There are 2 way(s) to get from Kaohsiung to Chiayi
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Remember that THSR stations are usually located outside city centres, requiring an extra connection by local train, metro, or shuttle bus. TRA stations, on the other hand, are typically right in the heart of the city, making them more convenient for direct access to your accommodation.
For popular mountain getaways like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, or Taroko Gorge, always plan for a bus connection. There are no trains directly to these stunning locations. Chiayi is your main gateway for Alishan, with direct bus services readily available from the TRA station.
While same-day tickets are often available, booking THSR and popular TRA routes (especially on weekends or holidays) a few days in advance is wise. This ensures you get your preferred time and can sometimes even snag an early-bird discount on THSR tickets.
Platforms like 12go.asia and BaoLau.vn are invaluable for comparing different transport options (trains, buses, ferries) and booking tickets online with instant confirmation. This helps you avoid language barriers and clarifies complex connections, especially for islands.
If you plan extensive travel, look into passes like the THSR Pass (for unlimited rides) or joint train/bus tickets for specific regions (e.g., Alishan). These can offer significant savings and streamline your travel, but check if they align with your itinerary.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's transport system can seem a bit complex at first glance, with options ranging from the lightning-fast THSR to the more leisurely TRA trains and extensive bus networks. For your journey from Kaohsiung to Chiayi, you're in luck: it's a straightforward route with excellent choices. We'll break down the real door-to-door times and honest prices, helping you decide whether to speed along the west coast or take a more scenic and economical route.
From Kaohsiung to Chiayi, you have three main choices: the High-Speed Rail (THSR), the conventional Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) train, or an express bus. The THSR is the fastest, taking about 30-45 minutes and costing around €10-15. The TRA train is a slower alternative, typically 1.5 to 2 hours, for about €7-10. Express buses offer a competitive option, often taking 1 to 1.5 hours and costing as little as €4-7, making them very appealing for budget-conscious travellers.
Forget the worry about trains not reaching popular spots like Sun Moon Lake or Taroko Gorge on this route – Chiayi is a key hub for further exploration. While destinations like Alishan require a dedicated bus from Chiayi, your initial leg here is well-served by rail and road. For this specific journey, evaluate if the slight time saving of the THSR justifies its higher price. Often, a TRA train or even an express bus from Kaohsiung can get you to Chiayi efficiently and more affordably, leaving more budget for your mountain and island adventures.
Frequently asked questions — Kaohsiung → Chiayi
From Kaohsiung to Chiayi, you can choose between the High-Speed Rail (THSR), the conventional Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) train, or an express bus. Each offers a different balance of speed, cost, and convenience. The THSR is the fastest, while the TRA train and express buses are more economical, often making them a smart choice depending on your budget and final destination in Chiayi.
The journey duration varies significantly by transport type. The THSR is the fastest, taking approximately 30-45 minutes from station to station. TRA trains are slower, typically 1.5 to 2 hours. Express buses offer a competitive option, usually completing the trip in 1 to 1.5 hours, making them quite efficient for door-to-door travel, especially considering station locations.
Costs vary. A THSR ticket typically ranges from €10-15, while a TRA train ticket usually falls between €7-10. Express buses are generally the most budget-friendly option, with fares often around €4-7. These prices are for one-way journeys and can fluctuate slightly based on booking time, seat class, and operator. Comparing these options will help you find the best value.
For reaching Alishan from Chiayi, a bus is your only direct option, as there are no train services to the mountain area. You can take a direct bus from the Chiayi TRA station or the Chiayi THSR station. While the THSR gets you to Chiayi quicker, if Alishan is your next stop, taking the TRA train to Chiayi's city-centre station might be more convenient for the direct bus connection.
✨ Why visit Chiayi?
- ✓ Hike the scenic trails and admire the tea plantations of Alishan National Scenic Area.
- ✓ Explore the historic Hinoki Village with its Japanese-style wooden architecture.
- ✓ Savor authentic Chiayi turkey rice, a renowned local delicacy.
- ✓ Visit the National Palace Museum Southern Branch for exquisite art and cultural artifacts.
- ✓ Ride the Alishan Forest Railway, an iconic narrow-gauge mountain railway.
☀️ When to visit Chiayi?
SUBTROPICAL MOUSSON
October to April — cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking, with less rainfall, especially in winter.
What to do in Chiayi?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Chiayi?
For an independent francophone traveler, allocate 2 full days to explore Chiayi and its immediate surroundings. This allows you to visit Alishan National Scenic Area and experience local culture. If you're short on time, a day trip to Alishan is feasible but rushed.
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