Getting Around: Taitung

Public Transportation in Taitung

The bus system forms the core of Taitung's public transport. These buses serve Taitung City and extend to popular spots like Fugang Fishery Port, Zhiben Hot Springs, and Taitung Airport. They represent a budget-friendly travel option, especially for solo explorers or those not comfortable with scooter rentals.

Taitung does not have a metro or tram system. The Taitung Bus Station, near the Taitung Railway Art Village, acts as the main hub for local city buses and some inter-county routes. Many routes start or pass through here.

Routes & Payment

Local bus routes cover Taitung City areas, residential zones, commercial districts, and points of interest.
Bus fares are generally affordable. They may be flat-rate for city routes or distance-based for longer journeys (NTD 25-50 for most local trips).
EasyCard (悠遊卡) / iPass (一卡通): These reloadable smart cards are highly advisable. They work across Taiwan for public transport and purchases.
Cash payments are acceptable, but exact change is typically necessary. Bus drivers generally do not provide change.

Card Purchase

Purchase and top up EasyCard or iPass at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Family Mart) or metro stations.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM). Frequency varies significantly by route.

Accessibility

Newer buses may be low-floor and wheelchair accessible. Older buses may not. Overall accessibility outside major city centers presents challenges.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Navigation Tools

Google Maps exists as a reliable tool for bus routes, identifying stops, and checking real-time schedules.
Purchase an EasyCard or iPass immediately upon arrival in Taiwan. This tool simplifies all public transport payments.
For areas outside Taitung City, relying solely on public buses may limit flexibility due to infrequent schedules.

Travel Flexibility

Consider supplementing with scooter or car rental for more freedom of movement.
Uneven pavements and a lack of ramps in some areas may present challenges for mobility needs.
Travelers with mobility needs may find private transport more convenient.

Public Transportation Statistics

Bus Network

Core of Taitung's public transport.

Main Hub

Taitung Bus Station.

Fare Range

NTD 25-50 for most local trips.

Smart Cards

EasyCard/iPass widely used.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services supply convenient, on-demand transportation in Taitung, especially when public buses do not serve your route or when a direct ride is preferred.

Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis in Taiwan appear yellow and are easily identifiable.
Hailing taxis on the street is possible in busier Taitung City areas or at stands (Train Station, Airport).
Taxis are bookable via phone dispatch services.
Fares are metered. Base fare NTD 100-120. Rides within Taitung City generally cost NTD 150-300.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber exists in Taitung, though coverage and driver availability may be less extensive than in major metropolitan areas.
Taiwan Taxi (台灣大車隊) exists as a popular local taxi app for booking licensed taxis.
Both licensed taxis and ride-sharing services are generally safe in Taitung.
Taxis are readily available at Taitung Airport (TTT) and Taitung Train Station.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Traffic drives on the right side of the road in Taiwan.
Helmets are mandatory for scooter riders.
Speed limits vary: typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 60-70 km/h on rural roads.

Driving defensively is advisable. Taiwanese drivers may appear aggressive.
Road signs are often in both Chinese and English.
Road conditions may have changes after heavy rain or typhoons due to potential rockfalls or landslides.

Rental Options Overview

Car Rental

Requires International Driving Permit + National Driving License (minimum age 20-25). Offers comfort, spaciousness, ideal for families/groups, and remote area exploration. City traffic, parking, navigation (if no GPS), and higher cost exist as considerations.

Scooter/Motorcycle Rental

Requires International Driving Permit (with motorcycle endorsement) + National Motorcycle License. Holds popularity, flexibility, easy parking, and cost-effectiveness for scenic drives. Safety risks (traffic, road conditions), weather exposure, and legal requirements are present.

Bicycle Rental

No specific license (ID/deposit usually needed). Eco-friendly, healthy, affordable. Suitable for dedicated cycling paths and short distances. Limited range, weather dependence, and physical effort are factors.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer intimate ways to experience Taitung's natural beauty and urban charm, allowing exploration at a slower pace.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Taitung City center is quite walkable, especially around the Taitung Railway Art Village and its streets.
Taitung Forest Park (Black Forest) exists as a vast urban park for walking, with well-maintained paths and Pipa Lake.
Taitung Railway Art Village holds pedestrian-friendly qualities, with art installations and open spaces.
Coastal Paths: Many East Coast National Scenic Area sections have pleasant walking and cycling paths, with Pacific Ocean views (e.g., Jialulan Recreation Area).

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Taitung has excellent cycling infrastructure, making it a destination for cyclists.
Dedicated cycling paths exist, including a long coastal route and paths through the Longitudinal Valley.
Brown Boulevard (Chishang) is flat, surrounded by rice paddies, and largely traffic-free, a prime cycling spot.
Safety: Helmets are always advisable and provided by rental shops. Awareness of other cyclists and pedestrians is important.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Organized tour buses exist for day trips to popular attractions like the East Coast National Scenic Area or Luye Gaotai.

Taitung has no hop-on-hop-off bus services.

Water Transportation

The main water transportation involves ferries connecting Fugang Fishery Port to Green Island and Orchid Island.

These are regular passenger services, not boat taxis.

Accessibility Services

Accessibility may be limited in older parts of Taitung or rural attractions due to uneven terrain.

Newer infrastructure may offer better accessibility.

Travel Safety & Tips

Safety Considerations

No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists in Taitung.
Caution on busy main roads without designated pedestrian or cycling paths is advisable.
Prioritize your safety, especially when encountering heavy traffic.

Efficient Movement

Google Maps for accurate, real-time bus schedules and route planning.
Your smartphone holds status as a navigation and information tool.

Pre-Travel Check

International Driving Permit (IDP) validity for rentals.
Review local driving laws and road conditions.
Consider public transport apps for efficiency.
Have local emergency contacts saved.

Some hotels, museums, and major train stations have better accessibility.
Travellers with mobility needs may arrange private transport for convenience.
Bicycle rental shops exist near popular cycling routes.
Confirm transport options back to Taitung City for day trips to islands.

Transportation Insight

Taitung's varied terrain means diverse transport choices. From bus lines to scooters or bicycles, each option offers distinct ways to explore the region.

Choosing a method based on your itinerary and comfort levels is advisable.

Getting Around