Taiwan

How to get from Nantou to Taipei

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
2h 21min
💶
From
8€
📍
Distance
153 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Nantou to Taipei

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Nantou
📍The main departure point from Nantou for Taipei-bound buses is often the Puli Bus Station (埔里轉運站) if you're coming from Sun Moon Lake, or the Nantou Bus Station (南投客運總站) in Nantou City itself. These are well-equipped terminals with waiting areas and ticket counters.
🚇From Sun Moon Lake, regular local buses connect directly to Puli Bus Station, taking around 20-30 minutes. If you're in Nantou City, the main bus station is centrally located and easily accessible by local bus or a short taxi ride from most accommodations.
⏰Express buses from Nantou to Taipei operate frequently throughout the day, typically every 30-60 minutes from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM), offering flexibility for your travel plans.
💸 Transport from 8€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 2h 21min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Confirm Your Departure Point

Nantou has several bus stations. Always double-check your ticket for the specific departure terminal in Nantou to avoid confusion, especially if you're coming from Sun Moon Lake or Alishan.

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Book Bus Tickets Online

To guarantee your seat and ensure a smooth journey, it's highly recommended to book your express bus tickets to Taipei in advance online, especially during peak travel times. Websites like 12go.asia often offer easy booking.

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No Train for Nantou

Remember that Nantou County, including popular spots like Sun Moon Lake and Alishan, is not directly served by train. Your primary mode of transport into and out of this region will always be the bus.

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Compare Bus Operators

While the duration and price are similar, different bus companies might offer slightly varied comfort levels or amenities. A quick online search can help you choose the best fit for your preferences.

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Arrive Early for Departures

Even with online bookings, arriving at the bus station at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled departure is a good practice. This allows time for boarding and unexpected delays.

🛣️ The journey experience

Traveling from Nantou to Taipei? You're in luck, as this route is straightforward and primarily served by convenient express buses. Taiwan's public transport system is excellent, but it's vital to know which mode of transport serves which region. For areas like Nantou, home to gems like Sun Moon Lake and Alishan, buses are your main connection to the wider rail network.

From Nantou, your primary option is an express bus service directly to Taipei. Buses offer a comfortable journey, typically taking around 2 hours and costing approximately €8. Several reliable operators run this route frequently throughout the day, ensuring you have flexibility in your travel plans. While the THSR offers speed on the west coast, it doesn't directly serve Nantou, making the bus the most efficient door-to-door choice here.

Don't worry about overpaying or missing a train where there isn't one. For regions like Nantou, which are bus-only, you can trust that the express bus is not only the most direct but also the most cost-effective solution. This saves you the hassle of connecting between different rail lines or worrying about separate bookings. Enjoy the scenic journey knowing you've made the smartest choice for this route.

Frequently asked questions — Nantou → Taipei

✨ 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.
🌙
Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — Allows ample time for city exploration and a day trip.

☀️ When to visit Taipei?

SUBTROPICAL HUMID

October to April — Enjoy pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😊
Apr 😊
May 😐
Jun 😞
Jul 😞
Aug 😞
Sep 😐
Oct 😊
Nov 😊
Dec 😐
📍
In Taipei — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Taipei
Compare the best rates available
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What to do in Taipei?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🏙️
Taipei 101 Observatory
Ascend to the top of Taipei 101 for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Once the world's tallest building, it remains an iconic landmark. Visit late afternoon to catch both daylight and night views. Entry typically costs around 18-20€.
🍜
Shilin Night Market
Immerse yourself in Taiwan's vibrant street food scene at Shilin, one of Taipei's largest and most famous night markets. Sample local delicacies like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea. Go with an empty stomach and be ready to queue for popular stalls. Expect to spend 10-20€ for a satisfying feast.
🏛️
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Explore this grand monument dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China. Admire the impressive architecture and the vast Liberty Square. Don't miss the hourly changing of the guard ceremony, which is a meticulous display of precision. Free entry to the hall and grounds.
🛕
Longshan Temple
Visit one of Taipei's oldest and most renowned temples, a beautiful example of traditional Taiwanese temple architecture. It's a living place of worship where locals pray and make offerings. Observe the intricate carvings and vibrant rituals. Entry is free, but respect local customs.
🎨
National Palace Museum
Discover a vast collection of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks, spanning thousands of years. The museum houses a treasure trove of ceramics, jade, calligraphy, and paintings. Allocate at least half a day to appreciate the exhibits fully. Entry fee is typically around 10€.
🌳
Elephant Mountain Hike
Embark on a relatively easy hike up Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) for iconic postcard views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The trail has several viewpoints and is well-maintained. Go just before sunset for spectacular golden hour photos. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Free access.
☕
Maokong Gondola & Tea Plantations
Escape the city bustle with a scenic gondola ride up to Maokong, a tranquil area known for its tea plantations and teahouses. Enjoy stunning views and sample local oolong tea. Opt for a 'crystal cabin' (glass bottom) for an enhanced experience. Gondola fare is about 5-8€ return.
♨️
Beitou Hot Springs
Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of Beitou, easily accessible by MRT. Explore the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and Thermal Valley, then choose from public baths or private spa rooms. Prices vary from a few euros for public baths to 20-50€ for private options. Bring your own towel and swimwear.

⏱️ How long to visit Taipei?

4 to 6 days

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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