Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)

The biggest difference between the HSR and the conventional Taiwan Railways (TRA) is travel time. For example, traveling from Taipei to Kaohsiung (Zuoying) takes as little as 1.5 hours on the HSR. In contrast, the TRA train can take 4 to 6 hours for the same distance!

Our Recommendation:

• Long Distance (e.g., Taipei to Taichung/Tainan/Kaohsiung): Definitely take the HSR. It saves you half a day of travel.
• Short Distance (e.g., Tainan to Pingtung): Take the TRA (local train). It is cheaper and the time difference is negligible for crossing just 1-2 counties.

The HSR runs exclusively along the West Coast of Taiwan. Here is a quick breakdown of the coverage:

✅ Counties with HSR Stations

• Taipei (Nangang, Taipei Main, Banqiao)
• Taoyuan
• Hsinchu
• Miaoli
• Taichung
• Changhua
• Yunlin
• Chiayi
• Tainan
• Kaohsiung (Zuoying Terminal)

❌ Western Counties WITHOUT HSR

• Keelung (Use TRA or Bus from Taipei)
• Nantou (Inland; take Bus from Taichung HSR)
• Pingtung (South; transfer to TRA at Zuoying HSR)

This is a common mistake for first-timers. HSR trains have different stopping patterns. Some are "Express" trains that only stop at major hubs (Taipei - Taichung - Kaohsiung), while others stop at every single station.

Before you enter the gate, look at the Large Departure Board in the main hall. It will tell you the departure time and exactly which stations that train will stop at.

When buying a ticket, you must choose between two types. Mixing them up can lead to fines or standing for the whole trip.

• Reserved Seat (對號座): You are guaranteed a specific seat in a specific car. Recommended for long trips or peak hours. 👉 You can book tickets online here.
• Non-Reserved / Free Seating (自由座): These tickets are slightly cheaper, but you do not have a guaranteed seat. You must find an empty seat yourself, and you are restricted to specific cars (usually cars 10-12).

Once you scan your ticket and enter the gate, look for the Platform Screens hanging from the ceiling. They will clearly indicate which cars are for Non-Reserved passengers.

You have two main options at the station:

1. Automatic Ticket Machines

These machines have an English interface and accept cash or credit cards. They are usually faster than the counter.

2. Ticket Counter

If you need help or have special requirements, go to the staffed counter. The staff generally speak English.

Worrying about your large suitcases? Don't be! The Taiwan High Speed Rail is very luggage-friendly.

Large Suitcases: Every train car has a designated Luggage Storage Area located at the front or rear of the cabin (near the automatic doors). You can safely stow your large bags (28-32 inch) there.

Carry-on Bags: For smaller backpacks or cabin bags, simply place them on the overhead racks above your seat.