

Taipei to Taichung: Best Transport Options, Fares and Travel Tips

By TaraKai
August 6, 2026

Traveling from Taipei to Taichung is easy, with several transport options available throughout the day. The Taiwan High Speed Rail is the fastest choice, while Taiwan Railway takes you directly to central Taichung. Long-distance buses are better for budget travelers, and private transfers offer more flexibility for families and groups.
How to Get from Taipei to Taichung
The main ways to travel from Taipei to Taichung are the Taiwan High Speed Rail, Taiwan Railway, long-distance bus and private car. Your best option depends on your budget, schedule and final destination in Taichung.
Transport | Travel Time | Estimated One-Way Fare | Best For | Important Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Taiwan High Speed Rail | Around 47 to 70 minutes | NT$675 to NT$700 | Fastest journey | Arrives at HSR Taichung Station in Wuri |
Taiwan Railway | Around 2 to 3 hours | Up to NT$500 for Tze-Chiang | Direct city-center arrival | Arrives at Taichung Railway Station |
Long-Distance Bus | Around 2.5 to 3.5 hours | Around NT$280 to NT$320 | Budget travelers | Travel time depends on traffic |
Private Car or Transfer | Around 2 to 3 hours | Varies | Families and groups | Toll, fuel and parking costs apply |
The Taiwan High Speed Rail is the fastest option, while buses are usually the cheapest. Taiwan Railway is useful for travelers staying near Taichung Railway Station because no transfer from the HSR station is required.


















Taipei to Taichung by Taiwan High Speed Rail

The Taiwan High Speed Rail, commonly called THSR, is the quickest and most convenient way to travel from Taipei to Taichung. Trains depart from Taipei HSR Station, which is inside the Taipei Main Station complex.
The journey normally takes around 47 minutes on faster services. Trains with additional stops at Banqiao, Taoyuan, Hsinchu or Miaoli may take closer to one hour.
Taipei to Taichung HSR Route
- Departure station: Taipei HSR Station
- Arrival station: HSR Taichung Station
- Travel time: Around 47 to 70 minutes
- Best for: Day trips, short holidays and travelers with limited time
- Transfers: Direct train with no change required
Taipei to Taichung HSR Ticket Price
Seat Type | Adult One-Way Fare |
|---|---|
Standard Reserved Seat | NT$700 |
Standard Non-Reserved Seat | NT$675 |
Business Class | NT$1,250 |
A reserved ticket gives you an assigned seat on a specific train. A non-reserved ticket can be used in the designated non-reserved cars on the date printed on the ticket, but seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Book Taipei to Taichung HSR Tickets
You can book Taiwan High Speed Rail tickets through:
- Trip.com
- The official Taiwan High Speed Rail website
- The T Express mobile app
- Ticket machines at the station
- THSR ticket counters
- Participating convenience stores in Taiwan
Official online bookings normally open 29 days before departure and remain available until one hour before the scheduled train time, subject to seat availability.
🎟️ Travel Tip: Reserve your seat early when traveling on Fridays, weekends, public holidays or major festival periods. Popular morning and evening trains can sell out quickly.
How to Board the Taiwan High Speed Rail
- Go to Taipei Main Station and follow the signs for THSR.
- Check your train number, departure time and platform.
- Scan your mobile ticket or insert your physical ticket at the gate.
- Follow the car and seat number shown on your ticket.
- Keep your ticket or QR code until you exit at Taichung.
Arrive around 20 to 30 minutes before departure, especially if this is your first time using Taipei Main Station.
HSR Taichung Station Is Not in Central Taichung
HSR Taichung Station is located in Wuri District and is not the same station as Taichung Railway Station in the city center.
After arriving, you can continue your journey using:
- Taiwan Railway from Xinwuri Station
- Taichung MRT from HSR Taichung Station
- City bus
- Taxi
- Private transfer
- Car rental
HSR Taichung Station is directly connected to Xinwuri Railway Station by a corridor. From Xinwuri, travelers can take a local train toward Taichung Railway Station, Fengyuan or other areas. The station also connects to the Taichung MRT Green Line.
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Taipei to Taichung by Taiwan Railway

Taiwan Railway is slower than the high-speed rail, but it arrives directly at Taichung Railway Station in central Taichung. This can make the total journey more convenient if your hotel or first attraction is near the old city area.
Taipei to Taichung Taiwan Railway Route
- Departure station: Taipei Station
- Arrival station: Taichung Station
- Travel time: Around 2 to 3 hours
- Best for: Travelers staying near central Taichung
- Main train option: Tze-Chiang Express
The exact travel time depends on the train type and number of stops. Express services are faster, while local trains stop at more stations and may take much longer.
Taipei to Taichung Taiwan Railway Fare
A full-fare Tze-Chiang ticket from Taipei to Taichung is around NT$500. Slower train services may cost less, so check the fare calculator and timetable for your travel date before booking.
How to Book Taiwan Railway Tickets
Tickets are available through:
- The official Taiwan Railway website
- The Taiwan Railway e-booking app
- Station ticket counters
- Ticket machines
- Participating convenience stores
Reserved express trains can become busy during weekends and holidays. Book ahead when your itinerary depends on a particular departure time.
Why Choose Taiwan Railway?
- It arrives directly in central Taichung.
- Taichung Railway Station is close to hotels, restaurants and attractions.
- There is no need to transfer at HSR Taichung Station.
- The journey provides more views of towns and countryside.
- It may be more convenient when traveling with luggage to a city-center hotel.
Taiwan Railway Travel Tips
- Check whether your ticket has an assigned seat.
- Avoid taking a slow local train for the entire journey unless you have plenty of time.
- Confirm that your destination is Taichung Station, not Xinwuri Station.
- Arrive early during weekends and holiday periods.
- Keep your ticket until you leave the arrival station.
Taipei to Taichung by Bus

Taking a long-distance bus is one of the most affordable ways to travel from Taipei to Taichung. Buses usually depart from Taipei Bus Station, which is beside the Taipei Main Station area.
Major operators include Ubus and Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport.
Popular Taipei to Taichung Bus Routes
Bus Operator | Common Routes | Estimated Travel Time | Estimated Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
Ubus | 1619 and 1620 | Around 2 hours 40 minutes | Around NT$290 to NT$320 |
Kuo-Kuang | 1826 and 1827 | Around 2 hours 45 minutes | Around NT$288 to NT$320 |
Ubus Route 1619 travels from Taipei through Taiwan Boulevard toward Taichung, while other routes serve areas such as Chaoma, Shui-Nan and Taichung Railway Station. Routes, fares and stopping points can change, so confirm the final stop before purchasing your ticket.
Where to Take the Bus in Taipei
Most travelers depart from Taipei Bus Station near Taipei Main Station. Check your booking carefully because some services may also use alternative pickup points.
Arrive at least 20 minutes early to find the correct counter and boarding gate.
Where to Get Off in Taichung
The best stop depends on where you are staying:
- Taichung Railway Station: Best for the old city area and Miyahara
- Chaoma: Best for Feng Chia Night Market and Xitun District
- Shui-Nan: Useful for northern Taichung
- Taiwan Boulevard stops: Convenient for hotels and shopping areas along the main road
Ask the ticket staff which stop is closest to your hotel before boarding.
Taipei to Taichung Bus Travel Tips
- Allow extra time during rush hour and holiday periods.
- Keep your valuables and passport with you.
- Check the luggage rules before boarding.
- Wear a jacket because bus air-conditioning can be cold.
- Avoid booking a tight connection immediately after your expected arrival.
- Save your hotel address in Chinese for easier directions.
Taipei to Taichung by Private Car or Transfer
A private car provides door-to-door transport and is useful for families, groups and travelers carrying several bags. The drive normally takes around two to three hours, but it can take longer during weekends, rush hour and public holidays.
Best For
- Families with children
- Groups sharing the cost
- Travelers with heavy luggage
- Late-night or early-morning journeys
- Visitors planning stops outside central Taichung
- Travelers continuing to Gaomei Wetland, Sun Moon Lake or other areas
Things to Consider
- Highway tolls
- Fuel costs
- Parking fees
- Traffic congestion
- Driver waiting charges
- Child-seat requests
- Luggage capacity
Confirm the total price, vehicle size, pickup location and waiting-time policy before booking.
Secure Your Stay in Taichung
5 star
Business travel
Family friendly
Hot spring
Gym
Swimming pool
Breakfast
Which Taipei to Taichung Transport Should You Choose?
Choose the Taiwan High Speed Rail When:
- You want the fastest journey.
- You are planning a Taichung day trip.
- You have limited sightseeing time.
- You prefer frequent departures and a comfortable ride.
Choose Taiwan Railway When:
- You want to arrive directly in central Taichung.
- Your hotel is near Taichung Railway Station.
- You prefer avoiding an additional transfer from Wuri.
- You have more time for the journey.
Choose the Bus When:
- You want to save money.
- Your hotel is near Chaoma or a bus stop.
- You are not traveling during a busy traffic period.
- You do not mind a longer journey.
Choose a Private Transfer When:
- You are traveling with family or a group.
- You have several suitcases.
- You need door-to-door transport.
- Your destination is outside the main city area.
Unlock the Best Flights to Taichung
- One way
- Round-trip
MNL1:45 AM7h 50m1 stopsRMQ9:35 AMManila - Taichung|Sun, Sep 6|HK ExpressVND 3,543,000VND 5,029,00030% offSearch30% offVND 5,029,000VND 3,543,000
MNL9:10 PM12h 25m1 stopsRMQ9:35 AMManila - Taichung|Tue, Aug 25|HK ExpressVND 3,675,000VND 5,029,00027% offSearch27% offVND 5,029,000VND 3,675,000
MNL9:10 PM12h 25m1 stopsRMQ9:35 AMManila - Taichung|Thu, Aug 27|HK ExpressVND 4,425,000VND 5,029,00012% offSearch12% offVND 5,029,000VND 4,425,000
MNL13:0012h 25mNonstopRMQ14:00Manila - Taichung|Mon, Sep 6|Normal AirlineFind more flightsFind more flights
Can You Take a Day Trip from Taipei to Taichung?

Yes. Taichung is suitable for a day trip from Taipei when you take the high-speed rail. The train journey takes around one hour, giving you enough time to visit several attractions before returning to Taipei.
Suggested Taipei to Taichung Day Trip
Morning
- Take an early high-speed train from Taipei.
- Transfer from HSR Taichung Station to central Taichung.
- Visit Miyahara and Taichung Railway Station.
- Walk around Taichung Park.
Afternoon
- Visit Shen Ji New Village.
- Explore the National Taichung Theater.
- Stop at a café or shopping area.
Evening
- Eat at Feng Chia Night Market.
- Return to HSR Taichung Station.
- Take the high-speed rail back to Taipei.
Check the final return train before starting your evening plans. Consider staying overnight if you want to visit Gaomei Wetland, Rainbow Village or attractions outside central Taichung.
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How to Get Around Taichung
Taichung is spread across a large area, so your transport choice should depend on the attractions you plan to visit.
Taichung MRT

Sources: www.tmrt.com.tw
The MRT Green Line connects HSR Taichung Station with areas such as Feng-le Park, Taichung City Hall, Wenxin Yinghua and Songzhu.
Taiwan Railway
Local trains are useful for traveling between Xinwuri, Taichung, Daqing, Songzhu, Fengyuan and other railway stations.
City Bus
Taichung has an extensive bus network covering major roads, shopping areas, railway stations and tourist attractions.
EasyCard and iPASS
EasyCard and iPASS can be used on the Taichung MRT and many Taichung city buses. Remember to maintain enough balance before boarding.
Taxi
Taxis are useful for destinations that are not close to the MRT or railway network. Show your destination in Chinese to avoid misunderstandings.
Important Taipei to Taichung Travel Tips
- Do not confuse HSR Taichung Station with Taichung Railway Station.
- Check which arrival station is closer to your hotel.
- Book reserved train seats early for weekends and holidays.
- Allow enough time to navigate Taipei Main Station.
- Keep screenshots of your tickets and hotel address.
- Prepare an EasyCard or iPASS for local transport.
- Check the latest timetable before leaving your hotel.
- Avoid tight schedules when traveling by bus or car.
- Carry some New Taiwan dollars for smaller payments.
- Use a Taiwan eSIM to access maps, bookings and transport information.
FAQs About Taipei to Taichung
-
What Is the Fastest Way to Travel from Taipei to Taichung?
The fastest option is the Taiwan High Speed Rail. The quickest services take around 47 minutes from Taipei HSR Station to HSR Taichung Station. -
Is HSR Taichung Station the Same as Taichung Railway Station?
No. HSR Taichung Station is in Wuri District. Taichung Railway Station is in the central city area. HSR Taichung Station connects to Xinwuri Railway Station and the Taichung MRT. -
Is Taiwan Railway Cheaper Than the High-Speed Rail?
Yes. Taiwan Railway tickets generally cost less than high-speed rail tickets, but the journey is longer. A full-fare Tze-Chiang ticket is around NT$500. -
What Is the Cheapest Way to Travel from Taipei to Taichung?
The long-distance bus is usually one of the cheapest options, with fares commonly around NT$280 to NT$320. Prices depend on the operator, route and available discount. -
Can I Use an EasyCard for the Taipei to Taichung High-Speed Train?
A regular EasyCard is not used like a standard stored-value ticket for the full Taipei to Taichung THSR journey. Purchase the correct THSR ticket before boarding. You can use EasyCard or iPASS for many local MRT and bus services after arriving.
Related products
Taipei to Taichung
- 1. How to Get from Taipei to Taichung
- 2. Taipei to Taichung by Taiwan High Speed Rail
- 3. Taipei to Taichung by Taiwan Railway
- 4. Taipei to Taichung by Bus
- 5. Taipei to Taichung by Private Car or Transfer
- 6. Which Taipei to Taichung Transport Should You Choose?
- 7. Can You Take a Day Trip from Taipei to Taichung?
- 8. How to Get Around Taichung
- 9. Important Taipei to Taichung Travel Tips
- 10. FAQs About Taipei to Taichung
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