TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Metro (台北捷運公司), Taiwan's largest rapid transit system, launched QR code scanning for travel on Saturday (Jan. 3), with approximately 18,000 of 1.84 million daily passengers using the new payment option. The system aims to increase payment flexibility, reduce ticketing time, and decrease cash transactions, particularly benefiting international travelers unfamiliar with Taiwan's stored-value card systems. The rollout marks a significant shift in commuting habits for the capital's transit network.
Taipei Metro statistics showed only 0.4% of passengers used the QR code option by 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, with most commuters continuing to use digital stored-value cards. The Facebook page "I am a Taipei Person" (我是台北人) reported that many regular travelers still prefer physical cards, with some passengers struggling to pass through gates using the new QR system. Taipei Metro advised passengers to activate their e-payment app, select "QR code for travel" instead of "payment code," and ensure adequate phone screen brightness for smooth scanning.
The system has operated smoothly since launch, with approximately 4,000 passengers also entering stations using credit cards on the first day. Taipei Metro has signed an agreement with LINE Pay Money (連加電子支付公司), a mobile payment service, but has not announced the official launch date for this integration due to ongoing system development and testing. The addition of LINE Pay Money will further expand payment options for Taiwan's commuters once testing concludes.
Taipei Metro emphasized that diverse payment methods increase convenience and efficiency for passengers across the transit network. For frequent users of passes like TPASS, a monthly unlimited-ride pass, Taipei Metro will coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and other authorities for future implementation. The QR code system represents the latest step in modernizing Taiwan's public transit payment infrastructure. ◼