Taiwan’s high-speed train is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between major cities. How much does a THSR ticket cost and where is the best place to buy tickets? Let’s find out!
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If you’re planning to explore Taiwan, we highly recommend trying the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) as it’s one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between major cities.
In this article, we will share detailed information on how to buy THSR tickets, from online booking and purchasing tickets directly at the station to some tips to help you save money while traveling in Taiwan.
What is the Taiwan High Speed Rail?
Taiwan High Speed Rail Ticket for non-Taiwanese
Launched in 2007, the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is a high-speed train line approximately 345 km long running along the west coast of Taiwan, connecting many major cities from Taipei to Kaohsiung. Thanks to this network, we can easily plan our exploration of many famous destinations without worrying about travel time.
With a maximum speed of approximately 300 km/h, high-speed trains significantly shorten travel time between cities. In just 1.5-2 hours, you can travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung or visit many other interesting stops along the western route of the island.
How Much Does Taiwan High Speed Rail Tickets Cost?
Taiwan High Speed Rail Unlimited Rail Pass (2/3/5 Days)
The price of a Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) ticket varies depending on the departure station, arrival station, booking time, and ticket type. Below is a table of reference prices for some popular Taiwan THSR routes.
| Route | Price (VND) | Traveling Time |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei - Zuoying (Kaohsiung) | 828.000 - 1.002.000 | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Taipei - Taichung | 392.000 - 514.000 | 1 hour |
| Taipei - Tainan | 695.000 - 863.000 | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Taichung - Zuoying (Kaohsiung) | 443.000 - 567.000 | 50 minutes |
| Taichung - Tainan | 308.000 - 422.000 | 30 minutes |
| Tainan - Zuoying (Kaohsiung) | 308.000 - 422.000 | 30 minutes |
Note:
- The prices above are one-way fares for adults.
- Prices may vary during holidays and promotional periods. You remember to check the product page for the most up-to-date and accurate prices!
Where to Buy Taiwan THSR High-Speed Rail Tickets?
If we only need to travel between two cities, we usually choose a one-way high-speed rail ticket because it’s quite economical and easy to book. You can book Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) tickets online on Klook and travel between major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung in just 1.5–2 hours.
Besides single tickets, international travelers can also choose the THSR Pass – a high-speed rail pass specifically for foreigners, allowing unlimited travel on the THSR system for a specified period. You can choose a 3-day pass or a flexible 2-day pass within a 7-day period, depending on your schedule.
Taiwan High Speed Rail Ticket for non-Taiwanese
Tip from Klook:
If your itinerary involves traveling between multiple cities over several days, the 3-day pass will save you a significant amount of money. If you want to explore Taiwan at a more relaxed pace, the flexible 2-day pass is more convenient as you can choose any two days to use within a week.
If you frequently travel on Taiwan High Speed Rail, you can opt for the Taiwan High Speed Rail Traveler (THSR) Unlimited Pass instead, which allows unlimited travel on the THSR on selected days. Choose between a three-day pass or a two-day flexible pass, depending on your travel needs and itinerary. Remember to check the Taiwan High Speed Rail schedule before booking your Taiwan High Speed Rail Traveler Unlimited Pass on Klook.
Advice: If your itinerary requires continuous travel over three consecutive days, the three-day pass is the perfect choice! Conversely, if you prefer a slower pace, choose the two-day flexible pass, which can be used on any two days within a week.
How to Buy Taiwan High Speed Rail Tickets on Klook
Taiwan High Speed Rail Unlimited Rail Pass (2/3/5 Days)
Step 1: Click on the product page, then click on the Buy One Get One Free Offer to see if your route is included in the offer. Otherwise, you can purchase as usual with the current 15% discount on Klook.
Step 2: Choose your departure and destination points. Click on Free Voucher (Select on the payment page) in the additional options to complete your selection.
Step 3: Click Book Now, enter passenger information and make payment.
With just 3 extremely simple steps, a Vietnamese interface, and payment methods friendly to Vietnamese users, you’re ready to explore Taiwan!
If you choose an unlimited high-speed train ticket, simply select a 3-day or 2-day package depending on your needs, click Book Now => Enter passenger information and make payment as usual!
How to Exchange Taiwan High-Speed Train Tickets for Foreigners
Those with a tourist visa valid for 6 months or less can obtain an unlimited Taiwan High-Speed Train Pass for tourists. Tickets must be redeemed within 90 days of purchase and are only valid for 28 days after redemption. To redeem your ticket, follow these steps:
Step 1: Redeem your Taiwan High Speed Rail Visitor Pass on the official THSR website (click on “Manage” and enter the relevant information).
Step 2: Enter your travel route and make a reservation.
Step 3: Redeem your Taiwan High Speed Rail Visitor Pass at any THSR ticket counter by presenting your passport and valid entry documents.
Step 4: To board the train, present your Taiwan High Speed Rail Visitor Pass at the gate.
For more detailed instructions on exploring Taiwan by train, please refer to the guide on choosing the right transport pass for your needs.
Where are the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) stations located?
4G SIM Card for Taiwan (Airport / Senao Telecom Pick Up)
Most Taiwan High-Speed Rail stations are located in the suburbs rather than in the city center. There are 12 THSR stations in Taiwan: Nangang, Taipei, Banqiao, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Miaoli, Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, and Zuoying.
You can check the operating times and fares of Taiwan’s THSR trains for various routes on the official website.
Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) Travel Tips
Taiwan’s THSR – the “white swan” soaring on the tracks – offers a unique travel experience, connecting you to all corners of this beautiful country. To make your THSR journey even more fulfilling, let’s explore these helpful tips:
- You can book THSR tickets online or buy tickets directly at the station. It’s recommended to book early to get the best price and avoid tickets selling out.
- Please check the train schedule carefully before arriving at the station to avoid missing your train.
- You need to bring your passport to show to the ticket inspector.
- It is advisable to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes early for check-in and security procedures.
- Your THSR train ticket clearly shows your carriage and seat number. Please find your assigned seat and sit down.
- Hand luggage can be stored in the overhead compartments or under your seat. Checked luggage can be sent to the baggage drop-off counter at the train station.
- Do not litter and maintain cleanliness on the train.
- Keep quiet: Do not talk loudly or make noise on the train.
- You may use your mobile phone and laptop on the train, but please turn off the ringer and use only vibrate mode.
- There is a designated smoking area on the train: If you smoke, please go to the designated smoking area.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on the train: You can access free Wi-Fi on the train to use the internet.
- Food and beverage service is available on the train: You can purchase food and drinks right on the THSR train.
Popular Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) Routes
Taiwan High-Speed Rail – Taipei to Taichung (1 hour 6 minutes)
When mentioning Taichung, people immediately think of beautiful weather, wide avenues, and large restaurants serving some of Taiwan’s best food. Taichung residents like to live slowly and enjoy the good things in life, and this is clearly reflected in the relaxed pace of life in this city.
Taichung is also known as a vibrant cultural and artistic center with several museums and art installations, so be sure to visit these places during your trip.
One of the must-visit museums is the Museum of Illusions, where your senses are treated to a unique experience that will make you question what you’re seeing. Feel free to take some unique photos that you and your friends will want to post on social media twice. Book single and family tickets through Klook now!
If you prefer spending more time outdoors, reconnect with nature and history with the Puli Paper Dome Eco-Experience. Here, you can learn all about the history behind this unique Paper Dome, originally built by the renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban after the Great Hanshin Earthquake in Japan as a religious site.
The structure was later moved to Puli Street and is now a cultural center for art exhibitions, concerts, entertainment, and more. Visitors of all ages can enjoy eco-friendly experiences here, interacting with nature, such as fruit picking and interacting with frogs.
You can also explore wood art at the Tamiya Wood Carving Museum, where you’ll be amazed by the exquisite details of over nine exhibits of finely crafted wooden artworks.
Take home a souvenir to commemorate your enjoyable trip by strolling along Wood Carving Street, lined with shops selling traditional wood carvings. Or, for a truly unique souvenir, you can even make your own handcrafted souvenir at the Duck Factory, where you can paint your own duck sculptures to end your trip to Tam Nghia.
Taiwan High-Speed Rail – Taipei to Chiayi (1 hour 45 minutes)
Alishan National Forest Recreation Area Ticket
Further south of Taichung lies Chiayi, one of the rural towns on the west coast without the large cities found in Taichung or Taipei. There are many worthwhile places to visit in and around Chiayi, but visitors shouldn’t miss one of Taiwan’s most beautiful national parks – Alishan National Scenic Area (阿里山國家風景區).
Taiwan High Speed Rail Ticket for non-Taiwanese
Ideal for day trips or for dedicated hikers, Alishan isn’t a single mountain, but rather a series of peaks averaging 2,500 meters in height, with the highest peak, Data Mountain (大塔山), reaching 2,663 meters. From this excellent vantage point, one can easily see Mount Yushan, Taiwan’s highest peak at 3,952 meters.
For family fun, venture into the magical world of Janfusun Fancyworld Park. If you’re with thrill-seekers, try the various roller coasters in this national park! However, if you prefer a more relaxed visit, try the impressive 88-meter-tall Sky Wheel, showcasing the surrounding natural scenery of the national park.
Janfusun Fancyworld Ticket in Yunlin
Tip: Try to arrive early, as this is one of the most popular attractions here! With a maximum of 50 visitors per session, you might have to wait in line until the end of the day.
Taiwan THSR Train – Taipei to Tainan (2 hours)
As the oldest city in Taiwan, Tainan has it all: amazing food, Dutch-era forts, ancient temples, and of course, some of Taiwan’s friendliest locals! With nearly year-round sunshine and significantly less rainfall than Taipei, Tainan is a must-visit destination for travelers wanting to explore the country in fine weather.
Start your journey at the museum with the country’s largest local fossil reserve at Zuozhen Fossil Park. Explore five exhibition halls and an outdoor plaza filled with interactive exhibits and augmented reality (AR) technology, before traveling back in time to the dinosaur era and experiencing the amazing world of Zuozhen Fossil Park.
Tainan City Zuojhen Fossil Park Ticket
Discover Western history and culture through art at the Qimei Museum. Be amazed by over 4,000 works of Western art, from paintings and musical instruments to stuffed animals. If the exhibited artwork isn’t impressive enough, the museum’s Greek architecture will surely leave you in awe.
You’d never imagine a sugar mill could be transformed into such a wonderland, but the Ten Drums Creative and Cultural Park has done just that.
The Ten Drums Cultural Village offers several interesting activities, such as a secondhand bookstore for lovers of classic books, as well as a pedestrian bridge that requires courage to cross. Don’t forget to stop by for the amazing performance by the Ten Drums Art Troupe, a show that will truly amaze you.
Ten Drum Cultural Village Ticket
THSR Taiwan Train – Taipei to Kaohsiung (2 hours 20 minutes)
As a major port city and home to over 2.7 million people, Kaohsiung has in recent years become a modern metropolis with cool cafes, wide streets, parks, bike lanes, and numerous cultural and artistic venues.
The Taiwan Railway Museum offers an in-depth look at the history of Taiwan’s railway system, with models of railways, trains, and tracks on display to learn more about the development of railway lines.
Hamasen Museum of Taiwan Railway Ticket in Kaohsiung
SKM Park is more than just a typical shopping mall; it’s an “international-style complex” with over 200 retail outlets, a variety of restaurants, household goods stores, and various entertainment venues.
One such venue is Suzuka Race Track Park, Taiwan’s first kart racing theme park, where you can speed up and down the track with the whole family or take a thrill ride on the carousel or trolley. Choose day or night passes when booking through Klook!
Suzuka Circuit Park Ticket in Kaohsiung
Visit the first and only Greek-style theme park, E-DA Theme Park, before leaving Kaohsiung. Three main areas encompass 47 attractions, offering plenty of fun for everyone.
Try one of the thrilling roller coasters, watch an amazing live show, or explore the attractions, such as the giant Trojan Horse. The park also features stunning virtual reality rides, so what are you waiting for?
E-DA Theme Park Ticket in Kaohsiung
Planning your Taiwan trip is easy thanks to the Taiwan High Speed Rail. You can travel quickly and conveniently to the country’s most popular tourist destinations, but before you start your trip, remember to ensure you have all your travel documents and a Taiwan visa!
Frequently Asked Questions About Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)
1. What is Taiwan High Speed Rail?
Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is a high-speed rail system running along the west coast of Taiwan, connecting major cities such as Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. 1. The train has a maximum speed of approximately 300 km/h, significantly shortening travel time between cities.
2. How long does it take to travel by high-speed train from Taipei to Kaohsiung?
Typically, the fastest train journey from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes about 2 hours, depending on the type of train and the number of stops along the route.
3. Where can I buy Taiwan high-speed train tickets?
You can buy tickets directly at the station, book on the official THSR website, or book online through travel platforms like Klook to receive e-tickets and easily exchange tickets at the station.
4. Are there any discounted tickets for foreign tourists?
Yes. International travelers can purchase a THSR Pass, which allows unlimited high-speed train travel for a certain period, usually 2 flexible days or 3 consecutive days, suitable for multi-city travel itineraries.
5. Is it necessary to book high-speed train tickets in advance?
It’s not mandatory, but we recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends or during peak tourist seasons, to ensure seat availability and choose a suitable time slot.
6. Can I bring luggage on the Taiwan high-speed train?
Yes. Passengers can bring carry-on luggage and place it in the luggage area at the front of the carriage or on the overhead racks.
7. Can I use a transport card like EasyCard to ride the THSR?
Normally, you still need a separate THSR train ticket to ride the high-speed train. Cards like EasyCard or iPASS are mainly used for the subway, buses, and local trains.
Book your Taiwan THSR high-speed train tickets today!
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