Taiwan has two train systems. The High Speed Rail (THSR) that runs from Taipei to Kaohsiung in 1.5 hours, and the Taiwan Railway (TRA) that connects every city, town, and village on the island at a slower pace. If you are planning a trip from Singapore and need to move around Taiwan, here is what you actually need to know about train travel in Taiwan.
THSR vs TRA: Which to Take
| THSR | TRA | |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei to Kaohsiung | 1.5 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Cost (standard class) | S$50-S$70 | S$25-S$35 |
| Comfort level | High | Good |
| Covers east coast | No | Yes |
Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)
The THSR is the right choice if you are going between major west coast cities. Taipei to Kaohsiung is 330km and takes 1.5 hours. A one-way ticket in standard class costs approximately S$50-S$70 per person.
How to buy THSR tickets:
- Book online at the THSR website
- Buy at the station counter (English available at major stations)
- Use the THSR app — English interface available
- Klook and KKday also sell THSR tickets with mobile e-tickets
Taiwan Railway (TRA)
The TRA is the slower, more thorough option. It runs local trains and express trains across the entire island. If you want to visit places like Hualien for Taroko Gorge, the east coast, or any town off the west coast, the TRA is your only rail option.
TRA ticket prices and times:
- Taipei to Hualien: approximately S$25-S$35, 2-3 hours by express train
- Taipei to Taitung: approximately S$35-S$50, 3-4 hours plus a bus connection
TRA passes: The Taiwan Rail Pass (5-day unlimited TRA) costs approximately S$80 per person. Worth it if you are doing a multi-city trip with 4+ TRA journeys in 5 days.
Practical Tips for Singaporeans
Book during peak season: Weekends, public holidays, and the Taiwan Lantern Festival see trains fill up fast. Book 2-3 weeks ahead.
Arrive at the station 20 minutes early: Taiwan stations are busy and the boarding process is not always clearly announced in English.
Use EasyCard for local TRA: For short local trips on the TRA within Taipei and surrounding areas, your EasyCard works.
Bring a jacket on TRA: The air conditioning on TRA trains is often set to cold.
Why Singaporeans Should Take the Train
Singapore does not have a intercity rail culture. But Taiwan is different. The train is comfortable, scenic, and takes you places that driving does not. The journey from Taipei to Hualien along the east coast is one of the most scenic in Asia and only accessible by rail.
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