East Coast, Taiwan
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) exists near Taipei as Taiwan's main international gateway. Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) sits in central Taipei, serving domestic flights and some regional international routes.
Numerous international airlines fly to TPE from major global hubs, including EVA Air, China Airlines, Cathay Pacific, JAL, ANA, and Singapore Airlines. Domestic flights to TTT from TSA are mainly by Uni Air and Mandarin Airlines.
TPE, a modern international airport, has extensive facilities: currency exchange, SIM card options, duty-free shops, lounges, diverse food courts, and various transportation options.
TSA, smaller than TPE, offers essential services for domestic and regional international travelers, including check-in counters, dining, and transportation links.
TTT, a domestic airport, holds basic facilities: waiting area, restrooms, small cafe. Taxis are present outside the terminal (10-15 mins to city center, NTD 200-300). A public bus stop exists.
The TRA operates Taiwan's main long-distance land transport. The East Coast railway line connects Taipei, Hualien, and northern cities directly to Taitung.
Long-distance bus services from major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung to Taitung exist. Bus journeys generally take longer than trains.
To legally rent and drive a car or scooter, an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your home country is necessary, with your national driving license.
The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates main long-distance land transport. The East Coast railway line is renowned for its scenic journey. Puyuma Express and Taroko Express are the fastest trains (Taipei to Taitung in 3.5-4 hours), with reserved seating only. Tickets sell quickly.
Long-distance bus services exist from major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung to Taitung. Bus journeys typically take longer than trains, especially on winding East Coast roads. The comfort level is generally lower compared to trains. Bus fares are generally cheaper than train tickets.
To legally rent and drive a car or scooter in Taiwan, a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your home country is necessary. This IDP needs presentation with your national driving license. Without an IDP, rental companies may refuse service, and legal issues may arise if stopped by police.
Roads in Taiwan are generally well-maintained. The East Coast scenic drive (Highway 11) presents stunning views but can have winding sections. Mountain roads (like sections of Highway 9 or the South Link Highway) are steep and narrow, requiring careful driving.
For an unique arrival experience, especially when visiting Taitung's offshore islands, ferry services represent the main mode of sea transportation. Taitung has no significant river transportation for tourists.
For domestic ferry services from Fugang Fishery Port to Green Island or Orchid Island, no immigration checks exist. These are internal Taiwan trips. Ticketing and boarding procedures resemble domestic flights or trains.
Sea transportation connects Taitung to its scenic offshore islands. Large cruise ships typically dock in Keelung or Kaohsiung.
