Traveling from Taipei to Tainan City is really easy!
On this page I will show you how to get to Tainan city from Taipei by HSR (high-speed rail), TRA (normal train), bus, and car.
The easiest, fastest, most convenient way to Tainan (in the south) from Taiwan’s capital city (in the north) is definitely by HSR, but it’s not the cheapest option, so we’ll discuss train and bus options as well. And if you’re self-driving, I’ll show you which road / highway to take.
Taipei to Tainan by HSR
Taking the fast train is really cool and a fantastic experience in itself. For some people, the HSR (high-speed rail) trip is a highlight of a journey around Taiwan. The trains are clean, safe, modern, and comfortable.
You can board the HSR in Taipei at Taipei Main Station. The HSR station in Tainan is a bit out of the city, so you’ll need to take a shuttle bus or taxi when you reach Tainan is you want to go downtown. Taxi ride costs around 300NT$ depending on where you want to go.
Trip duration from Taipei to Tainan by bullet train is between 1h45m and 2 hours.
Ticket costs / price are as follow:
- Adult Standard Seats: 1350NT$
- Adult Business Class: 2005NT$
- Children Standard: 675NT$
- Children Business: 1115NT$
Taipei to Tainan by Train
If you prefer to travel at a slower pace, and/or would rather spend less money on a ticket, the second best option is the normal train, which is run by the TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration). As I’ve already mentioned throughout this website, traveling by TRA train can be just as enjoyable as riding the pricier HSR train.
TRA trains are well-maintained, clean, comfortable, and seldom run late. Food and drinks are provided onboard. Bring a sweater as it can be cold during the trip. You can board the train in Taipei at Taipei Main Station. The Tainan Train Station is conveniently located downtown, to too far from all the attractions and restaurants.
Taipei to Tainan Train Fare and Trip Duration:
Chu-Kuang Express: 4h 13m / 569NT$
Tze-Chiang Limited Express: 4h 28m / 738NT$
Puyuma: 3h 6m / 738NT$
Taipei to Tainan by Bus
The bus is not my favorite option to travel from Taipei to Tainan, but if money is your main concern, and you don’t mind (possibly) being stuck in traffic, then the bus might be your best option. The trip takes about 4 to 5 hours, and costs as little as 370NT$
Taipei to Tainan by Car
If you have your own set of wheels, or are renting your own car, know that it is very easy and straightforward to self-drive from Taipei to Tainan. You have two options, Highway 1 or Highway 3. Both take about the same time, which is around 4 hours and half, including a quick pee stop at one of the great rest areas.
Taipei to Tainan by Plane
Flying from Taipei to Tainan simply makes no sense, and basically nobody does this these days when you consider how fast and cheap taking the HSR is.
I wish you a safe journey, whichever way you decide to travel! 再見！