Can you use EasyCard for TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration)

Planning to travel around Taiwan? Make sure you grab an EasyCard—it’s one of the easiest ways to get around. But if you’re wondering, “Can I use an EasyCard on TRA trains?”—the answer is yes, but with a few exceptions.

Using an EasyCard on TRA Trains

Good news! You can use your EasyCard on most local TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration) trains. Just tap in, tap out—no need to wait in line or buy paper tickets.

With an EasyCard, you can:

• Skip the ticket machines
• Enter and exit stations easily
• Automatically pay the standard fare

It’s perfect for short trips or when you’re hopping between cities and towns.

When You Can’t Use an EasyCard

There are a few TRA services where EasyCard doesn’t work, especially on reserved-seat or express trains. These include:

• Taroko Express
• Puyuma Express
• Tourist trains
• Group trains
• Any other reserved-seat or special trains

For these, you’ll need to buy a ticket in advance—online, at a kiosk, or at the station counter.

Easy Tips for Riding TRA with an EasyCard

• Check the train type before you board—ask staff or look for signs.
• Buy tickets for long-distance or reserved trains to avoid surprises.
• Top up your EasyCard before heading to small towns with fewer machines.

The Bottom Line

The EasyCard is a must-have for traveling around Taiwan. It works on most local TRA trains and makes moving around faster, easier, and budget-friendly. Just remember: for express or special trains, go old-school and buy a ticket.

With a little planning, Taiwan’s train system is smooth, smart, and super convenient.