Getting to Taiwan typically involves a flight into Taoyuan International Airport, and once there, the country's robust public transportation system, including the high-speed rail, MRT, buses, and taxis, make navigating the cities and countryside both convenient and efficient.
Getting to Taiwan
Taiwan's primary international gateway is Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located near the capital city of Taipei. It is well served by airlines from around the world, offering direct flights from many cities in Asia, Europe, and North America. Other international airports in Taiwan include Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) in the south and Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) in central Taipei, which mainly handles flights from China, South Korea, and Japan.
If you're already in the region, you can also consider getting to Taiwan by ferry. There are regular services from various ports in China, including Xiamen and Fuzhou, to Keelung and Taichung in Taiwan.
Getting Around Taiwan
Taiwan has an excellent public transportation system which makes it easy to get around.
High-Speed Rail: The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) connects major cities along the west coast of Taiwan, from Taipei in the north to Kaohsiung in the south. It's a very convenient and quick way to travel long distances.
Train: The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates an extensive network of train services that reach nearly every part of the island. These trains are slower than the THSR, but they serve more destinations and can be a good way to see the countryside.
MRT: In Taipei and Kaohsiung, the Metro Rapid Transit (MRT) systems are the best way to travel within the cities. They are clean, efficient, and easy to navigate with English signage.
Bus: City and intercity buses are available, and they can be a cheap and convenient way to reach destinations not served by the train or MRT. The long-distance buses are particularly useful for getting to the east coast and central mountain areas.
Taxi/Uber: Taxis are plentiful in cities and can be hailed on the street or at taxi stands. Uber is also available in some cities, including Taipei and Kaohsiung. Make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.
Bike: In several cities, including Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, public bike-sharing systems are available. These can be a fun and healthy way to explore the local area.
Rental Car: Renting a car is another option, especially for more remote or rural areas. However, keep in mind that driving in Taiwan can be challenging due to the traffic and different driving habits. An international driving permit is usually required.
Ferry: For offshore islands like Penghu, Matsu, and Kinmen, ferries are available from various ports along the coast.
Remember to plan your journeys in advance and check the schedules, especially for long-distance trains and ferries. For most public transportation in Taiwan, you can use an EasyCard or iPass card, which are prepaid contactless cards that can be topped up and used for multiple journeys. They can be purchased and recharged at most train stations and convenience stores.
