TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — New Taipei’s YouBike system on Wednesday celebrated its 300 millionth rider by awarding the lucky winner a one-year TPASS, valid for public transportation across Keelung, Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan.

The New Taipei Transportation Department presented Huang Chih-wei (黃誌偉) a TPASS valued at NT$14,400 (US$460). Huang uses YouBike during the week to cycle to Taoyuan Airport MRT New Taipei Industrial Park Station before continuing into Taipei, per a press release.

He said his commute using YouBike and the MRT is comparable to traveling by scooter or car, adding that MRT rides are cooler in the summer and remove the hassle of searching for parking. Huang said he initially suspected the congratulatory phone call from the Transportation Bureau was a scam, but realized it was genuine after verifying the details.

New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) presented Huang with a certificate and praised his dedication to eco-friendly public transportation, calling him a testament to the city’s integrated transit network. Hou said YouBike plays a key “last-mile” role, helping ease rush-hour congestion and improving overall transportation efficiency.

The Transportation Department said it will continue reviewing usage patterns across districts to adjust station locations and ensure sufficient bike availability. It also encouraged residents who have not yet purchased public bicycle injury insurance to register as soon as possible to improve personal protection.