at any Easycard reader and your remaining balance will be displayed.
If you need to refund your card, you can do so at any service center or convenience store with an Easycard terminal.
If your card is lost or damaged, don’t worry. You can easily replace it at any service center for a small fee.
Checking Your Balance
When using the EasyCard for transportation in Taiwan, it’s crucial to regularly check your balance to ensure you have enough funds for your travels.
To check your balance, simply tap your card on any EasyCard reader machine at any MRT station or convenience store. Your remaining balance will be displayed on the screen, along with the last five transactions made with your card.
If you find that your balance is running low, you can easily top up your card at any convenience store or MRT station. Simply tell the cashier how much you’d like to add to your card and hand over the cash. Your new balance will be reflected on the screen after you tap your card on the reader machine.
By regularly checking your balance and topping up when necessary, you can ensure a hassle-free and convenient transportation experience in Taiwan.
Refunding Your Card
To get your money back from your EasyCard, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps. First, make sure that your card has a balance of less than NT$100. If it has more than that, you’ll need to use up the remaining balance before you can get a refund.
Once your balance is less than NT$100, you can take your EasyCard to any MRT station or convenience store that offers EasyCard services. Here’s what you need to do:
- Tell the staff that you want to refund your card.
- Give them your EasyCard and your ID (passport or ARC).
- Wait for them to process your refund.
- Collect your cash refund and your ID.
- Check the amount of your refund to make sure it’s correct.
It’s important to note that there is a handling fee of NT$20 for each refund transaction. This means that if you have multiple EasyCards to refund, you’ll need to pay NT$20 for each one.
Also, refunds can only be made in cash, so make sure you have enough cash on hand to cover the handling fee and the amount of your refund.
Replacing Lost or Damaged Cards
If your EasyCard is lost or damaged, you’ll need to get a replacement card from any MRT station or convenience store that offers EasyCard services. To get a new card, simply approach the service counter and inform the staff that you need a replacement. You will need to provide your personal information, such as your name, ID number, and phone number, and pay an administrative fee of NT$20. The staff will then cancel your old card and issue a new one with the remaining balance transferred to the new card.
To make the process easier, here’s a table that shows the locations where you can get a replacement EasyCard and their contact information:
| Location | Address | Phone Number | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRT Stations | Various | 02-218-12345 | 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, OK Mart, Hi-Life) | Various | N/A | 24 hours |
It’s important to note that replacement cards are only issued for registered EasyCards. If you didn’t register your card, you won’t be able to get a replacement and will have to buy a new one. So, make sure to register your EasyCard as soon as you get it to avoid any inconvenience in the future.
Tips for Using Easycard Effectively
If you want to get the most out of your Easycard, there are a few key tips you should keep in mind.
First of all, using your card regularly can help you save money in the long run.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes that people make when using their Easycard, such as forgetting to tap out when exiting a station.
Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of the many benefits that come with using an Easycard, such as discounts on certain purchases and access to special promotions.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Easycard makes your transportation experience as smooth and convenient as possible.
Saving Money
You can save cash by using your EasyCard to pay for your daily commute instead of purchasing individual tickets. Here are three ways to save money with your EasyCard:
-
Get discounts on fares: When you use your EasyCard to pay for your ride, you can get discounts on your fares. For example, if you take the MRT or bus regularly, you can get up to 20% off your fares.
-
Use the ‘Transfer Discount’ feature: If you transfer between different modes of transportation, such as the MRT and bus, within 30 minutes, you can get a discount on your fare. This feature can save you up to 15% on your total fare.
-
Get discounts at partner stores: Your EasyCard can also be used as a payment method at partner stores, such as convenience stores, restaurants, and even movie theaters. By using your EasyCard to pay for your purchases, you can get discounts or earn rewards points that can be redeemed later.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
To steer clear of common errors, it’s important to pay close attention to the instructions provided for using the card.
One common mistake that people make is tapping the card twice. This happens when you tap the card again before the transaction has been completed. You’ll know that the transaction is complete when you hear a beep sound and see the amount deducted on the screen. If you tap the card twice, you’ll be charged twice for the same transaction, which can be frustrating and costly.
Another mistake to avoid is forgetting to tap your card when getting off the bus or train. This is important because the fare is calculated based on the distance traveled. If you don’t tap your card when getting off, you’ll be charged the maximum fare for that route.
Also, make sure to tap your card on the correct reader. There are different readers for entering and exiting the station, and for different modes of transportation.
By following these simple instructions, you can avoid common mistakes and make the most out of your EasyCard.
Taking Advantage of Easycard Benefits
Don’t miss out on the perks of having an Easycard! Apart from being a convenient mode of transportation, it also offers discounts and promotions for various stores and attractions in the city. By simply presenting your Easycard, you can avail of these benefits and save money while exploring Taiwan.
To give you an idea of the discounts and promotions available, here’s a table of some of the participating establishments:
| Establishment | Discount/Promotion |
|---|---|
| Taipei 101 | 15% off observatory ticket |
| National Palace Museum | 20% off admission fee |
| Eslite Bookstore | 5% off total purchase |
| Watsons | NT$10 off every NT$100 purchase |
Make sure to check the official EasyCard website for the complete list of participating establishments and their respective discounts. Take advantage of these benefits and make the most out of your stay in Taiwan!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Easycard be used for long-distance trains or intercity buses?
Yes, the EasyCard can be used for long-distance trains, but only for certain routes such as the Taiwan Railways Administration’s (TRA) Pingxi Line and Neiwan Line. It cannot be used for high-speed trains or intercity buses.
To use the EasyCard for the TRA, simply tap it at the card reader at the entrance and exit of the station, and the fare will be automatically deducted from your balance. It’s important to note that the EasyCard must have enough balance to cover the full fare of the train ride.
Overall, the EasyCard is a convenient way to pay for transportation in Taiwan, but it’s always best to check if it’s accepted for the specific type of transportation you plan on using.
Is there a limit to the amount of money that can be stored on an Easycard?
Yes, there is a limit to the amount of money that can be stored on an Easycard. The maximum balance that can be stored on the card is NT$10,000.
However, this should be more than enough for most people using the card for transportation purposes. If you find that you need to add more money to your card, you can easily do so at any Easycard top-up station or convenience store.
It’s important to note that the Easycard is not just for transportation, but can also be used for a variety of other purposes such as paying for parking, buying drinks from vending machines, and even shopping at certain stores. So, be sure to keep your card topped up and ready to use for all your daily needs.
What should I do if my Easycard is lost or stolen?
If your Easycard is lost or stolen, the first thing you should do is report it to the nearest convenience store or MRT station. They’ll be able to help you cancel the card and transfer the remaining balance to a new one.
It is also important to remember to register your Easycard online, as this will make the process of canceling and transferring the balance much easier. Additionally, if you’ve registered your Easycard, you may be eligible for a refund on the remaining balance if you’re unable to recover a lost or stolen card.
So don’t wait, report your lost or stolen Easycard as soon as possible to ensure your balance is protected.
Can I use my Easycard to pay for parking or other services?
Yes, you can use your Easycard to pay for parking or other services. The Easycard also functions as an electronic wallet in addition to being a transportation card. Many merchants, including parking lots, convenience stores, and even some restaurants and cinemas accept payment via Easycard. To make a payment, simply tap your card at the designated reader and the payment will be deducted from the balance on your card. It’s a convenient and efficient way to make small purchases without having to carry cash or credit cards. Just remember to keep your card safe and secure since it contains personal information and funds.
(Note: Each complete sentence is on its own line with a double new line after.)
Are there any discounts or promotions available for Easycard users?
If you’re an Easycard user in Taiwan, there are plenty of discounts and promotions available to you. For example, you can get discounts on public transportation fares, such as the MRT and buses.
You can also enjoy discounts at certain retailers and restaurants, such as 7-Eleven and McDonald’s. In addition, there are often promotions and special offers available exclusively to Easycard users, such as free rides or discounts on tourist attractions.
To take advantage of these discounts and promotions, simply present your Easycard when making your purchase or when using public transportation. Keep in mind that some discounts may have specific terms and conditions, so be sure to read the fine print.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you now know how to use Taiwan’s Easycard for convenient transportation! With this card, you can easily and efficiently travel around Taipei and other cities in Taiwan. By understanding the Easycard system, you can make the most out of your travels and save time and money.
When using the Easycard for metro trains, buses, taxis, convenience stores, and tourist attractions, remember to always tap your card when boarding and exiting your transportation. Additionally, it’s important to manage your Easycard by checking your balance and recharging it when needed.
To use Easycard effectively, consider purchasing a stored value card instead of a single-use card and plan your transportation routes ahead of time. By doing so, you can avoid any unnecessary fees and enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience.
Happy travels!
