The "Metropolis Star" hits the road: Direct bus from Taipei to Su'ao without transfers

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Good news for commuters between Taipei and Yilan ! The "Metropolis Star," jointly operated by Greater Taipei Bus and Taipei Bus, has officially entered the National Freeway 5 market starting today. Passengers can now travel directly from Dapinglin in Xindian to Su'ao without the hassle of transferring buses. Three stops have been set up in Luodong, Yilan, and the operator has specifically imported 39 new buses for this service. Additionally, two buses equipped with barrier-free lifting devices have been purchased to accommodate passengers with disabilities.

▲The "Metropolis Star" is now in service, making travel between Taipei and Su'ao more convenient. (Photo / FromSu'ao Travel Facebook Fan Page)

Currently, there are three bus companies operating on National Freeway 5, but only Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport runs the Nanfang'ao line. Both Kavalan and Capital Bus only go as far as Luodong. Previously, travelers heading to Su'ao had to take a shuttle bus to the Luodong Transfer Station and then transfer. With the launch of the 9028 route of the "Metropolis Star," passengers can now travel directly from Xindian to three stops in Luodong, Dongshan, and Su'ao. There is also one bus per hour that stops at the Pinglin Tea Museum.

Greater Taipei Bus stated that the 9028 route departs from Dapinglin MRT Station, travels via National Freeway 3 and 5, and arrives at the transfer station in front of Luodong Railway Station. From there, it continues along Provincial Highway 9 to Dongshan and Su'ao. In terms of departure times, services run daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM from the Taipei end, and from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM from the Su'ao end. During off-peak hours, buses run every 15 minutes, while during peak times, a bus departs every 8 minutes.

Regarding ticket prices, the full fare from Xindian to Luodong is NT$120, and from Xindian to Su'ao is NT$180. Starting today, purchasing a book of stored-value tickets comes with one free stored-value ticket. The operator also mentioned that those who purchase before December 11 will receive an additional stored-value ticket, effectively meaning buy 10, get 2 free. For more information, you can call Greater Taipei Bus at 0800-053434 or visit theirofficial website.

▲The famous Su'ao Cold Springs. (Photo / From Su'ao Travel Facebook Fan Page)