Taiwan: High Speed Rail

I had the great opportunity to visit the city of Kaohsiung by speed train during my visit. The city of Kaohsiung 高雄市 located in southern Taiwan, to drive there from Taipei is about a 5 hour drive. Since the two cities are on opposite ends, many people would fly or take a conventional rail. But since the introudction of Taiwan High Speed Rail 台灣高速鐵路 it only takes 90 minutes and a lot cheaper than a plane ticket and a lot faster than driving.


Taiwan High Speed Rail is approximately 335.50 kilometers (208 mi), and runs from Taipei City to Kaohsiung City. It began operation on January 5, 2007. The total cost of the project is currently estimated to be US$15 billion, and is one of the largest privately funded transport schemes to date. Express trains capable of traveling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) travel from Taipei City to Kaohsiung City in roughly 90 minutes as opposed to 4.5 hours by conventional rail. The ride was smooth, quiet and on time. Economy seating was spacious much like sitting first class on an airplane. I highly recommended!


Taiwan High Speed Rail