There are 2 way(s) to get from Yilan to Kaohsiung
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Don't automatically go for the THSR. For many routes, especially if you're not in a rush or prioritize budget, the TRA train or an express bus can be a much smarter and more scenic choice, saving you money without losing too much time.
Important! Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are stunning but have no direct train access. Always plan for an express bus connection from the nearest major train station (e.g., Taichung for Sun Moon Lake, Chiayi for Alishan, Hualien for Taroko).
THSR stations are often located outside city centers, requiring an additional local train, metro, or bus transfer. TRA stations are usually centrally located. Factor in this extra travel time when comparing door-to-door journeys.
If you're heading to Green Island, Orchid Island, or Penghu, ferries and flights can book up quickly, especially during peak season or holidays. Secure your tickets well in advance through official websites or reliable platforms like 12go.asia.
Websites like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn can be incredibly helpful. They often combine various transport modes (train, bus, ferry) and show you direct comparisons of prices and times, simplifying your planning and booking process significantly.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's diverse transport network can seem a bit daunting at first glance, especially when trying to figure out if you need a bullet train, a local train, a bus, or even a ferry or flight for your journey. For your trip from Yilan to Kaohsiung, rest assured that you've got clear options. We're here to help you understand not just the fastest routes, but also the most practical and budget-friendly choices, giving you honest door-to-door times and real prices so you can plan with confidence.
For this specific route, your primary options are the TRA local train, which circles the entire island, or a combination of TRA and THSR (High-Speed Rail) for a faster west coast segment. A direct TRA train from Yilan to Kaohsiung will cost around €27 and take approximately 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you could take the TRA from Yilan to Taipei, then switch to the THSR for the journey to Kaohsiung, bringing the total travel time down to about 3 hours, but likely increasing the overall cost to around €45-€55. Express buses are also an option, often more affordable at around €14, but taking closer to 6 hours.
Understanding these distinctions is key to a smooth trip in Taiwan. Remember, while the THSR is incredibly fast for west coast travel, many of Taiwan's most stunning destinations, like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge, are exclusively accessible by bus. Don't assume a train will take you everywhere; always check the specific transport mode. For your Yilan to Kaohsiung trip, consider if saving a couple of hours is worth the extra cost of combining TRA and THSR, or if the direct TRA train offers a better balance of price and convenience.
Frequently asked questions — Yilan → Kaohsiung
You have a few solid choices: the direct TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train, which is generally slower but more budget-friendly, or a combination of TRA and THSR (High-Speed Rail). The THSR connection typically involves taking a TRA train from Yilan to Taipei, then transferring to the THSR for the faster journey south. Express buses are also available, often the cheapest but longest option.
A direct TRA train from Yilan to Kaohsiung takes around 4 to 5 hours and costs about €27. If you opt for the TRA + THSR combination (via Taipei), the travel time can be reduced to roughly 3 hours, but the cost will increase to €45-€55. Express buses are the longest at about 6 hours but are the most economical, costing around €14.
The 'best' option depends on your priorities. If speed is paramount and budget allows, the TRA + THSR combination is fastest. If you prefer a direct, scenic route and are budget-conscious, the direct TRA train is excellent. For the most economical journey, an express bus is your choice, though it takes longer. Consider if saving a few hours is worth the higher THSR fare.
Yes, there are direct TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) trains that connect Yilan and Kaohsiung. These trains circle the entire island, offering a single-seat journey without transfers. While convenient, they are significantly slower than combining a TRA segment with the high-speed THSR for the western part of the journey. Check the TRA schedule for direct departures.
Absolutely! It's highly recommended to book both TRA and THSR tickets online, especially during peak travel times. You can use the official TRA and THSR websites or reliable third-party platforms like 12go.asia for convenient booking and instant confirmation. This saves time and ensures you get your preferred departure.
✨ 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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