There are 2 way(s) to get from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan City
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
While the THSR is fast, a cheaper TRA train or an express bus can sometimes be a smarter choice, especially if you're not in a hurry or if the THSR station is far from your final destination. Always compare door-to-door times and costs.
Remember that popular mountain destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are not accessible by train. You'll need to take an express bus from the nearest major city or TRA/THSR station. Plan your connections accordingly.
Be aware that most THSR stations, including Taoyuan HSR, are located outside city centers. Factor in extra time and cost for local transport (MRT, local train, or taxi) to reach your final destination. Don't get caught out!
For islands like Green Island or Penghu, ferries and flights can fill up quickly, especially during peak season or holidays. It's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Websites like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn are excellent resources for comparing THSR, TRA, bus, and even ferry options in Taiwan. They offer instant confirmation and help you visualise different routes, prices, and travel times in one place.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's transport system from abroad can feel like a puzzle, with the super-fast THSR, the island-wide TRA train, and an array of express buses, not to mention ferries and flights for the islands. When planning your journey from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan, it's essential to know exactly what's available, how long it *really* takes door-to-door, and what a ticket will honestly cost. Forget just looking at the fastest bullet train; we'll show you the full picture so you can make an informed choice that fits your budget and schedule.
For the Kaohsiung to Taoyuan route, you have two primary options: the High-Speed Rail (THSR) and intercity buses. The THSR is undeniably fast, whisking you from Zuoying (Kaohsiung) to Taoyuan THSR station in about 1 hour 45 minutes for around €28. If you're looking to save money and don't mind a longer journey, express buses offer a direct route, taking roughly 4 hours and costing significantly less at about €14. While the TRA train also runs between these cities, it's generally slower and less direct than the THSR for this specific route, making buses a more viable budget alternative.
It's easy to assume that all major cities are connected by high-speed rail, but Taiwan's geography means some of its most stunning attractions, like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge, are only accessible by bus. For city-to-city travel on the west coast, the THSR is a fantastic option if speed is your priority. However, don't overlook the express buses, which often offer competitive prices and can sometimes be more convenient for specific city-to-city routes, especially when THSR stations are outside city centers. Always check the door-to-door time, including connections to and from the stations, to truly compare your options.
Frequently asked questions — Kaohsiung → Taoyuan City
From Kaohsiung to Taoyuan, your main options are the THSR (High-Speed Rail) and express buses. The THSR is the fastest, connecting Kaohsiung's Zuoying station to Taoyuan HSR station. Express buses offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with direct services. The TRA train is also available but is generally slower and less direct than the THSR for this specific route.
By THSR, the journey from Kaohsiung (Zuoying) to Taoyuan HSR station takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and costs approximately €28. If you opt for an express bus, the trip will be longer, around 4 hours, but more affordable, costing about €14. Remember to factor in additional time and cost for local transport from the THSR station to your final destination in Taoyuan.
For the Kaohsiung to Taoyuan route, an express bus is often a smarter, more cost-effective alternative if budget is a priority and you don't mind the longer 4-hour travel time. While the TRA train is cheaper than THSR, it's generally slower and less convenient for this specific intercity journey. The THSR saves significant time, but consider the total door-to-door duration and cost, including transfers.
You can book THSR and TRA train tickets directly on their official websites or via platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn for convenience, often with instant confirmation. Bus tickets can be purchased at stations or online through operator websites or aggregated booking sites. For island ferries (e.g., Green Island), booking online in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended to secure your spot.
No, popular scenic spots such as Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are not directly accessible by train. You will need to take an express bus from the nearest major THSR or TRA train station. For instance, for Sun Moon Lake, you'd take a bus from Taichung. Always verify your onward bus connections when planning trips to these beautiful, bus-only destinations.
✨ Why visit Taoyuan City?
- ✓ Explore Daxi Old Street, famous for its Baroque-style architecture and local street food.
- ✓ Visit Cihu Mausoleum, the temporary resting place of Chiang Kai-shek, set in beautiful gardens.
- ✓ Discover the beauty of Shimen Reservoir, ideal for boating and scenic walks.
- ✓ Experience the vibrant night market culture at Zhongli Tourist Night Market.
- ✓ Enjoy hiking and natural beauty at Lala Mountain (拉拉山), known for its ancient cypress trees.
☀️ When to visit Taoyuan City?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
October to April — pleasant temperatures, less rain, and ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do in Taoyuan City?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Taoyuan City?
For an independent traveler, a 1 to 2-day visit is ideal to explore Taoyuan. This allows for a deep dive into local culture and nature, including Daxi Old Street or Cihu Mausoleum. Focus on specific interests, as Taoyuan is more than just an airport city.
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