Your Quick Answer: The MRT Fare from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station
Let’s get straight to the point! The standard one-way MRT fare from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station is NT$150. This price is fixed whether you’re departing from Terminal 1 (Station A12) or Terminal 2 (Station A13) and applies to both the faster Express Train and the all-stops Commuter Train.
So, if you’re looking for a quick, reliable, and comfortable way to get into the heart of Taipei after your flight, the Taoyuan Airport MRT is definitely one of your best bets. But wait, there’s actually a lot more to know about this fare! Depending on how long you’re staying or who you’re traveling with, there might be smarter, and even cheaper, ways to pay. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the cost, ticket types, and potential discounts for your journey.
Breaking Down the Taoyuan Airport MRT Fare to Taipei Main Station
When you head to the Taoyuan Airport MRT platform, you’ll notice two types of trains, easily identified by their colors. It’s really important to understand the difference, even though the price for your destination at Taipei Main Station is the same.
A key takeaway here is that you don’t pay extra for speed and comfort on this route. The MRT fare from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station is consistently NT$150, giving you the freedom to choose the train that best fits your schedule and luggage situation.
- Express Train (Purple): This is the one most travelers will want to take. It’s designed for airport passengers, with fewer stops and dedicated luggage racks. It’s faster and gets you to Taipei Main Station in about 36-39 minutes.
- Commuter Train (Blue): This is more of a typical metro train, stopping at every station along the line. It’s primarily used by locals commuting to and from the airport and surrounding areas. The journey to Taipei Main Station on this train takes about 50 minutes.
To make it even clearer, here’s a simple table comparing the two:
| Feature | Express Train (Purple) | Commuter Train (Blue) |
|---|---|---|
| Fare to Taipei Main Station | NT$150 | NT$150 |
| Travel Time (Approx.) | 36-39 minutes | ~50 minutes |
| Stops | Limited stops (5 total) | All stops |
| Frequency | Every 15-30 minutes | Every 15-30 minutes |
| Seating | Padded, forward-facing seats | Longitudinal subway-style benches |
| Luggage Space | Dedicated luggage racks | Limited open space |
Unless you’re in absolutely no rush or your destination is one of the smaller stops along the way, you’ll probably find the Express Train to be the superior choice for the exact same price.
Your Guide to Buying an MRT Ticket at Taoyuan Airport
Alright, so you know the price. Now, how do you actually buy the ticket? Fortunately, the process is incredibly straightforward, with several convenient options designed for both locals and international visitors.
Method 1: The Single Journey Token
This is the most traditional method. It’s perfect if you’re only planning to take this one MRT trip. You’ll receive a small, purple plastic coin called a token.
How to buy it from a ticket machine:
- Locate the ticket vending machines near the entrance to the MRT station in the airport terminal.
- Tap the screen and select your preferred language (English is available).
- Choose the “Buy Single-Journey Ticket” option.
- Select your destination station, which is A1 Taipei Main Station. The fare of NT$150 will be displayed.
- Select the number of tickets you need.
- Insert cash into the machine. It accepts both coins and bills (typically NT$100, NT$500).
- Collect your purple token(s) and any change from the dispenser.
How to use it: Simply tap the token on the card reader at the entry gate to open it. When you arrive at Taipei Main Station, you will insert the same token into the slot on the exit gate to leave the station.
Method 2: Using a Rechargeable Smartcard (EasyCard, iPASS)
If you plan on using public transport more than once in Taiwan (and you probably will!), getting a rechargeable card like an EasyCard or iPASS is highly recommended. It’s the Taiwanese equivalent of London’s Oyster Card or Hong Kong’s Octopus Card.
- Where to Buy: You can purchase one at the MRT service counter at the airport station or at any major convenience store like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart, which are located throughout the airport. The card itself usually costs NT$100 (non-refundable), and then you can add credit to it.
- How to Use: Simply tap your card on the reader at the entry and exit gates. The NT$150 fare will be automatically deducted from your card’s balance. It’s incredibly convenient as you won’t need to queue for a token every time you travel.
While these cards don’t offer a discount on the Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station MRT fare itself, their sheer convenience for buses and the Taipei Metro system makes them a must-have for most visitors.
Method 3: Contactless Credit Cards
For ultimate convenience, travelers with a contactless-enabled credit card (look for the Wi-Fi-like symbol) can skip buying a ticket or card altogether. The Taoyuan MRT system accepts direct payment from Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and UnionPay.
How to use it: It works exactly like an EasyCard. Just tap your credit card on the designated reader at the entry gate, and tap the *same* card again at the exit gate. The NT$150 fare will be charged to your account.
A friendly tip for international travelers: While this is super easy, be aware that your bank might charge a foreign transaction fee for the purchase. Check your card’s policy to avoid any surprises!
Are There Cheaper Ways? Unlocking Discounts on the Airport MRT
While NT$150 is the standard fare, savvy travelers and long-term visitors can definitely find ways to save money. If you’re looking for a Taoyuan Airport MRT discount, here are the options you should know about.
Round-Trip Ticket
If you know you’ll be taking the MRT back to the airport, you can buy a round-trip ticket. This usually offers a small discount. For example, instead of paying NT$150 + NT$150 = NT$300, a round-trip ticket might cost NT$290, saving you a little bit. These tickets must be purchased at the customer service counter.
Periodic Passes (for Frequent Travelers)
These are aimed at commuters or those staying in Taiwan for an extended period. The Taoyuan Metro offers 30, 60, 90, and 120-day passes that provide significant discounts on unlimited travel between two designated stations. For instance, a 30-day pass between the Airport and Taipei Main Station offers a 30% discount on the total cost. This is a fantastic deal if you’ll be making the journey frequently.
The TPASS Executive Yuan Commuter Pass
This is a game-changer for tourists staying a week or more and for long-term residents. The “Taoyuan-Taipei-New Taipei-Keelung TPASS” is a 30-day pass that costs only NT$1200.
For this price, you get:
- Unlimited rides on the Taoyuan Airport MRT line. Important: This is valid ONLY on the blue Commuter Train, not the purple Express Train.
- Unlimited rides on the Taipei Metro and New Taipei Metro.
- Unlimited rides on city buses in Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, and Keelung.
- The first 30 minutes of a YouBike rental for free in these cities.
Even though it’s limited to the Commuter Train for the airport line, the value is unbeatable if you plan to explore the Taipei metropolitan area extensively. A round trip to the airport on the Commuter Train would cost NT$300, so after just four round trips, the pass has already paid for itself, and that’s not even counting all the other free transport you get!
Taipei Fun Pass (for Tourists)
If you’re a tourist, you should absolutely look into the Taipei Fun Pass | Unlimited Version. While the basic versions of the Fun Pass do NOT include the Airport MRT, the premium “Unlimited” version does! This pass bundles transport with entry to over 25 top attractions in Taipei.
The key benefit here is that the Taipei Fun Pass includes unlimited rides on both the Express and Commuter Airport MRT trains for the duration of the pass (1, 2, or 3 days). If you plan to visit Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and other major sites, this pass can offer incredible value and convenience.
Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station MRT Fare at a Glance
Here is a professional summary table to help you quickly compare your options for the MRT fare from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station.
| Ticket Type | One-Way Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Journey Token | NT$150 | A single, one-off trip. No other travel planned. |
| EasyCard / iPASS | NT$150 | Travelers planning to use more public transport in Taiwan. Maximum convenience. |
| Contactless Credit Card | NT$150 | Ultimate convenience for short-term visitors who don’t want to buy a card. |
| Round-Trip Ticket | ~NT$290 (for both ways) | Travelers who are certain they will return to the airport via MRT and want a small saving. |
| TPASS Commuter Pass | NT$1200 (for 30 days) | Longer stays (1-4 weeks), budget travelers, and those exploring the wider metro area. *Commuter Train only for airport line.* |
| Taipei Fun Pass (Unlimited) | Varies by duration | Tourists planning to sightsee extensively. Includes Express train and top attractions. |
Your Questions Answered: More About the Airport MRT Fare
There are always a few more specific questions that pop up. Let’s tackle some of the most common ones.
Is the MRT fare the same from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2?
Yes, absolutely! The MRT fare from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station is fixed at NT$150, regardless of whether you board at Station A12 (Terminal 1) or Station A13 (Terminal 2). The pricing is based on zones, and both terminals fall within the same fare zone for a trip to Taipei.
How much is the Taoyuan Airport MRT fare for children?
The policy is quite straightforward. Children under the age of 6 (or under 115cm in height) can travel for free, provided they are accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Children aged 6 and above are typically required to pay the full adult fare of NT$150 for a single journey token.
Is the Airport MRT the cheapest way to get to Taipei Main Station?
This is a great question! In terms of the cheapest way from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei, the airport bus is often slightly less expensive. Bus tickets to Taipei Main Station typically cost between NT$135 and NT$145. However, the MRT offers significant advantages: it’s not affected by Taipei’s notorious traffic, the travel time is highly predictable, and the ride is generally smoother and more comfortable. For a mere NT$5-15 difference, most travelers find the speed and reliability of the MRT well worth the small extra cost.
Can I use my EasyCard to get the TPASS?
Yes, you can! If you already have an EasyCard, you can take it to a customer service counter at any Metro station (including the airport) and have the NT$1200 TPASS loaded onto your existing card. This is much more convenient than buying a new, dedicated TPASS card.
Final Thoughts on Your Journey to Taipei
Figuring out the MRT fare from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station is refreshingly simple at its core: NT$150 gets you there quickly and efficiently. It’s a system designed with the traveler in mind, offering a seamless transition from the airport to the vibrant energy of the city.
However, as we’ve explored, a little planning can go a long way. For the convenience-seeker, a tap of a credit card is all it takes. For the explorer staying a week or more, the TPASS offers phenomenal value. And for the dedicated tourist, the Taipei Fun Pass wraps up transport and sightseeing into one neat package.
Whichever option you choose, you can rest assured that the Taoyuan Airport MRT is a world-class service that provides a fantastic first impression of Taiwan’s incredible infrastructure. Enjoy your journey and have a wonderful time in Taipei!