Taipei to Taichung Distance & Map (160 km)
The distance from Taipei to Taichung is about 160 kilometers (roughly 99 miles). It's a smooth and easy ride—perfect for a quick getaway or the start of a longer Taiwan journey.

Take a look at the map, and you'll see the route follows Taiwan's west coast. You'll pass through places like Hsinchu and Miaoli before rolling into Taichung. It's a straight shot, and you've got plenty of ways to get there—fast trains, slow trains, buses, even private cars if you're in the mood to stop and explore.
Once you arrive in Taichung, getting to Sun Moon Lake is super convenient. That's why many travelers use Taichung as a launch point for exploring central Taiwan.


Taipei to Taichung: 4 Ways Overview
Method | Time | Fare (NTD/USD) | Suitable For |
---|---|---|---|
High Speed Rail (HSR) | 1h | NT$700+ (~$24+) | Business travelers, time-sensitive travelers |
Train (TRA Express) | 2-3h | NT$322+ (~$11+) | Budget travelers, those heading to downtown |
Bus | 2-3h | NT$270+ (~$9+) | Backpackers, overnight trips to save on accommodation |
Private Car | 2-3h | NT$1,000+ (~$32+) | Family trips, travelers seeking flexibility |
High Speed Rail (HSR) from Taipei to Taichung: Fastest, 1 hour
Want to get from Taipei to Taichung as fast as possible? Hop on the High Speed Rail (HSR)! It's hands down the quickest and easiest way—just about 1 hour and you're there.
HSR Travel Time & Frequency
HSR trains run from Taipei Main Station to Taichung HSR Station, which is in Wuri District. From there, it's an easy transfer by taxi, local train, or MRT into downtown Taichung.
Travel time ranges from 47 minutes to 66 minutes, with one to four stops.
Over 80 trains run daily, starting at 6:26 AM and ending at 11:00 PM, with departures every 15–30 minutes. You'll never wait long!


HSR Ticket Price
Car | Standard Car | Business Car | Non-Reserved Seat |
---|---|---|---|
Price | NT$700 (~$24) | NT$1250 (~$42) | NT$675 (~$23) |
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 Taichung: Budget-Friendly, 2-3 Hours
If you're not in a rush and want to enjoy a more relaxed ride, Taiwan Railways (TRA) is a great option. Trains depart frequently from Taipei Main Station to Taichung Station, right in the heart of the city.
It starts from Taipei Station (next to Taipei Main Station), and arrives in Taichung Railway Station, right in the city centre.


TRA Travel Time & Ticket Price
Unlike the HSR train, the TRA trains have different seating options depending on the train type.
On Tze-Chiang (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.
On slower local trains (similar to subway trains), there is only Non-Reserved Seat.
Train Type | Duration | Frequency | Standard Car (2+2) | Business Car (1+2) | Non-Reserved Seat |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Puyuma | 1.5-2 h | 5+ Daily | NT$500 (~$17) | None | None |
Tze-Chiang 3000 | 2 h | 13+ Daily | NT$500 (~$17) | NT$950 (~$32) | NT$475 (~$16) |
Tze-Chiang | 2-2.5 h | 15+ Daily | NT$500 (~$17) | None | None |
Local Train | 3-4 h | 10+ Daily | None | None | NT$322 (~$11) |
It's cheaper than HSR and drops you closer to downtown Taichung (Taichung Station), making it convenient for urban explorers.
Taipei to Taichung by Bus: Cheapest Option, 2-3 hrs
Traveling on a budget? The intercity bus is the most affordable way to get from Taipei to Taichung. The journey takes around 2 to 3 hours and costs as little as NT$270 (~US$9)—perfect for budget travelers and students.
Major companies like Ubus, Kuo-Kuang (King Bus), and HoHsin offer frequent departures throughout the day.


Buses leave from central spots like Taipei Bus Station or Taipei City Hall, and drop you off near downtown in Taichung Bus Station.
The buses are modern and comfy, with reclining seats, air conditioning, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. Some services also offer charging ports and onboard entertainment.
Taipei to Taichung Private Car: Flexible Choice, 2-3 hrs
The drive from Taipei to Taichung takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Private transfers usually start from around NT$1,000+ (~US$32) per person, depending on the group size and vehicle type. Some services even offer English-speaking drivers or short scenic stops.
It's perfect if you're traveling with kids, have heavy luggage, or just want the comfort of your own space. No need to follow a train schedule—just go at your own pace.
When you plan to visit Sun Moon Lake, a private car can take you there directly from Taipei City in just 3-4 hours.
Taipei Airport to Taichung: Easy Transfers from TPE
Landing at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and heading straight to Taichung? It's easier than you think. You've got a few smooth and convenient options to get you on your way.
Option 1: MRT + High Speed Rail (Fastest & Most Popular)
First, take the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taoyuan HSR Station (about 20–30 minutes). Then hop on a High Speed Rail (HSR) train to Taichung HSR Station (about 40–60 minutes).


Option 2: Direct Airport Bus to Taichung (Budget-Friendly)
Want to save some money? Take a direct intercity bus from the airport to downtown Taichung.
- Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Fare: around NT$280–NT$300 (~US$9–10)
- Buses depart from both Terminal 1 and 2
It's a great no-transfer option, especially if you're tired after a flight and just want to sit back and relax.
Option 3: Private Car (Most Comfortable)
Need door-to-door service? Book a private car transfer.
- Travel time: about 2 to 2.5 hours
- Ideal for families, groups, or travelers with lots of luggage
- Price: starts from NT$2,500+ (~US$80+) per car, depending on the service
How to Plan a Taipei to Taichung Tour?
A trip from Taipei to Taichung is the perfect starting point for a full Taiwan adventure! Here's how you can turn a simple transfer into a fun, well-paced, and unforgettable journey.
Start your trip in Taipei, where you'll want to spend 3 to 4 days exploring the city and nearby attractions. After that, hop on the High Speed Rail and head to Taichung. You can easily spend a full day there shopping, sightseeing, and, of course, snacking your way through the night markets.


Next, reserve one day for a day trip to Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan's most iconic natural gems. After enjoying the lake, you can keep the journey going by heading south to Chiayi and Alishan, where misty mountains, giant trees, and sunrise views await.
Still have time? Don't stop now! Continue south to Kaohsiung. It's laid-back, sunny, and full of culture. Spend 1–2 days soaking in the vibe, visiting temples, the harbor, and trying delicious southern-style eats. Once you're done, simply take the HSR back to Taipei to wrap up your trip.
Pro tip: Join a guided tour! A local guide will help you uncover the stories behind the sights, taste the best food, and make your trip smoother with no stress.
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