How to Travel Asia Cheap: The 5 Best Asian Countries with Great Public Transportation

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When I travel, I’m always looking for ways to save money, and transportation is easy to budget for. Sure, it’s not always the most convenient, but public transport lets you dive into local life. The good, the bad, and yes—the sometimes confusing! From high-speed trains that feel like rocket ships to buses that zigzag through neighborhoods, here’s my take on the best public transportation in Asia. Spoiler alert: I’ve had my share of misadventures, but they always make the journey more memorable.

Table of Contents

• the Best Public Transportation in Asia
• Japan
• Malaysia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Singapore

Japan

Japan has one of the best public transportation in Asia (and the world too). Japan’s Shinkansen, or bullet train, is like the Usain Bolt of trains—fast, smooth, and always on time. On my first trip, I booked tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto to make the most of our ten days in Japan. I remember nervously clutching my ticket, hoping I wouldn’t mess up and get on the wrong train. The Shinkansen experience was everything I hoped for and more—punctual, clean, and soothing. But let’s not talk about that time. I got off one stop too early and had a nice little stroll in a town I didn’t plan to visit. Oh well, it’s all part of the journey, right?

Japan isn’t just about the Shinkansen—its buses and metros deserve some love, too. I always thought buses would be slow and tedious, but they’re surprisingly punctual and comfortable in Japan. And the metro system? It’s a game-changer for whipping around the biggest city on the planet. Japan’s attention to detail makes even the most mundane journeys unique.

What is the metro fare in Japan?

Metro fares start at around $1.50 for a single ride in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

Can you take the metro from the airport into Tokyo?

Yes, from Narita International Airport, you can take the Narita Express or the Keisei Skyliner to central Tokyo. From Haneda Airport, the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line connect directly to the city’s metro system.

Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur’s LRT and MRT systems are a bit like the city—busy, colorful, and full of surprises. My first ride was smooth, except when I confidently exited at the wrong stop, only to realize that the Twin Towers were nowhere in sight. It turns out that getting back on the right track was easy, and I ended up chatting with a local who gave me some tips on hidden food spots along the way. You don’t get that kind of advice in a taxi! The buses and monorails also make getting around easy, as long as you remember to keep your bearings straight.

What is the metro fare in Malaysia?

In Kuala Lumpur, metro fares start at approximately $0.30 per ride.

Can you take the metro from the airport into Kuala Lumpur?

Yes, this is true. The KLIA Ekspres is a high-speed train that connects Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to KL Sentral, the main transportation hub in Kuala Lumpur. From KL Sentral, you can easily transfer to the city’s metro system, including the LRT, MRT, and Monorail lines, to reach various parts of the city.

South Korea

I have lived in South Korea for almost ten years, and public transportation keeps improving. I prefer the metro over the bus, but both will get you anywhere. South Korea’s transport system is a dream, especially for tech lovers. Convenience is unmatched, from KTX high-speed trains to the expansive metro networks in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Incheon. My first ride on the KTX felt like flying low over the countryside—fast, smooth, and efficient.

Multiple lines and the Korean language in the metros can seem daunting, but clear signage (in English, too) makes navigating South Korea’s metro systems a breeze. They even announce the stops in English, so you’ll always know where you are. Just download the app on your phone and get going. Even if you hop on the wrong train, like I’ve done many times, you’ll just end up with more stories and extra sightseeing. Ranked among the best public transportation in Asia, South Korea’s KTX might not be as fast as Japan’s, but it’s still quick, convenient, and perfect for exploring the country with ease.

One of my favorite ways to go the airport in each city is the Limousine Bus. Check it out here.

What is the metro fare in South Korea?

Metro fares start at around $1.00 in cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Incheon.

Can you take the metro from the airport into Seoul, Daegu, Inceon, and Busan?

Daegu: Daegu International Airport does not have a direct metro connection to the city center. However, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to the nearest metro station (Ayanggyo Station on Line 1), which connects you to the city’s metro network.

Incheon: Incheon International Airport is directly connected to Seoul, but not to Incheon’s downtown. However, you can use the AREX or Incheon Airport Maglev to transfer to the Incheon Subway Line 1, which serves the city.

Busan: Gimhae International Airport in Busan is connected to the city center via the Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit. This line connects with Busan’s metro network, allowing easy access to the city.

Taiwan

Taiwan’s metro system, especially in Taipei and Kaohsiung, is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. The trains are fast, reliable, and air-conditioned—a blessing in Taiwan’s humid climate. On my first ride, I was so captivated by the city views that I almost missed my stop. Thankfully, the stations are well-marked, and the helpful staff make it easy to get back on track. The EasyCard simplifies the experience, letting you tap in at turnstiles, pay for buses, and even grab a snack at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. It’s a seamless way to explore the city without the stress.

What is the metro fare in Taiwan?

Metro fares start at approximately $0.65 USD for a single ride, with prices increasing based on distance traveled.

Can you take the metro from the airport into Taipei?

Yes, the Taoyuan Airport MRT connects Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei Main Station in the city center.

Singapore

Singapore’s MRT is a lifesaver and ranks among the best public transportation in Asia. It’s clean and efficient and driverless. I remember my first time—it felt like stepping into the future. There I was, with my EZ-Link card in hand, ready to take on the city. Of course, I promptly tapped my card wrong and held up the line, but the staff was super helpful, and no one even rolled their eyes. The MRT stations are well-signed; you can zip through the city without sweat. Sure, I ended up on the wrong platform once I learned much about Singapore’s underground world that day.

What is the metro fare in Singapore?

The MRT fares start at roughly $0.80 for a single trip.

Can you take the metro from the airport into Singapore?

Yes, the MRT East-West Line directly connects Changi Airport to central Singapore, making it easy to reach the city.

Thailand

I love traveling around Thailand. However, Thailand didn’t make the list. But it should be noted you can get around pretty easily if you’re in the major cities, especially Bangkok. You can utilize the metro, trains, buses, and rideshare cars and motorcycles. It gets a little trickier in cities like Pattaya and Chiang Mai, but we were able to go everywhere we wanted using Grab, tuk tuks, songthaews, motorbikes or a private car. There is no metro. I’ve heard there are intra-city buses, but I haven’t seen them, though trains and buses do connect these cities to the rest of the country. Despite the occasional challenge, navigating Thailand’s transport system can be quite the adventure, with no shortage of options.

Final Thoughts

I love public transportation—it’s affordable, allows you to mingle with locals, and often provides an interesting story. Unlike in some places, there’s no stigma around using public transport in Asia—or anywhere else, for that matter. Everyone uses it, from business professionals to students. It starts at the airport, making it easy to get into the city without the hassle or cost of a taxi. And if all else fails, all these countries have ride-sharing apps ready to get you where you need to go.

The only reason I don’t always use public transport is that I love visiting rural destinations, and sometimes, a car is just necessary. Singapore’s MRT is fantastic, but let me tell you, the city’s heat can make walking to some transit stations feel like a mini-marathon—definitely not for the faint of heart!

Always check to see if there’s a tourist card with discounts and extra benefits, especially when exploring some of the best public transportation in Asia. Some of these cards even use phone technology, making travel easier with a quick tap. And remember, public transport doesn’t always offer door-to-door drop-offs, so be ready to walk a bit or find a connecting ride. It’s all part of the adventure!

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