Taiwan Transport Mastery: Your Ultimate Guide to the Taiwan Pass Combos (HSR, Metro, Bus)
If you are planning a trip to Taiwan, navigating the various transportation passes can be confusing. This comprehensive guide will focus on the Taiwan Pass, the official integration platform specifically designed for international tourists, helping you select the most suitable travel package for your itinerary.
Understanding the Three Core Transport Pillars of Taiwan Pass
The Taiwan Pass platform integrates three essential transport tools that form the backbone of travel across the island. Understanding these pillars is key to choosing your perfect travel package:
High-Speed Rail (HSR):
Function: Used for long-distance, high-speed travel along the West Coast (Taipei to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung).
Package Relevance: The HSR Pass offers unlimited rides for a specific duration (e.g., Consecutive 3-Day Pass or Flexible 2-Day Pass), making it ideal for rapid city-hopping. If you plan more than two long-distance HSR trips within the pass period, this option provides significant savings.
Taiwan Railway (TRA):
Function: Used for scenic railway travel and accessing the East Coast (Yilan, Hualien, Taitung), where the HSR does not reach, and for short-distance intercity routes.
Package Relevance: TRA passes (often bundled with HSR) are suited for travelers planning a full "Island Loop" itinerary, connecting the high speed of the West with the slower, more scenic routes of the East.
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Taiwan Haohing):
Function: Specialized bus routes that handle the "last mile" of travel. These routes connect major HSR/TRA stations directly to Taiwan's most famous scenic destinations, such as Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Cingjing, and Kenting.
Package Relevance: These passes usually come in Round-Trip Ticket format for a specific route and often include Attraction Tickets or local experiences, streamlining access to major tourist sites.
Taiwan PASS｜Unlimited rides on Taiwan Railways and Taiwan MRT for 3 or 5 consecutive days
Taiwan Pass APP
Taiwan Pass
Taiwan Pass
The Taiwan Pass platform integrates three essential transport tools that form the backbone of travel across the island. Understanding these pillars is key to choosing your perfect travel package:
High-Speed Rail (HSR):
Function: Used for long-distance, high-speed travel along the West Coast (Taipei to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung).
Package Relevance: The HSR Pass offers unlimited rides for a specific duration (e.g., Consecutive 3-Day Pass or Flexible 2-Day Pass), making it ideal for rapid city-hopping. If you plan more than two long-distance HSR trips within the pass period, this option provides significant savings.
Taiwan Railway (TRA):
Function: Used for scenic railway travel and accessing the East Coast (Yilan, Hualien, Taitung), where the HSR does not reach, and for short-distance intercity routes.
Package Relevance: TRA passes (often bundled with HSR) are suited for travelers planning a full "Island Loop" itinerary, connecting the high speed of the West with the slower, more scenic routes of the East.
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Taiwan Haohing):
Function: Specialized bus routes that handle the "last mile" of travel. These routes connect major HSR/TRA stations directly to Taiwan's most famous scenic destinations, such as Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Cingjing, and Kenting.
Package Relevance: These passes usually come in Round-Trip Ticket format for a specific route and often include Attraction Tickets or local experiences, streamlining access to major tourist sites.
Taiwan High Speed Rail
Taiwan Haoxing Tourist Shuttle
Recommended Taiwan Pass Packages for International Travelers
For foreign visitors seeking maximum convenience and value, one of the most popular and versatile options is the Klook Exclusive [Taiwan PASS] High Speed Rail + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle 3-in-1 combo (specifically designed for international passport holders).
This package allows you to customize your pass components based on your itinerary:
For foreign visitors seeking maximum convenience and value, one of the most popular and versatile options is the Klook Exclusive [Taiwan PASS] High Speed Rail + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle 3-in-1 combo (specifically designed for international passport holders).
This package allows you to customize your pass components based on your itinerary:
1. High-Speed Rail Component
Content: The package includes the Taiwan HSR Unlimited Ride 3-Day Pass or the Flexible 2-Day Pass.
Usage: Provides unlimited standard-class rides on the Taiwan HSR for the selected duration. This is your primary tool for rapid North-South travel.
Redemption: Must be redeemed at an HSR ticket counter with your passport and voucher.
2. Metro/Rapid Transit (MRT) Component Options
You must select one of the following city metro passes to complete your combo:
Taipei Fun Pass (Beibeiji Pass) - 2-Day Transit Pass: Ideal for covering Taipei City, New Taipei City, and Keelung transport (Metro, City Buses, Taiwan Railway Pingxi Line, etc.).
Taichung Metro Tourist Ticket - 48 Hour Pass: Best for exploring Taichung city center via the Taichung Metro system.
Kaohsiung Metro & Light Rail - 2-Day Pass: Perfect for unlimited travel on the Kaohsiung Metro (KMRT) and the scenic Kaohsiung Light Rail system, which covers many key attractions.
3. Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Component Options
You must select one specific round-trip ticket for a scenic route:
Alishan Line Round-trip Ticket: For accessing the famous Alishan National Scenic Area (from Chiayi HSR Station).
Sun Moon Lake Line Round-trip Ticket: For accessing the stunning Sun Moon Lake (from Taichung HSR Station).
Cingjing Line Round-trip Ticket: For accessing the picturesque Cingjing Farm (from Taichung HSR Station).
Summary: This 3-in-1 package allows you to combine your long-haul HSR travel with a local city pass and a specific scenic shuttle, offering complete coverage for your planned North-South-Central itinerary.
Content: The package includes the Taiwan HSR Unlimited Ride 3-Day Pass or the Flexible 2-Day Pass.
Usage: Provides unlimited standard-class rides on the Taiwan HSR for the selected duration. This is your primary tool for rapid North-South travel.
Redemption: Must be redeemed at an HSR ticket counter with your passport and voucher.
2. Metro/Rapid Transit (MRT) Component Options
You must select one of the following city metro passes to complete your combo:
Taipei Fun Pass (Beibeiji Pass) - 2-Day Transit Pass: Ideal for covering Taipei City, New Taipei City, and Keelung transport (Metro, City Buses, Taiwan Railway Pingxi Line, etc.).
Taichung Metro Tourist Ticket - 48 Hour Pass: Best for exploring Taichung city center via the Taichung Metro system.
Kaohsiung Metro & Light Rail - 2-Day Pass: Perfect for unlimited travel on the Kaohsiung Metro (KMRT) and the scenic Kaohsiung Light Rail system, which covers many key attractions.
3. Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Component Options
You must select one specific round-trip ticket for a scenic route:
Alishan Line Round-trip Ticket: For accessing the famous Alishan National Scenic Area (from Chiayi HSR Station).
Sun Moon Lake Line Round-trip Ticket: For accessing the stunning Sun Moon Lake (from Taichung HSR Station).
Cingjing Line Round-trip Ticket: For accessing the picturesque Cingjing Farm (from Taichung HSR Station).
Summary: This 3-in-1 package allows you to combine your long-haul HSR travel with a local city pass and a specific scenic shuttle, offering complete coverage for your planned North-South-Central itinerary.
Purchasing and Redemption Process
Purchase: Buy the required package through official partner platforms (Klook, KKday) before departure.
Voucher (Crucial Step): You will receive an electronic voucher (QR code or redemption code). This is NOT the ticket itself.
Redeem in Taiwan:
5-Day Itinerary Planning (Example Itinerary)
To maximize the value of your chosen Klook 3-in-1 packages, here are two highly optimized 5-Day itineraries based on your specific pass combinations, presented in a clear, text-based format:
Itinerary A: North-South Focus (Taipei + Alishan)
This itinerary uses the package: HSR 3-Day Pass + Taiwan MRT (Select: Taipei Fun Pass Transportation 2-Day Pass) + Taiwan Haoxing Shuttle (Select: Alishan Line Round-trip Ticket). It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a mix of city culture and high-mountain scenery.
[Taiwan PASS] High Speed Rail + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle
Purchase: Buy the required package through official partner platforms (Klook, KKday) before departure.
Voucher (Crucial Step): You will receive an electronic voucher (QR code or redemption code). This is NOT the ticket itself.
Redeem in Taiwan:
HSR Pass: Present your Passport and the electronic voucher at any HSR station ticket counter to exchange it for the physical Pass and set the activation date.
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle: Redemption usually happens at the bus company counters at major transport hubs (e.g., Nantou Bus counter at HSR Taichung Station for Sun Moon Lake tickets).
Usage: When taking the HSR with the Pass, you must use the manual gate (not the automated turnstiles). Present your Pass and Passport to the staff.
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle: Redemption usually happens at the bus company counters at major transport hubs (e.g., Nantou Bus counter at HSR Taichung Station for Sun Moon Lake tickets).
Usage: When taking the HSR with the Pass, you must use the manual gate (not the automated turnstiles). Present your Pass and Passport to the staff.
Taiwan Pass App
Taiwan Pass App
5-Day Itinerary Planning (Example Itinerary)
To maximize the value of your chosen Klook 3-in-1 packages, here are two highly optimized 5-Day itineraries based on your specific pass combinations, presented in a clear, text-based format:
Itinerary A: North-South Focus (Taipei + Alishan)
This itinerary uses the package: HSR 3-Day Pass + Taiwan MRT (Select: Taipei Fun Pass Transportation 2-Day Pass) + Taiwan Haoxing Shuttle (Select: Alishan Line Round-trip Ticket). It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a mix of city culture and high-mountain scenery.
Alishan
Day 1: Taipei City Exploration
(Taipei Fun Pass Day 1)
Theme: Taipei City Exploration (West/Central)
Transit Action: Taipei Fun Pass Day 1 Activation! Use the Metro/Bus for unlimited city travel.
Itinerary Highlights: Arrive in Taipei (Airport transfer self-paid), check into the hotel. Use the Fun Pass to explore Ximending (西门町) and Bopiliao Historic Block (剥皮寮历史街区).
Itinerary Highlights: Arrive in Taipei (Airport transfer self-paid), check into the hotel. Use the Fun Pass to explore Ximending (西门町) and Bopiliao Historic Block (剥皮寮历史街区).
Evening: Ningxia Night Market (宁夏夜市).
Accommodation: Taipei
Day 2: Taipei Culture & Hot Springs
Accommodation: Taipei
Day 2: Taipei Culture & Hot Springs
(Taipei Fun Pass Day 2 End)
Theme: Taipei Culture & Hot Springs
Transit Action: Taipei Fun Pass Day 2 End! (Metro/Bus).
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Visit the National Palace Museum (故宫博物院) (Metro to Shilin, then bus). Afternoon: Explore Beitou Hot Spring Area (北投温泉区) (Geothermal Valley, Beitou Library). Evening: Taipei 101/Xinyi Shopping District.
Accommodation: Taipei
Day 3: HSR Southbound to Alishan
Transit Action: Taipei Fun Pass Day 2 End! (Metro/Bus).
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Visit the National Palace Museum (故宫博物院) (Metro to Shilin, then bus). Afternoon: Explore Beitou Hot Spring Area (北投温泉区) (Geothermal Valley, Beitou Library). Evening: Taipei 101/Xinyi Shopping District.
Accommodation: Taipei
Day 3: HSR Southbound to Alishan
(HSR 3-Day Pass Day 1)
Theme: HSR Southbound to Alishan
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 1 Activation! (Taipei to Chiayi). Alishan Shuttle (Outbound) is redeemed and used.
Crucial Link: Take the early HSR from Taipei to Chiayi HSR Station (approx. 9:00 AM). Immediately redeem the Alishan Shuttle Pass and take the connecting bus (approx. 11:30 AM) to Alishan (approx. 2.5 hrs). Check into your accommodation upon arrival.
Accommodation: Alishan
Day 4: Alishan Sunrise & NPM South
Theme: HSR Southbound to Alishan
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 1 Activation! (Taipei to Chiayi). Alishan Shuttle (Outbound) is redeemed and used.
Crucial Link: Take the early HSR from Taipei to Chiayi HSR Station (approx. 9:00 AM). Immediately redeem the Alishan Shuttle Pass and take the connecting bus (approx. 11:30 AM) to Alishan (approx. 2.5 hrs). Check into your accommodation upon arrival.
Accommodation: Alishan
Day 4: Alishan Sunrise & NPM South
(HSR 3-Day Pass Day 2)
Theme: Alishan Sunrise & National Palace Museum South
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 2 Continuation. Alishan Shuttle (Inbound) is used.
Itinerary Highlights: Early morning: Alishan Sunrise (via scenic train or shuttle, self-paid). Morning: Alishan Forest Recreation Area (Giant Tree trails). Afternoon: Use the Alishan Shuttle Inbound Ticket (e.g., 14:00 PM bus) down to Chiayi Train Station area.
HSR Pass Usage: Use Day 2 of the HSR Pass for an optional short local transfer (e.g., from Chiayi Train Station area to Chiayi HSR area).
Accommodation: Chiayi City
Day 5: South Palace Museum & HSR Northbound
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 2 Continuation. Alishan Shuttle (Inbound) is used.
Itinerary Highlights: Early morning: Alishan Sunrise (via scenic train or shuttle, self-paid). Morning: Alishan Forest Recreation Area (Giant Tree trails). Afternoon: Use the Alishan Shuttle Inbound Ticket (e.g., 14:00 PM bus) down to Chiayi Train Station area.
HSR Pass Usage: Use Day 2 of the HSR Pass for an optional short local transfer (e.g., from Chiayi Train Station area to Chiayi HSR area).
Accommodation: Chiayi City
Day 5: South Palace Museum & HSR Northbound
(HSR 3-Day Pass Day 3 End)
Theme: South Palace Museum & HSR Northbound
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 3 End! HSR (Chiayi to Taipei, Self-paid).
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Visit the National Palace Museum Southern Branch (南故宫) near Chiayi HSR Station. Afternoon: Transfer back to Chiayi HSR Station. Take the HSR back to Taipei/Taoyuan. Departure.
B. Itinerary B: South-Central Focus (Kaohsiung + Sun Moon Lake)
This itinerary uses the package: HSR 3-Day Pass + Taiwan MRT (Select: Kaohsiung Metro/Light Rail 2-Day Pass) + Taiwan Haoxing Shuttle (Select: Sun Moon Lake Round-trip Ticket). It focuses on the vibrant south and the natural beauty of the central mountains.
Theme: South Palace Museum & HSR Northbound
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 3 End! HSR (Chiayi to Taipei, Self-paid).
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Visit the National Palace Museum Southern Branch (南故宫) near Chiayi HSR Station. Afternoon: Transfer back to Chiayi HSR Station. Take the HSR back to Taipei/Taoyuan. Departure.
B. Itinerary B: South-Central Focus (Kaohsiung + Sun Moon Lake)
This itinerary uses the package: HSR 3-Day Pass + Taiwan MRT (Select: Kaohsiung Metro/Light Rail 2-Day Pass) + Taiwan Haoxing Shuttle (Select: Sun Moon Lake Round-trip Ticket). It focuses on the vibrant south and the natural beauty of the central mountains.
Sun Moon Lake
Day 1: HSR South to Kaohsiung City
(HSR 3-Day Pass Day 1)
Theme: HSR South to Kaohsiung City
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 1 Activation! (Taipei to Kaohsiung). Kaohsiung Metro 2-Day Pass Day 1 Activation!
Itinerary Highlights: Take early HSR from North to Zuoying (Kaohsiung). Check into the hotel. Use the Metro Pass to explore the Pier-2 Art Center (驳二艺术特区). Evening: Sizihwan (西子湾) sunset and Ruifeng Night Market (瑞丰夜市).
Accommodation: Kaohsiung
Day 2: Kaohsiung City Deep Dive
Theme: HSR South to Kaohsiung City
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 1 Activation! (Taipei to Kaohsiung). Kaohsiung Metro 2-Day Pass Day 1 Activation!
Itinerary Highlights: Take early HSR from North to Zuoying (Kaohsiung). Check into the hotel. Use the Metro Pass to explore the Pier-2 Art Center (驳二艺术特区). Evening: Sizihwan (西子湾) sunset and Ruifeng Night Market (瑞丰夜市).
Accommodation: Kaohsiung
Day 2: Kaohsiung City Deep Dive
(HSR 3-Day Pass Day 2)
Theme: Kaohsiung City Deep Dive
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 2 Continuation. Kaohsiung Metro 2-Day Pass Day 2 End!
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Cijin Peninsula (旗津半岛) (via ferry, self-paid). Afternoon: Visit the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (龙虎塔) and the Formosa Boulevard Station (美丽岛站) (Dome of Light). Evening: Liuhe Night Market or city shopping.
Accommodation: Kaohsiung
Day 3: HSR to Taichung & Head to Sun Moon Lake
Theme: Kaohsiung City Deep Dive
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 2 Continuation. Kaohsiung Metro 2-Day Pass Day 2 End!
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Cijin Peninsula (旗津半岛) (via ferry, self-paid). Afternoon: Visit the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (龙虎塔) and the Formosa Boulevard Station (美丽岛站) (Dome of Light). Evening: Liuhe Night Market or city shopping.
Accommodation: Kaohsiung
Day 3: HSR to Taichung & Head to Sun Moon Lake
(HSR 3-Day Pass Day 3 End)
Theme: HSR to Taichung & Head to Sun Moon Lake
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 3 End! (Kaohsiung to Taichung). SML Shuttle (Outbound) is redeemed and used.
Crucial Link: Take early HSR from Zuoying to Taichung (approx. 1 hr). Immediately redeem the SML Shuttle Pass and take the connecting bus (approx. 11:40 AM) to Sun Moon Lake (日月潭) (approx. 1.5 - 2 hrs). Afternoon: Lake promenade or optional cruise.
Accommodation: Sun Moon Lake / Taichung
Day 4: Sun Moon Lake Scenery & Return
Theme: HSR to Taichung & Head to Sun Moon Lake
Transit Action: HSR 3-Day Pass Day 3 End! (Kaohsiung to Taichung). SML Shuttle (Outbound) is redeemed and used.
Crucial Link: Take early HSR from Zuoying to Taichung (approx. 1 hr). Immediately redeem the SML Shuttle Pass and take the connecting bus (approx. 11:40 AM) to Sun Moon Lake (日月潭) (approx. 1.5 - 2 hrs). Afternoon: Lake promenade or optional cruise.
Accommodation: Sun Moon Lake / Taichung
Day 4: Sun Moon Lake Scenery & Return
(SML Shuttle Inbound)
Theme: Sun Moon Lake Scenery & Return to Taichung
Transit Action: SML Shuttle (Inbound) is used.
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Sun Moon Lake Ring Tour (Wenwu Temple, Xuanzang Temple). Afternoon: Use the SML Shuttle Inbound Ticket (e.g., 14:00 PM bus) back to Taichung. Transfer to your city hotel via local bus/taxi (self-paid). Evening: Fengjia Night Market (逢甲夜市).
Accommodation: Taichung City
Day 5: Taichung Arts/Shopping to HSR Northbound
Theme: Sun Moon Lake Scenery & Return to Taichung
Transit Action: SML Shuttle (Inbound) is used.
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Sun Moon Lake Ring Tour (Wenwu Temple, Xuanzang Temple). Afternoon: Use the SML Shuttle Inbound Ticket (e.g., 14:00 PM bus) back to Taichung. Transfer to your city hotel via local bus/taxi (self-paid). Evening: Fengjia Night Market (逢甲夜市).
Accommodation: Taichung City
Day 5: Taichung Arts/Shopping to HSR Northbound
(Self-Paid)
Theme: Taichung Arts/Shopping to HSR Northbound
Transit Action: HSR (Taichung to Taipei, Self-paid).
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Explore Audit Village (审计新村) or Miyahara (宫原眼科). Afternoon: Take HSR or intercity bus (Self-paid) from Taichung back to Taipei/Taoyuan. Departure.
Theme: Taichung Arts/Shopping to HSR Northbound
Transit Action: HSR (Taichung to Taipei, Self-paid).
Itinerary Highlights: Morning: Explore Audit Village (审计新村) or Miyahara (宫原眼科). Afternoon: Take HSR or intercity bus (Self-paid) from Taichung back to Taipei/Taoyuan. Departure.
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