There are 2 way(s) to get from Taoyuan City 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 (High-Speed Rail) is fast and convenient for the west coast, but the TRA (local train) is cheaper and covers the entire island. For Taoyuan to Chiayi, THSR is quicker, but consider TRA for more scenic, budget-friendly routes elsewhere.
Don't assume there's a train to places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, or Taroko Gorge. These stunning spots are exclusively reachable by bus from major transport hubs. Plan your connections carefully to avoid disappointment.
Unlike TRA stations, which are often central, THSR stations (like Taoyuan's) are usually located on the outskirts. Factor in extra time and cost for a local train, shuttle bus, or taxi to reach the city center from the THSR station.
For islands like Green Island or Penghu, it's either a ferry or a flight. Book these well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Websites like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn can help with online bookings for ferries and some flights.
While THSR is fast, express buses are a fantastic budget-friendly alternative for many routes, including Taoyuan to Chiayi. They might take longer but offer significant savings, making them ideal for value-conscious travelers.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your trip from Taoyuan to Chiayi? You've got solid options, and we'll break them down clearly. Forget the guesswork of whether it's a bullet train, a local train, or a bus. Our goal is to give you honest door-to-door times and real prices, so you can make the best decision for your travel style and budget. You're looking for efficiency without overspending, and Taiwan's transport network offers just that, once you know how to navigate its nuances.
For the Taoyuan to Chiayi route, you have two main choices: the high-speed rail (THSR) or an express bus. The THSR is incredibly fast, covering the distance in about 1 hour for around €19. It's perfect if speed is your absolute priority. Alternatively, express buses offer a much cheaper ride, costing roughly €8, though the journey will take significantly longer, around 3 hours. Both options are reliable, but they cater to different travel preferences.
While Taiwan's rail system is excellent, it's crucial to remember that not all destinations are train-accessible. Places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are bus-only, and island hopping to Green Island or Penghu requires a ferry or flight. However, for routes on the main west coast, like Taoyuan to Chiayi, both train and bus are readily available. Understand these distinctions to avoid any surprises, and rest assured, you'll always find a convenient way to reach your destination.
Frequently asked questions — Taoyuan City → Chiayi
For this route, you primarily have two choices: the THSR (High-Speed Rail) and express buses. The THSR is the fastest, while express buses are a more budget-friendly alternative. There is no direct TRA local train that offers a competitive direct route for this specific journey compared to these two options.
The THSR from Taoyuan to Chiayi takes about 1 hour and costs around €19. If you opt for an express bus, the journey will be approximately 3 hours, with tickets priced at about €8. These times and costs reflect the direct travel duration and standard fares.
The express bus is definitely smarter if budget is a primary concern and you don't mind the extra travel time. It's significantly cheaper at €8 compared to the THSR's €19. However, if saving two hours of travel time is worth the extra cost, the THSR remains the superior choice for speed and convenience. Your decision depends on your personal priorities.
You can book THSR tickets directly on the official Taiwan High Speed Rail website, or through platforms like 12go.asia and BaoLau.vn for convenience, often with instant confirmation. For express buses, tickets can typically be purchased at bus terminals, or sometimes via operator-specific websites or apps. Online booking platforms might also offer bus tickets.
While the TRA train is excellent for connecting other parts of Taiwan, for a direct Taoyuan to Chiayi route, it's not the most efficient choice compared to the THSR or express bus. The TRA would involve multiple transfers or a significantly longer journey. Stick to THSR for speed or express bus for budget on this specific segment.
✨ 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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