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Taipei to Taichung: Time, Price, Route & Map

Written by Felicia|Updated: 2025-07-22

Traveling from Taipei to Taichung? You're in for a smooth ride and a great time! The two cities are just about 160 km (100 miles) apart—close enough for a quick trip, but far enough to feel like a getaway.

You've got plenty of ways to go: High Speed Rail gets you there in just 1 hour, while TRA trains, buses, and private cars offer slower, more scenic rides. No matter how you travel, it's an easy route that follows Taiwan's west coast, passing through spots like Hsinchu and Miaoli.

Taichung itself is a fun city to explore—known for bubble tea, creative parks, and nearby gems like Sun Moon Lake. It's also a perfect midway stop if you're planning to head further south to Alishan or Kaohsiung.

In short, Taipei to Taichung is the perfect start to your Taiwan adventure. Easy to reach, hard to leave.

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  • triangleTaipei to Taichung Distance & Map (160 km)
  • triangleTaipei to Taichung: 4 Ways Overview
  • triangleHigh Speed Rail (HSR) from Taipei to Taichung: Fastest, 1 hour
  • triangleTrain (TRA) from Taipei to Taichung: Budget-Friendly, 2-3 Hours
  • triangleTaipei to Taichung by Bus: Cheapest Option, 2-3 hrs
  • triangleTaipei to Taichung Private Car: Flexible Choice, 2-3 hrs
  • triangleTaipei Airport to Taichung: Easy Transfers from TPE
  • triangleHow to Plan a Taipei to Taichung Tour?
  • triangleTrace Taiwan with Your Local Guide - Asia Odyssey Travel

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.

Taipei to Taichung Map
Taipei to Taichung Map

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.

Gaomei Wetland
Gaomei Wetland
Rainbow Village, Taichung
Rainbow Village, Taichung

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!

Taiwan High Speed Rail Train
Taiwan High Speed Rail Train
Taiwan High Speed Rail Train Standard Car
Taiwan High Speed Rail Train Standard Car

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.

Taiwan TRA Puyuma Train Standard Car
Taiwan TRA Puyuma Train Standard Car
Taiwan TRA Tze Chiang 3000 Train
Taiwan TRA Tze Chiang 3000 Train

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.

Taiwan Guoguang Bus
Taiwan Guoguang Bus
Taiwan Ubus
Taiwan Ubus

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).

Taiwan Railway Train
Taiwan Railway Train
Kaohsiung International Airport
Kaohsiung International Airport

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.

National Palace Museum, Taipei
National Palace Museum, Taipei
Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen Old Street

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

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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