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How to Get to Kaohsiung

How to Get to Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung Takao, Taiwan Travel Guide

Air Travel

Kaohsiung International Airport KHH

KHH is the main airport for Kaohsiung, mainly serving regional flights within The continent of asia. Routes connect to destinations like Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia), and mainland China. Major airlines include China Airlines, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, and Scoot.

Flight Information

  • Direct intercontinental flights from outside Asia are limited.
  • Connect using Taipei (TPE) or other major Asian hubs.
  • Flight prices increase during peak season (Oct-Apr) and holidays. Book in advance.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Kaohsiung International Airport offers a range of facilities comprising ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, and car rental services. A tourist information desk and SIM card sales are available. For flights, check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Transfer Options

  • Kaohsiung MRT (Red Line) connects KHH directly to downtown (15-20 min, NTD 20-35).
  • Several bus routes connect the airport to various parts of Kaohsiung.
  • Taxis are available 24/7 (approx. NTD 250-400 to city center). Ride-sharing apps also operate.

Currency Exchange

Atms & currency exchange are available at KHH. You can also find them at major banks and hotels in the city.

Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at KHH for immediate data and communication access.

Tourist Info

A tourist information desk at KHH provides maps, brochures, and assistance for visitors.

Important Airline Information AirHelp

Flight Delays or Cancellations

  • If your flight is delayed or canceled, you might be entitled to compensation.
  • Passengers may receive up to €600 in compensation under certain regulations.
  • Compensation eligibility depends on factors like delay duration and reason for disruption.
  • Keep all travel documents and records of the disruption.

Claiming Compensation

  • Services like AirHelp can assist you in claiming compensation.
  • They typically operate on a commission basis (e.g., 15-16.6%) from the compensation received.
  • Cookie duration for affiliate tracking is often 4FIVE days.
  • Contact their support for guidance through the claim process.

Car Rental Information

Requirements

A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) next to your home country's driver's license, passport, and a credit card are necessary. Minimum age for rental varies (20 or 25).

Companies

International companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz operate. Local options include Hotai Rental and Carplus. For competitive rates, check DiscoverCars.com.

Availability

Rental counters are at KHH airport, THSR Zuoying Station, and various city locations. Book in advance for better rates.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Taiwan boasts an excellent land transportation network. The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) offers fast and efficient service, connecting Kaohsiung (Zuoying Station) to Taipei (1.5-2 hours) and other major western cities. Conventional train services (TRA) from Kaohsiung Main Station connect to urban areas across Taiwan, providing slower but scenic routes.

Rail Options

  • THSR: Fastest option for intercity travel. Reserve tickets early.
  • TRA: Conventional rail for broader coverage and scenic journeys.
  • High-Speed Rail (Kaohsiung to Taipei): Approximately NTD 1490 (standard class).

Long-Distance Bus Options

An extensive bus network connects Kaohsiung to nearly all major and minor cities across Taiwan. Major companies include UBus, Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport, and Ho-Hsin Bus. Buses depart from Kaohsiung Main Station and other major terminals, generally being cheaper than the THSR.

Bus Travel Insights

  • Affordable alternative to THSR, reaching more destinations.
  • Comprehensive network across the island.
  • Check specific paths and timetables for your destination.

Self-Driving Considerations

A valid ... is required International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home country's driver's license to drive. Carry both documents. Driving is on the right side of the road. Road signs appear in Mandarin and often include English translations. You might encounter heavy traffic, especially with scooters.

Driving in Taiwan

  • IDP and a driver's license from your own country required.
  • Drive on the right; be aware of heavy scooter traffic.
  • Parking can be challenging in urban areas.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads are generally well-maintained. Exercise caution due to the pervasive presence of scooters; drivers may not always follow traffic rules strictly. Mountain expect winding roads and prone to landslides, especially during heavy rain or typhoons. Monitor local conditions if you plan to drive in mountainous regions.

Safe Driving Tips

  • Drive defensively due to scooter traffic.
  • Mountain roads: check conditions for landslides.
  • Road signs are in Mandarin and English.

Border Crossing & Departure Island Nation

  • Taiwan is an island nation; land borders are not applicable.
  • All international arrivals occur via air or sea.
  • No specific departure tax for air travel from KHH; fees are typically included in ticket price.
  • Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • KHH and THSR Zuoying Station offer duty-free, dining, and other facilities for departing travelers.
  • Check your flight status before heading to the airport.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Kaohsiung Port functions as a major international port, occasionally hosting cruise ships. Ferry services mainly feature local transport to adjacent islands like Cijin, Penghu, and Little Liuqiu. These present excellent opportunities for island excursions or short excursions.

Island Hopping from Kaohsiung

  • Ferry to Cijin Island from Gushan Ferry Pier for a scenic crossing.
  • Connections to Little Liuqiu and Penghu from Kaohsiung Port.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports mirror air travel; present passport and visa.

River Transportation

The Love River features scenic boat cruises, notably popular for sightseeing and leisure, especially in the evening for city lights views. These boats do not serve as general transportation. Kaohsiung Port also boasts convenient connections to city buses and is a brief taxi or MRT ride to the city center.

Love River Cruises

  • Relaxing tours along the Love River, specifically at night.
  • Mainly for leisure, not daily commuting.
  • Love River banks are excellent for pedestrian exploration.

Port Connections

Kaohsiung Port connects easily to city buses, and is a short taxi or MRT ride to the city center.

Cijin Ferry

The ferry to Cijin Island is a popular and quick way to reach its black sand beaches and seafood. The Gushan Ferry Pier is the main departure point.

Cruise Ships

Kaohsiung Port occasionally hosts international cruise ships, serving as a gateway for sea-faring visitors.

Additional Travel Advice

Border Controls Island Nation

As an island nation, Taiwan's borders are exclusively maritime or aerial. There are no land border crossings. All international visitors arrive either by flight into an international airport (like KHH or TPE) or by cruise ship into a major port (like Kaohsiung Port).

Arrival Process

  • Arrivals occur via air or sea ports.
  • Present passport and visa (if needed) for inspection.
  • Immigration may take fingerprints and photographs.

Local Travel Agencies

Local travel agencies in Kaohsiung can greatly enhance your travel experience, especially if you plan to explore beyond the urban area or seek specialized tours. They offer packaged tours, arrange transportation, and secure accommodations.

Benefits of Local Agencies

  • Expert local knowledge and customized itineraries.
  • Assistance with language barriers and cultural subtleties.
  • Convenient booking for complex travel arrangements.

Travel Apps for Smooth Journeys

Navigation

Google Maps for real-time public transport, walking, and operating a vehicle directions.

Language

Google Translate (offline Mandarin pack) and Pleco for quick translations.

Transport Booking

Taiwan Taxi or Line Taxi ride for ride-sharing. Booking.com/Using agoda for accommodations.

Seamless Connections

Kaohsiung's comprehensive transportation network links the city to the rest of Taiwan and regional destinations, making it an accessible and convenient starting point or stopover for any itinerary. Map out your routes, consider various transport modes, and you will find your journeys smooth and enjoyable.