11/10/2022
Navigating Your Journey: Taipei Airport to Taichung
Arriving in Taiwan and need to reach the vibrant city of Taichung? Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is your gateway, and getting to Taichung is a straightforward process with several excellent options. Whether you're on a tight budget, seeking the fastest route, or prioritising comfort, this guide will detail the schedules, prices, and advantages of travelling by bus, train, and taxi. We'll also touch upon accommodation and essential tips for your stay in Taichung.
- The Cheapest Route: By Bus
- High-Speed Rail (THSR): Speed and Efficiency
- Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA): The Local Train Option
- Taxi: Comfort and Convenience
- Comparison Table: Airport to Taichung Options
- Which is the Best Way?
- Where to Stay in Taichung
- Essential Taiwan Travel Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Cheapest Route: By Bus
For the budget-conscious traveller, the bus is undoubtedly the most economical way to journey from Taoyuan Airport to Taichung. Services are frequent, typically running every 30 minutes, making it a convenient and accessible option. The journey itself usually takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from 245 to 300 TWD (approximately $8-10 USD).
Key Bus Operators and Schedules:
- Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport No. 1860: This is often the most budget-friendly choice, with fares starting at 245 TWD. Buses depart every 60-120 minutes, operating from 6:00 AM until 1:10 AM. Boarding is from Gate 3 in Terminal 1 and Gate 2 in Terminal 2.
- UBus No. 1623: Running more frequently, every 30-60 minutes, UBus offers a slightly higher comfort level. Tickets cost around 280 TWD. The service starts at 6:00 AM and runs until midnight. Board at Gate 13 in Terminal 1 and Gate 4 in Terminal 2.
- Free Go Bus No. 5503: This service operates every 30-40 minutes, with prices at 300 TWD. The first bus departs at 6:00 AM and the last at 12:40 AM.
Bus Stop Locations: In Terminal 1, the bus stops are located on the first basement floor. For Terminal 2, you'll find the bus stops on the first floor.
High-Speed Rail (THSR): Speed and Efficiency
If speed is your priority, Taiwan's High-Speed Rail (THSR) is an excellent option. However, it requires a transfer from the airport to the THSR Taoyuan Station. The journey involves taking a bus or the MRT to reach the station, followed by the high-speed train to Taichung.
Getting to THSR Taoyuan Station:
- By Bus: UBus No. 705 connects Taoyuan Airport to THSR Taoyuan Station in approximately 25 minutes, costing around 30 TWD.
- By MRT: The Taoyuan Airport MRT provides a direct link to THSR Taoyuan Station in about 10 minutes, costing 35 TWD.
THSR Journey: The high-speed train from THSR Taoyuan Station to THSR Taichung Station takes approximately 40 minutes and costs around 540 TWD for a one-way ticket. Booking online in advance is recommended. It's important to note that THSR stations are often located outside the city centre, requiring an additional 15-20 minute taxi or local train ride to reach your final destination in Taichung.
Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA): The Local Train Option
For a more local experience and a potentially more central arrival point in Taichung, the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) local trains are an alternative. Similar to the THSR, you'll need to reach the TRA Taoyuan Station first.
Getting to TRA Taoyuan Station:
- By Bus: UBus No. 706 will take you to TRA Taoyuan Station in about 50 minutes, costing around 35 TWD.
TRA Journey: The train journey from TRA Taoyuan Station to TRA Taichung Station takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from 300 to 340 TWD. The advantage here is that the TRA Taichung Station is typically closer to the city centre, allowing for easier access by walking or a short bus ride.
Taxi: Comfort and Convenience
For the ultimate in comfort and convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group, a taxi is a viable option. The journey from Taoyuan Airport to Taichung by taxi takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, covering a distance of about 150 kilometres, assuming no heavy traffic.
Cost and Considerations: Taxi fares are generally around 3600 TWD (approximately $120 USD). While this is the most expensive option, it eliminates the need for transfers and allows you to relax directly to your accommodation. Booking private transfers in advance through services like Klook can sometimes offer discounts and a guaranteed service.
Comparison Table: Airport to Taichung Options
| Transport Mode | Estimated Travel Time | Estimated Cost (TWD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | 2 hours 10 minutes | 245-300 | Cheapest, frequent departures | Longer travel time, may be less comfortable |
| THSR (incl. airport transfer) | ~1 hour 15 minutes (total) | ~605 (540 THSR + 30-35 transfer) | Fastest, modern infrastructure | Requires transfer, THSR station is outside city centre |
| TRA (incl. airport transfer) | ~2 hours 30 minutes (total) | ~335-375 (300-340 TRA + 35 transfer) | More central TRA station, local experience | Slower than THSR, requires transfer |
| Taxi | 1 hour 50 minutes | ~3600 | Most comfortable, door-to-door service | Most expensive |
Which is the Best Way?
The 'best' way ultimately depends on your priorities:
- For Budget Travellers: The bus is the clear winner due to its affordability and frequent service.
- For Speed: The THSR offers the quickest journey to Taichung, provided you factor in the transfer time to the station.
- For Convenience and Comfort: A taxi or pre-booked private transfer is ideal, especially for groups or those with heavy luggage, offering a seamless door-to-door experience.
- For a Central Arrival: The TRA train might be preferable if your accommodation is very close to the Taichung TRA Station.
Where to Stay in Taichung
Taichung offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets. You can find dorm rooms starting from $15-25 USD per night, budget hotels from $40-60 USD, and more luxurious options from $100 USD upwards. Popular areas include near Feng Chia Night Market or the city centre.
We had a fantastic stay at La Vida Hotel in Taichung City. Its prime location near Feng Chia night market and the bus terminal made getting around incredibly easy. The hotel boasts modern amenities, comfortable rooms with bathtubs and TVs, excellent high-speed Wi-Fi, and a great breakfast selection with both Chinese and Western options. The staff were exceptionally friendly, contributing to a highly enjoyable stay.
Essential Taiwan Travel Tips
ATMs and Cash:
ATMs are available at the airport, with some offering commission-free withdrawals. While currency exchange is possible at the airport, it can be more challenging outside of major banks in Taiwan. The current exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = 30 TWD.
EasyCard: Your Travel Companion
The EasyCard is highly recommended for navigating Taiwan. This rechargeable card can be used on MRTs, buses, and even for purchases at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Family Mart. You can purchase an EasyCard at the airport for 100 TWD (non-refundable), which includes initial credit. Recharging is easy at convenience stores or MRT stations. Using your EasyCard often provides discounts of 15-20% on MRT and bus fares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the cheapest way to get from Taoyuan Airport to Taichung?
A: The bus is the cheapest option, costing around $8-10 USD.
Q2: How long does it take to get from Taoyuan Airport to Taichung by taxi?
A: A taxi journey typically takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Q3: Is it better to take the THSR or TRA train to Taichung?
A: The THSR is significantly faster but requires a transfer to a station outside the city centre. The TRA is slower but its station is often more centrally located.
Q4: How much is a taxi from Taichung city to the nearest HSR station?
A: A taxi from Taichung city to the nearest HSR station can cost around 300 TWD and take about 15 minutes.
We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your journey from Taoyuan Airport to Taichung. Whether you choose the budget-friendly bus, the swift THSR, the local TRA, or a comfortable taxi, your adventure in Taichung awaits!
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