There are 2 way(s) to get from Taipei 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. Factor in extra time and cost for local transport (MRT, taxi, bus) to reach the city center from the THSR station, especially in Kaohsiung. This can make a seemingly faster THSR journey longer door-to-door.
While slower, the TRA train offers a more traditional Taiwanese travel experience and often stops closer to city centers. For some routes, particularly on the east coast or to smaller towns, the TRA is your only train option and can be quite charming.
For destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, or Taroko Gorge, always plan for bus travel. There are no train lines to these popular mountain spots. Research bus schedules and departure points in advance, usually from major TRA stations or THSR stations in nearby cities.
If you're heading to Green Island, Orchid Island, or Penghu, remember these require a ferry or a domestic flight. Ferries can be subject to weather, so booking in advance and having flexible plans is wise. Flights are quicker but often more expensive.
When choosing between THSR, TRA, or bus, consider the full journey. Add time for transfers to and from stations/bus terminals to your accommodation. This will give you a more accurate picture of total travel time and help you avoid overpaying for perceived speed.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's transport system from Taipei to Kaohsiung can seem tricky at first, with options ranging from lightning-fast bullet trains to budget-friendly buses. But don't worry, we're here to cut through the confusion and give you the real deal on getting around. We'll show you honest door-to-door times and actual prices, so you can decide what truly works best for your journey, not just what's fastest.
For your Taipei to Kaohsiung trip, you have a couple of main choices. The High-Speed Rail (THSR) is incredibly efficient, getting you there in about 1 hour 45 minutes for around €30–€35. If you're not in a rush, the slower Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) train offers a more scenic and cheaper ride, taking around 4 hours for significantly less. Alternatively, express buses are the most budget-friendly option, typically costing around €14 but extending your travel time to about 5 hours.
Taiwan's transport network is excellent, but it’s crucial to know its nuances. While the THSR covers the west coast efficiently, remember that iconic spots like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are strictly bus-only, and islands like Green Island or Penghu require a ferry or flight. For this particular route, the THSR is great for speed, but don't overlook the TRA or express buses if you're keen to save money or prefer a different pace. We’ll help you always pick the right connection, whether it’s a train, bus, ferry, or flight, ensuring you never overpay or get caught out by a missing rail link.
Frequently asked questions — Taipei → Kaohsiung
The "best" way depends on your priorities. For speed, the THSR is unmatched, taking under 2 hours. For budget, an express bus is the cheapest but takes about 5 hours. The TRA train offers a balance of price and comfort, taking around 4 hours with more stops. Consider your budget and how much time you want to spend traveling.
A THSR ticket typically costs around €30–€35. TRA train tickets are significantly cheaper, often half the price or less, while express bus tickets are the most budget-friendly option at about €14. Prices can vary slightly based on booking class and time of travel, so booking in advance can sometimes offer better deals.
By THSR, the journey is incredibly fast, taking approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from station to station. The slower TRA train will take around 4 hours. If you opt for an express bus, expect a journey time of about 5 hours. Remember to factor in travel to and from the stations/terminals in your total door-to-door calculation.
No, THSR and TRA are separate railway systems with different ticketing. You'll need to purchase separate tickets for each service. However, they sometimes offer joint tickets or passes that include both, but these are usually specific tourism packages. Always check your ticket type carefully before boarding.
For THSR, booking in advance, especially for popular routes and peak times, is highly recommended to secure your preferred seats and potentially benefit from early bird discounts. For TRA and express buses, buying on the day is usually fine, though advance booking is available and can offer peace of mind, particularly on weekends or holidays.
✨ 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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