There are 2 way(s) to get from Kaohsiung to Hualien
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Especially during peak season or holidays, popular routes fill up quickly. Booking online via the official THSR or TRA websites, or platforms like 12go.asia, ensures you secure your seat and often offers a discount for early bookings.
THSR stations are often outside city centers (e.g., Zuoying for Kaohsiung). TRA stations are usually centrally located. Always double-check which station you need for your specific leg of the journey to avoid arriving at the wrong one.
For cross-island journeys like Kaohsiung to Hualien, using THSR for the west coast leg (e.g., to Taipei) and then TRA for the east coast leg is often the fastest and most convenient method. It balances speed with comprehensive coverage.
Destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and even Taroko Gorge (once you reach Hualien) are primarily accessible by bus. Research the local bus connections from the nearest TRA station for these breathtaking, train-free spots.
For Green Island or Penghu, it's either a ferry or a flight. Ferry schedules can be weather-dependent, and flights need early booking. Always confirm the transport type and book in advance, especially during peak travel times.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's transport can feel like a puzzle, especially when you're moving from west to east. You're trying to figure out if it's a THSR bullet train, a slower TRA train, a bus, or even a ferry or flight for those island escapes. For your journey from Kaohsiung to Hualien, it's crucial to understand that the high-speed rail doesn't cross the island. You'll be looking at a mix of THSR and TRA, or even buses, to get you there efficiently and without overpaying.
For the Kaohsiung to Hualien route, your journey will involve a transfer. The fastest door-to-door option combines a THSR train from Kaohsiung (Zuoying Station) north to either Taipei or Banqiao, and then a TRA train down the scenic east coast to Hualien. This typically costs around €35-€50 and takes 4-5 hours total. Alternatively, you could take a TRA train all the way, but this would be significantly slower and potentially involve more transfers within the TRA network. Direct express buses aren't a practical option for this cross-island route.
Remember, Taiwan's excellent transport network is diverse. While the THSR is fantastic for the west coast, places like Hualien and Taroko Gorge are exclusively served by the TRA train network, and spots like Sun Moon Lake or Alishan are bus-only. Don't assume a train will get you everywhere. Always check the specific transport mode for each leg of your journey – it'll save you time, money, and ensure you arrive at the right station, ready to explore.
Frequently asked questions — Kaohsiung → Hualien
The direct route from Kaohsiung to Hualien is primarily served by TRA trains. While you can use THSR for part of the journey (Kaohsiung to Taipei), you'll need to transfer to a TRA train to reach Hualien on the east coast. Direct express buses across the island for this route are not a common or efficient option.
Combining THSR (Kaohsiung-Taipei) and TRA (Taipei-Hualien) is the fastest, taking about 4-5 hours door-to-door, including transfers. This option will cost approximately €35-€50, depending on train class and booking time. Taking only TRA trains would be cheaper but significantly longer, easily 6-8+ hours with transfers.
For Kaohsiung to Hualien, the 'smarter' option depends on your priorities. If saving time is paramount, the THSR + TRA combination is best, despite the higher cost. If budget is your main concern and you don't mind a longer journey, taking the TRA all the way from Kaohsiung to Hualien is cheaper but much slower. The THSR only covers the west coast, so it's not a direct competitor for the entire journey.
You can book THSR and TRA tickets directly on their official websites or via platforms like 12go.asia, which offer easy online booking and instant confirmation. For island ferries (like Green Island or Penghu), it's best to check local ferry company websites or book upon arrival at the port, though popular routes might benefit from advance booking through a travel agent.
✨ Why visit Hualien?
- ✓ Explore the majestic marble cliffs and deep gorges of Taroko National Park.
- ✓ Cycle along the scenic Qixingtan Beach and admire the Pacific Ocean views.
- ✓ Discover local indigenous culture at the Hualien Indigenous Culture Village.
- ✓ Hike to the breathtaking Baiyang Trail Water Curtain Cave for a unique experience.
- ✓ Indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies at Dongdamen Night Market.
☀️ When to visit Hualien?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID CLIMATE
April to June or September to October — pleasant temperatures and less rain, perfect for outdoor activities.
What to do in Hualien?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Hualien?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3-5 days in Hualien is ideal to fully experience the area. With 3 days, you can cover Taroko Gorge and a bit of the city. Add 2 more days to explore the East Rift Valley or enjoy the coast. Rent a scooter or car for maximum flexibility.
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