Hsinchu as a day trip from Taipei: trains, buses and a plan

Hsinchu is one of the easiest day trips from Taipei. The high-speed rail takes about half an hour, and regular trains run all day. In a day you can see the old city and eat at the City God Temple, or ride the little train into the hills to Neiwan.

High-speed rail or regular train?

The high-speed rail (THSR) is fastest, at about 30 minutes from Taipei Main Station. But Hsinchu HSR station is in Zhubei, about 10 km from the old city, so you need another 20 minutes or so to get into town. Regular Taiwan Railway (TRA) trains take about an hour to an hour and a half, but arrive at Hsinchu Station, right in the centre.

• For the old city: the regular train is simple and cheap, and arrives a short walk from the East Gate.
• For Neiwan: the high-speed rail is ideal, as the Neiwan Line trains stop at Liujia station, right next to the HSR station.

From the HSR station to the city

Walk across to the Taiwan Railway’s Liujia station, next to the HSR station, and take a local train to Hsinchu Station. Trains run about every 30 minutes to an hour, and the trip takes about 20 minutes. A taxi takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Plan 1: the old city and the coast

1. Take a morning train to Hsinchu Station.
2. Walk to the East Gate and follow the moat park.
3. Visit the City God Temple and have lunch at its stalls.
4. Spend the afternoon in Hsinchu Park, or take a taxi to Nanliao Harbour for the coast and the sunset.
5. Take an evening train back to Taipei.

Our one-day Hsinchu itinerary has the details.

Plan 2: Neiwan

1. Take the high-speed rail to Hsinchu and walk across to Liujia station.
2. Take the Neiwan Line into the hills, changing trains if needed.
3. Explore Neiwan Old Street, eat Hakka snacks and cross the suspension bridge.
4. Ride back down the line and take the high-speed rail to Taipei.

To add Beipu, you need a car, a taxi for the day or a tour. Read our guide to Neiwan and Beipu.

Tickets

• High-speed rail: book online or at the station. Non-reserved cars are cheaper and fine outside rush hours, but reserve a seat at weekends.
• Regular trains: tap in and out with an EasyCard on most trains. Express trains may need a ticket with a seat.
• Passes: visitors can buy discounted high-speed rail passes, which can be worth it if you plan several long trips.

Tips

• Avoid Friday evening and Sunday afternoon, when trains are packed with weekend travellers.
• Check the last train back, especially on the Neiwan Line.
• If you want to see more, stay a night. See where to stay.