Taiwan

How to get from Hsinchu to Taichung

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
0h 28min
💶
From
4€
📍
Distance
80 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 2 way(s) to get from Hsinchu to Taichung

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Hsinchu
📍For THSR, you'll depart from Hsinchu THSR Station (新竹站), located in Zhubei City, Hsinchu County. It's a modern, spacious station with dining options and convenience stores, designed for high-speed travel efficiency.
🚇From Hsinchu city centre, you can reach Hsinchu THSR Station via local TRA train (Liujia Line from Hsinchu TRA Station), city bus, or taxi. The TRA Liujia Line takes about 10-15 minutes and costs around €1. A taxi ride could take 20-30 minutes, costing around €10-15.
⏰THSR services from Hsinchu to Taichung are frequent, with trains departing every 20-30 minutes during peak hours and less often off-peak. The first train typically departs around 6:30 AM and the last around 11:00 PM.
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 0h 28min
⭐ Recommended: THSR / TRA Train — 8€
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
City Centre vs. Outskirts

THSR stations, like Hsinchu and Taichung, are often outside city centres. Factor in local transport time (taxi, bus, local train) to reach your final destination. Sometimes, the TRA or an express bus, though slower overall, drops you right where you want to be.

💡
Check TRA vs. THSR Stations

Don't assume there's only one 'Hsinchu Station'. Hsinchu has a TRA station in the city centre and a THSR station a bit further out. Double-check your ticket to ensure you head to the correct one to avoid any last-minute stress.

💡
Bus Can Be a Smart Choice

For shorter inter-city routes like Hsinchu to Taichung, express buses can be surprisingly efficient and cost-effective. They often offer direct routes between city centres, saving you the hassle and cost of transfers from THSR stations.

💡
Online Booking Convenience

You can book THSR, TRA, and even some express bus tickets online via platforms like 12go.asia. Booking in advance, especially for popular routes or peak times, secures your seat and often gives you better clarity on prices and schedules.

💡
Consider Total Journey Time

While THSR is fast, don't just look at the train time. Add the time to get to the THSR station, wait for your train, and then travel from the arrival THSR station to your final spot. A slower TRA train or bus might be quicker overall.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating Taiwan's transport system from Hsinchu to Taichung can feel a bit like a puzzle, especially with the mix of high-speed rail, regular trains, and buses. You want to know exactly what’s what, how long it truly takes door-to-door, and what it’ll cost – not just the flashiest option. We’re here to give you the straightforward facts so you can pick the best way to continue your adventure without any guesswork.

For your trip from Hsinchu to Taichung, you have two main options: the THSR (High-Speed Rail) and the TRA (conventional train), both offering different experiences. The THSR is incredibly fast, connecting Hsinchu THSR station to Taichung THSR station in just about 12 minutes, costing around €8. The TRA, while slower, is often more convenient for city-centre connections. There are also express buses, which can be a budget-friendly alternative at around €4, taking about an hour and dropping you closer to your final destination in Taichung city centre.

Understanding which option is best really depends on your priorities. While the THSR is lightning-fast, remember its stations are typically outside city centres. For Hsinchu to Taichung, if your final destination is near a TRA station in Taichung or you prefer a direct bus, these slower options might actually save you time overall by avoiding transfers and getting you closer to where you need to be. Always consider the total travel time, including getting to and from stations, not just the train ride itself.

Frequently asked questions — Hsinchu → Taichung

✨ Why visit Taichung?

  • ✓ Explore the vibrant street art and unique architecture of Rainbow Village.
  • ✓ Indulge in a boba tea tasting tour, Taichung is the birthplace of bubble tea.
  • ✓ Visit the Gaomei Wetlands for stunning sunsets and rich biodiversity.
  • ✓ Discover the creative hub of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts.
  • ✓ Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Houli Bicycle Path and see the Flower Drum Art Park.
🌙
Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — allows you to explore city attractions and nearby natural sites at a relaxed pace.

☀️ When to visit Taichung?

SUBTROPICAL HUMID

October to April — pleasant temperatures, less humidity, and lower chance of rain, ideal for outdoor activities.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😊
Apr 😊
May 😐
Jun 😞
Jul 😞
Aug 😞
Sep 😐
Oct 😊
Nov 😊
Dec 😐
📍
In Taichung — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Taichung
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Taichung?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🌈
Rainbow Village's Colorful Houses
Explore the vibrant, hand-painted houses of Rainbow Village, a unique art installation created by a veteran. This whimsical site is perfect for photos. Arrive early to avoid crowds, as it's a very popular free attraction.
🎭
National Taichung Theater's Architecture
Admire the fluid, cave-like architecture of the National Taichung Theater, designed by Toyo Ito. Take a guided tour to understand its unique 'sound cave' concept, or simply enjoy the public spaces and rooftop garden. Entry to the building is free, performances cost extra.
🏞️
Gaomei Wetlands Sunset Views
Experience the stunning sunset over the Gaomei Wetlands, a rich ecosystem and popular spot for birdwatching. Walk along the wooden boardwalk. Check tide times for the best reflections and arrive about an hour before sunset for optimal viewing and photography.
🍦
Miyahara's Historic Confectionery
Visit Miyahara, a former ophthalmology clinic transformed into a luxurious confectionery store, famous for its ice cream, pastries, and traditional Taiwanese treats. The interior's old-world charm is captivating. Expect queues for ice cream, but it's worth the wait for unique flavors.
🍜
Fengjia Night Market Food Tour
Dive into the culinary delights of Fengjia Night Market, one of Taiwan's largest and most famous. Sample local street food like stinky tofu, pearl milk tea, and various skewers. Go on an empty stomach and allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore the vast array of options.
🌳
Dongshi Forest Garden Escape
Seek tranquility at Dongshi Forest Garden, a vast recreational area ideal for hiking, forest bathing, and enjoying nature. Discover various plant species and scenic trails. Consider renting a scooter or taking a local bus, as it's a bit outside the city center.
🍶
Shenji New Village Crafts & Cafes
Explore Shenji New Village, a revitalized dormitory complex for government employees, now home to independent craft shops, quirky boutiques, and charming cafes. It's a great spot for unique souvenirs and a relaxed atmosphere. Weekends are livelier, but weekdays offer a calmer experience.
🍵
Chun Shui Tang Original Teahouse
Visit the original Chun Shui Tang Teahouse, credited with inventing bubble milk tea. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony or savor a classic pearl milk tea in a historical setting. Prices for a drink start from around 3-5€. It's more than just a drink; it's a piece of Taiwanese culinary history.

⏱️ How long to visit Taichung?

2 to 4 days

For an independent francophone traveler, Taichung warrants at least 2 days to explore its urban core and some unique spots like Gaomei Wetlands. If you wish to venture into nearby mountains or cultural villages, allocate 3-4 days. Focus on specific interests to maximize your time.

Related searches

train Hsinchu Taichung bus Hsinchu Taichung how to get from Hsinchu to Taichung ticket price Hsinchu to Taichung travel time Hsinchu to Taichung travel to Taiwan

Other trips from Hsinchu

Book now