Tainan, located on the southwest coast of Taiwan, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine. Travelling to Tainan can be an enjoyable and fascinating experience, with several transportation options available depending on your starting point.
The closest airport to Tainan is Tainan Airport (TNN), which serves domestic flights. For international travelers, Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) is the nearest international airport and is approximately 50 km to the south of Tainan. From there, you can transfer to Tainan by:
Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) has made traveling to Tainan extremely convenient from other major cities in Taiwan. Tainan Station is connected to key locations such as Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. THSR journeys from Taipei to Tainan take approximately 90 minutes. Upon arriving at the Tainan HSR station, which is located outside the city center, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to downtown Tainan.
Tainan is well-connected to other parts of Taiwan via the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA). While slower than the HSR, the TRA train network provides a scenic route, especially if you are traveling from other regions of the island. The Tainan TRA Station is located in the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Long-distance buses connect Tainan to various cities throughout Taiwan. Traveling by bus can be a more economical option, with the advantage of dropping you off at different points within the city. Bus companies such as Ubus and Kuo-Kuang offer regular services to Tainan from major cities including Taipei and Kaohsiung.
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and navigate to Tainan using the national freeway. The city is accessible via the National Freeway 1 (Sun Yat-sen Freeway) and National Freeway 3 (Formosa Freeway). Be sure to have a valid international driver’s license if you're visiting from abroad.
Note: Travel routes and services can be subject to change. It is advisable to check schedules and book tickets in advance during peak travel seasons or public holidays.