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Getting Around Tainan

Getting Around Tainan

Tainan Taiwan, Taiwan Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Tainan has no metro or tram system. The city counts on an extensive city bus network. Buses cover most primary points of interest and neighborhoods. Numbered routes serve various areas. The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle features specific bus routes designed for tourists, connecting Tainan city center to popular attractions like Anping, Chigu, and Guantian.

You find bus route maps are available at bus stops, tourist information centers, plus digital. Tainan Train Station serves as the main hub for city buses. Other major transfer points include Tainan HSR Station, Anping, and some large department stores.

Fares & Passes

  • Fares range from NT$18-26 per ride, often a fixed fare.
  • Pay with cash (exact change) or EasyCard/iPass.
  • EasyCard/iPass: Rechargeable a card with a chips for all public transport.
  • Day Passes: "Tainan Pass" or something like it tourist passes offer unlimited rides/discounts.

Hours & Frequency

Most routes 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Main routes every 15-30 min, less popular every 30-60 min.

Accessibility

Newer buses feature low-floor designs and ramps for wheelchair access. Infrastructure has improving accessibility.

Navigation Tips

Use Google Maps for real-time bus info. Wave to signal bus driver, press "stop" button.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Information
  • Licensed taxis are yellow cars with "TAXI" signs; meters mandatory.
  • Hail on street, find at stands, or reserve through phone/apps.
  • Starting fare NT$85 for A single.25 km; 20% surcharge 11 PM-6 AM. Cash preferred.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Taiwan Taxi App is the most popular local booking app.
  • Uber is available but less common than local services.
  • Taxis are generally very safe. Ensure driver uses meter.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Tainan HSR

Taxis readily available.

Tainan Train Station

Taxis at main exits.

Tainan Airport

Available outside terminal.

Fare Estimates

HSR to city: NT$250-350.

Rental Options

Scooters are a popular local choice for transportation Tainan, offering flexibility and immersion. Alternative choices include automobiles and bicycles.

Car Rental

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country driver's license.
  • Minimum age for rental typically 20-25. DiscoverCars.com.
  • Roads are generally well-maintained. Traffic flow is often heavy.
  • Parking has a challenge in Tainan city center.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • IDP endorsed for motorcycles with home country motorcycle license.
  • Helmets are mandatory and typically provided.
  • Cost: NT$300-600 per day.
  • Be extremely careful due to dense scooter traffic.

Bicycle Rentals & E-Bikes

  • T-Bike (Tainan Public Bicycle) requires an EasyCard/iPass with a local phone number.
  • Many guesthouses and shops offer bicycle rentals (NT$100-300/day).
  • E-bikes are available, requiring less effort for longer rides.
  • Dedicated bike lanes are not extensive but are increasing.
  • Be aware of scooter traffic and wear a helmet.
  • Follow traffic laws.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Laws

Drive on the right side. Signs in Chinese along with some English. Speed limits enforced. You must wear seatbelts.

Conditions

Roads generally good. Heavy traffic, particularly from scooters. Rural road conditions varies.

Parking

Metered street parking, public lots, underground garages. May fill quickly. NT$20-50/hour.

Walking & Cycling

Tainan is a highly walkable city, in particular its historic core. Many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly, offering opportunities to explore small laneways and discover hidden gems.

Pedestrian Routes

  • Anping Old Street, Confucius Temple area, Haian Road Art Street are pedestrian-friendly.
  • Many narrow alleys (巷弄) for excellent walking and hidden discoveries.
  • Self-guided walking tours popular and easy to follow.
  • Many tourist attractions are clustered, making walking convenient.

Walking Tours & Safety

  • Various area tour operators offer guided walking tours (history, food, neighborhoods).
  • For self-guided exploration, use digital or paper maps.
  • Generally no "no-go" areas for safety.
  • Busy main roads with a lot of traffic is sometimes less pleasant for walking/cycling.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes

Dedicated bike lanes are not extensive but are increasing, specifically in newer areas.

Safe routes growing

Suitable Streets

Many smaller streets and alleys are suitable for cycling, offering a charming way to explore.

Charming pathways

Safety Precaution

Be aware of scooter traffic and wear a helmet. Follow all traffic laws for a secure ride.

Helmet for safety

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport
  • Taiwan Tourist Shuttle "Tainan Route" connects attractions.
  • Sicao Green Tunnel and Anping Canal feature tourist water tours.
  • These are leisure experiences, not main transport between locations.
Unique & Accessible Transport
  • Cable cars, funiculars, or equivalent networks are not applicable to Tainan.
  • Newer city buses offer improving accessibility for mobility needs.
  • Taxis accommodate foldable wheelchairs.

Important Traffic Cautions

  • Scooter traffic flow is dense; stay alert.
  • Always wear a helmet if riding a scooter or by bicycle.
  • Road rules can vary in local adherence.
  • Be extra careful on main roads, especially at intersections.
  • Wet roads during rainy season demand extra caution.
  • Use proper lighting for night cycling.
  • Avoid distractions while driving or cycling.
  • Be aware of large vehicles like buses in narrow streets.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Adopting sustainable practices contributes positively to Tainan's surroundings and traditions. Opt for walking, cycling, or public transport when exploring the city.

Sustainable Choices

  • Select lodging with eco-friendly initiatives.
  • Reduce plastic use; carry reusable water bottles and bags.
  • Support local businesses and artisans.
  • Conserve energy by turning off lights and air conditioning.

Responsible Behavior

  • Dispose of waste properly in designated bins.
  • Respect natural environments like Taijiang National Park.
  • Ask permission before photographing individuals.
  • Observe temple etiquette: dress modestly, refrain from loud talking.

Community Engagement

Local Cuisine

Savor Tainan's unique "xiaochi" from traditional eateries.

  • After-dark markets
  • Small restaurants
  • Food stalls
Cultural Exchange

Engage with locals, learn basic Mandarin phrases.

  • "Ni hao" (hello)
  • "Xie xie" (thank you)
  • "Dui bu qi" (sorry)
Art & Craft

Explore local craft shops and cultural parks.

  • Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park
  • Ten Drum Culture Park
  • Various artisan studios

Stay Alert

Pedestrian Safety
  • Look both ways multiple times before crossing streets.
  • Use marked crosswalks; traffic may not always yield.
  • Avoid wearing headphones when hiking in busy areas.
Road User Awareness
  • Expect scooters to weave in and out of traffic.
  • Be aware of sudden stops or changes in direction from other vehicles.
  • Maintain situational awareness at all times.

Specialized Travel Tips

Tourist Shuttle Insights

  • The Taiwan Tourist Shuttle is a cost-effective way to reach attractions.
  • Check specific paths and timetables, as they are not hop-on-hop-off.
  • Plan your day's itinerary around the shuttle timings for effectiveness.
  • Obtain brochures at tourist information centers for route details.

Water Tour Experiences

  • Sicao Green Tunnel offers scenic, short leisure boat rides through mangroves.
  • Anping Canal Boat Tour offers leisure rides along historical waterways.
  • Great for photography plus experiencing Tainan from a different perspective.
  • Consider weather conditions and sun protection for open-air boat rides.

Mobility Support

Accessibility infrastructure continues to improve, with newer buses and adaptable taxis.

Optimal Routes

For efficient travel, combine different modes of transport based on destination and time.

Local Interaction

Engage with locals for directions or recommendations; many are helpful.

Navigating the Old City

Foot Exploration
  • Many historic sites and eateries are within walking distance of each other.
  • Discover hidden places of worship and charming shops in Tainan's intricate alleyways.
  • Food tours on foot provide a delicious way to experience local cuisine.
Cycling Advantages
  • Bicycles access areas cars cannot, offering flexibility.
  • Explore parks and riverside paths at your own pace.
  • Ideal for enjoying Tainan's pleasant weather during cooler seasons.

Your Tainan Journey

Tainan's charm lies in its diverse transportation options, allowing visitors to tailor their exploration.

Either by bus, scooter, bicycle, or on foot, the city's rich history and culture await discovery.