travel from taoyuan to kaohsiung

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How to Travel from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung

January 27, 2024

By Sarah Anderson

Traveling from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung, the second-largest city in Taiwan, is a journey that combines convenience and adventure. Located on opposite ends of the island, these two destinations offer diverse cultural experiences and natural wonders. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, knowing the best transportation options can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

One of the most popular ways to reach Kaohsiung from Taoyuan Airport is by high-speed rail. The High-Speed Rail Station is conveniently located right next to the airport. With trains departing every 15 minutes, you can hop on a comfortable and modern bullet train that will take you to Kaohsiung in just about two hours. This option is ideal if you value speed and comfort and want to enjoy the picturesque views of the Taiwanese countryside along the way.

If you prefer a more affordable option, taking a bus is an excellent choice. Several bus companies operate direct services from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. The journey takes approximately four to six hours, depending on traffic conditions. Buses are equipped with air-conditioning and comfortable seating, making it a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel between these two cities. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride.

Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung

Traveling from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung is a convenient and easy journey. There are several transportation options available for travelers to choose from. Here are some of the most popular ways to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung:

Overall, there are several options available for travelers to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. Whether you prefer speed, affordability, or convenience, you can choose the transportation option that best suits your needs and preferences.

Available Transportation Options

There are several transportation options available for travelers looking to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Each transportation option has its own advantages and disadvantages. The High-Speed Rail is the fastest and most convenient option, but it is also the most expensive. Taxis are a comfortable but costly choice, especially for solo travelers. Buses and shuttle services offer more affordability, but the travel time is longer. Car rental can provide flexibility, but it may be challenging for those unfamiliar with the area.

Ultimately, the choice of transportation depends on individual preferences, budget, and travel schedule. It is advised to plan ahead and consider the factors mentioned above to make the best decision for your journey from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung.

Taking the High-Speed Rail

If you prefer a faster and more convenient option, you can take the high-speed rail (HSR) from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. The HSR is a bullet train service that can take you from one end of Taiwan to the other in just a few hours.

To get to the HSR station from the airport, you can take a taxi or the airport shuttle bus. The shuttle bus departs regularly from the airport and will take you directly to the HSR station.

Once you arrive at the HSR station, you can purchase a ticket to Kaohsiung. The ticket prices vary depending on the class and time of day, but generally range from NT$700 to NT$1,500. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

After purchasing your ticket, you will go through security and board the train. The HSR offers comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of legroom, making it a pleasant and efficient way to travel.

The journey from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung on the HSR takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the train. Once you arrive in Kaohsiung, you can easily access the city center by taking a taxi or using public transportation.

Taking the high-speed rail is a convenient and time-saving option for traveling from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. It allows you to avoid traffic congestion and arrive at your destination quickly and comfortably.

Using the Taoyuan MRT

The Taoyuan Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a convenient and popular way to travel from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. The MRT system provides a fast, reliable, and affordable transportation option for both locals and tourists.

Here are the steps to take when using the Taoyuan MRT:

• Upon arrival at Taoyuan Airport, follow the signs to the MRT station, which is located in the basement of Terminal 1. If you arrive at Terminal 2, you can take the free shuttle bus to Terminal 1 to access the MRT station.
• Purchase a Single Journey Ticket from the ticket vending machines or use your EasyCard. The EasyCard is a convenient stored-value card that can be used for public transportation fares throughout Taiwan.
• Find the platform for the Taoyuan Airport MRT Line. The MRT trains are spacious, clean, and equipped with comfortable seating.
• Take the Taoyuan Airport MRT Line towards Taipei Main Station. The journey from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station takes approximately 35 minutes.
• At Taipei Main Station, transfer to the High-Speed Rail (HSR) or Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) to continue your journey to Kaohsiung. Both options offer frequent train services between Taipei and Kaohsiung.
• If you prefer to take the High-Speed Rail, follow the signs to the HSR station within Taipei Main Station. Purchase your ticket either from the ticket vending machines or the ticket counters.
• If you choose to take the Taiwan Railway Administration, proceed to the TRA section of Taipei Main Station and purchase your ticket from the ticket vending machines or the ticket counters.
• Once you arrive in Kaohsiung, you can take a taxi or use the local public transportation system to reach your final destination.

Using the Taoyuan MRT is an efficient and comfortable way to travel from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. It allows you to avoid traffic congestion and reach your destination in a timely manner. Make sure to plan your journey ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Hiring a Taxi

If you prefer a more convenient and direct option, you can also hire a taxi at Taoyuan Airport to get to Kaohsiung. Taxis are readily available at the airport’s taxi stand, located just outside the arrivals hall.

When hiring a taxi, it’s important to make sure the driver uses the meter or agrees on a fixed price before starting the journey. Taxis in Taiwan are generally safe and reliable, but it’s always a good idea to take note of the taxi’s license plate number and keep your belongings secure.

The journey from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung by taxi usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The fare can vary based on the time of day and any toll fees that may apply. It’s advisable to have some Taiwanese currency on hand to pay for the taxi fare.

If you’re not familiar with the route or don’t speak Mandarin, it’s helpful to have the destination address written down or saved on your phone to show the taxi driver. Some taxi drivers may speak basic English, but it’s not guaranteed.

Overall, hiring a taxi can be a convenient and comfortable option for traveling from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung, especially if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a door-to-door service.

Booking a Shuttle Bus

If you prefer the convenience of a shuttle bus, you can easily book your tickets in advance. There are several online platforms and travel agencies that offer shuttle bus services from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. You can visit their websites or contact them directly to make a reservation.

When booking a shuttle bus, make sure to provide your travel details, including your flight information and the date and time of your arrival. This will ensure that the shuttle bus company can arrange for a driver to pick you up at the airport. It’s also a good idea to double-check the pick-up location, as some shuttle bus services have designated meeting points at the airport.

Booking a shuttle bus in advance is a convenient option, as it guarantees you a seat on the bus and eliminates the need to wait in line or search for transportation upon arrival. Additionally, booking ahead of time allows you to compare prices and choose the shuttle bus service that best fits your budget and schedule.

Once you have made your reservation, be sure to keep your confirmation details handy. You may need to present them to the shuttle bus driver upon arrival at the airport. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the cancellation policy of the shuttle bus company in case your travel plans change.

Overall, booking a shuttle bus from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung is a convenient and hassle-free way to travel between the two cities. By planning ahead and reserving your spot, you can enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey to your destination.

Renting a Car

If you prefer the convenience of having your own transportation, renting a car is a great option for getting from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy to find a vehicle that suits your needs.

Before renting a car, make sure you have a valid driver’s license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). You will also need a credit card for payment and a passport for identification purposes.

Once you have completed the necessary paperwork and picked up your rental car, you can begin your journey to Kaohsiung. Keep in mind that Taiwan drives on the right side of the road, and traffic can be quite heavy in some areas, so it’s important to be cautious and follow the rules of the road.

The drive from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route is to take National Highway No. 1 southbound towards Kaohsiung. Along the way, you will pass through several toll booths, so be sure to have some cash on hand for the toll fees.

Once you arrive in Kaohsiung, you can easily navigate the city using GPS or a map. There are plenty of parking options available, including public parking lots and street parking. Just be aware of any parking regulations and restrictions to avoid any fines.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Kaohsiung and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Whether you want to visit the popular tourist attractions or discover hidden gems off the beaten path, having a rental car provides the flexibility to make the most of your trip.

TAIPEI TRAVEL GUIDE: Everything You Need to Know

Sarah Anderson

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Taiwanese Secrets Travel Guide

Travel to Kaohsiung

Information about transportation to Kaohsiung City in Southern Taiwan

On this page, I explain in details how you can travel to Kaohsiung City from Taipei, Taoyuan Airport, and other parts of Taiwan. The three main public transportation to Kaohsiung are the normal train (TRA), high-speed train (HSR), and public buses.

• Book a  hotel  in Kaohsiung before you go .
• Check out  things to do in Kaohsiung .

High Speed Train (HSR)

The fastest way to travel to Kaohsiung from Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, or Tainan is by High Speed Rail. The HSR station for Kaohsiung city is called Zuoying Station and it is located in the northern part of the city. See the fares and time travel for each city:

Taipei; 1490NT$; 2h Taoyuan; 1330NT$; 1h 40min Hsinchu; 1200NT$; 2h 30min Taichung; 790NT$; 1h

Travel to Kaohsiung by normal train (TRA)

If you are too far from an HSR station or if the high-speed train is too expensive for you, you might want to consider riding the normal train (TRA). The normal train is much slower than the HSR trains, but they are still more comfortable than buses in my opinion.

Consider making a reservation  on a seat in advance if you want to travel to or from Kaohsiung on weekends or during holidays as many Taiwanese are on the move during these periods.

Kaohsiung train station  is in the old part of the city. Traveling between Kaohsiung Train Station and Zuoying HSR Station is simple: both these points are connected by the Kaohsiung subway (MRT). It takes about 10 minutes to travel between the two stations.

Travel to Kaohsiung by public buses

Bus stations and offices to buy tickets are located around the train station in the older part of the city. It is possible to take buses to all destinations around Taiwan.

The company that covers the most Taiwanese destinations is Kuo Kuang Hao Bus Company and its station is just next to the train station. To get there, turn left as you exit the train station. Here are fares and travel time to or from the following cities by bus:

Kenting: About NT$150; 2 hours Taidong (Taitung): NT$443; 4 hours Taichung: NT$300; 3h,10min Taoyuan: NT$500; 4h,5min Taipei: NT$530; 5 hours

From Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

Two options exist to travel to Kaohsiung from Taoyuan Airport: take the bus or ride the HSR.  Buses  leave from both terminals and cost NT$420. The bus ride is long – about 5 hours. If you opt for the comfort and speed of the  high-speed train , know that the HSR station in Taoyuan is not at the airport. You first need to take a shuttle bus to get there.

Return from  Travel Kaohsiung to  Kaohsiung Travel Guide

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Taoyuan to Kaohsiung drive

Taoyuan to kaohsiung road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Taoyuan to Kaohsiung. If you're planning a road trip to Kaohsiung, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Taoyuan drive for about 35 minutes

10:35 am   Xiangshan District stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:35 am drive for about 1 hour

12:40 pm   Taichung City stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:40 pm drive for about 1 hour

2:44 pm   Chiayi stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:44 pm drive for about 1 hour

4:49 pm   Tainan stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:49 pm drive for about 38 minutes

6:27 pm  arrive in Kaohsiung

driving ≈ 4.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Xiangshan District Taichung City Chiayi Tainan   (2 answers)

What are some things to do in Kaohsiung?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Kaohsiung.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Kaohsiung to Taoyuan drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Taoyuan? Try searching for places within 3.5 hours of Taoyuan .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Taoyuan to Kaohsiung . Or get a full Taoyuan to Kaohsiung flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Taoyuan well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Taoyuan!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Taoyuan to Kaohsiung

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

2-3 Day Kaohsiung Itinerary To See All Kaohsiung Attractions!

Categories Asia , Itinerary , Taiwan

From fishing village to port city, to a now an up and coming tourist destination, Kaohsiung in Southern Taiwan is full of history, tasty food and friendly people!

How long to spend in Kaohsiung? My recommendation is to plan your Kaohsiung itinerary for  2 or 3 days in Kaohsiung!  I really love this city and I do think it’s underrated but Kaohsiung in Taiwan is not huge, many of the popular things to do in Kaohsiung can be seen in just a few days and there are plenty of other amazing places to see in Taiwan , so in my opinion 5 days in Kaohsiung isn’t needed for example!

Kaohsiung Itinerary!

Just looking for the best things do in Kaohsiung ?? Check out my blog post here for this!

FIRST TIMERS GUIDE TO TAIWAN

I’ve been to Taiwan twice. I love the country so much! I have written lots of posts to help you visit Taiwan, start with my 8 Helpful Tips For Planning a Trip to Taiwan from Start to Finish and the Best Places to Visit in Taiwan !

TAIWAN SIM CARD The best way to stay connected in Taiwan is to buy this EasyCard & Sim Card package deal in advance . You’ll need an EasyCard to get around on transport in Taiwan anyway and at the same time you can get a Taiwan Sim Card with 4G and pick them up at Taipei Taoyuan Airport when you land!

GETTING AROUND TAIWAN

The Metro within cities in Taiwan is really great, easy to use and so safe. You’ll need an EasyCard which you top up with credit to use the metro and buses. To get around Taiwan, I loved travelling by train . As a tourist, we can’t use the direct Taiwan train booking system. Instead you can go to a train station a few days before and purchase your ticket, or book online in advance using 12GO Asia !

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

How to Get around Kaohsiung?

Before we get into the places to visit in Kaohsiung let me reassure you that Kaohsiung is incredibly easy to get around. There is a metro (MRT) just like in Taipei with nearly identical stations and signs. You’ll need an EasyCard to use the metro and this works on all transport around Taiwan.

Most hostels and hotels in Kaohsiung will offer a Kaohsiung tourist map to help you get around so look out for these.

I found Taichung and Tainan quite hard and time-consuming because of their lack of metro but it’s very easy in Kaohsiung and Uber is reliable here too from my experience so keep this in mind when planning your Kaohsiung itinerary.

1 Day in Kaohsiung

Breakfast in kaohsiung.

Taiwan is famous for its breakfasts and Kaohsiung has a great place to eat breakfast which is popular with the locals and with tourists!

Xing Long Ju is the place to head to and the nearest MTR station for Xing Long Ju is City Council Station and then it’s a short walk away.

The opening hours of Xing Long Ju are 4:00 am to 11:00 am and I think no matter what time you get there you’ll need to queue but that’s all part of the experience!

Note that when you see the queue, the longest queue on the left is for the Bao Dumplings, if you do not want one of these there is a smaller queue on the left that takes you past this where you can get other breakfast items. If you’re in a rush, skip the Bao and you should be served quicker.

A typical breakfast in Taiwan is breakfast soup, omelette, fried breadsticks, bao, dumplings and soybean milk, all of which you can get in Xing Long Ju. It can be pretty stressful ordering food here but it’s all part of the experience!

If this restaurant in Kaohsiung happens to be too busy or closed, there is another restaurant 2 doors down on the corner and some of my followers on Instagram told me they went there instead and enjoyed it so either way, don’t miss a Taiwanese breakfast in Kaohsiung off your Kaohsiung itinerary!

Pier 2 Art Centre

Next on your Kaohsiung itinerary , from Xing Long Ju you can walk down to Pier 2 Arts Centre or catch the metro one stop to Yanchengpu and take exit 1.

This used to an area of abandoned warehouses but it is now a bright and thriving area full of really cool street art and murals which I think shows how much Kaohsiung has changed in the last few years, going from a port city into a tourist attraction!

You can walk around the buildings spotting the art and the impressive and random statues that they have, and you can go inside the warehouses where they have various games and exhibitions on. There’s even a small train going between the warehouses which is a fun activity for children in Kaohsiung . Make sure you explore the full area, it’s pretty big and even covers the nearby park!

The Art Centre is open from 10:00 am each day and is free to enter unless you want to see one of the exhibitions that require tickets.

Cijin Island from Kaohsiung

From Pier 2 Arts Centre Kaohsiung walk towards Gushan Ferry Pier which is close by to take the ferry over to Cijin Island.

Visiting Cijin Island is a must-do activity in Kaohsiung because it’s totally different from the main city and will give you a taste of a Taiwanese holiday destination.

The ferry to Cijin Island from Kaohsiung takes about 15 minutes and you’ll get off in a tourist hub, but don’t let that put you off. The best way to get around Cijin is by hiring some golf carts or bikes which you can do as soon as you get off, or you can walk like me but be warned this slice of an island is bigger than it seems.

For my full guide to Cijin Island and things to do in Cijin , have a read of this blog post .

Be sure to enjoy the fresh seafood that Cijin Island is known for, head over to the beach which will make you feel a million miles away from Taiwan Kaohsiung. Head up to Cijin Fort and Cijin Lighthouse for a awesome view over the Kaohsiung city and if you like to get a good Instagram photo, go to the Rainbow church!

Make sure you plan a few hours on Cijin Island on your Kaohsiung itinerary to make the most of it and cover all of the popular things do to in Cijin Island .

Kaohsiung’s Night Markets

By now it will be getting late and the night markets in Kaohsiung are the place to go for dinner on day 1 of your Kaohsiung itinerary!

Kaohsiung has a few night markets:

Ruifeng Night Market

• Liouhe Tourist Night Market
• Jin Zuan Night Market  
• Kaisyuan Night Market

Here is my full blog post on the best night markets in Kaohsiung , why they’re so good, where they are and the opening days and times. Read it here!

All of them are good to go to, in my opinion, Rufieng Night Market is the best night market in Kaohsiung but you should wait and go there the next day as it fits in better with the 2 days Kaohsiung itinerary due to its location. If you’re staying central in Kaohsiung as I did at Flyinn Hostel (which I really recommend I’ve stayed there twice in their private rooms and really like it) then Liouhe night market is probably the best one to go to!

To see a list of where to go in Kaohsiung, have a look at my full things to do in Kaohsiung blog post !

2 Days in Kaohsiung

Fo guang shan buddhist monastery.

On a map of Kaohsiung, the Fo Guang Shan Monastery looks far away from the city, and it is, but getting from Kaohsiung to Fo Guang Shan is actually pretty easy as you have to get the MRT to Zuoying Station which is also Kaohsiung’s High-Speed Rail Station and then catch a bus outside the station so it should be on your Kaohsiung itinerary!

I have detailed exactly how to get to Fo Guang Shan Monastery from Kaohsiung in this post with more details on what to do at Fo Guang Shan so make sure you read this too.

I recommend going here though as it’s like nothing I’ve seen before in Asia, the monastery is huge, there’s a Buddhist museum which is engaging and interesting and seeing this huge bronze Buddha is pretty impressive!

I recommend giving yourself about 2 hours to explore the monastery and bare in mind that the bus from Zuoying Station takes about 40 minutes each way. I’d also recommend getting lunch at the monastery in one of its many restaurants as there are limited options in the rail station and at Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung which is where I suggest going in Kaohsiung next.

To help you plan your trip around Taiwan, have a look at all of my Taiwan Blog Posts here!

Lotus Pond & Lotus Pond Temples

You may have seen photos of a Dragon and Tiger Temple in Taiwan and this is, in fact, the Dragon and Tiger Pagoda located on Lotus Pond.

Lotus Pond is a litter North of the city but still on the metro line so don’t let the distance put you off. The reason I recommend you visit these 2 places together in this itinerary for Kaohsiung is that they are both North and the MRT station you reach the monastery for- Zuoying, is the closest metro station to Lotus Pond.

To get to Lotus Pond from Fo Guang Shan take the MRT back to Zuoying Station, from here it is a 20-30 minute walk to Lotus Lake and the temples that surround it.

Here is my full guide on visiting Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, the history of the pond and the temples, plus, the correct way to visit the temples to ensure you don’t end up with bad luck!

Another way to see the Lotus Pond is to join a free walking tour ran by Like it Formosa which is what I did. They offer their Religion tour on Thursdays and Sundays from 3:00 pm and it’s a great way to meet fellow travellers and get a much deeper understanding of the importance of Lotus Pond. 

TAIWAN ITINERARY HELP

Here are my top Taiwan itinerary posts to help your plan your trip:

• 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• 1 week Taiwan Itinerary!
• 18 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan!
• How to Plan a Trip to Taiwan!

TAIWAN ON A BUDGET

Taiwan isn’t the cheapest country but it’s not the most expensive either and can be travelled on a reasonable budget. Here’s my post on the cost of travel in Taiwan and how to travel Taiwan on a budget !

I think this is the best night market in Kaohsiung because it’s full of food but best of all I like its layout in a car park and that it’s off the street. Ruifeng Night Market is also a bit out of the city but it is close to Lotus Pond which is why I suggest seeing both of these Kaohsiung attractions together.

This way you’re staying north of the city pretty much all day and seeing everything up here rather than going up and down on the metro!

Note that the opening hours of Ruifeng Night Market are from 6:00 pm and it is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays so try to work your 2 days in Kaohsiung around this if you can or switch up day 1 and 2 that I have recommended in this Kaohsiung itinerary.

Related Post: Best Night Markets in Kaohsiung !

3 Days in Kaohsiung

If you have three days Kaohsiung I would recommend heading out on a day trip from Kaohsiung to see more of Southern Taiwan on your Kaohsiung itinerary!

If the historic city of Tainan is not on your Taiwan itinerary then you can easily visit Tainan on a day trip from Kaohsiung, there is a direct local train that runs from Kaohsiung main station to Tainan main station.

There is an island called Xiaoliuqui  / Lambai Island just south of Kaohsiung which looks incredible and like total paradise, here you can even go snorkelling with Turtles, I found this blog post really helpful on how to visit Xiaoliuqui from Kaohsiung.

If you want to go hiking in Kaohsiung there are a few places you can visit like Shoushan National Park , Guanyinshan Trail and Dayuan Mountain .

Kenting National Park is in the very south of Taiwan. I have heard mixed things from travellers about this place, it looks beautiful but without your own transport, it seems hard to get around. Kaohsiung to Kenting takes a few hours by bus so it is time-consuming for a day trip which is why I do not recommend it.

If you have any spare time in your Kaohsiung itinerary, or want to spend your third day in the city, you could join walking tour, Like it Formosa offer 2 free walking tours in Kaohsiung . These tours also look good:

To see a list of what to do in Kaohsiung, have a look at my full things to do in Kaohsiung blog post !

Accommodation in Kaohsiung

If you’re looking for a hostel in Kaohsiung, I recommend FlyInn Hostel . I’ve stayed here twice. It’s rated very highly on Hostelworld and for good reason, it’s in a great location next to Sanduo Shopping District MRT, it’s been well designed with good private double and single rooms, and dorm rooms and I love that there is an all-girls floor with a well-kept, clean bathroom.

The best places to stay in Kaohsiung as being near an MRT station whether that’s Sanduo Shopping District or Formosa Boulevard in the centre so you can get everywhere in the City very easily and it will make planning your Kaohsiung itinerary easier.

If you want to stay in a hotel in Kaohsiung here are highly rated hotels for great prices:

85 Water Impression

Legend Hotel Pier 2

Papo’a Hotel

Or, search for more hostels and hotels in Kaohsiung here!

How To Get To & From Kaohsiung?

Within taiwan.

Kaohsiung is well connected by train. On my first visit, I got a train from Hualien where I visited Taroko National Park on the East Coast.

Taichung, Tainan and Taipei to Kaohsiung are very easy too, you can get a high-speed train to Kaohsiung from Taipei in just a few hours. You can also get a high-speed train from Taichung and Tainan or the local train if you want to save money and have more time.

Check out train times and book trains to Kaohsiung here!

Outside of Taiwan

Kaohsiung has Taiwan’s second-largest airport with the second-highest number of flight routes. It’s very easy to get to and from Kaohsiung City to Kaohsiung Airport in 15 minutes on the Metro (it’s the fastest I’ve never got to an Airport I think!).

Popular flight routes to Kaohsiung are Singapore to Kaohsiung, Malaysia to Kaohsiung and the Philippines to Kaohsiung!

Need help getting to the airport??:

Check out Kuala Lumpur Private Airport Transfers here!

Check out Changi Private Airport Transfers here!

How to get the best flights??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner .

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

To SEE Kaohsiung, have a watch of my YouTube video here !

• Kaohsiung Travel Guides:
• The 3 Best Night Markets in Kaohsiung you Must Visit!
• How to Visit Cijin Island From Kaohsiung & Things To Do in Cijin Island!
• The Best Things To Do in Kaohsiung!
• Taiwan Travel Guides:
• 1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• How to Do a Day Trip to Taroko National Park via Bus from Hualien!
• 12 Taipei Travel Tips and Things To Know about Taipei!

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A Travel Guide to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s Southern Port City

Kaohsiung (高雄 or Gaoxiong ) is the largest city in Southern Taiwan and home to the country’s largest port.

Beyond its port vibes and proximity to the sea, Kaohsiung has some big name attractions like Lotus Pond and Fo Guang Shan Monastery . It also has the best street art scene in Taiwan. Last but not least, Kaohsiung is a jumping off point for great outlying Taiwanese islands like Cijin and Xiaoliuqiu.

Kaohsiung is quite different than Taipei, so don’t skip it just because you think you’ve already had enough city time on your trip!

In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know for visiting Kaohsiung, from itinerary planning and top attractions to getting there, what to eat, where to stay, and more.

Table of Contents

Kaohsiung Introduction

The area of Kaohsiung was originally home to the Siraya Taiwanese aboriginals , who called it Takow. The name stuck for centuries. In 1920, the Japanese occupiers chose the characters 高雄, after the Takao region in Kyoto.

These characters are still used today, but pronounced “ Gaoxiong ” in Mandarin. The “Kaohsiung” spelling comes from the Wade-Giles romanization system favored in Taiwan in the past.

In the Qing Dynasty, Kaohsiung was centered at Fongshan , near today’s Lotus Pond and Zuoying HSR station, where you can still see some ruins and old city walls today. Kaohsiung Port was first opened in the 1680s, but the Japanese largened it during their colonial occupation.

After the Japanese left and KMT arrived, Kaohsiung city and Kaohsiung county were created. Just like Taoyuan , Taichung , and Tainan , Kaohsiung city and county were merged in 2010 , so “Kaohsiung city” is now a sprawling area reaching up into the Central Mountain Range. It is home to 2.7 million people, the 3 rd largest in Taiwan after New Taipei City and Taichung.

Taiwan’s High Speed Rail (HSR) line first reached Zuoying Station in 2006. The KMRT opened in 2008, followed by the Circular Light Rail (LRT) in 2015. Once complete (it’s almost there!), it will form a loop around the city center.

Street art has long been not just legal but encouraged in Kaohsiung. You can see amazing murals everywhere, but some of the best spots are at Pier 2 Art Center (which also features several museums, restored port warehouses, shops, and art installations) as well as Weiwuying , a whole neighborhood covered in murals.

Kaohsiung’s waterfront has been revitalized in recent years, especially with the addition on the Light Rail and Kaohsiung Music Center . These are some of the reasons Lonely Planet chose it as one of the top cities in the world to visit in 2018.

Getting to Kaohsiung

A growing list of international flights arrive at Kaohsiung International Airport , to the south of the Kaoshiung city center. The airport is connected to the city by the red KMRT line. See my guide to finding the cheapest flights to Kaohsiung and other cities in Taiwan, and find the best flight deals here .

The High Speed Rail (HSR) takes approximately 2 hours from Taipei to Zuoying Station , which is to the north of the Kaohsiung city center. The KMRT red line also connects it to the city center. Buy discounted HSR tickets here on Klook and read my step-by-step guide to booking them .

If you come by regular (TRA) train , it can takes anywhere from 3 hours 45 minutes to 5 hours from Taipei , depending on the train, but will cost half the price of the HSR. You can arrive at Kaohsiung Station, which is conveniently located in the city center. Read my article introducing how to buy train tickets in Taiwan for more information.

Only the TRA train will get you to destinations on the east coast, like Taitung and Hualien .

For Kenting National Park , the Kenting Express Line Bus departs from Zuoying HSR Station and takes about 2.5 hours. Buy your tickets here and see my Kenting accommodation guide .

Ferries depart from Gushan Ferry Pier in Kaohsiung to Cijin Island. For getting to Xiaoliuqiu Island in Pingtung county , take bus 9127D from Zuoying Station to Tungliu Line Wharf (琉線碼頭站), where you can catch the ferry. You can also find shared taxis on the south side of Kaohsiung Station, or just taxi there by yourself (TWD 1200).

In Kaohsiung, there are two KMRT lines . The Red Line goes north to south, while the Orange Line goes east to west. They intersect at Formosa Boulevard Station, one stop south of Kaohsiung Station (where the TRA trains stops). Formosa Boulevard Station is also where you’ll find the famous Dome of Light art installation, and Liuhe Night Market is nearby.

Swipe your EasyCard ( order online here ) for riding the Cijin ferry or KMRT/Light Rail. Kaohsiung city has its own iPass , which is essentially the same and can also be used around the country.

Where to Stay in Kaohsiung

For more information than I’ll provide below, see my guide to the best areas to stay and hotels in Kaohsiung .

The most convenient place to stay in Kaohsiung is around Kaohsiung Station . I recommend Kindness Hotel (see on Booking / Agoda ), which is right next to the station. Ahiruyah Guesthouse (see on Booking / Agoda ) is the best-rated hostel around the staiton.

My personal favorite place to stay in Kaohsiung is Yancheng District , around Yanchengpu KMRT station. This gives you close access to Pier 2 Art Center, which is especially cool at night. It’s also close to attractions like Shoushan LOVE Lookout, Siziwan Beach, The British Consulate at Takow, and the ferry to Cijin Island.

In Yancheng area, I recommend Hotel Yam Lagom (see on Booking / Agoda ). Higher rooms have sea views. I also enjoyed my stay at KLA B&B (塩晶棧) (see on Booking / Agoda ) – it has capsule-style dorms and cheap private rooms.

The best luxury hotels in Kaohsiung are downtown, around the iconic 85 Sky Tower. They include Intercontinental Kaohsiung (see on Booking / Agoda ), Silks Club Kaohsiung (see on Booking / Agoda ), and TAI Urban Resort (see on Booking / Agoda ) – the view from the pool at the latter is unbeatable.

See more info and pics of these in my guide to Taiwan’s top hotels .

Top Things to Do in Kaohsiung

I’ll separate the below attractions into Around Kaohsiung Station, Yancheng & Gushan Districts, Other Parts of the City Center, and Outside the City Center.

Around Kaohsiung Station

From Kaohsiung Station, ride the KMRT one stop south to Formosa Boulevard Station, where you’ll find the impressive Dome of Light (美麗島站 光之穹頂) art installation, the world’s largest glass artwork. The designs change constantly, so it’s fun to watch for a while.

Head to Houyi Shopping District near Kaohsiung Station for all your shopping needs. At night, Liuhe Night Market (六合夜市) is the most famous night market in Kaohsiung among tourists (locals prefer Ruifeng Night Market or others, but they are further away).

Also consider walking to Sanfeng Temple , famous for its courtyard filled with red lanterns.

One stop further south from Formosa Boulevard will bring you to Central Park (高雄中央公園), a large green escape in the middle of the city.

More shopping can be done at the collection of malls at Sanduo Shopping District. 85 Sky Tower , Taiwan’s tallest building before Taipei 101 , is also nearby. The tower’s observatory is unfortunately closed.

Yancheng & Gushan Districts

The area just west of the city center and Love River (愛河) has several sights worth half a day in your Kaohsiung itinerary. You’ll also need to go here for getting to Cijin Island, which is also worth half a day. Access the area on the orange MRT line or Light Rail.

The harborside Pier 2 Art Center is the top attraction here. It consists of several collection of old port warehouses which have been converted into public art venues and cool shops. The area is quite large and can take a couple hours to explore. See my Pier 2 Art Center guide .

A few minutes’ walk east of Pier 2 Art Center, the similar Dayi Warehouses house more shops, artworks, a beer hall , a concert venue , and more. Between Pier 2 and the Love River, Kaohsiung Music Center is a stunning new building, especially when lit up at night.

West of Pier 2, Penglai Area (駁二蓬萊倉庫群) has the Hamasan Museum of Taiwan Railway (哈瑪星台灣鐵道館), with an amazing model train system that represents all of Taiwan through modern history.

Closer to Yanchengpu MRT station, Yancheng 1st Public Market (塩埕第一公有零售市場) is a cool market space in a historic building.

Beside Penglai Area, Hamasan Railway Cultural Park (哈瑪星鐵道文化園區) has some old train cars and the original terminal station, now a small, free museum.

South of Pier 2, Kaohsiung Port Warehouse No. 2 (棧貳庫KW2) and Holo Park (光禹浮空劇院生活廣場) have even more shops, ice creameries, restaurants, and so in more port warehouses.

The whole harborside is especially fun to explore at night, when many buildings and art installations are lit up.

If you’ve got the energy, consider hiking up to Shoushan LOVE Lookout . This is just the start of a small mountain chain stretching to the north.

Trails in the northern parts of it, best accessed here , are known for their large population of macaques , which you are guarantee to see. For this reason, it is nicknamed “Monkey Mountain”. Just watch your things, as they may try to grab them.

While in the area, also consider visiting Neiwei traditional market (內惟市場) and Neiwei Weekend Flea Market (內惟跳蚤市集) here .

Kaohsiung City Zoo (高雄市壽山動物園) is also on the mountain.

South of the mountain, Wude Martial Arts Center (高雄武德殿) is a beautifully maintained Japanese era building.

From there, you can walk through Xiziwan Old Tunnel (西子灣隧道) to Siziwan Beach (西子灣海水浴場). The beach is technically owned by the large hotel fronting it, but if you go the long way through the parking lot to the south, you can access it for free. Swimming is not allowed but they don’t really enforce it.

Read more about Taiwan’s best beaches here .

Ferries to Cijin Island (旗津) depart from Gushan Ferry Pier . You can ride a scooter/bicycle on board or just walk on. You can also rent a bicycle upon arriving at Cijin. Budget 2-4 hours for exploring Cijin Island by bike.

Ride up Qijin Old Street to black sand Qijin Beach (swimming sometimes allowed), have a drink at Qijin Sunset Bar, ride down the coast to Rainbow Church, and hike up to Cihou Fort (旗後砲台). See my Cijin guide here .

Other Parts of the City Center

One of Kaohsiung’s top attractions, Lotus Pond (蓮池潭) is in Zuoying District, north of the Kaohsiung city center. Around half a dozen large temples are built on the side of this human-made lake. The most famous are Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (under renovation until 2025) and Zuoying Yuandi Temple.

Access to Lotus Lake is Ecological District MRT, Zuoying Train Station, or Zuoying HSR Station. Off-the-beaten-track explorers may also be interested in the old ruins of Old Fongshan – see the Zuoying section of my Kaohsiung things to do article .

To the east of the city center, Weiwuying Street Art Village (衛武營彩繪社區) is a neighborhood where every building has been covered in murals. Take exit 5 from Weiwuying MRT and walk north to find it.

South of the city center, Dream Mall (統一夢時代購物中心) is one of the biggest malls in Taiwan, with the iconic Kaohsiung Eye Ferris Wheel on top. The iRide 5D Visual Flying Experience is also nearby. Access is from Dream Mall Light Rail stop.

Further South, at Caoya KMRT, SKM Outlet is a mecca for families. The outlet mall is totally kid focused, with several indoor playcenters ( try this one ), kid-focused restaurants, bowling alleys, trampoline parks, VR center, and more.

Outside, there’s an amusement park , carousel, and full-size go-karting track.

Outside the City Center

The most famous attraction outside of the Kaohsiung city center is Fo Guang Shan Monastery . Almost every visitor to Kaohsiung makes the half-day trip to Taiwan’s largest Buddhist monastery.

The monastery complex is huge, with two main sections. The older section here is the original monastery. Less visited today, you can actually spend the night there in the Pilgrim’s Lodge. See my Fo Guang Shan guide for the details.

Most people today visit the newer Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum (佛光山佛陀紀念館). This area is also very large and includes Taiwan’s largest Buddha statue and a museum which houses some relics from the Buddha.

Not far from Fo Guang Shan, E-Da Theme Park (義大遊樂世界) is one of the largest and most famous amusement parks in Taiwan.

Up in the hills north of there, Senya Village (千野村-日式景觀園區) is a Japanese-themed village where you can rent kimonos and see capybaras (here are other places to see capybaras or rent kimonos in Taiwan ).

Going further northeast, Qishan Old Street (旗山老街) is a popular Old Street for tasting local snacks. Meinong Folk Village ( 美濃民俗村 ) is a major Hakka settlement in southern Taiwan, where you can see or purchase their famous rice paper umbrellas. It’s especially lovely in May, when the rice fields are golden yellow.

Maolin Butterfly Trail (茂林賞蝶步道) is known for its millions of butterflies in winter, while Baolai Hot Spring (寶來溫泉) is Kaohsiung’s top hot spring village.

In northern Kaohsiung, Eye of Gangshan (崗山之眼) is a violin-shaped skywalk, while Tianliao Moon World (田寮月世界) features lunar landscapes.

Best Kaohsiung Tours

This Kaohsiung Classics tour includes top spots like Lotus Pond, Fo Guang Shan, Tienliao Moon World, and Pier 2 Art Center. This is really the best of Kaohsiung in one day.

Taking a cruise or gondola down the Love River at night is a romantic way to experience the city.

To make your own schedule, hire a private driver in Kaohsiung .

How to Plan Your Kaohsiung Itinerary

I recommend a minimum of two full days to explore Kaohsiung. For Day 1 , spend half a day on Cijin Island and half a day exploring the sights of Yancheng, Gushan, and Kaohsiung Station area. Try Liuhe Night market at night.

For Day 2 , visit Fo Guang Shan Monastery in the morning, Lotus Pond in the afternoon, and Ruifeng Night Market for dinner.

With more time in Kaohsiung, consider making a day trip (or even better, 1-2 nights) at Xiaoliuqiu Island, or head down to the beaches of Kenting National Park , both in neighboring Pingtung .

What to Eat in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung’s dining scene is rich and varied. Many famous specialties from Tainan , which is considered the culinary capital of Taiwan, are also widely available in Kaohsiung.

Be on the lookout for Tainan classics like eel noodles (鱔魚意麵), Spanish mackerel soup (土魠魚羹), danzai noodles (但在面), and milkfish soup (虱目魚湯).

It is believed that beef noodle soup (牛肉麵), one of the famous dishes across Taiwan today, actually originated in Kaohsiung.

Copy paste any of the Mandarin names of the above dishes to GoogleMaps to find stalls or restaurants serving them in Kaohsiung.

In the daytime, there are multiple traditional markets in Taiwan. Sanfeng Central Street is best for buying dried foods tea, and herbs (like Dihua Street in Taipei ), while Ziyou Traditional Market (自由黃昏市場) in the north of the city is a huge and very popular covered market selling all kinds of foods and take-away meals.

Liuhe Night Market (六合夜市) is the most famous Kaohsiung Night Market among tourists, thanks to its convenient location and lack of traffic. Famous stalls are this papaya milk and this luwei (braised foods) stand .

Ruifeng Night Market (瑞豐夜市) is a little further away but more popular among locals. Try this super fresh milk tea , amazing oyster omelets here , and the best mochi I’ve ever had here . Find out about even more night markets in Kaohsiung here .

One dining experience in Kaohsiung that stands out for me is Hei Bon Gōrudohausu (平凡五金行四維總店). It is like a Kaohsiung version of the famous Addiction Aquatic seafood market in Taipei.

The ground floor is an upscale Japanese grocery store where you can also buy some fresh seafood products. You can take those upstairs, where they will cook them for you in hot pot. There are also super fresh sashimi trays you can take away or eat upstairs.

Seafood fans can also travel to Keziliao Fishing Harbor (蚵仔寮漁港) or Xingda Harbor Fish Market (興達港觀光漁市) on the coast of Kaohsiung for even fresher seafood.

One touristy restaurant in Kaohsiung, but with good beer and an unbeatable view, is Tokyo Beerhall ( 東京酒埸-愛河店). It’s a typical quick fry place (the food is fine but not as good as others). But both the exterior and interior and very photogenic, plus you’ve got excellent views of the Love River.

I also enjoyed the crazy ice cream designs at this ice cream shop at Pier 2 and the huge beer selection at this beer hall , also on Pier 2. You can also stock up on SunnyHills pineapple cakes there.

On Cijin Island, there’s lots of fried seafoods on Cijin Old Street , while Cijin Sunset Bar is a rarity in Taiwan: a legit beach bar with good beer and food.

Learn how to find vegetarian and vegan food here .

Kaohsiung Events

Lantern Festival , on the 15 th day of the first lunar month, is always an amazing spectacle. In Kaohsiung, the event usually takes place either along the Love River or at Lotus Pond.

Around the same time, Fo Guang Shan also hosts the beautiful Festival of Lights . The month-long event includes some lit up drone shows. The monastery also usually has events for Buddha’s birthday in May. See more info in my guide to various Lantern Festival events around Taiwan .

In March, the Neimen Songjiang Battle Ritual , a major event of traditional performance and martial arts, takes place for several days in Neimen district. Read all about it here find out event details here .

In late March or early April, Kaohsiung hosts the huge Megaport Music Festival , which focuses on rock and heavy metal.

For Dragon Boat Festival in June, Dragon Boat races take place in the Love River.

In summer, watch for the Cijin Black Sand Festival (旗津黑沙玩艺节), when you can see beautiful sandcastles on the main beach on Cijin Island, similar to the sand castle event at Fulong Beach in northern Taiwan.

In October, the Zuoying Wannian Folklore Festival is a traditional celebration held at Lotus Pond. Kaohsiung Pride usually takes place in late November .

For New Year’s Eve , the main fireworks display in Kaohsiung is at Dream Mall. You can see the fireworks from many locations on the harbor or from Shoushan Love Lookout. E-Da Mall in the north also usually has a fireworks display.      

A Travel Guide to Keelung, Taiwan’s Northern Port City

A travel guide to pingtung, taiwan’s holiday county, 2 thoughts on “a travel guide to kaohsiung, taiwan’s southern port city”.

Hi 👋🏻 first of all, many thanks for all your detailed articles, I am planning my trip to Taiwan and there are so useful! I saw in some recente video on YT that the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are under maintenance. Do you know untile when? Thank you again, Marilena

One recent review on GoogleMaps mentions that it isn’t expected to be completed until the first half of 2025, so it’s going to be a while still.

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City Guides , Taiwan , Tips & Inspo · October 2, 2021

How to Get From Taipei to Kaohsiung in 2024

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Taipei or want to spend a few days in Kaohsiung , there are loads to do in Taiwan’s Harbor City! However, before you can discover all of the city’s best bits, you’ll need to figure out how to get to Kaohsiung. Luckily, getting from Taipei to Kaohsiung is surprisingly easy, with trains, buses, and even flights offering easy access. 

In this guide, I’ll cover the easiest ways to travel between Taipei City and Kaohsiung so that you can find the best route for you! 

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Getting to Kaohsiung from Taipei: 5 Easy Ways to Travel

Taipei to kaohsiung by hsr.

Traveling time: Approx 1h40 | Cost: TWD 1,490

The fastest and most straightforward way to get to Kaohsiung from Taipei is by high-speed rail. Although this is the most expensive way to travel between the two cities, the journey only takes about 1h40, ultimately allowing you more time to discover all the best things to do in Kaohsiung ! 

Dozens of high-speed trains travel daily from Taipei Main Station to Zuoying Station, the terminal station in Kaohsiung. The first train departs at 6:26 and the last one at 22:16. For more timings, see the  THSR train schedule  here. 

A standard seat ticket costs TWD 1,490 one-way and a business class seat costs TWD 2,440 . While non-reserved seats are usually a bit cheaper ( TWD 1,445 ), it’s always best to book your ticket in advance, especially when traveling over weekends or during special festivals. HSR tickets can be reserved 28 days in advance. You can either buy them directly at the ticket booths at the station, through an Ibon machine at 7-Eleven, or online via the THSR website. Another good option is to grab a THSR 3-day pass , which allows unlimited rides on HSR for 3 consecutive days. Just a heads up, though, this option is only available to tourists.

The Kaohsiung Metro (KMRT) is also located adjacent to Zuoying Station. From there, it’s easy to connect to other areas in Kaohsiung City. See the metro map for more info.

Headed to Kenting National Park ? Read my detailed guide on getting to Kenting from Kaohsiung for more tips.

Taipei to Kaohsiung by Train

Traveling time: 4-8 hrs | Cost: Generally TWD 800-900

If you don’t have the budget to travel on the HSR and don’t mind a longer journey, the local train is for you. 

There are loads of trains traveling between Taipei Main Station and Kaohsiung Main Station daily, and the ride can take anywhere between 3h30 to 8 hours , depending on which type of train you take.

For the fastest course, though, you’ll want to book either a Tze-Chiang Limited Express train or the Puyuma Express train, as these are typically faster than the Chu-Kuang trains (the slow train in Taiwan). While the Puyuma train is much quicker than the Tze-Chiang Limited Express, you should know that trains aren’t as frequent, and none of the options will be as fast as the HSR. 

Tickets can be bought online on the  Taiwan Railways website  or directly at the train station up to 14 days in advance, and it’s always best to get your tickets as soon as possible as trains fill up quickly over weekends and special holidays. While the cost depends on the type of train you choose, prices generally range between TWD 650 and TW 900 . As you can see, it’s not  that  much cheaper than taking the HSR, so this might not be the best option if you want to travel between the two cities quickly. 

The train arrives at Kaohsiung Main Station, where you’ll have access to the metro line. So it’s very convenient to travel to your hotel or elsewhere in the city.

Taipei to Kaohsiung by Bus

Traveling time: 4-6 hrs | Cost: Approx. TWD 500-900

If your looking for the most affordable way to travel to Kaohsiung from Taipei, the bus is your best bet. 

Buses frequently depart from Taipei Bus Station (right next to Taipei Main Station) to Kaohsiung City, with the first bus coming at 6:00 and the last one at 23:50. The journey can take anywhere from 4-6 hours, depending on which time of day you depart. There are two main bus operators to choose from,  Ubus  and  Kuo Kuang King Bus , but Ubus offers more frequent and faster journeys. 

Tickets cost anywhere from TWD 500-900 and can be bought directly from the bus station, at any convenience store islandwide, or online at a slightly cheaper rate. Book your bus ticket online here for a stressfree-trip. 

While the bus is super cheap, comfortable, and has free wifi on board, this is also the longest route and might not be the best option if your Taiwan itinerary is on the short side. Don’t forget a jacket as the AC will be on full-blast mode!

From Kaohsiung Station, you can easily take the KRT (subway) to connect to other areas in the city. 

How to get from Taoyuan Airport to Kaohsiung

Traveling time: 3-3.5 hrs | Cost: Approx. TWD 1,400

If you’ve arrived at Taoyuan International Airport and want to go directly to Kaohsiung City, there are several options to do so. 

The first and the easiest way to get there is to take the Airport Commuter Line (MRT) directly to Taoyuan HSR Station. The ride only takes 20 minutes and costs TWD 25 . (See  schedules and fares here ). Once you’ve arrived at Taoyuan HSR Station, simply catch a high-speed train to Zuoying Station. The HSR from Taoyuan to Zuoying takes roughly 1h35 and costs TWD 1,330 for a standard seat. (See  schedules and fares  here) 

Another option is to take  bus 706  from Taoyuan Airport to Taoyuan HSR Station. Although the bus ride only takes about 25 minutes and costs TWD 48 , you should know that buses only come every 40-60 minutes. 

Flying to Kaohsiung from Taipei 

Traveling time: 2-3 hrs | Cost: Approx. TWD 3,500 one-way

Although it is possible to fly from Taipei Songshan Airport to Kaohsiung International Airport, it is not the best way to travel between the two cities. Tickets are very expensive and would set you back at least TWD 3,500 for a one-way ticket. Additionally, there are currently no direct flights from Taipei to Kaohsiung, with the shortest flight taking 2h40. 

Uni Airways, Mandarin Airways, and Eva Air offer daily flights down to Kaohsiung if you must fly. As always, it’s best to book tickets a couple of weeks in advance for the best possible rates. 

Getting to Kaohsiung in Conclusion

Taiwan has an excellent transportation system making it really easy to connect to all corners of the island! I hope this guide has helped you figure out the best way for you to travel between Taipei and Kaohsiung! While each option has its perks, it’s important to think about your travel itinerary. And ultimately you’ll need weigh the costs over comfort to make the best decision for you! 

Well, there you have it – a whole host of options to get to Kaohsiung. If you think I’ve missed an easier route, let me know in the comments below! 

Need more help getting around Taiwan?

• How to get to Kenting from Kaohsiung
• Getting to Taichung from Taipei
• How to get to Tainan from Taipei
• How to get to Hualien from Taipei
• Best ways to get to Taitung from Taipei
• Getting from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake
• How to get to Penghu Island
• How to get to Alishan from Chiayi
• Getting to Cingjing Farm from Taichung
• How to get to Jiufen from Taipei
• How to get to Shifen Waterfall from Taipei

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Tue, Jul 02, 2024 page13

Donovan’s deep dives: jostling for power in 2026 elections has already begun, a look at north taiwan, in the first of a two-part series, we examine how politicians throughout the nation are eyeing the regions where they want to run and the positions that they want to compete for.

• By Courtney Donovan Smith (石東文) / Staff Columnist

In spite of the next local elections being over two years away, there is already considerable intrigue and jockeying for position by politicians and their supporters. The local press runs quite a bit of content, mostly speculative, on who will run in what races and what the outcomes might be. This is an overview for English language readers to get a taste of the state of play.

Four races in particular are drawing a lot of heat, those of mayors of New Taipei City, Taichung, Tainan and Kaohsiung because in all four the incumbent mayors will be term-limited out. In Taipei most are assuming that the popular Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) will win re-election, and though I think Taoyuan might be more in play than many think, most local commentators also seem to assume the KMT’s Simon Chang (張善政) will win re-election.

DPP INTERNAL JOSTLING FOR POWER

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an on Saturday appeared at the opening of the Taipei Water Festival. The popular mayor will almost certainly run and win a second term.

Photo: George Tsorng, Taipei Times

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in some areas of the country had brutal battles fought between the factions in the May elections for heads of the local party branches as that gives the winner a bit more leverage, though by no means absolute as usually the party primaries are determined by public opinion polling. The leverage comes from having a bit more influence to try and convince potential candidates not to enter the primary, but they can not absolutely block any determined candidate.

The factions have now taken the battle to DPP National Congress taking place on July 21, and they will elect the 30-member Central Executive Committee, which in turn will elect five members of the 10-member Central Standing Committee. The party chair, secretary general, convener of the legislative caucus and DPP mayors of the big six metropolises are ex officio members of the Central Standing Committee, making up the other five committee members.

President and party Chair William Lai (賴清德) has dispensed with the carefully balanced appointment formula that his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) had imposed to keep the peace between the factions and has packed the government with his loyalists and New Tide (新潮流系統, usually abbreviated to 新系) figures. This situation means that to stay relevant, the other factions had to do well in the local party chapter races and in the upcoming DPP National Congress.

Former Taipei deputy mayor Vivian Huang in February speaks during a Lunar New Year celebration at the Legislative Yuan. Huang finished third in the previous Taipei mayoral election, but with a respectable quarter of the vote.

Photo: Tien Yu-hua, Taipei Times

THE TPP’S UNIQUE STRATEGY

An interesting question is what state the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) will be in in 2026. Historically it is around this number of electoral cycles, or one or two more, when third parties start to lose steam, and recently the TPP’s poll numbers have been shrinking. More importantly their disapproval numbers have spiked, in some polls to over 50 percent. Of course, the TPP could shake their current image of simply being the “little blue” sidekick of the KMT, regain a unique identity and revive their fortunes by then.

Strategically, the TPP is doing something very interesting and clever that as far as I know no other party has ever attempted. To make up for the problem of being a small party, all eight of the party’s legislators come from the party’s list of legislative candidates, and none represent electoral districts.

Former Democratic Progressive Party legislator Kao Chia-yu canvassing for office in this undated photo. Kao has openly expressed interest in running for Taipei mayor in 2026.

Photo: Taipei Times file photo

What this means in practice is that all eight will resign their seats in the legislature after two years, just in time to run in the local elections in 2026. In the meantime they will be trying to raise their profile and name recognition with the public. They have all also been designated a city, county or region to “represent” by setting up offices in these assigned areas and working hard to build knowledge and relationships.

When those eight step down, the next eight on the TPP’s party list will step up and take their place, and presumably also try and use their two years to raise their own profiles. Whether this unique strategy will ultimately work remains to be seen, but it is a clever way to leverage eight legislative seats into 16 opportunities for the party’s politicians to make their mark.

TAIPEI CITY

In Taipei, the KMT’s Chiang usually polls fairly high and is widely considered an attractive young man with a bright future. He will be tough to beat.

On the DPP side the one candidate openly considering a run is the similarly attractive and young Kao Chia-yu (高嘉瑜), who now is unemployed after losing her legislative seat after the Taiwan Statebuilding Party (TSP) ran a candidate, splitting the pan-green vote. The TPP will most likely run Vivian Huang (黃珊珊), who came in third in 2022, but with a respectable quarter of the vote.

NEW TAIPEI & TAOYUAN CITIES

In New Taipei City, the only party whose mayoral candidate is already probably known is the TPP’s Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌), who has already indicated he will be in the race and the party has no other potential candidates who have the name recognition needed to beat him in a primary. He is also the party list legislator assigned to New Taipei City, and previously he had been elected to the legislature representing the New Power Party (NPP), though he only narrowly survived a recall attempt.

On the KMT side almost all of the buzz is around Lee Ssu-chuan (李四川), the perennial vice mayor, who served two terms in that role in New Taipei City, one in Kaohsiung and now in Taipei City. He has been downplaying the possibility, saying he needs to serve in Taipei and that there is plenty of local talent in the KMT in New Taipei City. The press is not buying this, as in Taiwan political culture it is customary if one has a current position to play coy and hard to get, then finally “reluctantly” be forced to run due to so much “pressure” to run by the public. However, if KMT party Chair Eric Chu (朱立倫), outgoing New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) or Taipei mayor Chiang object, he may not have much of a choice — but he has served as vice mayor to all three, so presumably they like and trust him.

If he does not run, there are quite a few potential candidates that have been floated, including current vice mayors, local lawmakers and ambitious city councilors. Viewed from here in Taichung, none of these candidates have stood out on the national stage, though they likely have local name recognition.

There are three clear frontrunners being bandied about on the DPP side. Two that have high name recognition are the former mayors of neighboring Taoyuan and Keelung, current head of the Straits Exchange Foundation and former vice premier Tseng Wen-tsan (鄭文燦) and former interior minister and current DPP secretary-general Lin Yu-chang (林右昌) respectively. Tseng is of the New Tide faction, while Lin’s faction is Taiwan Normal Country Promotion Association (TNCPA, 正常國家促進會, usually abbreviated to 正國會).

The third frontrunner is local lawmaker Su Chiao-hui (蘇巧慧) who in a recent poll by RW News had her coming in second place among legislators for leaving the “best impression” nationally. She is of the Su Tseng-chang faction (蘇貞昌系, usually abbreviated 蘇系), which might have something to do with the fact she is Su Tseng-chang’s daughter. In what was widely seen as a boost for her and blow for Lin Yu-chang, her only primary challenger to head the local DPP chapter, former lawmaker and entertainer Yu Tien (余天) of the TNCPA faction dropped out.

Credere Media has published the results of internal KMT polling, and it is very revealing about who the party thinks will ultimately be the candidates, and in both hypothetical matchups the KMT candidate was Lee Ssu-chuan. In one matchup, Lee got 33 percent, Su Chiao-hui 31 percent and Huang Kuo-chang 12 percent, and in another Lee got 35 percent, Lin Yu-chang 25 percent and Huang 13 percent.

If he is not chosen to run in New Taipei, Lin Yu-chang might be a good fit to run in Taoyuan to take on Simon Chang. Up to six local lawmakers have also been named as possibilities.

Unless a strong candidate appears sometime between now and 2026, the TPP might be wise to skip Taoyuan and put their resources elsewhere in races that are more viable. Their 2022 candidate, then-lawmaker Lai Hsiang-ling (賴香伶), only barely topped 5 percent.

Donovan’s Deep Dives is a regular column by Courtney Donovan Smith (石東文) who writes in-depth analysis on everything about Taiwan’s political scene and geopolitics. Donovan is also the central Taiwan correspondent at ICRT FM100 Radio News, co-publisher of Compass Magazine, co-founder Taiwan Report (report.tw) and former chair of the Taichung American Chamber of Commerce. Follow him on X: @donovan_smith.

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Kaohsiung (KHH) to Taoyuan Airport

Best options, other options, kaohsiung to taoyuan airport schedule, transportation from kaohsiung to taoyuan airport.

• Trains RUB 3,429
• Flights RUB 14,442
• Taxis RUB 5,844
• Buses are not available
• Ferries are not available
• Vans are not available

Facts about the transport from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport

Popular routes, from kaohsiung (khh).

• Kaohsiung → Taipei
• Kaohsiung → Tainan
• Kaohsiung → Taichung
• Kaohsiung → Taitung
• Kaohsiung → Chiayi

To Kaohsiung (KHH)

• Taipei → Kaohsiung
• Taichung → Kaohsiung
• Tainan → Kaohsiung
• Taoyuan Airport → Kaohsiung
• Taoyuan City → Kaohsiung

From Taoyuan Airport

• Taoyuan Airport → Taipei
• Taoyuan Airport → Taichung
• Taoyuan Airport → Chiayi
• Taoyuan Airport → Tainan

To Taoyuan Airport

• Taipei → Taoyuan Airport
• Taichung → Taoyuan Airport
• Tainan → Taoyuan Airport
• Yushan National Park → Taoyuan Airport
• Luodong → Taoyuan Airport

Popular Routes in Taiwan

• Taipei → Taichung
• Taichung → Sun Moon Lake

How to get from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport

When you want to get from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport, you have a few options to consider. Traveling between these destinations is possible by different means of transport:

If you’re looking for a quick trip, it’s recommended that you use Train. However, if you’d rather take your time with a slower, more affordable travel option, you can book a Flight ticket.

The cost of travel will depend on the means of transport you choose for your trip. A flight ticket is the most expensive option - it will cost you about RUB 18,596 . If you want to save on transportation, it’s better to take a flight as a flight ticket costs as low as RUB 14,443 .

How far is Kaohsiung from Taoyuan Airport?

If you’re traveling by land, it’s important to know the distance from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport. Your trip will be a total of 45 miles (72 km). The flying distance is 45 miles (72 km).

How long does it take to get from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport?

The travel time from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take from 2 to 10 hours.

How much does it cost to get from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport?

The cost of the trip from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport varies according to what means of transport you choose for your journey. The most affordable operator is HK Express: travelling by flight expect to pay as low as RUB 14,443 for your ticket.

However, if you’re after more upscale travel . The most expensive variant is to opt for a flight - a one-way flight ticket can cost as much as RUB 18,596 .

Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport:

• Train tickets - RUB 3,429 to RUB 3,509 ;
• taxi+Train price: RUB 5,844 . From Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport starting from 19:35 Zuoying until 21:40 Zuoying
• flight price: RUB 14,442 - RUB 18,598 . From Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport starting from 07:45 Kaohsiung Airport until 10:15 Kaohsiung Airport

How many trips per day are there between Kaohsiung and Taoyuan Airport?

Depending on your choice of transportation, the number of daily trips varies.

• 2 by flight from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport starting from 07:45 Kaohsiung Airport until 10:15 Kaohsiung Airport

Which means of transport is the best for the route?

How to choose the most convenient way of travel from Kaohsiung to Taoyuan Airport? In order to make your choice of transportation easier, we asked 1000 users to range their preferences for this route. Here are the results of the poll:

• 100% users enjoyed a train ride.
• Taoyuan Airport
• Transport Options