Taiwan

How to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung

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

⏱
FASTEST
4h 26min
💶
From
14€
📍
Distance
288 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 1 way(s) to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung

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

🚌 Departure from Taoyuan Airport
📍From Taoyuan Airport (TPE) Terminals 1 & 2. Look for signs pointing to 'Bus to Other Cities' or 'Intercity Bus'. The bus stops are well-marked and usually located in the arrival halls' basement levels or just outside.
🚇The airport is your starting point, so no prior access is needed. Simply head to the intercity bus stops directly from the arrival hall. They are easily accessible by following the clear signage within the airport.
⏰Buses from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung operate frequently throughout the day, typically every 30-60 minutes. Services generally run from early morning (around 06:00) until late evening (around 23:00).
💸 Transport from 14€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 4h 26min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Don't always assume THSR is best

While the THSR is fast, it's only on the west coast. For many routes, especially from the airport or to places not directly served by THSR, a bus or TRA train can be cheaper and just as convenient, sometimes even faster door-to-door once you factor in transfers.

💡
Verify Mountain and Island Transport

Never assume a train goes to places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Taroko Gorge, Green Island, or Penghu. These popular spots are typically reached by bus (for mountains) or ferry/flight (for islands). Always confirm your transport method before booking.

💡
THSR Stations vs. City Centers

Be aware that THSR stations are often located outside city centers, requiring an extra transfer by local train, metro, or taxi. Factor this into your overall travel time and cost. TRA stations are usually more central.

💡
Booking Ferries and Flights

For islands like Green Island or Penghu, ferries and flights are essential. Book these in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, as availability can be limited. Websites like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn can help with island connections.

💡
Compare all options

Always compare THSR, TRA trains, and express buses. Sometimes a slower TRA train or bus can be more direct, cheaper, and even quicker overall if it avoids multiple transfers. Your budget and desired comfort level will guide your choice.

🛣️ The journey experience

Heading from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung? It can feel like a maze figuring out the best way to travel across Taiwan, especially with the mix of THSR, TRA trains, buses, ferries, and even flights. Forget just the fastest bullet train; let's talk real door-to-door times and honest prices so you can make an informed choice that suits your travel style and budget.

For your trip from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung, the most straightforward option available is an express bus. A direct bus journey will cost around €14 and typically takes about 4 hours. Several reliable operators run this route, offering comfortable coaches with luggage storage, making it a stress-free start to your southern Taiwan adventure.

While Taiwan's rail network is excellent, it's crucial to understand that not all destinations are train-accessible. Places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Taroko Gorge, and even Green Island or Penghu require buses, ferries, or flights. For your airport transfer to Kaohsiung, the bus is a solid, economical choice. Always check specific routes for mountains and islands – a quick search will tell you if it's bus, ferry, or flight, so you never assume a train where there isn't one.

Frequently asked questions — Taoyuan Airport → Kaohsiung

✨ 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.
🌙
Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — Allows for exploring city attractions and a day trip to Cijin or Fo Guang Shan.

☀️ When to visit Kaohsiung?

TROPICAL MONSOON CLIMATE

October to April — Enjoy pleasant, dry weather with comfortable temperatures, avoiding the hot and humid summer.

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

What to do in Kaohsiung?

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

INCONTOURNABLE
🐉
Dragon Tiger Pagodas, Lotus Pond
Explore the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond, entering through the dragon's mouth and exiting through the tiger's for good luck. This vibrant temple complex offers stunning architecture and a peaceful lakeside setting. Best visited in the late afternoon for beautiful sunset views. Admission is free.
🌳
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
Discover one of Taiwan's largest Buddhist monasteries and the impressive Buddha Museum, home to a giant Buddha statue and relics. The vast complex offers serene gardens, exhibition halls, and vegetarian dining options. Allow at least half a day for exploration. Bus tickets from Kaohsiung Main Station cost around 2€.
🎨
Pier-2 Art Center Exploration
Wander through the creative hub of Pier-2 Art Center, a revitalized old port area transformed into an artistic district. It features quirky sculptures, murals, independent boutiques, and cafes. Renting a bike for a few euros is a great way to explore the various warehouses and outdoor installations. Perfect for an afternoon stroll.
🌃
Liuhe Night Market Delights
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Liuhe Night Market, renowned for its fresh seafood and local street food. Sample oyster omelets, papaya milk, and various stir-fries. Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a wider selection. Budget around 10-15€ for a satisfying culinary tour.
🚠
Cijin Island Ferry Adventure
Take a short ferry ride to Cijin Island, a narrow strip of land perfect for cycling. Explore the Cijin Lighthouse, Fort, and the Rainbow Church. Rent a bicycle upon arrival for approximately 3-5€. The ferry ride itself offers great views of Kaohsiung harbor and costs less than 1€.
🛕
Spring and Autumn Pavilions
Visit the beautiful Spring and Autumn Pavilions, two elaborate Chinese palatial structures standing in the water of Lotus Pond. Connected by a bridge, they offer peaceful views and intricate traditional architecture. Combine this with a visit to the nearby Dragon and Tiger Pagodas for a full cultural experience. Free entry.
📚
Kaohsiung Public Library Tour
Admire the innovative architecture of the Kaohsiung Main Public Library, a green building marvel with open spaces and a rooftop garden offering panoramic city views. It's a great spot to relax, read, and enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustling city. Entry is free. Look for the small cafes inside.
🏛️
British Consulate at Takao
Explore the historic former British Consulate at Takao, one of Taiwan's oldest Western buildings, offering insights into colonial history and stunning views of the harbor and Cijin Island. Enjoy a cup of tea in the cafe. Admission is around 3€, which often includes a small discount on refreshments. Go for sunset views.

⏱️ How long to visit Kaohsiung?

3 to 5 days

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.

Related searches

bus Taoyuan Airport Kaohsiung how to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung ticket price Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung travel time Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung travel to Taiwan

Other trips from Taoyuan Airport

Book now