How to get from Kaohsiung to Xiaoliuqiu

Getting from Kaohsiung to Xiaoliuqiu (Little Liuqiu) is a quick mix of city transport and a short ferry ride, and the best route for you depends on whether you care more about saving money, minimizing transfers, or having maximum flexibility once you reach the island.

At A Glance (Kaohsiung to Xiaoliuqiu)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚆🚌⛴️ Metro/Bus + Ferry (Kaohsiung → Donggang/Yanpu → Xiaoliuqiu)	~1.5–2.5h total (city transport + 20–30m ferry)	Budget travelers, independent explorers
🏷️ Cost: ~NT$150–300 one-way (city transport + ferry) » compare Donggang→Xiaoliuqiu ferries | Taifu/other official ferry tickets
🚕⛴️ Taxi / Private Transfer + Ferry	~1–2h door-to-door (traffic-dependent)	Groups, lots of luggage, tight schedules
🏷️ Cost: ~NT$1,000–2,000 per car Kaohsiung→Donggang + ferry tickets » check private transfer quotes | pre-booked shared/charter transfers
🚗⛴️ Self-Drive (Rental Car/Scooter) + Ferry	~1–1.5h drive + 20–30m ferry	Maximum flexibility, road trips
🏷️ Cost: Car rental from ~NT$1,500–3,000/day + fuel + ferry » compare rental cars in Taiwan
🧭⛴️ Package (Ferry + Scooter/Activities)	~1 day+ (often 2–3D island stay)	Hassle-free getaways, first-timers
🏷️ Cost: Packages from ~NT$1,200–4,000+ per person » multi-day packages | ferry + scooter bundles

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / most convenient overall: If you are staying near Zuoying HSR or Kaohsiung MRT, a combination of metro + intercity bus 9127/9127D + ferry is usually the sweet spot of speed and cost once you figure out the route.
• Cheapest / most economical: Take the regular intercity bus from Kaohsiung to Donggang Bus Station and walk or taxi to the ferry. It adds a little time but keeps costs low.
• Most comfortable with luggage or kids: Choose a taxi or pre-booked private/shared transfer from Kaohsiung → Donggang + prebooked ferry tickets so you rarely have to move bags.
• Most flexible and scenic: Confident drivers can rent a car, drive along the coast to Donggang, and then cross by ferry, stopping at viewpoints or seafood spots along the way.
• Zero-planning option: If you want everything arranged, look at packages that bundle ferry tickets, electric scooter rental, accommodation and sometimes snorkeling or SUP so you just show up at the pier.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Decide your pier and ferry company first. Most travelers depart from Donggang Ferry Terminal or nearby Yanpu. Popular companies include Taifu, Tungliu and others; you can see sample timetables on ferry info pages and booking platforms such as 12Go’s Donggang–Xiaoliuqiu listings or Klook’s Taifu ferry tickets.
• Reserve on weekends and holidays. On summer weekends and long holidays, ferries and scooters can sell out. Booking ahead via ferry + electric scooter combos or Donggang–Xiaoliuqiu boat + scooter tickets makes things smoother.
• Base yourself in Kaohsiung the night before. An early start is easier if you sleep near Kaohsiung Main Station, Formosa Boulevard or Zuoying HSR. You can compare central hotels on Booking.com Kaohsiung stays.
• Use EasyCard/iPASS for local transport. Kaohsiung MRT, light rail and most buses (including routes towards Donggang) accept stored-value cards, which saves time at ticket machines.
• Check bus times for the 9127/9127D routes. These intercity buses link Kaohsiung with Donggang and Dongliu Ferry Terminal; you can use English-friendly timetable tools like the Taiwan Bus site or tracking apps for the latest departures.
• Travel light and store excess luggage. Xiaoliuqiu is easiest with a small backpack. If you are looping back through Kaohsiung, leave big suitcases at your hotel or use global networks such as Radical Storage, plus station lockers where available.
• Plan scooter rental in advance. On the island, most people get around by scooter or electric bike. You can reserve scooters locally on arrival or bundle them via Klook ferry + scooter packages, or compare options around Taiwan on BikesBooking.com.
• Respect marine life and local rules. Xiaoliuqiu is famous for sea turtles and coral reefs. Check the latest guidelines about snorkeling zones and conservation measures from official tourism sources before you go.

🚆🚌⛴️ Option #1 — Metro/Bus + Ferry (Cheapest, Most Local)

Low cost Frequent departures More transfers

• Overview: Ride the Kaohsiung MRT (or TRA/HSR) to a convenient station, continue by intercity bus (routes like 9127 or 9127D) to Donggang Bus Station or Dongliu Ferry Terminal, then walk or taxi a short distance to the pier and take a 20–30 minute ferry across to Xiaoliuqiu.
• Typical timing: ~45–75 minutes from central Kaohsiung to Donggang by bus, plus waiting time, then ~20–30 minutes by ferry, plus boarding and transfer time. Door-to-door, plan on about 1.5–2.5 hours.
• How to book (with price): Kaohsiung MRT and city buses are pay-as-you-go (tap your EasyCard/iPASS). Intercity buses to Donggang usually cost around NT$80–150 depending on route and operator, and ferries to Xiaoliuqiu typically run around NT$200–400 one-way or slightly more for round trips. You can check Donggang–Xiaoliuqiu ferry prices and timetables on 12Go or via official ticket partners such as Klook’s Taifu ferry tickets.
• Pros: Lowest overall cost; frequent city transport; works even if you are staying in different parts of Kaohsiung; no need to drive or deal with parking.
• Cons: More transfers and walking; you must keep an eye on bus and ferry timetables; can be crowded on weekends and holidays.
• Official info to cross-check: The Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area lists ferry details on its Liuqiu Ferry transport info page, and you can check up-to-date bus timetables for the 9127 series via the Taiwan Bus timetable search.

Step-by-step: Metro/Bus + Ferry from Kaohsiung

1. Ride Kaohsiung MRT or train to a bus connection point. Most visitors start from Kaohsiung Main Station, Formosa Boulevard Station or Zuoying HSR Station. Use MRT Red/Orange lines to reach your preferred hub.
2. Catch an intercity bus to Donggang. Look for buses signed for Donggang/Dapeng Bay (for example route 9127 / 9127D). Use the station information boards or apps to confirm the next departure. Pay with cash or tap card.
3. Get off near Donggang Bus Station or Dongliu Ferry Terminal. Depending on the route, you may arrive directly near the ferry terminal (great if you’re using 9127D variants) or at Donggang Bus Station, from where the pier is a short taxi ride or a 15–20 minute walk.
4. Buy or pick up your ferry ticket. If you pre-booked online via Klook Taifu ferry or another platform, follow the instructions to exchange your voucher for a boarding pass. Otherwise, purchase tickets at the counter for the next boat.
5. Board the ferry to Xiaoliuqiu. Boats are usually basic but comfortable, with indoor seating. Crossing time is about 20–30 minutes depending on the route and sea conditions.
6. Arrive at Xiaoliuqiu and continue by scooter or on foot. Once you dock (typically at Baisha or Dafu Port), follow the crowds to nearby scooter rental shops or walk to your accommodation if it’s close.

Getting to the main embarking points (Donggang & Yanpu ferry piers)

• From central Kaohsiung: Take the MRT to a bus hub (Kaohsiung Main Station or Zili area) and then use the 9127 bus family towards Donggang/Dapeng Bay. Signs may be in Chinese, so keep your destination written down.
• From Zuoying HSR Station: Some 9127D/9127G buses start directly from Zuoying HSR, making it easy if you arrive by high-speed rail. Follow signs to the intercity bus area and look for the correct platform.
• Local taxi connection: From Donggang Bus Station, a quick taxi ride (around 5–10 minutes) will take you to Donggang Ferry Terminal if you don’t want to walk.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕⛴️ Option #2 — Taxi / Private Transfer + Ferry (Quick & Comfortable)

Door-to-door Time-saving Higher cost

• Overview: Take a taxi or pre-booked private/shared transfer from your Kaohsiung hotel, train station or airport directly to Donggang or Yanpu ferry pier, then hop on the ferry to Xiaoliuqiu. This minimizes transfers and is especially handy with heavy baggage or kids.
• Travel time: Driving distance Kaohsiung → Donggang is roughly 35–45 km and usually takes 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Add 20–30 minutes for the ferry crossing and a little time for ticketing and boarding.
• How to book (with price): A metered taxi from central Kaohsiung may cost around NT$1,000–1,500 one-way, more from the airport or distant districts. Pre-booked transfers or shared shuttles often have fixed rates; compare quotes on GetTransfer and dedicated Kaohsiung–Donggang transfer products like Klook’s shared/private transfer. Then add ferry tickets (around NT$200–400 one-way, or use bundles via Klook or Trip.com).
• Ride-hailing apps: Uber operates in Kaohsiung and can sometimes be used for the Kaohsiung→Donggang leg, though availability may vary. Local taxi apps and hotel-arranged cars are common alternatives.
• Pros: No bus or route reading required; great when arriving late or early; flexible pickup locations; cost-effective for small groups.
• Cons: More expensive than buses; you still need to sync with ferry departures; traffic around Kaohsiung at rush hour can add time.
• Official info to cross-check: For pier addresses and general transport guidance, see the Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area official site and Taiwan tourism pages for Liuqiu, which outline access via Donggang.

Step-by-step: Using a Taxi or Private Transfer

1. Choose your pickup point. Decide if you’ll leave from your Kaohsiung hotel, MRT station, Zuoying HSR, or the airport.
2. Request quotes or book online. Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi quote, or compare door-to-door rides on GetTransfer. For fixed shared/charter rides aimed at Xiaoliuqiu travelers, check Klook’s Kaohsiung–Donggang transfer.
3. Coordinate with ferry times. Look up the ferry schedule for your chosen company and pier (Donggang or Yanpu) and plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before your preferred departure.
4. Ride to Donggang or Yanpu. Meet your driver at the agreed time and location. Confirm you’re heading to the correct pier and ticket office.
5. Buy or collect tickets and board. Exchange any online vouchers for boarding passes, or purchase tickets on the spot. Proceed to the departure gate when instructed and board the ferry.
6. Arrive and transfer to accommodation. On Xiaoliuqiu, walk or take a pre-arranged scooter or accommodation pickup to your stay.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotels / Stations → Donggang/Yanpu)

• From Kaohsiung city center: Taxis can pick you up at most hotels or major MRT stations. Show the driver the Chinese name of your pier to avoid confusion.
• From Zuoying HSR: Private transfers often include pickup at the HSR exit area; this is convenient if you are arriving from Taipei or Taichung and heading straight to Xiaoliuqiu.
• From Kaohsiung Airport: Arrange an airport pickup with your transfer provider or grab a taxi/Uber from the arrivals zone and head directly to Donggang.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗⛴️ Option #3 — Self-Drive (Rental Car/Scooter) + Ferry

Most flexible Great for road trips Licence/parking needed

• Overview: Rent a car in Kaohsiung, drive to Donggang or Yanpu at your own pace, park the car on the mainland, then hop on the passenger ferry to Xiaoliuqiu. This is ideal if Xiaoliuqiu is part of a larger southern Taiwan road trip.
• Travel time: Around 40–60 minutes driving plus the usual 20–30 minute ferry. Give yourself extra time for traffic and finding parking near the pier.
• How to book (with price): Compact rental cars in Taiwan often start around NT$1,500–3,000 per day depending on season. Compare options and pickup points in Kaohsiung or at the airport with Booking.com Car Rentals. Parking near Donggang is usually paid daily; budget a few hundred NT$ for secure lots if you leave the car while on the island.
• Driving tips: You’ll need a valid licence (often plus an IDP) and should be confident driving in Taiwanese traffic. Check whether your rental allows taking vehicles on ferries—most travelers simply park on the mainland and rent scooters on Xiaoliuqiu instead.
• Pros: Freedom to detour to Dapeng Bay, Pingtung beaches or other attractions; easier with sports gear or bulky luggage; you control your schedule.
• Cons: Car rental and parking costs; you still need island transport (scooter/bike) once you arrive; designated parking areas can fill up on busy weekends.
• Official info to cross-check: For route planning and scenic stops, the Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area and Pingtung County tourism sites have maps and driving suggestions in English.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive to Donggang/Yanpu + Ferry

1. Pick up your rental car. Collect your vehicle at Kaohsiung airport, Zuoying HSR or downtown. Inspect the car and confirm insurance coverage, including for long-distance driving.
2. Set your navigation to Donggang or Yanpu pier. Enter your chosen ferry terminal in your GPS or mapping app. Download offline maps in case mobile data drops.
3. Drive south towards Donggang. Follow the main highways and local roads as indicated. Traffic is usually smooth outside of rush hour, but be cautious of scooters and changing speed limits.
4. Park in a secure lot near the pier. Look for parking areas signed for Xiaoliuqiu travelers around Donggang/Yanpu; staff are often familiar with ferry schedules.
5. Walk to the ticket office and board the ferry. Purchase or redeem your ferry tickets and line up for boarding. Keep your car ticket or parking receipt safe for your return.
6. Arrive and rent a scooter on Xiaoliuqiu. Once at the island, walk to nearby scooter rental shops or pre-book through packages such as ferry + electric bike deals.

Getting to the main embarking points (Driving from Kaohsiung)

• From Kaohsiung city center: Head south following signs for Pingtung/Donggang. Use your GPS to avoid smaller back roads and stick to main arteries.
• From Zuoying HSR or airport: Most rental offices give simple highway directions towards Donggang; ask staff for their recommended route and parking area.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧭⛴️ Option #4 — Ferry + Scooter + Stay Packages (Zero-Planning)

Bundled Great for first-timers Less DIY flexibility

• Overview: Many online platforms and local agencies sell packages that combine round-trip ferry tickets, scooter or electric bike rental, accommodation and sometimes snorkeling, SUP or diving. You still make your own way from Kaohsiung to the pier, but once you arrive, everything on the island is arranged.
• Package examples: Deals like 3D2N Xiaoliuqiu with ferry + motorbike, round-trip ferry + electric bike, or Trip.com’s ferry & scooter packages are common.
• Typical pricing: Expect from about NT$1,200–2,000+ per person for simple 1-day ferry + scooter combos, up to NT$3,000–4,000+ per person for multi-day stays with activities included.
• Pros: Minimal planning; discounted combined pricing; clear meeting instructions; great if your Chinese is limited.
• Cons: Fixed hotel options and activity times; you still organize Kaohsiung→Donggang transport; rescheduling can be harder in bad weather.
• Official info to cross-check: Even with packages, it’s worth reviewing official Xiaoliuqiu and Pingtung tourism pages for safety and conservation rules before you go.

Step-by-step: Using a Package Deal

1. Choose your travel dates and length of stay. Decide whether you want a simple day trip, a 1-night getaway, or a longer 2–3-night stay.
2. Compare package inclusions. On platforms like Klook’s Lambai/Xiaoliuqiu page and Trip.com’s Xiaoliuqiu travel guide, look for packages that match your interests (snorkeling, SUP, diving, cycling, etc.).
3. Book and note the meeting point. Confirm where you need to be (often at a specific ticket office at Donggang/Yanpu) and what documents you must show (passport, voucher QR code, licence for scooter rentals).
4. Travel from Kaohsiung to the pier. Use any of the earlier options (bus, taxi, self-drive) to reach the specified terminal in time for your scheduled ferry.
5. Redeem your ferry/scooter/accommodation vouchers. Follow package instructions on where to check in for the ferry and where to pick up your scooter or meet your host on Xiaoliuqiu.

Getting to the main embarking points (Package Meeting Spots)

• Check your voucher carefully: Some packages meet at Yanpu, others at Donggang Fishing Port or a specific counter. Screenshots of Chinese names help when asking for directions.
• Plan buffer time: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the check-in time listed in your package to allow for queues or misunderstandings.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Kaohsiung to Xiaoliuqiu)

How long does it take to get from Kaohsiung to Xiaoliuqiu?
Most routes take around 1.5–2.5 hours door-to-door. Expect ~40–60 minutes from Kaohsiung to Donggang/Yanpu (bus, taxi or car) plus 20–30 minutes on the ferry, plus waiting/transfer time.

Do I need to book the ferry in advance?
On regular weekdays outside of peak season, you can usually buy tickets on the spot. However, for summer weekends, long holidays and when traveling in groups, it is smart to pre-book via official ticket partners or packages on sites like Klook or Trip.com so you know which departure you’re aiming for.

Which ferry terminal should I use?
Most travelers use Donggang Ferry Terminal in Pingtung, while some services depart from nearby Yanpu. Your ticket or package will specify the exact pier, so always double-check before you set out from Kaohsiung.

Can I bring a car or scooter onto the ferry?
Most visitors leave rental cars on the mainland and rent scooters or electric bikes on Xiaoliuqiu instead. There are limited vehicle ferries and restrictions can apply—check directly with ferry companies if you hope to bring a vehicle, but be prepared that it may not be practical or permitted.

What is the best way to get around Xiaoliuqiu?
Scooters or electric bikes are the most popular ways to circle the island, which is only about 6–7 km². Many rental shops are close to the pier, and some packages include e-scooters or bikes. You can also walk between some beaches and viewpoints, but expect heat and sun in summer.