There are 2 way(s) to get from Taipei to Chiayi
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
The THSR is fast but its stations are often outside city centers. The TRA train is slower but usually departs/arrives from central stations. For Chiayi, the THSR station requires a shuttle bus to the city, adding time. Consider your actual end point to save time and money.
While THSR is excellent for long distances, for shorter hops or if you're not in a hurry, the TRA or an express bus can be significantly cheaper. If your budget is tight and you have extra time, these alternatives are often a smarter choice than automatically opting for the bullet train.
Always remember that iconic mountain spots like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are not served by train. You'll need to use express buses from major transport hubs. Plan your connections carefully, often from THSR or TRA stations that act as gateways.
Especially for popular routes or during peak travel seasons, booking your THSR, TRA, or long-distance bus tickets in advance is highly recommended. This ensures you get your preferred departure time and avoids any last-minute stress. Online platforms like 12go.asia offer convenience.
THSR stations are typically modern and outside city centers, requiring a local connection. TRA stations are usually older and centrally located. Always double-check which station you need for your chosen service to avoid confusion and wasted time on arrival.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's transport can feel like a puzzle, especially when you're weighing speed against cost and convenience. For your journey from Taipei to Chiayi, you have excellent options, but knowing which one truly fits your travel style is key. We'll break down the real door-to-door times and actual prices, so you can decide if the bullet train is worth the splurge or if a slower, cheaper alternative makes more sense for your itinerary.
From Taipei to Chiayi, you can choose between the high-speed THSR train (around €21, 1h), the slower but often more central TRA regular train (prices vary, 3h+), or an express bus (about €8, 3h). Each has its merits: THSR is undeniably fast, perfect if you're rushing to connect to Alishan. The TRA train and buses, while taking longer, offer significant savings and can sometimes drop you closer to your final destination within Chiayi itself, avoiding an extra transfer.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial, particularly as you plan further into Taiwan. Remember, while the THSR dominates the west coast, many iconic spots like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are bus-only. Don't assume a train exists for every scenic spot. Always check whether your next leg involves a THSR, TRA, express bus, or even a ferry or flight for the islands, to avoid overpaying or unexpected detours. This route to Chiayi is a great example of where a cheaper option can be just as efficient depending on your onward travel.
Frequently asked questions — Taipei → Chiayi
For Taipei to Chiayi, you have all three options. THSR (High-Speed Rail) is the fastest, connecting modern stations outside city centers. TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) is the traditional, slower train network, often stopping at central city stations. Express buses are generally the cheapest, with competitive travel times, and often depart from major bus terminals in city hubs. Each offers a different balance of speed, cost, and convenience for your journey.
The THSR takes about 1 hour for the train itself, plus 30-60 minutes for transfers to/from the city centers, costing around €21. The TRA train takes 3+ hours and costs less than €15, often from central stations. Express buses take around 3 hours for about €8-10, departing from major bus stations. Always factor in transfer times at both ends for a realistic door-to-door estimate.
It depends on your priorities. If you value speed above all and are willing to pay more and manage an extra transfer, THSR is best. However, if you're budget-conscious, the TRA train or an express bus can be smarter. They are significantly cheaper and the total door-to-door time might not be dramatically different once you account for THSR station transfers, especially if your destination is closer to a TRA station or bus stop.
From Chiayi, you'll typically catch buses to Alishan from the TRA Chiayi Station (the central station) or from the THSR Chiayi Station (the high-speed rail station). For Sun Moon Lake, you'll need to go to Taichung first, as direct buses from Chiayi are less common. Always confirm the departure point and schedule for your specific mountain destination, as bus routes can vary.
✨ Why visit Chiayi?
- ✓ Hike the scenic trails and admire the tea plantations of Alishan National Scenic Area.
- ✓ Explore the historic Hinoki Village with its Japanese-style wooden architecture.
- ✓ Savor authentic Chiayi turkey rice, a renowned local delicacy.
- ✓ Visit the National Palace Museum Southern Branch for exquisite art and cultural artifacts.
- ✓ Ride the Alishan Forest Railway, an iconic narrow-gauge mountain railway.
☀️ When to visit Chiayi?
SUBTROPICAL MOUSSON
October to April — cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking, with less rainfall, especially in winter.
What to do in Chiayi?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Chiayi?
For an independent francophone traveler, allocate 2 full days to explore Chiayi and its immediate surroundings. This allows you to visit Alishan National Scenic Area and experience local culture. If you're short on time, a day trip to Alishan is feasible but rushed.
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