Taiwan

How to get from Taichung to Nantou

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

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FASTEST
0h 24min
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From
4€
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Distance
26 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Taichung to Nantou

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

🚌 Departure from Taichung
📍For buses to Nantou, you'll primarily depart from Taichung Gancheng Station (干城站) or the Taichung Railway Station (台中車站) area. These are central bus hubs with several operators. Gancheng Station is a major interchange for intercity and local buses, offering direct routes to various parts of Nantou county.
🚇Both Taichung Gancheng Station and Taichung Railway Station are centrally located. You can easily reach them via local city buses, a short taxi ride (around €3-5), or even walk if your accommodation is nearby. The local bus network is comprehensive, with routes serving all major areas of Taichung and connecting to these terminals.
⏰Buses from Taichung to Nantou run very frequently throughout the day, typically every 15-30 minutes during peak hours. Services generally start early in the morning, around 6:00 AM, and continue until late evening, usually past 10:00 PM, providing ample flexibility for your travel plans.
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 0h 24min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

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Always Confirm Transport Type

Before heading out, always double-check if your route is served by THSR, TRA, bus, ferry, or flight. Don't assume there's a train to scenic spots like Nantou, Sun Moon Lake, or Taroko Gorge, as these are primarily bus-only destinations. This saves you from arriving at the wrong station or being stranded.

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Embrace the Bus for Mountains

For regions like Nantou, which encompasses Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and other beautiful mountain areas, buses are your primary and most convenient mode of transport. They are well-connected, run frequently, and offer direct access to these car-free or train-free zones. Booking online in advance can sometimes secure your seat, especially during peak season.

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Bus Station Locations

Unlike THSR stations which are often outside city centers, major bus stations are usually centrally located or easily accessible. In Taichung, the main bus terminals for Nantou routes are well-integrated with the city's public transport, making your transfer seamless and hassle-free. This minimizes confusion and wasted time.

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Comparing THSR vs. Bus/TRA

For shorter, regional trips like Taichung to Nantou, the THSR isn't an option. Even on routes where it is, always compare prices and total travel time, including transfers. Often, a slower TRA train or an express bus can be significantly cheaper and just as fast door-to-door once you factor in station locations and connections. Don't overpay when a better, cheaper option exists.

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Booking Mountain Buses

While many local bus tickets can be bought on the spot, for popular mountain routes or during peak travel periods, consider booking in advance. Websites like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn can often facilitate this, giving you peace of mind and guaranteeing your spot, especially for connections to Sun Moon Lake or Alishan. Always seek instant confirmation.

🛣️ The journey experience

Heading from Taichung to Nantou? Forget about trains for this leg of your Taiwan adventure. Many of Taiwan's most beautiful spots, especially in the central mountains, are bus-only, and Nantou county is a prime example. This often surprises travellers expecting a comprehensive rail network. For your trip to Nantou, you'll be relying on express buses, which are efficient, affordable, and offer a comfortable way to navigate the region's stunning landscapes.

From Taichung, the journey to Nantou is straightforward and exclusively by bus. You can expect the ride to be relatively short, around 30 minutes to an hour depending on your exact destination within Nantou, with tickets costing about €4. These services are frequent and reliable, making it an easy connection between the two areas. Operators like Renyou Bus and Nantou Bus provide regular services from major bus terminals in Taichung.

Don't stress about finding a train. For mountainous areas like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and the entire Nantou county, buses are your go-to. Taiwan's public transport is excellent, but it's crucial to know when to switch from high-speed rail or slower TRA trains to the extensive bus network. For routes like Taichung to Nantou, the bus is not just an alternative; it's the only direct public transport option, offering a seamless and scenic journey right into the heart of Taiwan's natural beauty.

Frequently asked questions — Taichung → Nantou

✨ Why visit Nantou?

  • ✓ Explore Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan's largest lake, by boat, bike, or cable car for stunning views.
  • ✓ Visit the aboriginal villages around Sun Moon Lake, such as Ita Thao, for cultural immersion and local crafts.
  • ✓ Hike or take a scenic train through Alishan National Scenic Area, famous for its misty forests, sunrise views, and tea plantations.
  • ✓ Discover the unique geological formations and hot springs of Lushan Hot Spring Village.
  • ✓ Experience the vibrant agricultural landscape and sample local teas in Nantou's renowned tea-growing regions.
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — Allows full exploration of Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and local culture.

☀️ When to visit Nantou?

SUBTROPICAL MOUSSON ALTITUDE

October to April — Cooler, drier weather perfect for outdoor activities and clear lake views.

Jan 😐
Feb 😊
Mar 😊
Apr 😊
May 😐
Jun 😞
Jul 😞
Aug 😞
Sep 😐
Oct 😊
Nov 😊
Dec 😐
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In Nantou — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Nantou
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Nantou?

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

INCONTOURNABLE
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Sun Moon Lake Serenity
Explore Taiwan's largest lake, known for its breathtaking beauty and Indigenous Thao culture. Rent a bicycle to cycle around the lake's picturesque paths or take a boat cruise to visit islands like Lalu Island. Visit early morning for mystical fog views, often less crowded before 9 AM.
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Hehuanshan Peak Views
Discover Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area, home to several accessible peaks offering stunning alpine scenery. Witness sea of clouds at sunrise or sunset. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather and bring layers; consider starting your hike before dawn to catch the sunrise.
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Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
Immerse yourself in Taiwan's diverse indigenous cultures through traditional performances, architecture, and craft demonstrations. The park also features an amusement area. Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and sometimes benefit from discounts.
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Wenwu Temple Grandeur
Perched on the northern bank of Sun Moon Lake, this majestic temple is dedicated to Confucius and Guan Gong. Admire its intricate design and panoramic lake views. Climb the 'Stairs of the Year' with 366 steps, each representing a day, for good luck; arrive early to avoid crowds.
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Local Night Market Eats
Explore the vibrant night markets of Puli or Shuili, offering a wide array of local street food from stinky tofu to pearl milk tea. It's an authentic sensory experience. Don't be afraid to try new things, and look for stalls with long lines – usually a sign of good food.
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Puli Brewery & Paper Factory
Visit the Puli Brewery to taste local rice wines and learn about traditional brewing. Then, head to Guangxing Paper Mill to witness traditional papermaking techniques and even try making your own. Both offer free entry and tasting; a great rainy-day option.
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Shuili Snake Kiln Pottery
Discover the longest and oldest traditional 'snake kiln' in Taiwan at Shuili. This unique kiln design is used for firing ceramics. Learn about the history of pottery in Taiwan and perhaps purchase unique handmade pieces. Check their firing schedule if you want to witness the actual firing process.
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Checheng Wood Museum & Station
Step back in time at Checheng, once a bustling logging town. Explore the Checheng Wood Museum, showcasing the industry's history, and the charming old railway station. The area is easily walkable and offers quaint photo opportunities. Consider combining with a trip to Shuili.

⏱️ How long to visit Nantou?

2 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3-4 days is ideal to explore Nantou's highlights like Sun Moon Lake and Hehuanshan. With 2 days, focus on Sun Moon Lake. With 5+ days, you can add more remote areas or hiking trails. Don't rush; transport can be slow.

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