How to get from Taipei to Green Island

Green Island (Lüdao) looks far from Taipei on the map, but in practice you just chain together a flight or train to Taitung plus a short ferry or tiny island-hop flight to reach its reefs, hot springs, and starry skies.

At A Glance (Taipei to Green Island)

Mode	Duration	Best For
✈️⛴️ Flight + Ferry (Taipei → Taitung → Green Island)	~1h flight + ~30–60m transfer + ~50–60m ferry	Fast overall travel, most flexibility with departure times
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 3,500–6,500 total (one-way, flight + ferry) » search Taipei–Taitung flights | compare Green Island ferries | alt. ferry tickets
🚆⛴️ Train + Ferry (Taipei → Taitung → Green Island)	~3.5–4.5h train + ~30–60m transfer + ~50–60m ferry	Scenic, budget-conscious travelers with more time
🏷️ Cost: Train ~TWD 1,000–1,400 + ferry ~TWD 1,000–1,400 » check Taipei–Taitung trains | ferry options
✈️✈️ Flights Only (Taipei → Taitung → Green Island)	~1h Taipei→Taitung + ~15–20m Taitung→Green Island (plus check-in buffers)	Those prone to seasickness, fast but limited seats
🏷️ Cost: Taipei→Taitung ~TWD 2,200–3,000; Taitung→Green Island ~TWD 1,000–1,200 » search domestic flights | official island flight info
🚐 Package / Door-to-door (Transfer + Ferry + Hotel)	2–3 days total trip, transport bundled inside	Hands-off planners, groups, divers with lots of gear
🏷️ Cost: ~TWD 6,000–12,000+ per person for 2–3 day packages » sample Green Island packages | Trip.com Green Island deals

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & generally easiest: Option #1 Flight + Ferry via Taitung. Fly from Taipei to Taitung, then take the popular Fugang–Green Island ferry. Good balance of time, price, and frequency.
• Cheapest / Most economical: Option #2 Train + Ferry keeps costs lower, especially if you book regular Taiwan Railway seats and standard ferry tickets. It takes longer but is scenic along Taiwan’s east coast.
• Best if you get seasick: Option #3 Flights Only avoids rough seas and gets you to Green Island in under half a day, but tickets sell out quickly and luggage is strictly limited.
• Most hands‑off / bundled: Option #4 Packages & Door-to-door (tour operators or dive homestays) bundle transfers, ferry or flights, and lodging—ideal if you want minimal logistics or are traveling with dive gear.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book Taitung transport early in peak season. Weekends, summer, and long holidays sell out quickly on both flights and trains. Use the Taiwan Railway online system or apps, or compare trains on 12Go Asia. For flights, check airlines or metasearch on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com Flights.
• Reserve ferries or island flights well in advance. Green Island ferries and Daily Air flights have limited capacity. You can pre-book ferry tickets via 12Go Asia or Klook, and cross-check schedules on official pages like Explore Green Island – Transport.
• Plan for seasickness on the ferry. The crossing from Fugang to Green Island can be bumpy. Sit near the middle of the boat, avoid heavy food beforehand, and carry motion-sickness tablets.
• Travel light to the island. Island flights and ferries have strict baggage limits. Consider storing big suitcases in Taipei using luggage services near Taipei Main Station or platforms like Radical Storage Taipei and just bring a smaller bag to Green Island.
• Book accommodation near stations or harbors. Overnight in Taitung near the train station or Fugang Harbor if you have early/late ferries—compare options on Taitung hotels or sleep directly on Green Island using Green Island stays.
• Use ride-hailing wisely. In Taipei, taxis are plentiful and you can use apps like Uber, LINE Taxi, or services such as Welcome Pickups Taipei or GetTransfer for airport–city rides. In Taitung and on Green Island, expect more reliance on local taxis, hotel pickups, or scooter rentals.
• Consider scooter rental. Green Island is perfect for exploring by scooter; many homestays include rentals, and you can also get a feel for Taiwan scooter rental via platforms like BikesBooking (Taipei) before your trip.

✈️⛴️ Option #1 — Flight + Ferry via Taitung (Fast & Popular)

Good balance of cost Frequent departures Weather-sensitive ferry

• Overview: Fly from Taipei (Songshan TSA or Taoyuan TPE) to Taitung (TTT), transfer by taxi or bus to Fugang Fishery Harbor, then take a fast ferry (~50–60 minutes) to Green Island’s Nanliao Harbor.
• Travel time: Around 3.5–5 hours total door-to-door from central Taipei if connections line up; add buffer in typhoon or high-wind season when ferries can be delayed or canceled.
• How to book (with price): Domestic flights Taipei→Taitung are often TWD 2,200–3,000 one-way; compare airlines and times on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com Flights. Ferries from Fugang to Green Island are usually TWD 1,000–1,400 round-trip—check operators and sailing times via 12Go Asia or book e‑tickets through Klook’s Green Island ferry. Cross-check latest schedules on official pages such as Explore Green Island Traffic Info.
• Pros: Fastest realistic option for most travelers; plenty of daily flights; flexible ferry times; easy to combine with an overnight in Taitung.
• Cons: Two separate bookings (flight + ferry) to manage; ferry can be rough in bad weather; you must arrive at Fugang 30–40 minutes before departure for ticketing and boarding.

Step-by-step: Flight + Ferry via Taitung

1. Get from Taipei city to the airport. From central Taipei, use the MRT or airport buses to reach Songshan (TSA) or Taoyuan (TPE). If you have heavy luggage or arrive late, consider a pre-booked car via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, or hail a regular yellow taxi or Uber/LINE Taxi in the city.
2. Fly Taipei → Taitung. Choose a morning flight so you have multiple ferry sailings as backup. Keep important items (medication, light jacket) in a small daypack in case luggage gets checked.
3. Transfer from Taitung Airport to Fugang Fishery Harbor. At Taitung Airport, follow signs to the taxi stand or ask your hotel to arrange a pickup. The ride to Fugang is about 15–20 minutes.
4. Check in for the ferry. At Fugang Harbor, locate your operator’s counter (e.g., Green Island Star, etc.). Present your passport or ID and voucher (from 12Go/Klook or local agent) to receive physical tickets. If you get seasick, buy motion-sickness pills at nearby convenience stores.
5. Board ferry to Green Island. Boarding usually begins 20–30 minutes before departure. Sit towards the back or middle of the cabin for a smoother ride. Travel time is typically 50–60 minutes.
6. Arrive at Nanliao Harbor on Green Island. Your guesthouse may offer pickup; otherwise you can walk or take a local shuttle/scooter rental from near the pier. Confirm arrangements with your accommodation in advance.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei airports & Fugang Harbor)

• Taipei → Songshan Airport (TSA): Take the Wenhu (Brown) MRT line to Songshan Airport Station, or a short taxi/Uber ride if you have bags. Songshan is convenient if you’re already staying in central Taipei.
• Taipei → Taoyuan Airport (TPE): Use the Airport MRT from Taipei Main Station; it takes about 35–40 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing are easy but more expensive.
• Taitung Airport → Fugang Fishery Harbor: Taxis are usually waiting outside arrivals; the ride is about 15–20 minutes. Some dive shops and hotels include shared transfers—ask when booking.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚆⛴️ Option #2 — Train + Ferry via Taitung (Scenic & Budget-Friendly)

Lower cost Very scenic Longer travel time

• Overview: Ride the regular rail line from Taipei (or Nangang) down Taiwan’s stunning east coast to Taitung Station, then connect by bus or taxi to Fugang Harbor for the ferry to Green Island.
• Travel time: Around 3.5–4.5 hours on the train plus transfers and ferry, so 6–8 hours total from Taipei depending on connections.
• How to book (with price): Express trains (Puyuma/Taroko or similar) from Taipei to Taitung generally cost TWD 1,000–1,400 depending on class and promotions. You can check timetables and book on the official Taiwan Railway system or compare on 12Go Asia trains. Ferries cost about the same as in Option #1; see options via 12Go Asia ferries or Klook.
• Pros: Very scenic coastal views; no airport security hassle; flexible schedules; easier to bring slightly larger bags than on the tiny island plane.
• Cons: Longer day of travel; popular express trains sell out early on weekends/holidays; you still depend on ferry weather conditions.

Step-by-step: Train + Ferry via Taitung

1. Travel to Taipei Main Station or Nangang. Use the MRT or bus to reach your chosen departure station. If you have heavy luggage and want a smoother transfer, you can pre-book a car or taxi via apps like Uber, or even a private ride through GetTransfer.
2. Board the train Taipei → Taitung. Aim for an early-morning departure to give yourself time for the ferry. Print your ticket, use an e-ticket, or pick up at kiosks before boarding.
3. Enjoy the east-coast scenery. The route hugs cliffs and ocean for long stretches—grab a window seat on the ocean side if possible.
4. Arrive at Taitung Station. From Taitung Station, take a taxi or local bus to Fugang Fishery Harbor (about 20–25 minutes). Some guesthouses near the harbor offer pickups.
5. Check in and board the ferry. Follow the same process as in Option #1: collect tickets, take seasickness precautions, and board in time.
6. Reach Green Island. On arrival at Nanliao, follow your accommodation’s instructions—many hotels meet guests at the pier with name signs or shuttle vehicles.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Stations & Taitung/Fugang)

• Taipei → Taipei Main Station/Nangang: All MRT lines converge on Taipei Main Station; Nangang is served by the Bannan (Blue) line. Build in extra time to navigate underground corridors on your first visit.
• Buying train tickets: Use the official Taiwan Railway Corporation website or ticket machines, or the Taiwan Railway e-booking app. For an English-friendly overview, see the Taiwan Tourism Administration’s page for Taiwan Railway timetables.
• Taitung Station → Fugang Harbor: Taxis line up outside the station; you can also ask your Taitung hotel or homestay if they offer shuttles to Fugang.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

✈️✈️ Option #3 — Flights Only (Taipei → Taitung → Green Island)

Avoids rough seas Fast & comfortable Very limited seats

• Overview: Combine a domestic flight from Taipei to Taitung with a short island flight operated by Daily Air from Taitung Airport to Green Island’s Lüdao Airport.
• Travel time: Around 1 hour to Taitung, then a 15–20 minute flight to Green Island, plus airport check-in time. Plan 4–5 hours total including buffers and transfers.
• How to book (with price): Taipei→Taitung flights are typically TWD 2,200–3,000 one-way on domestic carriers (bookable via Booking.com Flights or Trip.com Flights). Daily Air’s Taitung→Green Island flights usually run around TWD 1,000–1,200 each way; check schedules and booking links via Taitung Travel Offshore Islands or the official airport/daily airline sites.
• Pros: Ideal for those who get seasick; very fast; gorgeous aerial views of Taiwan’s east coast and Green Island.
• Cons: Only 19 seats per flight; strict baggage limits; weather can still disrupt small-plane schedules; higher cost than ferry.

Step-by-step: Flights Only via Taitung

1. Fly from Taipei to Taitung. Book a morning flight and arrive at the airport at least 1–1.5 hours early. Try to keep luggage weight low to avoid issues on the island leg.
2. Check in for the Daily Air flight. At Taitung Airport, follow signage for flights to Lüdao/Green Island. You may need to show ID and have your luggage weighed again.
3. Board the small plane. Seating is compact; keep valuables and fragile items in your personal bag. Enjoy the short but scenic hop over the Pacific.
4. Arrive at Green Island Airport. The airport is a few minutes’ drive from most accommodations. Many homestays or dive shops will pick you up by van or scooter; confirm this when booking.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei airports & Green Island Airport)

• Taipei → Songshan/Taoyuan airports: Use MRT/airport MRT, airport buses, or taxis/ride-hailing, similar to Option #1. Allow extra time in case of traffic or queues.
• Taitung Airport connections: If you arrive from Taipei and continue to Green Island by plane, keep an eye on minimum connection times—build a buffer of at least 1–2 hours between flights in case of delays.
• Green Island Airport → your stay: Accommodations often provide free transfer; otherwise, arrange a pickup or ask about local taxi/scooter options.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #4 — Packages, Tours & Door-to-door Combos

Low planning Great for groups Less flexible itinerary

• Overview: Many dive shops, homestays, and tour companies sell bundles that include Taipei or Taitung transfers, ferry tickets, scooters, and accommodation on Green Island.
• Travel time: Similar physical travel time as Options #1–2, but all components are pre-arranged so you spend less effort lining up tickets and transfers.
• How to book (with price): Expect TWD 6,000–12,000+ per person for 2–3 day packages, depending on season, room type, and extras like snorkeling or diving. Browse examples on platforms like Klook Green Island experiences, Trip.com Green Island, or directly through Green Island B&Bs found on Booking.com.
• Pros: Simplifies logistics; often includes harbor/airport pickups and scooter rental; good value if you plan to dive or snorkel heavily.
• Cons: Fixed ferry/flight times; less flexibility to change plans; must read fine print about what’s included (gear rental, insurance, meals).

Step-by-step: Using Packages & Door-to-door Services

1. Choose your package. Decide how many nights you want on Green Island and what activities (diving, snorkeling, hot springs, scooter touring). Compare inclusions and reviews on Klook, Trip.com, or Booking.com guest comments.
2. Confirm all transport details. Ensure your package clearly states whether Taipei–Taitung transport is included or if you must get yourself to Taitung first. Note meeting points and pickup times.
3. Coordinate arrival in Taipei/Taitung. If coming from abroad, you can use airport transfers like Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, or simply ride the MRT/bus/taxi to the package’s meeting point (often Taipei Main Station, Taitung Station, or Fugang Harbor).
4. Follow your guide/operator. On travel day, your operator will usually guide you through train/flight check-in and ferry boarding, then hand you off to a Green Island partner for activities and lodging.

Getting to the main embarking points (Package Meeting Spots)

• Taipei meeting points: Often Taipei Main Station or easy MRT stops like Ximen or Taipei City Hall. Follow your operator’s instructions and arrive early.
• Taitung meeting points: Many packages start from Taitung Station or directly from Fugang Harbor; some may pick you up from specific hotels in Taitung City.
• On Green Island: Pickup is usually at Nanliao Harbor or the airport, depending on whether your package uses ferry or plane.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Taipei to Green Island)

Do I need to book trains, ferries, or flights in advance?
For weekends, public holidays, and summer, it is strongly recommended to book everything in advance—at least your Taipei→Taitung train/flight and your ferry or island flight. Off-peak, you may sometimes find same-day seats, but it’s risky if your schedule is tight.

Is it better to go by ferry or by plane from Taitung?
Ferries are cheaper and have more seats, but they can be very bumpy. The small plane is faster and smoother but costs more and sells out quickly. Many travelers choose ferry one way and flight the other, depending on availability and stomach tolerance.

Can I do Taipei → Green Island as a day trip?
Technically, with the very first flight/train and last ferry/flight it might be possible, but it would be extremely rushed, with no buffer for delays. Green Island is best enjoyed with at least one overnight—two or three nights lets you explore beaches, hot springs, and snorkeling spots without stress.

What’s the best season to visit Green Island?
Late spring to early autumn has the calmest seas and best underwater visibility. Typhoon season (roughly July–September) can disrupt ferries and flights, so build flexibility into your plans and always check weather and operator announcements a day or two before departure.

Do I need an international driver’s permit to ride a scooter on Green Island?
If you plan to ride scooters legally, you should hold an appropriate license valid in Taiwan or an international driving permit that covers motorcycles/scooters. Many shops may still rent scooters informally, but for safety and compliance you should follow local regulations and always wear a helmet.