TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), known for its bustling stations, has seen a significant increase in foot traffic at several stations due to recent government public infrastructure projects. Taipei Station remains the busiest, followed by Ximen Station and Taipei City Hall Station.
However, from 2019 to 2023, Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Station and Nangang Software Park Station saw the most significant growth. The two Nangang stations have seen a substantial increase in foot traffic post-pandemic, thanks to surrounding government public infrastructure projects and the advantages of the Nangang Software Park.
Nangang Station's growth rate reached 11.1%, attracting large commercial office facilities. Over the next four years, Taipei City will add 2,530,000 square meters of office space, nearly half of which will be concentrated in Nangang.
Nangang Station, designed as a joint construction with the subway, features a department store right outside the station and commercial office facilities, attracting crowds whenever there are events.
"In urban planning, the development of various large-scale regional projects, such as new residential areas or commercial office complexes, are directly related to the growth of the commercial district," said Lin Yuan-ching, an expert in logistics and business models.
Ximen Station and Taipei City Hall Station still rank second and third, respectively, despite the impact of the pandemic in recent years. Both stations, surrounded by major department stores and commercial offices, continue to attract large crowds.
"From January to March this year, Ximen Station has recovered to about 91% of its pre-pandemic volume, returning to second place," said Taipei MRT Planning Section Chief Lien Chih-hung.
Zhongshan Station has also seen a significant increase in foot traffic in recent years. The station, located near an old street known for its auto parts shops, has attracted many young people with the development of the underground street and the entry of department stores.
According to statistics, Zhongshan Station has the highest number of visitors under 40, with nearly 20% under 30, indicating a trend towards a younger demographic.
The subway line has transformed with government public infrastructure projects over time, becoming a symbol of the city's economic development.