There are 2 way(s) to get from Kaohsiung to Taipei
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
The THSR (High-Speed Rail) is ideal for fast west-coast travel between major cities like Kaohsiung and Taipei. The TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train is slower but circles the entire island and is often cheaper for shorter distances or less direct routes.
Key mountain destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are not served by train. Always plan to take an express bus from the nearest major train station (e.g., Taichung for Sun Moon Lake, Chiayi for Alishan, Hualien for Taroko Gorge).
THSR stations are often located outside city centers, requiring a short MRT or local bus connection. TRA stations are typically more central. Factor this extra travel time into your door-to-door calculation to avoid missing connections.
For islands like Green Island, Orchid Island, or Penghu, you'll need a ferry or a domestic flight. Ferries are generally cheaper but can be affected by weather. Flights are faster but cost more. Book island connections in advance, especially during peak season.
The THSR is significantly faster but also pricier. If you're on a tighter budget and have more time, the slower TRA train or an express bus can be a much more economical choice, especially for routes where the THSR station is far from your destination.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's diverse transportation system, especially for independent travelers, can seem complex at first glance. You want to know exactly what you're getting – is it the lightning-fast THSR, the reliable TRA train, a convenient express bus, or perhaps a ferry or even a flight for those island escapes? We get it. Forget endless searching; we're here to give you the honest, door-to-door times and real prices, so you can make smart choices for your journey from Kaohsiung to Taipei, and beyond.
For your trip from Kaohsiung to Taipei, you have two primary options: the High-Speed Rail (THSR) or a comfortable express bus. The THSR is incredibly fast, covering the distance in about 1 hour 45 minutes for around €35. If you're not in a rush and prefer to save money, express buses offer a much cheaper alternative at approximately €14, though the journey will take significantly longer, about 5 hours. The slower TRA train is also an option but less competitive on this specific route than the THSR or bus for direct city-to-city travel.
While the THSR is fantastic for linking major west coast cities like Kaohsiung and Taipei, remember that Taiwan's charm extends far beyond its bullet train lines. Many must-see destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are exclusively accessible by bus from the nearest train stations. And for island adventures to Green Island or Penghu, it’s either a ferry or a flight. Don't worry about figuring it all out from abroad – we’ll guide you on when to switch from train to bus, or how to book that island connection, ensuring a seamless and worry-free trip.
Frequently asked questions — Kaohsiung → Taipei
From Kaohsiung to Taipei, your main options are the THSR (High-Speed Rail) or an express bus. The THSR is the fastest, connecting the two cities directly. Express buses are a more budget-friendly alternative. The TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train also operates, but it's much slower than the THSR and generally less direct for this specific city pair.
A THSR ticket from Kaohsiung to Taipei costs around €35, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. For express buses, expect to pay about €14, but the journey will take around 5 hours. Always check current prices on booking platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn, as they can fluctuate based on booking in advance or peak times.
For Kaohsiung to Taipei, the THSR is generally the smartest choice if speed and convenience are priorities and you're willing to pay the premium. While express buses are significantly cheaper, the 5-hour travel time is a trade-off. The TRA train is typically not the most efficient option for this specific direct route between two major west coast cities compared to the THSR or even the express bus.
You can book THSR and TRA train tickets online directly on their official websites or via platforms like 12go.asia. Express bus tickets are available from bus company websites or at bus stations. For island ferries (e.g., Green Island, Penghu), it’s best to book online through local operators or travel agencies, especially in high season, to ensure your spot.
✨ Why visit Taipei?
- ✓ Ascend Taipei 101 for panoramic city views from one of the world's tallest buildings.
- ✓ Explore the historic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a grand monument with impressive architecture.
- ✓ Wander through Shilin Night Market, sampling local street food and browsing unique stalls.
- ✓ Discover ancient artifacts and Chinese imperial art at the National Palace Museum.
- ✓ Relax and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Yangmingshan National Park, just outside the city.
☀️ When to visit Taipei?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
October to April — Enjoy pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What to do in Taipei?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Taipei?
For an independent francophone traveler, 4 to 6 days is ideal for Taipei. This allows you to explore the city's main attractions, delve into its vibrant night markets, and even take a day trip to nearby natural wonders like Jiufen or Taroko Gorge (though Taroko is a longer trip). Allocate at least 2 full days for city exploration and 1-2 days for excursions.
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