Taoyuan Airport MRT: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
The Taoyuan Airport MRT is the most efficient and reliable way to travel between Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and Taipei City, offering travelers a clean, safe, and modern connection into Taiwan’s capital. Since opening in 2017, this train line has completely transformed the airport transfer experience for both locals and international visitors.
Whether you’re arriving for business or exploring Taiwan’s scenic beauty, understanding how to use the Airport MRT will save you time, money, and stress. With express and commuter services, onboard Wi-Fi, and seamless transfers to other rail systems, it’s the ideal first step into Taiwan’s world-class public transportation network.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — routes, fares, stations, operating hours, luggage options, and useful comparisons with buses, taxis, and private transfers.
Taoyuan Airport MRT Overview
The Taoyuan Airport MRT (桃園機場捷運) connects Taiwan’s main international gateway — Taoyuan International Airport — directly to Taipei Main Station, serving as a vital link between Taoyuan, New Taipei City, and central Taipei.
Stretching over 51 kilometers, this line bridges the distance in as little as 35 minutes via the express service. It’s not just a transit line; it’s a model of Taiwan’s efficiency and hospitality, providing travelers a glimpse of the island’s modern infrastructure right from the moment they land.
Key Features of the Taoyuan Airport MRT
- Two Train Types:
- Express Trains (Purple Line): Faster service with larger seats, onboard Wi-Fi, and luggage racks.
- Commuter Trains (Blue Line): Stop at every station, ideal for local travel and workers commuting between Taoyuan and Taipei.
- Direct Airport Access:Both Terminal 1 (A12) and Terminal 2 (A13) stations are located inside the airport buildings, accessible directly from the arrival and departure halls via escalators or elevators.
- Operating Hours:Trains run roughly 6:00 AM to 11:40 PM daily; both express and commuter trains operate approximately every 15 minutes, with services alternating between the two.
- Comfort and Convenience:Expect charging ports, digital route maps, and English-language announcements on all trains. The air conditioning is strong (great for Taiwan’s humid summers), and each train is spotless thanks to strict maintenance schedules.
Source: First Stop in Taiwan
Why Travelers Choose the Airport MRT
- Speed: 35 minutes to central Taipei — faster than any bus or taxi during rush hours.
- Affordability: Around NT$150 per adult, far cheaper than a taxi (NT$1,000+).
- Reliability: On-time departures unaffected by traffic or weather.
- Connectivity: Direct transfers to Taipei Metro, Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR), and Taiwan Railways (TRA).
📌For visitors arriving after long international flights, the Airport MRT’s clarity and cleanliness make it an immediate relief — no haggling with taxi drivers or figuring out bus stops.
Taoyuan Airport MRT Routes and Stations
The Airport MRT line runs from Taipei Main Station (A1) to Huanbei Station (A21) in Taoyuan City. The line includes 21 stations that serve both local commuters and airport travelers.
Major Stations on the Airport MRT Line
- A1 Taipei Main Station – A major hub connecting the Taipei Metro (Bannan and Tamsui-Xinyi Lines), Taiwan Railways, and the High Speed Rail. The station also hosts the In-Town Check-In counter for select airlines.
- A3 New Taipei Industrial Park Station – Connects with the Circular Line (Yellow Line), convenient for travelers heading toward Xinzhuang or Banqiao districts.
- A8 Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Station – Serves Taoyuan’s largest hospital and nearby commercial areas.
- A12 Airport Terminal 1 Station – Directly below Terminal 1 arrivals hall; clear English signage leads you straight to the MRT gates.
- A13 Airport Terminal 2 Station – Located below the Terminal 2 building, close to duty-free shops and baggage claim.
- A18 Taoyuan HSR Station – Offers fast transfers to southern Taiwan cities like Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung via the High Speed Rail.
Source: Taoyuan Metro
Express vs. Commuter Service
| Type | Stops | Duration | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Train | A1, A3, A8, A12, A13 | ~35–40 mins | Airport travelers, business visitors |
| Commuter Train | All 21 stations | ~50 mins | Local commuters, budget travelers |
📌Tip: Express trains feature purple seats and display “EXPRESS” clearly on station screens.
Source:Unsplash｜Andy Kuo
Taoyuan Airport MRT Tickets and Fares
Buying tickets for the Airport MRT is quick and tourist-friendly, with English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean interfaces at every vending machine.
Ticket Options
- Single-Journey Ticket: Simple tokens purchased at machines or counters. Just tap at the gate to enter and drop the token when exiting.
- EasyCard / iPASS: Prepaid smartcards used across all major transport in Taiwan — including MRT, buses, convenience stores, and YouBike rentals. Perfect for multi-day travelers.
- Group Tickets: Available for groups of 10 or more, offering small fare discounts.
- Combo Tickets: Some travel agencies and vending machines sell Airport MRT + HSR bundles, letting you travel from the airport to southern cities with one purchase.
Fare Information (as of 2025)
- Both Express and Commuter Train (TPE to Taipei): NT$150 per adult.
- Children/Senior/Concession Tickets: ~20% off.
- EasyCard Users: Automatically receive transfer discounts when switching to Taipei Metro.
Luggage and Check-In Services on the Taoyuan Airport MRT
One of the most traveler-friendly aspects of the MRT system is the In-Town Check-In Service available at Taipei Main Station.
Taipei Main Station In-Town Check-In
| Service Location | B1 In-Town Check-In Area |
|---|---|
| Service Hours | 06:00 ~ 21:30 |
| Service Rule | 3 hours before your flight taking off |
| Service Range | Check-in and checked luggage (Requirements: Flights departing from Taoyuan International Airport on the same day) |
| Airlines providing ITCI |
|
| Note | Please check relevant regulations and restrictions on websites of each airline. |
Luggage Convenience on Trains
- Express Trains: Dedicated luggage racks, wider aisles, and overhead storage areas.
- Commuter Trains: Limited space; best for smaller bags or backpacks.
📌Pro Tip: If you’re carrying surfboards, strollers, or oversized baggage, staff at each station can guide you to accessible elevators and wide gates.
Transportation Alternatives to the Taoyuan Airport MRT
While the Airport MRT is the most popular option, travelers can also consider buses, taxis, or private transfers depending on arrival time, group size, or destination.
Airport Buses
- Multiple routes connect Taoyuan Airport with Taipei, Taichung, and even southern Taiwan.
- Average fare: NT$140–150 to Taipei, but travel time may exceed 1.5 hours during rush hours.
- 24-hour services available on certain routes (e.g., Kuo-Kuang 1819).
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
- Convenient but expensive: Expect NT$1,000–1,200 to reach central Taipei.
- Available 24/7 outside both terminals.
- Uber and local ride-hailing apps operate at TPE, though pickup points may vary.
Further Reading:
tripool Private Transfer
For travelers with heavy luggage, young children, or late-night flights, tripool’s private transfer service offers unmatched convenience.
- Fixed pricing and advance booking online mean no surprises.
- In-app communication with an auto-translation function ensures no language barrier.
- Ideal for families, business groups, or anyone preferring a door-to-door experience without transfers.
📌Many travelers use tripool for their return trip to the airport, especially for early morning flights before MRT service begins.
Services and Facilities
Taoyuan Airport MRT provides various services and facilites to ensure passerngers a convenient and comfortable travel experience.
Free Wi-Fi
You can select the service name (SSID) below to start surfing in public areas of stations and trains:
- 「TyMetro」：All the stations.
- 「Tymetro-WiFi1」：Car 1 and Car2 in the trains.
- 「Tymetro-WiFi2」：Car 3 and Car4 in the trains.
Free Charging service
- In the stations：110V plugs、USB plug-ins and Wireless Charging.
Source: Taoyuan Metro
- In Commuter trains：Wireless Charging at Car1 and Car4.
Source: Taoyuan Metro
- In Express trains：USB plug-ins and Wireless Charging at Car1~Car4.
Source: Taoyuan Metro
Lockers
- Service time：the same with the operating hours of the stations.
- Luggage Locker Information for Each Taoyuan Airport MRT Station：
| Station | Size | Total of Lockers |
Fee (NTD) | H × W × D (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 Taipei Main Station |
Large | 18 | $60 / 3hrs | 84×42×58 |
| Small | 36 | $40 / 3hrs | 42×42×58 | |
| A2 Sanchong Station |
Large | 12 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A3 New Taipei Industrial Park Station |
Large | 20 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| A4 Xinzhuang Fuduxin Station |
Large | 12 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A7 National Taiwan Sport University Station |
Large | 24 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A8 Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Station |
Large | 4 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A9 Linkou Station |
Large | 20 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 20 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A12 Airport Terminal 1 Station |
Large | 16 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| A15 Dayuan Station |
Large | 8 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A18 Taoyuan HSR Station |
Large | 36 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A19 Taoyuan Sports Park Station |
Large | 4 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 | |
| A21 Huanbei Station |
Large | 4 | $50 / 3hrs | 90×45×60 |
| Small | 10 | $20 / 3hrs | 36×45×60 |
Breastfeeding Room
| Location |
A1 Taipei Main Station |
| Service time | The same with the operating hours of the stations. |
| Facilities | Sofas, tables, washbasins, baby changing stations cold and hot water. |
| Note | Make sure to contact station staff in information booth first before using. |
Practical Tips for Riding the Taoyuan Airport MRT
Best Time to Travel
- Avoid rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM) when commuter trains get crowded.
- Express trains are more comfortable and spacious for luggage.
Payment and Travel Cards
- Purchase EasyCard or iPASS at airport convenience stores or ticket counters.
- Top-up cards easily at machines or via mobile apps.
- Both cards work across Taipei MRT, buses, HSR transfers, and even YouBike rentals.
Accessibility Features
- All stations have elevators, ramps, and barrier-free restrooms.
- Designated wheelchair spaces are available in each train car.
- Staff are trained to assist travelers with limited mobility.
FAQ: Taoyuan Airport MRT – Everything Travelers Ask
Q: How much is MRT from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei?
A one-way adult ticket costs around NT$150. Children and senior passengers can enjoy discounted fares.
Q: Is there Wi-Fi on the Airport MRT?
Yes, all express trains offer free onboard Wi-Fi, and many stations have Taiwan Wi-Fi hotspot coverage for passengers.
Q: Is the Taoyuan Airport MRT accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Absolutely. All stations have elevators, escalators, and barrier-free pathways. Wheelchair spaces are available in every car, making the Airport MRT a great option for travelers with mobility needs or families with small children.
Q: Can I check in my luggage at Taipei Main Station?
Yes. The In-Town Check-In counter at Taipei Main Station (A1) allows passengers flying with EVA Air, China Airlines, or Starlux Airlines to check in baggage and print boarding passes before heading to the airport.
Q: What should I do if my flight departs after the MRT closes?
If your flight departs late at night or early morning, the MRT may not be running. In that case, you can take an airport bus, taxi, or a tripool private transfer — ideal for late-night departures and families with heavy luggage.
Q: Does the Taoyuan Airport MRT connect to the High Speed Rail (HSR)?
Yes. You can transfer to the Taiwan High Speed Rail at A18 Taoyuan HSR Station, making it easy to travel to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung after arriving in Taiwan.
Q: Is the Airport MRT safe for solo travelers or at night?
Definitely. Taiwan is known for its safety and hospitality, and the Airport MRT is patrolled, well-lit, and monitored by CCTV. Even evening trains are safe for solo or female travelers.
Q: Can I store my luggage at Airport MRT stations?
Taipei Main Station and several other stations along the line have coin lockers and luggage storage counters. These are ideal if you want to explore Taipei before heading to your hotel or flight.
Q: What’s the best option for families or groups?
For groups or families with multiple suitcases, tripool private transfers are a great choice — especially if you have children, elders or early flights. Many travelers use the MRT to reach Taipei but choose tripool for the return leg.
Get a quote!
tripool serviceQ: Is it worth taking the Airport MRT compared to a taxi?
Yes — the MRT is faster, cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable than taxis during daytime hours. However, taxis and tripool transfers remain the best choice for late-night arrivals or door-to-door convenience.
RTR Editor’s Note – Riding the Taoyuan Airport MRT with Round Taiwan Round
At Round Taiwan Round (RTR), we’ve guided thousands of international visitors through Taiwan’s transportation systems — and the Taoyuan Airport MRT consistently earns glowing reviews.
Years ago, getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei often meant long bus rides or expensive taxi fares. Today, you can land, clear immigration, and step directly onto a sleek purple express train that delivers you to Taipei Main Station in under 40 minutes.
What makes this system exceptional is not just its speed, but its simplicity. Signs are bilingual, staff are helpful, and the trains are spotless. For first-time visitors, it immediately sets the tone for Taiwan — efficient, polite, and well-organized.
Many of our guests especially love the In-Town Check-In feature. It allows travelers to check in luggage hours before departure, leaving hands free to explore Ximending, grab bubble tea, or shop at Taipei City Mall before heading to the airport.
Of course, MRT may not fit every travel plan. Late-night arrivals, large families, or groups with lots of luggage might prefer tripool — a reliable alternative that ensures comfort and peace of mind. At RTR, we often recommend combining both options: take the MRT upon arrival for speed and cost efficiency, and use tripool for your return to the airport, especially for early flights.
From our editorial perspective, the Taoyuan Airport MRT reflects Taiwan’s growing commitment to tourism accessibility and smart urban mobility. It’s more than just a train — it’s a warm welcome and a smooth send-off, embodying the spirit of Taiwan’s hospitality.
Whether you’re here for a week of island exploration or a short business trip, the Airport MRT ensures your Taiwan journey starts — and ends — on the right track.
