Taichung is Taiwan’s second largest city, located around the middle of the west coast. The city has a mild climate, beautiful scenery and a rich history of both local and foreign influences. It’s a great spot to stop off if using the high speed train, with the central area taking about a day to do, then many attractions nearby in the wider Taichung area.
Things to do
Getting to and around Taichung
All THSR trains stop at HSR Taichung Station. There are frequent trains from Taipei (50-60 minutes, NT$700) and Zuoying in Kaohsiung (42-58 minutes, NT$790). From the connected TRA Xinwuri Station you can then take a shuttle train into the city center, where the main Taiwan Railway station is (12 minutes, NT$15)
As well as frequent local trains to and from Taichung Station, there are also express trains from cities such as Taipei (100 minutes-2 hours, NT$375) and Kaohsiung (2 and a half hours, NT$469). While not as comfortable as the high speed trains, these express services are cheaper and take you right into the city center.
Bus services are provided day and night to and from the city. Prices are cheaper than trains, with tickets around $250-$300 from Taipei.
Taichung does have an airport, but flights are usually much more expensive than Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei. Getting here via the Taiwan High Speed Train from Taoyuan is a much better option.