Popular Transport in Taiwan

Taiwan offers a diverse and convenient range of transportation options for independent travelers. For long-distance travel, the High-Speed Rail (HSR) is excellent for quickly connecting major cities on the west coast. Alternatively, the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) allows you to enjoy scenery and reach more towns. Within cities, the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and bus systems are convenient for getting around. For exploring suburban areas or when more flexibility is needed, renting a car or scooter is a good choice. Additionally, shared shuttle or private car services are available, suitable for groups or reaching attractions not easily accessible by public transport.

Transportation options for traveling in Taiwan can be chosen based on distance and needs. For inter-city travel, the HSR is highly recommended for its speed and comfort, ideal for travelers in a hurry. If you prefer a slower pace or want to visit the east coast or smaller stations, TRA is a great choice, with routes covering the entire island. In metropolitan areas, the MRT and comprehensive bus network make city sightseeing easy and convenient. For remote attractions or when high flexibility is desired, consider self-driving rentals. Shared rides or private car hires offer dedicated pick-up and drop-off services, saving you the hassle of transfers.

To check Taiwan High-Speed Rail fares, you can visit the official THSR website or its official mobile app. By entering your origin, destination, and travel date, you can obtain fare information. Additionally, THSR station ticket counters or self-service machines can also provide this information. If you wish to book with Chinese customer support and flexible cancellation policies, you can check fares and book tickets through the KKday platform, ensuring a more secure and convenient travel planning experience.

You can still explore Taiwan easily without a private vehicle. For travel between major cities, you can use the High-Speed Rail or Taiwan Railways. In large metropolitan areas, the MRT and bus systems are very developed and can reach most tourist attractions. For remote areas or places with less public transportation, you can opt for inter-city buses, pre-booked tour bus routes, local day tours, or use taxis and ride-hailing services. Some areas also offer electric scooter rentals for short-distance travel.

The EasyCard is a widely used electronic stored-value card in Taiwan with extensive usage. It can be used for travel on the Taipei MRT, Taoyuan Airport MRT, Kaohsiung MRT, and all city buses. Some Taiwan Railways local train services also accept it. Additionally, you can use it for public bicycle rentals, at convenience stores nationwide (such as 7-ELEVEN, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart), some chain stores, parking lots, and for purchasing tickets at attractions, eliminating the need for loose change and offering high convenience.

Taiwan's typhoon season primarily occurs in summer and autumn. During a typhoon, for passenger safety, High-Speed Rail, Taiwan Railways, domestic and international flights, and inter-city bus services may experience delays, reduced frequency, or even complete suspension. Mountain roads may be closed due to heavy rainfall causing landslides, and some ferry or flight services to offshore islands may also be canceled. It is recommended to closely monitor weather forecasts and announcements from transportation authorities during typhoon season and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Taiwan High-Speed Rail and Taiwan Railways each have their own characteristics. The HSR's main advantage is its 'speed,' connecting major cities along the western corridor of Taiwan with short and comfortable journeys, making it suitable for business travelers or those prioritizing efficiency. TRA, on the other hand, has a more extensive route network, reaching many smaller towns and areas on the east coast not served by the HSR. Some TRA lines offer beautiful coastal scenery, providing a different travel experience, and are suitable for travelers with more time, who enjoy scenic views, or wish to visit local attractions.

When planning transportation costs for independent travel in Taiwan, consider the distance of travel, the chosen modes of transport, and frequency. For long-distance travel, frequently using the HSR will save time but incur higher costs. TRA or inter-city buses typically offer more economical options but take longer. Within cities, using the MRT, buses, and walking can effectively control expenses. If you're an international traveler, purchasing an HSR pass or similar package can also save costs. It's advisable to plan your routes in advance and choose based on your time and budget constraints.

The most common way to get to Kenting is to first take the High-Speed Rail to Zuoying Station (Kaohsiung). From there, you can transfer to the 'Kenting Express' tourist bus, which goes directly to Kenting, taking about 2 hours. You can also choose shared shuttle services or book a private car for convenient door-to-door transport. Once in Kenting, you can rent a scooter or electric scooter locally, or use local buses and taxis to explore nearby attractions.

To check the timetable for the Taiwan Taoyuan Airport MRT, you can visit the official website of the Taoyuan Metro Corporation or use its dedicated mobile application. By entering your origin and destination stations, you can query the latest train schedule information. Electronic display boards at the stations also provide real-time updates on train arrival times. The Airport MRT has both Express and Local trains, operating from early morning to late night, conveniently connecting Taoyuan International Airport with Taipei Main Station and THSR Taoyuan Station.