TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As Lunar New Year approaches, Taipei Metro (台北捷運) will launch a limited-edition "Year of the Snake Commemorative Ticket Set" on Jan. 18. The sets will be available daily from 12:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the MRT Zhongshan (中山) Store, with only 500 sets on sale, priced at NT$390 each. Each customer can purchase up to six sets until supplies run out.
Since 2013, Taipei Metro has released zodiac-themed commemorative tickets annually, featuring creative designs that highlight zodiac characteristics. These tickets come with red envelopes and spring couplets, offering both practicality and collectible value during the festive season. Taipei Metro stated that this year's set includes two one-day passes, a commemorative snake coin, two red envelope designs, and a spring couplet.
The design theme, "Snake Brings Fortune" (蛇來運轉), combines the snake's sinuous image with the MRT's smooth operation, symbolizing resilience and smooth progress in the new year. The ticket set's design draws inspiration from the MRT's swift and convenient nature, akin to the snake's fluid form, ensuring rapid connectivity and instant good fortune.
The tickets feature a vibrant red color scheme, accented with a matte gold snake pattern and the "Snake Brings Fortune" motif, enhancing the festive atmosphere while serving both practical and collectible purposes. The red envelope designs align with the ticket style, exuding festive cheer. The spring couplets, with their bold red background and matte gold embossing, convey auspicious meanings and add a festive touch to decorations.