There are 2 way(s) to get from Hsinchu 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 often outside city centres. Factor in local transport time (taxi, MRT, local bus) to get to and from the THSR station. This can add 30-60 minutes to your door-to-door journey and extra cost.
For shorter distances or when travelling to cities on the slower TRA line, like along the east coast, the TRA train can be more convenient and offer better views. It's often cheaper and drops you right in the city centre.
If your itinerary includes Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, or Taroko Gorge, always plan for bus travel. There are no train lines to these spectacular mountain areas. Research bus routes and departure points in advance.
For Green Island, Orchid Island, and Penghu, you'll need a ferry or a flight. Book these well in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, as seats and tickets can sell out quickly. Check 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn.
Don't just look at the main journey time. Add time for getting to the station, waiting, and reaching your final destination from the arrival station. This gives you a true picture of travel duration and helps avoid overpaying.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's public transport can feel like a puzzle from abroad, especially when trying to figure out if you need the lightning-fast THSR, the island-circling TRA train, an express bus, or even a ferry or flight for those stunning island escapes. You want clear, honest information on door-to-door times and real prices, not just the advertised speed of the bullet train. For your journey from Hsinchu to Kaohsiung, we'll break down all your options so you can make an informed decision.
For this route, you have two primary options: the High-Speed Rail (THSR) or the conventional TRA train and express buses. The THSR is your fastest bet, getting you from Hsinchu to Kaohsiung in about 1 hour for approximately €25. The TRA train and express buses offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with tickets around €14, but expect a journey time of closer to 4 hours. Operators include Ubus and Kuo-Kuang for buses, while THSR and TRA are the railway providers.
While Taiwan's rail network is excellent, remember that not all destinations are train-accessible. Places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge require a bus connection, and the islands need a ferry or flight. For Hsinchu to Kaohsiung, the THSR is incredibly convenient if speed is your priority and you're comfortable with its slightly higher price. However, don't dismiss the TRA train or a comfortable express bus; they can offer significant savings and a different travel experience, often dropping you closer to city centers than the out-of-town THSR stations.
Frequently asked questions — Hsinchu → Kaohsiung
You have three main options: the High-Speed Rail (THSR), the slower conventional TRA train, and express buses. The THSR is the fastest, connecting Hsinchu THSR Station to Kaohsiung's Zuoying THSR Station. TRA trains run from Hsinchu Main Station to Kaohsiung Main Station. Express buses also offer direct routes.
A THSR ticket generally costs around €25-€30, depending on the class and how far in advance you book. For the TRA train or an express bus, you can expect to pay significantly less, typically in the range of €14-€20. Prices can vary with operators and booking platforms.
The THSR is the quickest, with a journey time of about 1 hour between the main stations, but factor in an additional 30-60 minutes for connections to/from city centers. The TRA train and express buses take significantly longer, usually around 4 hours for the main journey, plus local transport time.
If speed and comfort are your top priorities, the THSR is highly recommended, despite its higher cost and out-of-town stations. If you're value-conscious and don't mind a longer journey, the TRA train or an express bus are excellent alternatives that can save you money and often drop you closer to your final destination in the city center.
✨ 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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