How to get from Taipei to Tainan

Traveling from Taipei to Tainan is one of the easiest long-distance trips in Taiwan, with fast high-speed trains, frequent regular trains, comfortable buses, and flexible self-drive options to choose from depending on your budget and schedule.

At A Glance (Taipei to Tainan)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚄 Taiwan High Speed Rail (Taipei → Tainan)	~1.5–2h station to station	Fastest travel, most visitors
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 1,000–1,800 one-way (standard reserved seat, time-dependent) » check Taipei–Tainan HSR tickets | official timetable & fares
🚃 Conventional Train (TRA Taipei → Tainan)	~3–5h depending on train type	City-center to city-center, scenic and mid-budget
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 600–900 one-way (Tze-Chiang / limited express) » official TRA booking | compare train options
🚌 Intercity Bus (Taipei Bus Station / City Halls → Tainan)	~4.5–6h (traffic-dependent)	Cheapest fares, overnight travel
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 450–700 one-way (promos possible) » compare bus tickets | official UBus route 1837 info
🚗 Self-Drive / Rental Car (Taipei → Tainan)	~3.5–4.5h via freeways	Road-trip flexibility, stopovers
🏷️ Cost: From ~TWD 2,000–3,500 per day (compact car) + tolls & fuel » compare car rentals

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / most convenient: For most travelers, Option #1 – Taiwan High Speed Rail is the ideal balance of speed and comfort. Trains are frequent, comfortable, and easy to book in English, and Tainan HSR Station has shuttle buses and local trains into the city.
• Cheapest / most economical: If you are traveling on a budget and not in a hurry, Option #3 – Intercity Bus usually offers the lowest fares, especially with late-night or promotional tickets on routes like UBus and Kuo-Kuang.
• Best for downtown-to-downtown travel: Option #2 – Conventional Train (TRA) runs directly between Taipei Main Station and Tainan Station in the historic city center, so you can just step off the train and start exploring.
• Most flexible / road trip style: Travelers who want to stop in Taichung, Chiayi, Yunlin or smaller towns along the way may prefer Option #4 – Self-Drive. This is great for families or small groups who enjoy scenic drives and detours.
• Airport arrivals: If you are landing at Taoyuan or Songshan Airport and continuing straight to Tainan, combine an airport transfer (for example via Welcome Pickups in Taipei or airport transfers on GetYourGuide) with HSR or TRA for a smooth same-day journey.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book HSR tickets in advance for peak times. Weekends and holidays can be busy. You can buy tickets via the official THSR online booking system, or use traveler-friendly platforms such as Klook’s THSR one-way tickets for non-Taiwanese or discounted passes.
• Use official TRA channels for regular trains. Check schedules and buy tickets on the Taiwan Railways (TRA) booking site. You can choose seat class and train type (e.g. Tze-Chiang limited express for faster trips).
• Reserve bus seats online for comfort and choice. Long-distance buses can be booked on company sites such as UBus, or via comparison tools like 12Go, which lists Taipei–Tainan buses.
• Consider passes if riding the HSR multiple times. If you plan several HSR trips (for example Taipei–Taichung–Tainan–Kaohsiung), look at the official THSR Pass or regional combos sold through Klook’s THSR pass page or Trip.com’s HSR one-way ticket offers.
• Stay near major stations if you have big luggage. Look for hotels around Taipei Main Station, Tainan TRA Station or Tainan HSR for easy access. You can compare options on Taipei hotels and Tainan stays.
• Use luggage storage to travel light. If you want to explore Taipei or Tainan hands-free before or after your train, check dedicated services like Radical Storage in Taipei alongside station lockers.
• Ride-hailing and taxis are widely available. Uber operates in both Taipei and Tainan, which is handy for early-morning departures or late arrivals. You can also use local taxi hotlines (like Taiwan Taxi/55688) or pre-book private cars with Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.
• Consider two wheels for city exploring. For confident riders, scooters and motorcycles let you explore Taipei or Tainan like a local. Comparison sites such as scooter rental in Taipei or motorcycle rental are a good starting point, but always ensure your license is valid in Taiwan.

🚄 Option #1 — Taiwan High Speed Rail (Fastest, Most Popular)

Very fast Frequent departures Station transfer in Tainan

• Overview: Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) runs along Taiwan’s west coast between Taipei and Zuoying (Kaohsiung), with a convenient stop at Tainan HSR Station. Travel time from Taipei Main HSR Station to Tainan HSR is typically around 1.5–2 hours, with clean, comfortable trains and reserved seating.
• Fares & seat types: Standard-class reserved seats for Taipei → Tainan usually cost about TWD 1,000–1,800 depending on train, time, and any discounts. Business class costs more but offers wider seats and quieter cars. Some promotions are available via the official site and partner platforms.
• How to book (with price): Use the THSR online booking system to search timetables, fares, and reserve seats up to several weeks in advance. Alternatively, foreign visitors can buy discounted one-way tickets or passes on Klook’s THSR ticket page or via Trip.com HSR one-way ticket, often with around 15% off.
• Pros: Fastest way between Taipei and Tainan; frequent departures from early morning until late evening; easy English booking; punctual and comfortable with luggage racks and power outlets on many trains.
• Cons: Tainan HSR station is outside the historic center (about 15–25 minutes away by shuttle bus or local train); slightly higher cost than buses or regular trains; tickets around peak times and holidays can sell out.
• Connections in Tainan: From Tainan HSR Station, you can transfer to city buses, Taiwan Tourist Shuttle routes, or local TRA trains to reach Tainan TRA Station and the old city. The official Tainan Travel “Getting here” page has current info on shuttle and city buses.

Step-by-step: Taking HSR from Taipei to Tainan

1. Choose your travel time. Check how early you want to arrive in Tainan and whether you’ll be making same-day connections. Then look up trains on the official THSR timetable & fare search or via Klook’s Taipei–Tainan HSR listing.
2. Book your ticket. Reserve online with THSR using your passport details and pay by card, or purchase an e-voucher with a platform like Klook or Trip.com, which you then exchange for a physical ticket or use as an e-ticket depending on the product.
3. Get to Taipei Main Station (HSR). Use Taipei MRT (Blue or Red line) to Taipei Main Station, or take a city bus, Uber, or taxi. Follow signs to the HSR concourse, which is separate from the TRA platforms.
4. Collect tickets if needed. If you booked through an agency and need a paper ticket, use the THSR ticket windows or machines, or follow the redemption instructions in your Klook/Trip.com voucher.
5. Board your train. Enter through the ticket gates, find your car and seat number on your ticket, and board when the train arrives. Store large luggage on racks near the doors or behind the last row of seats.
6. Arrive at Tainan HSR and transfer into the city. On arrival, follow signs for TRA Shalun line trains, shuttle buses, or taxis into downtown Tainan. The ride to Tainan TRA Station or central districts is usually under 30 minutes.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Main Station HSR)

• By MRT: Take the Red (Tamsui–Xinyi) or Blue (Bannan) line to Taipei Main Station and follow signs marked “HSR”. Allow extra time to navigate underground passages.
• By city bus or taxi: Many bus routes stop around Taipei Main Station; check your route with Google Maps or the Taipei Bus app. Taxis are plentiful, and ride-hailing apps like Uber work well in Taipei for door-to-door trips.
• From the airports: From Taoyuan Airport, take the Airport MRT or a pre-booked transfer (for example via Klook’s Taipei airport transfers) to Taipei Main Station. From Songshan Airport, the MRT Brown line connects directly with the wider network.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚃 Option #2 — Conventional Train (TRA) Taipei → Tainan

Downtown to downtown Scenic Longer travel time

• Overview: Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) trains connect Taipei Main Station directly to Tainan Station in the heart of the old city. Depending on the train type (Tze-Chiang, Chu-Kuang, or local), the journey typically takes around 3–5 hours.
• Fares & classes: Tze-Chiang limited express trains cost roughly TWD 600–900 between Taipei and Tainan for standard seats. Slower Chu-Kuang and local trains are cheaper but take longer and may be less frequent.
• How to book (with price): Use the English version of the TRA online booking system to search Taipei → Tainan, select your train type, and reserve seats where available. You can also compare options on aggregators like 12Go’s Taipei–Tainan train listings.
• Pros: Arrives directly at Tainan’s central station, walking distance or a short bus/taxi ride from many attractions and night markets; you see more of the countryside; usually cheaper than HSR.
• Cons: Longer journey time; trains can be busy on weekends and holidays; fewer English announcements on some services (though signage is usually bilingual).
• Seat reservations & standing tickets: On busy days, reserved seats can sell out; you may still be able to buy standing tickets, but this is only comfortable for shorter sections. For a relaxed trip, book a reserved seat in advance.

Step-by-step: Taking a TRA Train from Taipei to Tainan

1. Check schedules and train types. Go to the TRA timetable and booking site, choose English, and enter Taipei → Tainan with your date and time window. Compare faster Tze-Chiang trains with slower, cheaper services.
2. Reserve and pay. Book your preferred train online with a credit card, or buy tickets in person at any TRA station ticket window or machine. Keep your booking code handy if you need to collect tickets later.
3. Arrive at Taipei Main Station (TRA area). Follow signs to the TRA concourse (different from HSR). Check the departure board for your train number, platform, and departure time.
4. Board the correct car. Your ticket or booking shows your car and seat number (for reserved seats). Line up on the platform markings, board when the train arrives, and store big luggage in the racks or overhead space.
5. Enjoy the ride. Trains often have basic food carts or vending machines; bring your own snacks and water. Enjoy the changing scenery as you pass Taichung, Chiayi, and smaller towns.
6. Arrive in downtown Tainan. Disembark at Tainan Station, then walk, take a local bus, or use Uber/taxi to reach your accommodation or sights like Confucius Temple, Shennong Street, and Anping.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Main Station TRA)

• By MRT: Use the Red or Blue line to reach Taipei Main Station and follow signs for the TRA concourse, usually on a different level from the HSR platforms.
• By taxi or Uber: Any Taipei taxi driver will know “Taipei Main Station”. You can also request a ride via the Uber app, which operates in both Taipei and Tainan.
• In Tainan: From Tainan Station, city buses and the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle network connect to major attractions. See the official Taiwan Tourist Shuttle site and Tainan Travel transport page for routes.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Intercity Bus (Cheapest, Frequent)

Low cost Frequent departures Traffic-dependent

• Overview: Several long-distance bus companies (notably UBus and Kuo-Kuang) run frequent express services from Taipei Bus Station and other Taipei terminals to Tainan, often stopping at Tainan Bus Station or highway stops with easy connections into town. Typical travel time is around 4.5–6 hours, depending on traffic.
• Fares: Expect fares around TWD 450–700 one-way, with occasional promotions or off-peak discounts. Overnight and late-evening services can be convenient for maximizing sightseeing time.
• How to book (with price): You can buy tickets at bus station counters or reserve online on company websites listed via the official Taipei Bus Station route list. To compare operators and departure times in one place, check platforms like 12Go’s Taipei–Tainan bus page.
• Pros: Usually the lowest cost comfortable option; frequent departures; some buses offer spacious seats, footrests, and onboard Wi‑Fi.
• Cons: Slower than HSR or TRA trains; journey time can increase significantly during peak-hour or holiday traffic; rest stops and arrival times may vary by service.
• Bus comfort: Long-distance coaches are generally modern and air-conditioned. Bring a light jacket for strong A/C, plus snacks and water for longer journeys.

Step-by-step: Taking an Intercity Bus from Taipei to Tainan

1. Check routes and operators. Visit the English Taipei Bus Station route page to see which lines run to Tainan (e.g. UBus route 1611/1837). You can also browse and compare on 12Go.
2. Buy or reserve your ticket. Purchase online via the bus company’s website, mobile app, or in person at the bus station ticket counters. For weekends or holidays, an advance reservation is strongly recommended.
3. Arrive early at Taipei Bus Station or your chosen terminal. Taipei Bus Station is integrated with the Taipei Main Station complex. Check your platform (gate) number on your ticket or the station display boards.
4. Board the bus. Staff will usually check your ticket and sometimes your ID. Store large luggage in the underfloor compartments and keep valuables with you in a small daypack.
5. Enjoy the ride and rest stops. Most long-distance buses stop at freeway service areas every 1.5–2 hours for toilets and snacks. Listen for announcements or check with the driver on how long each stop will be.
6. Arrive in Tainan. Disembark at Tainan Bus Station or the designated stop. From there, you can walk, take a local bus, or use taxis/Uber to reach your hotel.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Bus Station)

• By MRT: Take the MRT to Taipei Main Station and follow signs to Taipei Bus Station, which is connected via underground passages and malls.
• By taxi/Uber: Taxis can drop you right at the bus station entrance; Uber is also widely used in Taipei and can be a good choice if you have heavy luggage.
• Alternative boarding points: Some buses also depart from Taipei City Hall Bus Station or other city stops; check your ticket details and allow time to locate the correct stop.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Self-Drive / Rental Car (Flexible Road Trip)

Maximum flexibility Great for stopovers Driving in traffic

• Overview: Renting a car gives you freedom to stop in cities like Taichung and Chiayi or detour to mountains and coastal towns along Taiwan’s west coast. The drive from Taipei to Tainan via National Highway 1 or 3 typically takes about 3.5–4.5 hours without long stops.
• Car rental costs: A compact rental car usually starts from around TWD 2,000–3,500 per day, depending on season and provider, plus tolls and fuel. Larger vehicles and one-way rentals cost more.
• How to book (with price): Compare offers and pick-up locations (airports or downtown) using Booking.com Car Rentals. Make sure your license and International Driving Permit (if required) are accepted in Taiwan.
• Pros: Full flexibility on departure time and route; easy to visit smaller towns, scenic spots and rural eateries; convenient for families or groups with lots of luggage.
• Cons: You need to be comfortable driving in Taiwan’s traffic and navigating toll highways; parking in central Taipei and Tainan can be tight; fuel and tolls add to costs.
• Driving tips: Use ETC/toll lanes only if your rental car has an ETC card; otherwise stick to cash or non-ETC lanes. Plan fuel stops before entering mountain areas and always check your rental contract for insurance details.
• Local transport on arrival: Once in Tainan, you might prefer to park at your accommodation and explore on foot, by bus, or short taxi/Uber rides, especially in the compact old city.

Step-by-step: Driving from Taipei to Tainan

1. Book your car. Reserve a vehicle online in advance through Booking.com Car Rentals or local agencies. Decide whether to pick up in downtown Taipei or at the airport.
2. Collect the car and check it. Inspect the vehicle for existing damage and make sure photos are taken. Confirm ETC/toll setup, fuel policy, and emergency contacts.
3. Plan your route. Set your GPS for Tainan via National Highway 1 or 3, and optionally add waypoints such as Taichung, Lukang, or Chiayi for food and sightseeing breaks.
4. Drive south. Follow highway signs and obey speed limits. Stop at freeway service areas for rest, meals, and fuel; they are frequent and well-equipped.
5. Arrive and park in Tainan. Use your hotel’s parking if available, or follow signs to public parking lots near the old city and night markets.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental Offices & Highways)

• Airport rentals: Taoyuan Airport and Songshan Airport both have car rental counters. This is convenient if you plan to drive south immediately after landing.
• City rentals: Numerous rental agencies are located around Taipei Main Station and central districts. Confirm their opening hours and exact pick-up/drop-off point.
• Highway access: From central Taipei, follow signs for National Highway 1 or 3 heading south. Set your navigation to Tainan or your first overnight stop.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Taipei to Tainan)

How long does it take to travel from Taipei to Tainan?
Most travelers take around 1.5–2 hours by HSR, around 3–5 hours by conventional TRA train, and roughly 4.5–6 hours by intercity bus, depending on traffic and train type. Driving yourself usually takes about 3.5–4.5 hours without long stops.

Do I need to book HSR or TRA tickets in advance?
You can buy tickets on the day of travel, but for weekends, holidays and peak hours it is wise to reserve in advance, especially if you want specific departure times or seats together. Use the official THSR and TRA websites for advance booking, or traveler-focused platforms like Klook and Trip.com for discounted tourist tickets and passes.

Which station should I arrive at in Tainan?
If you want to stay in the historic center, Tainan TRA Station is ideal because it is downtown. HSR trains arrive at Tainan HSR Station outside the city; from there, you can take a shuttle bus, Taiwan Tourist Shuttle, local bus, taxi or Uber into the center in about 15–25 minutes.

Is bus travel between Taipei and Tainan comfortable?
Yes. Long-distance buses in Taiwan are generally modern, air-conditioned and comfortable, often with reclining seats and Wi‑Fi. They are usually cheaper than HSR and sometimes cheaper than TRA, but journey times are longer and more affected by traffic conditions.

Can I visit Tainan on a day trip from Taipei?
A same-day round trip is technically possible on the HSR, but it will be a long day. For a more relaxed pace, especially if you want to explore night markets or historic sites, consider staying at least one night in Tainan before returning north.