How Far is Taoyuan Airport to Taiwan Major Cities?
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taiwan’s main international gateway, is located in the northwestern part of the island and is most conveniently accessible from Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung—three of Taiwan's largest and most frequently visited cities.
Taipei, the capital city, lies just 40 kilometers away, making it a quick 40- to 60-minute drive or a 35- to 45-minute ride via the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station.
Taichung, situated in central Taiwan, is about 150 kilometers from the airport. Travelers can reach it in roughly two hours by car or around 1.5 hours using the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) from Taoyuan HSR Station, including transfer time from the airport.
Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s major southern metropolis, is approximately 300 kilometers away and can be reached in 3.5 to 4.5 hours by car or just under two hours via HSR.
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Other cities are also accessible from Taoyuan International Airport. Hsinchu, a technology hub, is only about an hour away by car or 30 to 40 minutes by HSR. Further south, Tainan and Chiayi can be reached in 3 to 4 hours by car or a bit faster via high-speed rail. For travelers headed to Taiwan’s scenic east coast, Hualien and Taitung are more remote; while the straight-line distance may not seem far, the mountainous terrain means trips typically take 4 to 6 hours by car or train, often involving transfers through Taipei. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or exploring Taiwan’s cultural and natural wonders, TPE serves as a central hub for connecting to cities across the island.
The Taoyuan Airport MRT (Purple Line) is one of the most convenient and popular ways to get to Taipei Main Station.
Route: Taoyuan Airport (Terminals 1 & 2) to Taipei Main Station
Travel Time:
- Express Train: ~35–40 minutes
- Commuter Train: ~50–55 minutes
Frequency:
- Express Train: Every 15–30 minutes
- Commuter Train: Every 15 minutes
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
Fare: NT$150 (one-way)
How and Where to Buy Tickets: Ticket machines, counters, or by using EasyCard/iPASS
🚉 Pro Tip: Express trains have special luggage racks and fewer stops—ideal for tourists with bags.
🚄 Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) – Best for Long-Distance Travel
If you're heading to cities like Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung, the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) is your best bet. While there’s no THSR station inside the airport, you can easily transfer via shuttle bus to the THSR Taoyuan Station.
Shuttle Bus to THSR Taoyuan Station
From: Airport Terminals 1 & 2
To: THSR Taoyuan Station
Travel Time: 20–25 minutes
Fare: NT$30
Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes
Schedule: 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Once at the THSR station, here are sample travel times and fares to popular cities:
- Taipei (via THSR): 20 minutes | NT$160
- Taichung: 60 minutes | NT$590
- Tainan: 1 hr 40 mins | NT$1,190
- Kaohsiung (Zuoying): 1 hr 50 mins | NT$1,490
🎫 Tickets can be purchased at THSR stations, online, or via vending machines.
🚌 Long-Distance Airport Buses – Budget-Friendly Option
Several reputable bus companies operate airport coaches to destinations across Taiwan. These are comfortable, air-conditioned buses perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Popular Routes from Taoyuan Airport
1. To Taipei
- Operators: Kuo-Kuang, Evergreen, CitiAir Bus
- Travel Time: 50–70 minutes (depends on traffic)
- Fare: NT$140–NT$150
- Schedule: Every 15–20 minutes from 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM
2. To Taichung
- Operators: UBus, Kuo-Kuang
- Travel Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Fare: NT$270–NT$300
- Schedule: Every 20–30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM
3. To Hsinchu
- Operators: Kuo-Kuang, FreeGo Bus
- Travel Time: ~90 minutes
- Fare: NT$150–NT$180
- Schedule: Every 20–30 minutes
4. To Tainan / Kaohsiung
- Operators: UBus
- Travel Time:
- Tainan: 4.5–5 hours
- Kaohsiung: 5–6 hours
- Fare:
- Tainan: NT$400–NT$500
- Kaohsiung: NT$500–NT$700
- Schedule: Limited; check company schedules online or at the counter
🚌 Where to Board: All airport buses depart from B1 bus terminals in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2
Here's my first hand experience on Traveling by Taoyuan Airport Bus to Taipei
🚖 Taxi – 24/7 Private Ride
Taxis are available 24/7 just outside the arrival halls. They offer the most convenient (but costly) option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or during off hours.
To Taipei:
- Travel Time: 45–60 minutes
- Fare: NT$1,200–NT$1,500
To Taichung:
- Travel Time: ~2 hours
- Fare: NT$3,500–NT$4,000
To Kaohsiung:
- Travel Time: ~4.5 hours
- Fare: NT$6,000–NT$7,000
🚖 Tips:
Official taxis are metered and have clear signage.
Airport taxis are safe, and most drivers are familiar with popular destinations.
🚗 Private Transfers & Rideshare
If you prefer door-to-door service, you can book a private car service through platforms like Klook, KKDay, or hotel concierge desks. Some also use Uber, although coverage may be limited compared to taxis or MRT.
Cost:
- Taipei: NT$1,200–NT$1,800
- Taichung: NT$3,000–NT$4,000
Booking: Online (advance reservation recommended)
This is ideal for families, large groups, or those arriving late at night.
🧳 Luggage Delivery Services
Don’t want to drag bags around? Use luggage delivery counters at the airport to send your bags directly to your hotel or next city.
Providers: Yamato, LuggAgent, T-Express
Cost: ~NT$300–NT$500 per bag (depends on distance)
Delivery Time: Same-day or next-day
🌐 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Transportation from Taoyuan Airport
For Taipei visitors: The Airport MRT is your fastest, most convenient choice.
For Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung: Take the shuttle bus to THSR Taoyuan Station, then board a high-speed train.
On a budget? Go for long-distance buses—they’re cheap and reliable.
With luggage or kids? Consider taxis or private transfers for comfort and ease.
No matter your destination or travel style, Taoyuan International Airport offers seamless transportation links to every major city in Taiwan. With this guide, your journey to or from the airport will be smooth and stress-free.
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