If you’re trying to figure out how to get from Taipei to Taitung, and you’re already on page two of Google without a straight answer, you’ve done way more digging than you need to.
Taitung doesn’t make it onto most first-time Taiwan itineraries, which is honestly a shame. It’s one of the island’s most underrated spots, with a super-chill vibe, endless rice fields, and easy access to places like Green Island and Chishang. Whether you’re planning a full island loop or just want to see a quieter side of Taiwan, it’s absolutely worth working into your travel plans.
But because it’s a bit out of the way (and not on the high-speed rail line), it’s not always obvious how to get there.
I’ve done this route a couple of times, including the long-haul version from Hsinchu. It takes a little planning, but it’s not complicated once you know your options.
This guide breaks down the best ways to get to Taitung from Taipei—by train, flight, or car—plus a few extra tips if you’re coming from Kaohsiung, Hualien, Hsinchu, or Taichung.
Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Taking the Train to Taitung (Scenic and Simplest)
If I had to pick the easiest and most affordable way to get to Taitung, it would hands down be the train. It’s what I use whenever I’m heading down the East Coast, and it’s the option I recommend to family and friends visiting.
Trains run daily from Taipei to Taitung, with the first one leaving around 6:30 and the last one around 20:00. I usually try to book a TZE Chiang or Puyuma train—they’re fast, have reserved seats, and are a lot more comfortable than the slower trains. The Taroko Express also runs this route and costs about the same.
There’s no high-speed rail on Taiwan’s east coast (yet), but these express trains are a good alternative. They shave hours off your travel time, and the views along the coast are pretty great too—especially if you sit on the left side heading south.
Quick Overview
- Departs from: Taipei Main Station
- Arrives at: Taitung Train Station
- Duration: Around 3.5 to 5.5 hours
- Cost: TWD 936–1344
- Booking: TRA website, app, at the station, or via third-party platforms
If you want the fastest ride, look for TZE Chiang #408 (7:20–11:02). Another good option is #426, which leaves at 12:40 and arrives around 16:30.
Personally, I book tickets directly through the TRA site or at the station. But I also lived in Taiwan for over a decade, and I know the system well. If you’re visiting and just want a simpler booking process, Klook may be a bit easier to navigate.
Check trains and book through Klook
A Few Train Tips
- You’ll need a paper ticket for fast trains like TZE Chiang, Puyuma, and Taroko. EasyCards won’t work at the gates.
- Sit on the left side heading south for the best views along the coast.
- Download the Taiwan Railways App for real-time schedules and delays.
- Arriving in Taitung? The station’s actually outside the city center, so you’ll need to catch the local bus into town or rent a scooter there (if you have the right license).
Flying From Taipei to Taitung (Fastest Option)
If you’re short on time or just don’t feel like sitting on a train for 4+ hours, flying is the fastest way to get to Taitung.
Flights leave from Songshan Airport (TSA) in central Taipei and land at Taitung Airport (TTT). The flight takes just over an hour, and check-in is usually pretty quick compared to Taoyuan.
Only two airlines fly this route: Uni Air and Mandarin Airlines. On most days, there are about 4–5 direct flights, though this varies by season. During holidays or peak travel seasons, there are sometimes extra flights as well.
Uni Air runs flights at 9:40, 13:10, and 16:50
Mandarin flies at 7:35 and 17:45
Round-trip tickets typically cost around TWD 3500–5000, but it varies by season and how early you book. If you’re flying around a long weekend or during a local holiday, definitely book in advance—these flights can and do sell out.
You can check schedules and book directly through the airline websites, or compare prices on Skyscanner. Mandarin Airlines also lets you pay and pick up your ticket at any 7-Eleven in Taiwan (just remember to bring your booking code and passport).
Quick Overview
- Departs from: Songshan Airport (TSA)
- Arrives at: Taitung Airport (TTT)
- Duration: About 1 hour
- Cost: TWD 3500–5000
- Airlines: Uni Air, Mandarin Airlines
- Booking Options: Airline sites or Skyscanner
A Few Notes on Flying
- Flights leave from Songshan, not Taoyuan—make sure you’re going to the right airport.
- Taitung Airport is tiny, and while you can technically take the bus into town, your best bet is to grab a taxi from the airport, arrange a pickup in advance, or hire a car. If your hotel offers transfers, definitely take them up on it.
- Flights to Taitung use smaller planes, so the ride can be a bit bumpy, especially during bad weather. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s something to keep in mind.
Driving to Taitung (Best for Flexibility and Scenery)
If you’ve got time and want to explore Taiwan’s east coast at your own pace, renting a car and driving to Taitung is also a nice option.
The road distance is around 326km, and the most direct route is Provincial Highway No. 9. The drive takes around 5–6 hours, but it really depends on the traffic and how many photo stops you make (there are a lot!).
While it’s definitely not the quickest route, the upside is that you’re not locked into a schedule, and you can stop anywhere you want; Yilan, Hualien, and even Taroko Gorge make great detours if you’re not in a hurry.
Quick Overview
- Route: Provincial Highway No. 9
- Distance: About 326 km
- Drive Time: 5–6 hours
- Rental Options: Available in Taipei or Hualien; check if one-way drop-off in Taitung is possible
Check Discover Cars or Klook to compare rental prices.
I’ve only done parts of this drive, not the whole stretch in one go, but if you’re comfortable driving, it’s a great way to slow down and see a side of Taiwan that most people skip. Just be ready for narrow roads and winding mountain sections, especially south of Hualien.
A Few Driving Tips
- Start early so you’re not stuck on mountain roads after dark.
- Watch the weather, especially if you’re driving during typhoon season (June to September). Landslides do happen from time to time in mountainous areas along the East Coast.
- One-way rentals are possible but limited, so confirm drop-off options before booking.
- You’ll need an international driver’s permit (IDP) if you don’t have a Taiwanese license.
Pre-Travel Tips for Getting to Taitung
Once you’ve figured out how you’re getting to Taitung, there are a few small things that’ll make the trip a lot easier. Especially if this is your first time heading to this part of Taiwan.
- Download the Taiwan Railways App (iOS)
It shows train schedules, platform info, and real-time delays. It’s one of my go-to Taiwan travel apps, and I use it constantly. - Book your train ticket early, especially for weekends and holidays.
Fast trains like Puyuma, Taroko, and TZE Chiang all require a physical ticket, so you can’t just swipe your EasyCard. - Personally, I use the TRA site or book at the station, but if you want an easier experience, Klook is also great.
- The train station in Taitung is a bit outside of town.
If you’re comfortable driving, the easiest way to get around is to rent a scooter right at the station. Just make sure you’ve got a valid license that covers scooters. - Hotel options in Taitung can be hit or miss, so I recommend booking ahead. I stayed at TiinTinn (super cozy and walkable to the main sights), but Norden Ruder (modern with a stunning garden atrium) and The Gaya Hotel (a bit pricier but with a rooftop pool and a nice location) are also highly recommended.
How to Get to Taitung From Other Cities in Taiwan
If you’re starting outside Taipei, here’s how to get to Taitung from other major cities. Trains are usually the fastest and most reliable option, but they may involve multiple steps or transfers—especially if you’re coming from Taiwan’s west coast and need to take the high-speed rail first.
Use the quick table below to compare your options at a glance, then keep scrolling for a few extra tips on getting there smoothly.
| From | Fastest Route | Travel Time | Cost (approx.) | Book Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kaohsiung | TZE Chiang or Puyuma train | 2–2.5 hrs | TWD 485 (train), TWD 202 (bus) | TRA site |
| Hualien | TZE Chiang, Puyuma, or Taroko train | 1.5–2 hrs | TWD 462 (train), TWD 547 (bus) | TRA site |
| Hsinchu | HSR to Taipei + TZE Chiang, Puyuma, or Taroko train | ~5 hrs total | TWD 290 + 936 | Book HSR tickets on Klook + TRA |
| Taichung | HSR to Zuoying + TZE Chiang or Puyuma train | ~3.5 hrs total | TWD 790 + 485 | BOOK HSR tickets on Klook + TRA |
What to Know for Each Route
Kaohsiung to Taitung
Trains run from both Kaohsiung Main and Xin Zuoying stations. Book a reserved seat on a fast train (Puyuma or TZE Chiang) for the quickest ride. There’s also a bus option (Kuo-Kuang #1778), but I wouldn’t rely on it unless you’re comfortable confirming times directly with the operator.
Hualien to Taitung
If you’re already in Hualien or checking out Taroko, you could technically also visit Taitung, as it’s only 1.5 hrs away by fast train. The Ding Dong bus #8119 can also get you there, but it only runs once daily at 13:10 and takes much longer than the train, so it’s not ideal unless trains are sold out.
Hsinchu to Taitung
This is the route I’ve done myself. You’ll take the HSR from Hsinchu to Taipei (about 30 minutes), then transfer to Taipei Main Station for an express train (Puyuma, Taroko, or TZE Chiang) to Taitung.
The high-speed rail and regular train lines are in the same station complex, but getting from the HSR arrival area to the platform for the Taitung train requires a bit of a walk. It’s not super complicated, just give yourself a few extra minutes to make the connection, especially if you’re hauling bags or switching at a busy time.
Taichung to Taitung
Take the HSR to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung (about 1 hour), then walk over to Xin Zuoying TRA Station, which is right next door. From there, hop on a Puyuma or TZE Chiang express train to Taitung.
So, Which Route Are You Taking to Taitung?
Getting to Taitung takes a bit more planning than other parts of Taiwan, but it’s honestly worth the effort. Whether you’re hopping a train, flying in, or road-tripping down the coast, getting there is really half of the fun.
Once you’ve figured out your route, all that’s left is to sit back, enjoy the ride, and start planning what you’ll do once you’re there. I’ve also got you covered if you’re catching the ferry to Green Island or keen to cycle through Chishang’s dreamy rice paddies. Or maybe you’re working Taitung into a bigger Taiwan itinerary? Either way, Taitung’s 100% worth the detour.
Got questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments
Not ready to go just yet? Save this post for later.
Hi, such a helpful read. When booking the train tickets, would the station for departure from Taipei Main Station be “1000- Taipei” and would the arrival you stated be “6000- Taitung”?
Hey Yasmin – yes, that’s right.