To enhance transportation accessibility for foreign nationals in Taichung, Mayor Lu Shiow-yen presented a thoughtful New Year benefit. Foreign nationals holding an Alien Permanent Resident Certificate with a registered Taichung address can now join the exclusive “Double Ten Bus” program, which offers free bus rides for up to 10 kilometers and a cap of NT$10 beyond that distance. Benoit, a French dessert vendor at Taichung’s Fifth Market, has embraced life and work in the city, commending its convenient transport system and excellent benefits. Likewise, Fukumitsu Masatoshi, a Japanese residing in Taiwan for over three decades who often uses the MRT, expressed delight over the extended bus ride discounts, saying “I just love the welcoming nature of Taichung!”
Benoit, affectionately known as a “Taiwanese son-in-law,” runs a baking school with his wife and sells French pastries at a local market—something he never anticipated doing. When classes were suspended due to epidemic prevention regulations three and a half years ago, he turned to selling his signature cinnamon rolls to sustain his livelihood. Starting with modest resources, using just two red plastic chairs as a table, his pastries received rave reviews. Now, his stall, “Triple 3 Rolls,” has become a top-selling stall in the market.
Having lived in Taiwan for 14 years, Benoit finds commuting by scooter to the market incredibly convenient. As a frequent bus user, he owns several EasyCards and often rides with his family. His appearance as a foreign vendor in Taiwan’s traditional markets naturally piques curiosity. He always stands at the stall to greet and assist customers. Commenting on Mayor Lu’s bus benefit program, he said the benefit is “as sweet as pastries” for foreign nationals.
Fukumitsu Masatoshi, a Japanese residing in Taiwan for over three decades, is a devoted follower of Beitun District’s Erfenpu Fude Temple. According to Pingchang Village Chief Liu Ching-yun, Fukumitsu has a Taiwanese father and a Japanese mother. After completing his studies in Japan, he decided to move to Taiwan. Capable of speaking Mandarin and Taiwanese, he navigates the MRT system with ease. He commended Taichung’s “Double Ten Bus” program, which offers foreign nationals the same travel benefits as locals. Fukumitsu described Taichung as a city where he enjoys a comfortable and fulfilling life.
“I like using this EasyCard,” said Andrew Cribbs, an American teacher at Korrnell Ritz Academy in Taichung. He praised Taichung’s excellent bus service, noting that bus stops feature Chinese and English signage. He also shared his daily commute via Bus 300 along Taiwan Boulevard, followed by a short 15-minute walk to school. What left a lasting impression on him was the courteous bus etiquette, as passengers instinctively move to the back during rush hours. Lisa Pickren, an American who has been living in Taichung for just over four months, has relied on the city’s bus network to explore and familiarize herself with the city. She expressed her gratitude to the city government for providing foreign nationals with discounted fares. Both teachers beamed with smiles, expressing their hopes to “stay a little longer” in Taichung.
Taichung’s Transportation Bureau Director Yeh Chao-fu highlighted the city’s welcoming spirit and encouraged eligible foreign nationals to take advantage of the Double Ten Bus benefit. To apply, foreign nationals need to bring their Alien Permanent Resident Certificate and an e-voucher (EasyCard, iPASS, or icash) to any of 107 designated locations. These include the New Taichung City Hall, the Transportation Bureau, district offices, household registration offices, MRT Green Line stations, and public libraries. At these sites, they can link their transportation card to activate the discount. For more information on application sites, FAQs, discount details, form downloads, card status, or application tracking, visit the Citizens Exclusive website at https://idoor.taichung.gov.tw/.