Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Taipei to Kaohsiung Distance & Map (350 km)
The distance from Taipei to Kaohsiung is about 350 kilometers (217 miles). Not too far, not too close. Just the perfect distance for a comfortable north-to-south Taiwan adventure!
As shown on the map, the journey takes you along the western coastline of the island, passing through some of Taiwan's most popular destinations like Taichung and Tainan. You can travel directly from Taipei to Kaohsiung, or take your time and stop along the way to explore these vibrant destinations.
Taipei to Kaohsiung 4 Ways Overview
| Method | Time | Fare (NTD/USD) | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Speed Rail (HSR) | 1.5h | NT$1490+ (~$50+) | Business travelers, time-sensitive travelers |
| Train (TRA Express) | 3.5-4.5h | NT$994+ (~$34+) | Budget travelers, those heading to downtown |
| Bus | 5-6h | NT$636+ (~$21+) | Backpackers, overnight trips to save on accommodation |
| Private Car | 4-5h | NT$1,200+ (~$39+) | Family trips, travelers seeking flexibility |
Taiwan's railway system includes two main types: the High Speed Rail (HSR) and the regular Taiwan Railways (TRA). We'll break them down in more detail below.
High Speed Rail (HSR) from Taipei to Kaohsiung: Fastest, 1.5 hrs
Taiwan's High Speed Rail (HSR) is the fastest and most efficient way to travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung.
HSR Travel Time & Frequency
HSR trains run from Taipei HSR Station to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung. Travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the number of stops. The fastest train takes just 1 hour and 34 minutes, stopping only at Taichung and Tainan.
Over 70 trains run daily, starting at 6:26 AM and ending at 10:16 PM, with departures every 15–30 minutes. You'll never wait long!
From Zuoying, it's easy to transfer to the MRT or local taxis to reach the city center or your hotel.
HSR Ticket Price
| Car | Standard Car | Business Car | Non-Reserved Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | NT$1490 (~$50) | NT$2440 (~$82) | NT$1445 (~$49) |
Standard Car: 3+2 seating layout, spacious and comfortable.
Business Car: 2+2 layout with more legroom, soft seats, bigger windows, reading lights, and complimentary snacks.
Non-Reserved Seat: First-come, first-served seating. No guaranteed seat—if full, you'll have to stand. Not recommended during peak hours.
You can book online, at the station, or even through vending machines. There are also discounts for early-bird bookings and group travelers.
HSR trains are clean, punctual, and comfortable, with reserved seating, onboard toilets, air conditioning, and snack trolleys. It's perfect for business travelers, families with kids, or anyone who wants to save time and travel stress-free.
Train (TRA) from Taipei to Kaohsiung: Budget-Friendly, 3-4 hrs
If you're not in a rush and want to save some money, taking the regular train (TRA) is a great choice. The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) runs several types of trains from Taipei to Kaohsiung every day.
It starts from Taipei TRA Station (next to Taipei HSR Station), and arrives in Kaohsiung Station (in city centre) or New Zuoying Station (next to Zuoying Station).
TRA Travel Time & Ticket Price
Unlike the Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR), the regular TRA trains have different seating options depending on the train type.
On Tze-Chiang Limited Express (自強號) and Puyuma Express (普悠瑪號), there is only Standard Seat (2+2 Layout).
On the newer Tze-Chiang 3000 series, you’ll have Standard Cabin (2+2 Layout), Tengyun Premium Cabin (1+2 Layout), and Non-Reserved Seat.
| Train Type | Duration | Frequency | Standard Car (2+2) | Business Car (1+2) | Non-Reserved Seat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puyuma | 3.5-4 h | 3+ Daily | NT$994 (~$34) | None | None |
| Tze-Chiang 3000 | 4.5-5 h | 11+ Daily | NT$994 (~$34) | NT$1,483 (~$50) | NT$944 (~$32) |
| Tze-Chiang | 4-4.5 h | 14+ Daily | NT$994 (~$34) | None | None |
It's cheaper than HSR and drops you closer to downtown Kaohsiung (Kaohsiung Station), making it convenient for urban explorers.
Pro Tips: Some of TRA trains from Taipei to Kaohsiung run via eastern coast for more than 6 hours. Avoid these when buy tickets.
Taipei to Kaohsiung Bus: Cheapest Option, 5-6 hrs
If you're traveling on a tight budget, the intercity bus is your most affordable choice. Buses from Taipei to Kaohsiung take about 5 to 6 hours and cost as little as NT$550 (~US$19).
Major bus companies like Ubus, Kuo-Kuang (King), and HoHsin run frequent services, including overnight routes that help you save on a night's accommodation.
The buses are clean and comfortable, with reclining seats, air conditioning, and even Wi-Fi on some routes.
You can board at terminals like Taipei Bus Station or Taipei City Hall and arrive directly at Kaohsiung's city center.
It's ideal for backpackers, budget travelers, or those who prefer to travel overnight and wake up in a new city.
Taipei to Kaohsiung Private Car: Flexible Choice, 5-6 hrs
Traveling by private car is perfect for families, small groups, or anyone who wants more freedom on the road.
The drive from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. You can stop along the way in places like Taichung or Tainan to explore local sights, such as Sun Moon Lake and Alishan, Taiwan's most stunning natural beauty!
Prices for a private transfer typically start from NT$1,500+ (~US$50) per person, depending on group size and service level.
It's the most flexible option, no train schedules to follow, no station transfers. Just door-to-door convenience. If you're traveling with kids, carrying lots of luggage, or simply want a more relaxed journey, a private car is a great choice.
Taipei to Kaohsiung by Flight: Not Available
Currently, there are no direct flights from Taipei to Kaohsiung.
Taipei Airport to Kaohsiung
If you're landing at Taoyuan International Airport and want to go straight to Kaohsiung, here's the best route to get from Taipei airport to Kaohsiung:
- Take the MRT from Taoyuan Airport to Taoyuan HSR Station (about 30 minutes)
- Then ride the HSR to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung (about 1.5 to 2 hours)
- From Zuoying, hop on the Kaohsiung MRT to reach the city center (about 30 minutes)
If you're leaving Taiwan via Kaohsiung Airport, you can also take the HSR to Zuoying, then transfer to the Kaohsiung MRT and reach the airport in about 35 minutes.
How to Plan a Taipei to Kaohsiung Tour?
Traveling from Taipei to Kaohsiung isn't just about getting from point A to point B — it's the perfect chance to explore Taiwan's most iconic destinations along the way. Depending on your style and schedule, here are two great ways to plan your trip:
Option 1: Taipei to Kaohsiung via Sun Moon Lake & Alishan (7–8 Days)
Take it slow and make every stop count! This route lets you enjoy Taiwan's vibrant cities and stunning natural beauty from north to south.
- Days 1-4: Explore Taipei & Its Surroundings
Visit Taipei's must-sees like Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, Beitou Hot Springs, and Yangmingshan National Park.
- Day 5: Taipei to Sun Moon Lake
Stop by Taichung for lunch, then cruise across Sun Moon Lake — Taiwan's most famous lake.
- Day 6: Sun Moon Lake to Alishan, overnight in Chiayi
Travel from lake to mountain. Enjoy a forest adventure in Alishan National Scenic Area, known for sunrise views, ancient trees, and mountain railways.
- Day 7: Chiayi to Kaohsiung
Visit Japanese-style Hinoki Village in Chiayi , then head to Kaohsiung for Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum.
- Day 8: Explore Kaohsiung, back to Taipei
Visit Lotus Pond, see the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and take a hsr train back to Taipei.
This route is perfect if you love culture, nature, and a bit of everything in between.
Option 2: Direct from Taipei to Kaohsiung + Side Trip to Kenting (6–8 Days)
Short on time? Go fast and focus on the highlights.
- Days 1–4: Stay in Taipei
Soak in the city's culture, night markets, museums, and nearby day trips like Jiufen and Yangmingshan.
- Days 5–7: HSR to Kaohsiung + Kenting Getaway
Take the High Speed Rail to Kaohsiung (just 1.5 hours), then head south to Kenting for beaches, ocean views, and sunshine. Return to Kaohsiung for a city tour.
- Optional: Northbound Return via Tainan–Chiayi–Taichung
Got more time? Travel back north through Tainan, Chiayi (Alishan), and Taichung (Sun Moon Lake) before circling back to Taipei.
No matter which route you choose, a Taipei to Kaohsiung tour is guaranteed to be the highlight of your Taiwan trip. And whatever you do, don't miss the breathtaking views at Sun Moon Lake and Alishan. They're among the most beautiful spots in all of Taiwan!
Trace Taiwan with Your Local Guide - Asia Odyssey Travel
Ready to see the best of Taiwan, from north to south? Asia Odyssey Travel is here to guide your journey around the island. With expert local partners and well-planned routes, we make your Taiwan trip smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.
We offer carefully designed tour packages and in-depth travel guides, including:
✔ Popular Tour Packages: Taiwan Group Tours, Taiwan Tours, Taiwan Family Tours, Taiwan Food Tours
✔ Useful Travel Guide: Taiwan Night Markets, Taiwan Temples, Taiwan Beaches, Taiwan Mountain, Taiwan Food, Taiwan Transportation
✔ Various Destinations: Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Kaohsiung
✔ Classic Itineraries: Taiwan Itinerary, Taipei Itinerary, Taichung Itinerary, Kaohsiung Itinerary
Data in submission...
