There are 2 way(s) to get from Chiayi to Kaohsiung
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
THSR stations are usually outside city centers (e.g., Chiayi HSR Station). TRA stations are typically in the city center. Always double-check which station your ticket is for to avoid last-minute rushes or taxi fares.
Many iconic mountain destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are only accessible by bus. Plan your bus connections from major train stations or cities carefully, as services can vary.
Book your THSR, TRA tickets, and even some express buses online in advance, especially during peak season. Websites like 12go.asia offer easy booking with instant confirmation, saving you time and stress at the station.
If you're traveling with large luggage, express buses often have generous undercarriage storage, similar to long-distance coaches. TRA trains also offer good space, but THSR can be tighter during peak hours.
For shorter distances where the THSR might be overkill, the slower TRA local trains can be a charming and significantly cheaper alternative. They stop at more local stations, offering a different perspective.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling from Chiayi to Kaohsiung? You've got several solid options, and knowing which one to pick can feel a bit like cracking a code when you're planning your Taiwan adventure from abroad. Forget just looking at the fastest bullet train – we'll break down the real door-to-door times and genuine costs so you can make an informed choice. This route is straightforward, with excellent connections, but understanding the nuances between the THSR and TRA trains, plus buses, is key.
For this particular journey, both the High-Speed Rail (THSR) and the slower TRA train, as well as express buses, are available. The THSR is your fastest bet, zipping between cities in about 30-45 minutes for around €10-€15. The TRA train takes a bit longer, usually 1 to 1.5 hours, and can be slightly cheaper, typically €7-€10. Express buses are often the most budget-friendly, costing around €4-€8 and taking about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic and specific stops.
While Taiwan's rail network is top-notch, remember it's a mix: THSR only covers the west coast, while TRA circles the island. Key destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are strictly bus territory, and islands like Green Island or Penghu require a ferry or flight. For Chiayi to Kaohsiung, you're spoiled for choice with trains and buses. Don't worry about showing up at the wrong station; we'll guide you through the main departure points so your trip is as smooth as possible.
Frequently asked questions — Chiayi → Kaohsiung
You have three main options: the High-Speed Rail (THSR), the slower Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) train, and intercity express buses. The THSR is the fastest, connecting Chiayi HSR Station to Kaohsiung's Zuoying HSR Station. The TRA train runs from Chiayi Station to Kaohsiung Station, while buses depart from Chiayi Bus Station to various terminals in Kaohsiung. Each offers a different balance of speed, cost, and comfort.
A THSR ticket typically costs around €10-€15 and takes about 30-45 minutes. A TRA train ticket is usually €7-€10, with a journey time of 1 to 1.5 hours. Express buses are the most economical at €4-€8, taking approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Prices and times can vary slightly depending on the operator, class of service, and whether you book in advance.
For speed and comfort, the THSR is unmatched, ideal if you prioritize saving time. If you're value-conscious and don't mind a slightly longer journey, the TRA train is a great middle-ground option, offering a more scenic route. Express buses are the most budget-friendly choice, perfect for travelers looking to save money. Consider your budget, time constraints, and desired travel experience when making your decision.
Yes, direct bookings are widely available online for THSR and TRA trains through their official websites. Many express bus operators also offer online booking. For a consolidated experience, platforms like 12go.asia allow you to compare and book various options, often providing instant confirmation. This simplifies planning, especially when juggling different modes of transport across Taiwan.
Chiayi Station is the main TRA (conventional rail) station, located in the city center, serving slower trains that connect various cities around Taiwan. Chiayi HSR Station is the High-Speed Rail station, situated outside the city center, serving bullet trains that run along the west coast. You'll need to use a local bus or taxi to transfer between the two.
✨ Why visit Kaohsiung?
- ✓ Explore the Lotus Pond with its iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.
- ✓ Visit Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of Taiwan's largest Buddhist centers.
- ✓ Stroll through Pier-2 Art Center, a vibrant hub of art and creativity.
- ✓ Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at Liuhe Tourist Night Market.
- ✓ Take a ferry to Cijin Island for beaches, historical sites, and cycling.
☀️ When to visit Kaohsiung?
TROPICAL MONSOON CLIMATE
October to April — Enjoy pleasant, dry weather with comfortable temperatures, avoiding the hot and humid summer.
What to do in Kaohsiung?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Kaohsiung?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 4 days are ideal to explore Kaohsiung. This allows you to visit major sites like Lotus Pond, the Pier-2 Art Center, and take a day trip to Fo Guang Shan Monastery. With 5 days, you can add a visit to Cijin Island and enjoy the city's relaxed pace.
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