There are 2 way(s) to get from Keelung to Kaohsiung
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
THSR stations are often outside city centers, requiring a local train, MRT, or bus transfer. TRA stations are usually centrally located. For Keelung to Kaohsiung, factor in the time and cost to get to/from the THSR station to avoid surprises and overpaying.
Remember that popular spots like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are bus-only. Don't assume there's a train! Plan your bus connections from major TRA stations like Taichung (for Sun Moon Lake) or Chiayi (for Alishan) to avoid disappointment.
For islands like Green Island, Orchid Island, and Penghu, you'll need a ferry or a flight. Check schedules and book in advance, especially during peak season. Don't turn up expecting a train; these islands have unique transport needs.
Many train and some bus tickets can be booked online with instant confirmation. Use official websites or reputable platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn to secure your seats and avoid any last-minute stress. Always confirm your departure point.
While THSR is fast, consider the total cost including transfers to and from its stations. Often, an express bus, though slower, can be significantly cheaper door-to-door, especially if you're value-conscious and not in a rush. Compare the full journey.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling from Keelung to Kaohsiung can seem a bit complex with Taiwan's excellent but segmented transport network. You’re looking for clear, honest door-to-door times and real prices, not just the quickest bullet train. We get it – knowing whether your route is THSR, TRA, an express bus, a ferry, or a flight, especially when booking from abroad, can be tricky. Here, we break down your options so you can choose what truly fits your travel style and budget, ensuring you don't overpay or turn up at the wrong station.
For the Keelung to Kaohsiung route, your primary options are the High-Speed Rail (THSR) or the traditional TRA train, both offering distinct experiences. The THSR is undeniably fast, getting you there in about 2 hours for around €31, though you'll typically connect from Keelung to Taipei first. The TRA train, while slower at approximately 4-5 hours, is significantly cheaper, costing around €14, and offers a more scenic journey directly from Keelung. Express buses are also available, taking about 5 hours and costing a similar amount to the TRA train.
So, which to choose? While the THSR is great for speed, it requires a connection and its stations are often outside city centers. For this route, if budget and a more direct, relaxed journey are priorities, the TRA train is often the smarter choice, saving you money without adding excessive travel time compared to the THSR's full door-to-door journey once transfers are factored in. Don't worry about missing a train or showing up at the wrong place; we’ll guide you through the station specifics and booking process.
Frequently asked questions — Keelung → Kaohsiung
From Keelung to Kaohsiung, you can choose between the THSR (High-Speed Rail) and the TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train, or an express bus. The THSR is the fastest, taking about 2 hours, but involves a transfer in Taipei and costs around €31. The TRA train is slower (4-5 hours) but more direct and cheaper at approximately €14. Express buses also take about 5 hours for a similar price. The 'best' depends on your priorities: speed (THSR), budget/scenic route (TRA), or maximum savings (bus).
A THSR ticket from Keelung to Kaohsiung (via Taipei transfer) costs approximately €31 and takes about 2 hours for the rail portion, plus transfer time. A TRA train ticket is around €14, with a journey time of 4-5 hours. Express buses are similarly priced to the TRA train, also taking about 5 hours. These prices and times are for the main leg; always factor in local transport to and from stations for your door-to-door estimate.
For the Keelung to Kaohsiung route, if you are value-conscious and prefer a more direct journey without multiple transfers, the TRA train or an express bus can definitely be smarter. While slower, they are significantly cheaper and often more convenient in terms of station location. The THSR is only 'smarter' if speed is your absolute top priority and you don't mind the added cost and transfer logistics.
You can book THSR and TRA train tickets online via their official websites, or through international booking platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn, which offer instant confirmation. Bus tickets can often be purchased at the bus station on the day of travel, but for longer routes or peak times, booking online via the bus operator's website or an aggregator is recommended to guarantee your seat and avoid delays.
✨ Why visit Kaohsiung?
- ✓ Explore the Lotus Pond with its iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.
- ✓ Visit Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of Taiwan's largest Buddhist centers.
- ✓ Stroll through Pier-2 Art Center, a vibrant hub of art and creativity.
- ✓ Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at Liuhe Tourist Night Market.
- ✓ Take a ferry to Cijin Island for beaches, historical sites, and cycling.
☀️ When to visit Kaohsiung?
TROPICAL MONSOON CLIMATE
October to April — Enjoy pleasant, dry weather with comfortable temperatures, avoiding the hot and humid summer.
What to do in Kaohsiung?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Kaohsiung?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 4 days are ideal to explore Kaohsiung. This allows you to visit major sites like Lotus Pond, the Pier-2 Art Center, and take a day trip to Fo Guang Shan Monastery. With 5 days, you can add a visit to Cijin Island and enjoy the city's relaxed pace.
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