THSR Schedule & Timetable Guide: First & Last Trains, North–South Travel Times Made Simple

Riding the THSR between northern and southern Taiwan is the top choice for many travelers and commuters. But have you ever found yourself rushing to the station, unsure when the last train departs? Or planning a day trip but confused about travel times between stations? Maybe you’ve stood on the platform wondering whether to hop on this train or wait for the next one.

This guide covers everything — from “how to check the timetable” to “first and last train info,” “north–south travel time comparisons,” and “train frequency analysis.” Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a daily commuter, this guide will help you master THSR schedules and plan your trips with confidence.

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How to Check the Timetable: 5 Ways to Find Train Info Fast

There are multiple ways to check THSR timetables. Here are the 5 most practical options so you can always find the schedule you need.

1. THSR Official Website (Most Up-to-Date)

The THSR official site offers the most complete timetable search. Go to the “Timetable & Fare Search” page, enter your departure and arrival stations, date, and time, and the system will show all matching trains, arrival times, and fares.

Website: https://www.thsrc.com.tw/ArticleContent/a3b630bb-1066-4352-a1ef-58c7b4e8ef7c

Steps:

• Select “One-Way” or “Round Trip”
• Choose departure and arrival stations (12 stations available)
• Enter departure date and time
• Click “Search” to see the full train list

2. T-EX Mobile Ticketing App (Best for Mobile)

The “THSR T-EX Mobile Ticketing” app is the best choice for smartphone users. Besides checking schedules, you can book, pay, and pick up tickets all in one place. The built-in timetable search syncs with the official site for real-time updates.

Features:

• Real-time train search with fare display
• Online booking and e-ticket pickup
• Personalized favorite station settings
• Train status and delay notifications

3. Third-Party Schedule Websites (User-Friendly)

Beyond the official site, several third-party websites offer THSR timetable searches with cleaner interfaces. For example, “Taiwan Helper” (taiwanhelper.com/thsr) provides complete northbound and southbound schedules plus first and last train times for each station — great for quick browsing.

4. On-Site at the Station (Most Direct)

Once you arrive at a THSR station, check schedules through:

• Platform screens: display upcoming departures and stops
• Ticket hall electronic boards: show all trains for the day
• Ticket vending machines: search schedules and buy tickets
• Service counters: staff can help with specific train info

5. Customer Service Hotline (When You Need Help)

For special situations or assistance, call the THSR customer service hotline:

• 24-hour hotline: (02) 4066-3000
• AICS Digital Customer Service: chat online via the website or app

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First & Last Train Information: Terminal Station Times at a Glance

Knowing the first and last train times is key to planning your trip. Here are the schedules for all major stations so you never miss a train.

Southbound (Nangang → Zuoying)

Station	First Train	Last Train	Notes
Nangang	06:15	22:25	Southbound terminus start
Taipei	06:25	22:35	Busiest station
Banqiao	06:33	22:43
Taoyuan	06:45	22:55
Hsinchu	06:55	23:05
Miaoli	07:05	23:15
Taichung	07:20	23:30	Central-south hub
Changhua	07:32	23:42
Yunlin	07:42	23:52
Chiayi	07:55	00:05
Tainan	08:10	00:20
Zuoying	08:25	00:35	Southbound terminus

Northbound (Zuoying → Nangang)

Station	First Train	Last Train	Notes
Zuoying	05:50	22:10	Northbound terminus start
Tainan	06:05	22:25
Chiayi	06:20	22:40
Yunlin	06:32	22:52
Changhua	06:42	23:02
Taichung	06:55	23:15	Central-south hub
Miaoli	07:10	23:30
Hsinchu	07:20	23:40
Taoyuan	07:30	23:50
Banqiao	07:45	00:05
Taipei	07:55	00:15	Busiest station
Nangang	08:05	00:25	Northbound terminus

Important note: Times above are reference values from the standard timetable. Actual times may vary by train type (express, all-stop). Always check the official site or app for real-time info before traveling.

Holiday Special Services

During Chinese New Year, Qingming Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and other long weekends, THSR typically adds extra holiday trains. First trains may run as early as 05:30, and last trains may extend past 01:00. Always check the holiday schedule before traveling during these periods.

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North–South Travel Time Comparison: How Long from Nangang to Zuoying?

The THSR line spans about 350 km with a maximum operating speed of 300 km/h. Travel times vary significantly depending on how many stops a train makes. Below are travel times for key segments to help you plan accurately.

Express Train Travel Times (Fewest Stops)

Express trains stop only at major stations — the top choice for long-distance travelers.

Segment	Travel Time	Stops
Nangang → Zuoying	1 hr 45 min	Nangang, Taipei, Banqiao, Taichung, Tainan, Zuoying
Taipei → Zuoying	1 hr 35 min	Taipei, Banqiao, Taichung, Tainan, Zuoying
Taipei → Tainan	1 hr 23 min	Taipei, Banqiao, Tainan
Taipei → Taichung	1 hr 03 min	Taipei, Banqiao, Taichung
Nangang → Taichung	1 hr 15 min	Nangang, Taipei, Banqiao, Taichung

All-Stop Train Travel Times (Every Station)

All-stop trains call at every one of the 12 stations, ideal for short-distance travelers.

Segment	Travel Time	Stops
Nangang → Zuoying	1 hr 52 min	All 12 stations
Taipei → Zuoying	1 hr 42 min	All 12 stations
Taipei → Tainan	1 hr 30 min	All 11 stations
Taipei → Taichung	1 hr 10 min	All 8 stations
Nangang → Taichung	1 hr 20 min	All 8 stations

Semi-Express Train Travel Times (Selective Stops)

Semi-express trains fall between express and all-stop services, calling at specific station combinations.

Segment	Travel Time	Notes
Taipei → Taoyuan	20 min	Northern short commute
Taipei → Hsinchu	35 min	Hsinchu Science Park commuter favorite
Taichung → Tainan	30 min	Central-south travel
Tainan → Zuoying	15 min	Southern short hop
Taipei → Chiayi	1 hr 20 min	Central-south tourism

Tip: For the same Taipei–Kaohsiung route, the time difference between express and all-stop trains can be 10–15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, choose an express train.

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Train Frequency & Peak/Off-Peak: When Is the Best Time to Ride?

Understanding train frequency helps you avoid crowds and enjoy a more comfortable trip.

Peak Hours (Book Ahead Recommended)

Peak-hour trains are often full. Book reserved seats early or avoid these times if possible.

Weekday Peaks:

• 07:00–09:00: morning commute — Taipei, Banqiao, Taoyuan, Hsinchu stations are busiest
• 17:00–19:00: evening commute — busy in both directions

Weekend Peaks:

• 08:00–10:00: travelers heading north
• 15:00–18:00: travelers heading south returning home
• First and last days of long weekends: crowded all day

Train frequency: peak hours average 8–12 trains per hour (one every 5–8 minutes).

Off-Peak Hours (Easier to Find Non-Reserved Seats)

Off-peak trains are less crowded for a more comfortable ride.

Weekday Off-Peak:

• 09:00–16:00: morning trains are relatively empty
• 19:00–21:00: evening trains are less crowded

Weekend Off-Peak:

• 06:00–08:00: the early bird catches the empty train
• 12:00–14:00: fewer passengers during lunch hours

Train frequency: off-peak hours average 4–6 trains per hour (one every 10–15 minutes).

Late-Night Service (Around Last Train)

Late-night service (after 21:00) gradually decreases, but there are still enough trains for late returnees.

• 21:00–22:00: about 3–4 trains per hour
• 22:00–23:00: about 2–3 trains per hour
• After 23:00: only a few extra trains remain

Advice: If you must catch a train near the last departure, check the day’s schedule in advance to avoid delays from reduced frequency.

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Timetable Tips: Make Your THSR Trip Smoother

Master these practical tips for a hassle-free THSR experience.

1. Use Express and Semi-Express Trains Strategically

Since February 2026, THSR has implemented a new scheduling strategy that strengthens the distinction between express and semi-express trains:

• Express trains: fewer stops, faster — ideal for long-distance travelers (Taipei to Kaohsiung, Tainan)
• Semi-express trains: more stops, more spacious cars — suitable for short-distance commuters (Taipei to Taoyuan, Hsinchu)
• All-stop trains: stop at every station — best for passengers heading to intermediate stations

2. Book Early to Secure Your Seat

• Early bird tickets: book 5–28 days ahead for 65%–90% off
• Reserved seats: always pre-book during peak times
• Non-reserved seats: consider during off-peak for flexibility, but expect queues

3. Watch for Stop Differences

Different trains make different stops — always check before booking:

• Express trains may skip intermediate stations (e.g., Miaoli, Changhua, Yunlin)
• Some trains may skip certain stations (e.g., Banqiao, Taoyuan)
• The booking system shows detailed stop info for each train

4. Use Real-Time Updates

• Train status: the official site and app provide real-time train location and punctuality info
• Delay updates: weather or equipment issues trigger instant notifications
• Seat availability: check remaining non-reserved seat counts for each train

5. Plan Your Transfer

THSR stations generally offer convenient transfer options:

• Taipei Station: connect to MRT (Tamsui-Xinyi Line, Bannan Line) and TRA
• Taichung Station: connect to TRA Xinwuri Station and Taichung MRT
• Zuoying Station: connect to TRA Xinzuoying Station and Kaohsiung MRT
• Taoyuan Station: connect to Taoyuan Metro (Airport Line)

Allow at least 15–20 minutes for transfers, especially at unfamiliar stations.

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FAQ

Q: What time is the last THSR train? A: The last train from Nangang is around 22:25, and from Zuoying around 22:10. Actual times vary by train type — check the official site to confirm.

Q: What time is the first THSR train? A: The first train from Nangang is around 06:15, and from Zuoying around 05:50. Holiday schedules may run earlier.

Q: How long does Taipei to Kaohsiung take? A: Express trains take about 1 hour 35 minutes; all-stop trains take about 1 hour 42 minutes.

Q: When is THSR least crowded? A: Weekday mornings 09:00–16:00 and evenings 19:00–21:00 are the least busy.

Q: Can I buy non-reserved seat tickets at the station? A: Yes, but avoid peak hours to skip long queues and ensure you get a seat.

Q: Does THSR run overnight trains? A: Late-night service is available but limited. Check the schedule in advance if you plan to travel late.

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Summary: Master the Schedule, Enjoy a Stress-Free THSR Ride

THSR is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between northern and southern Taiwan. Once you know how to check the timetable, understand first and last train times, recognize travel time differences, and gauge train frequency, you can plan your trips with precision, avoid crowds, and enjoy a smooth ride.

Build these habits:

• Check the real-time schedule before heading out — confirm your train and stops
• Book tickets in advance, especially during peak times and for long-distance routes
• Use the app to track train status and seat availability
• Allow transfer time so you never miss your connection

Master these tips and your THSR journey — whether for business or leisure — will be smoother and more enjoyable!

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Source: Taiwan High-Speed Rail official website (www.thsrc.com.tw). Timetable and fare information is subject to the latest official announcements.