Kaohsiung Airport to City Centre: Best Ways to Get There (Complete 2026 Guide)

If Kaohsiung is your first stop in southern Taiwan, figuring out how to get from Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) to the city centre is one of the first things you'll need to sort out. The good news? Kaohsiung is genuinely one of the easiest cities in Asia to navigate, even if you don't speak a word of Mandarin or can't read Chinese characters.

This comprehensive guide breaks down every realistic way to get from Kaohsiung Airport to the city centre—including costs, exact travel times, step-by-step instructions, and which option makes the most sense depending on how you're traveling, what time you're arriving, and where you're staying. It's written for first-time visitors to Taiwan, short-stay travelers, digital nomads, families with kids, and anyone landing in Kaohsiung who wants to get moving quickly without stress or confusion.

We'll also share practical local tips, what to do once you arrive, and how to actually experience Kaohsiung beyond just getting from point A to point B.

Understanding Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)

Kaohsiung International Airport, also called Kaohsiung Siaogang Airport, is Taiwan's second-largest international airport and the main gateway to southern Taiwan. Unlike many major Asian cities where airports sit an hour outside the city, KHH is remarkably close to everything.

Location and Distance

The airport is located about 8-10 kilometers south of Kaohsiung's main city areas in Siaogang District. This proximity means you can be exploring Kaohsiung's famous night markets, waterfront, or art districts within 15-30 minutes of landing—seriously.

What Makes KHH Special

Kaohsiung Airport is small, modern, colorful, and efficient. It's not overwhelming like Bangkok or Seoul—you can walk from your arrival gate to the MRT station in under 5 minutes. The people working here (like everywhere in Taiwan) are incredibly friendly and helpful, even if language barriers exist.

The airport offers everything you need: free WiFi, ATMs with no commission fees, currency exchange counters, telecom counters for SIM cards, duty-free shops, restaurants, and a tourist information center that actually provides useful information.

Popular Kaohsiung Destinations from the Airport

Most travelers head to these areas first:

• Formosa Boulevard (美麗島站): Kaohsiung's central transport hub with the famous Dome of Light, connects to both MRT lines
• Liuhe Night Market (六合夜市): One of Taiwan's most famous night markets, walking distance from Formosa Boulevard
• Love River (愛河): Romantic waterfront area perfect for evening strolls
• Pier-2 Art Center (駁二藝術特區): Kaohsiung's creative district with galleries, shops, and cafés
• Kaohsiung Main Station (高雄車站): For onward travel by regular train
• Zuoying Station (左營站): For Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) connections
• Sizihwan/Hamasen: Scenic harbor area with sunset views

Depending on where you're staying, travel time from Kaohsiung Airport can be as short as 15 minutes—no exaggeration.

At-a-Glance: Kaohsiung Airport to City Centre Transport Options

Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

Transport OptionTravel TimeCost (Approx.)FrequencyBest ForMRT Red Line15-25 minNT$30-50 (~US$1-1.50)Every 4-8 minMost travelers, solo, couples, budgetTaxi20-30 minNT$250-400 (~US$8-13)Always availableLate arrivals, heavy luggage, groupsUber/Ride-hailing20-30 minNT$300-450 (~US$10-15)On-demandApp users, non-Chinese speakersPrivate Transfer25-35 minNT$1000-1500+ (~US$32-48)Pre-bookedFamilies, groups, direct hotel transferBus to Kenting2-2.5 hoursNT$350-450 (~US$11-15)Limited scheduleGoing directly to Kenting

For 90% of visitors, the MRT is unquestionably the fastest, cheapest, most convenient, and simplest option. Let's break down why—and when the other options make sense.

Option 1: Kaohsiung MRT (Metro) – The Best Choice for

Most Travelers

Why the Kaohsiung MRT is Incredibly Easy

Taiwan's public transportation is world-class, and Kaohsiung's MRT system is clean, modern, safe, efficient, and ridiculously easy to navigate even if you've never been to Asia before. The airport sits directly on the Red Line (R4 Station), which runs north-south through the entire city.

You don't need to leave the terminal building, navigate confusing exits, cross busy roads, or figure out bus stops. You literally walk from the arrivals hall directly into the MRT station underground—it's about a 2-minute walk with clear English signage the entire way.

How to Take the MRT from Kaohsiung Airport (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Exit Customs and Collect Luggage After passing through immigration and collecting your bags, you'll enter the arrivals hall.

Step 2: Optional Stops in Arrivals Hall

• SIM Card: If you need a Taiwan SIM card (highly recommended), telecom counters are on your left as you enter arrivals. Options include Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone. Expect to pay NT$300-500 for 3-7 days of unlimited data.
• Currency Exchange: If you need Taiwan dollars (NT$), there are exchange counters and ATMs in the arrivals hall. ATMs typically offer better rates than exchange counters.
• Tourist Information: The tourist service center can provide maps and basic information.

Step 3: Follow MRT Signs Look for clear signs saying "MRT" or "Metro" (with the red "M" logo). Turn left as you exit arrivals and walk toward the elevator/escalator area. You'll see signs pointing you downstairs.

Step 4: Take Elevator/Escalator Down Head down one level to the MRT station. There are elevators if you have heavy luggage or accessibility needs.

Step 5: Purchase Ticket or Use Transit Card You have two options:

Option A: Single-Journey Token (for one-time use)

• Approach the ticket vending machines
• Select English language option (top right of screen)
• Choose your destination station or select fare amount
• Pay with cash (machines accept NT$10, NT$50, NT$100, NT$500 bills and coins)
• Receive a plastic token (looks like a poker chip)
• Keep this token—you'll need it to exit at your destination

Option B: EasyCard or iPASS Card (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

• Purchase at the airport MRT service counter or convenience store
• EasyCard costs NT$100 (this is a deposit, refundable when you return the card)
• Load credit onto the card (NT$100-500 to start)
• Tap the card on readers to enter and exit—no need to buy individual tickets
• Get automatic discounts on all public transport (about 20% off)
• Can also be used on buses, ferries, YouBikes, and even at 7-Eleven and FamilyMart convenience stores throughout Taiwan

Pro tip: If you're staying in Taiwan more than one day, absolutely get an EasyCard. It saves time, money, and eliminates the need to figure out fares every time you travel.

Step 6: Enter Through Turnstiles

• Insert your token into the slot (it will be retained temporarily) OR tap your EasyCard on the reader
• Gates open automatically
• Proceed to Platform 2 (northbound trains toward Gangshan South)

Step 7: Board the Red Line Train

• Trains arrive every 4-6 minutes during peak hours (roughly 7am-9am and 5pm-8pm)
• Every 6-8 minutes during off-peak times
• All trains heading north from the airport go to the city centre
• Trains are clearly labeled in English
• Digital displays show the next station
• Announcements are in Mandarin and English

Step 8: Ride to Your Destination Common stops and travel times from the airport:

• R6 Kaohsiung Arena (巨蛋站): 11 minutes
• R8 Sanduo Shopping District (三多商圈站): 13 minutes
• R9 Central Park (中央公園站): 14 minutes
• R10 Formosa Boulevard (美麗島站): 15 minutes
• R11 Kaohsiung Main Station (高雄車站): 17 minutes
• R14 Kaohsiung HSR Zuoying Station (左營站): 24 minutes

Step 9: Exit at Your Station

• Insert your token into the exit turnstile (it will be collected) OR tap your EasyCard
• Follow signs to the exit number closest to your hotel/destination
• Most stations have multiple exits—check which is closest to where you're going

MRT Operating Hours

• First train from airport: Around 5:56am (weekdays and weekends)
• Last train from airport: Around 12:02am (midnight)
• If arriving on a late flight after midnight, you'll need a taxi or ride-hailing app

Luggage on the Kaohsiung MRT

• Large suitcases are completely allowed and very common
• Trains have designated luggage areas near doors
• Avoid peak commuter hours (8-9:30am and 5-7pm weekdays) if possible—trains get crowded with office workers
• All stations have elevators for accessibility
• Escalators and stairs are also available

Transferring to the Orange or Green Line

If your hotel is on a different MRT line:

Orange Line Transfer: Change at Formosa Boulevard Station (O5/R10)—the two lines cross here. Simply follow signs for the Orange Line platform.

Green Line (Light Rail) Transfer: The circular Light Rail connects to the MRT at several stations. Most visitors don't need it for airport transfers.

Cost Breakdown

• Formosa Boulevard: NT$30 (about US$1)
• Kaohsiung Main Station: NT$35
• Zuoying Station (HSR): NT$40-50

Seriously—you can get from the airport to the city centre for one US dollar. This is why the MRT is so popular.

Why We Love the Kaohsiung MRT

Beyond being cheap and fast, the MRT offers:

• Air conditioning (crucial in Taiwan's hot, humid weather)
• Cleanliness (eating, drinking, and smoking are strictly prohibited)
• Safety (Taiwan has extremely low crime rates)
• Free WiFi at many stations
• English signage and announcements
• Punctuality (trains run exactly on schedule)

Bottom line: If you're arriving during MRT operating hours (6am-midnight), have reasonable luggage, and want the quickest way into Kaohsiung, take the MRT. It's that simple.

Option 2: Taxi from Kaohsiung Airport to City Centre

Kaohsiung taxis are well-regulated, safe, and readily available outside both terminals.

Finding a Taxi at Kaohsiung Airport

Taxi Rank Location: Directly outside the arrivals hall—you literally can't miss it. There's a clearly marked taxi queue with airport staff managing the line during busy periods.

Taxi Appearance: Official airport taxis are yellow and have clear identification. Look for the taximeter inside.

What to Expect

• Drivers use meters: This is legally required and strictly enforced at the airport
• Language barrier: Many drivers speak limited or no English, though some drivers know basic phrases
• Cash preferred: Most taxis accept cash only, though some newer vehicles have card payment options
• International terminal fee: A legal NT$50 surcharge applies for pickups from the international terminal
• No need to tip: Tipping is not expected in Taiwan

Kaohsiung Airport Taxi Costs

• To Formosa Boulevard/Liuhe Night Market area: NT$250-300 (US$8-10)
• To Kaohsiung Main Station: NT$280-320 (US$9-10)
• To Zuoying (HSR area): NT$350-400 (US$11-13)
• To Pier-2 Art Center area: NT$300-350 (US$10-11)

Travel time: 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and exact destination

When a Taxi Makes Sense

Taxis are worth the extra cost if:

• You're arriving late at night after MRT closes (after midnight)
• You have multiple large or heavy suitcases and don't want to navigate MRT stairs
• You're traveling as a group of 3-4 people (split cost makes it reasonable)
• Your hotel is not near an MRT station
• You're exhausted from a long flight and just want door-to-door convenience
• You have young children and all the related gear

Communication Tips

• Have your destination written in Chinese: Show the driver your hotel address in Chinese characters (your booking confirmation usually has this)
• Use Google Maps: Open your destination in Google Maps and show the driver
• Translation apps: Papago or Google Translate can help with basic communication

Safety and Quality

Taiwan taxis are generally very honest. Scams are extremely rare, especially with official airport taxis. If you experience any issues:

• Note the taxi number (displayed inside and outside the vehicle)
• Taxi drivers fear complaints to airport authorities
• Contact the airport complaint line if needed (though this is rarely necessary)

Complaints can be filed for: refusing passengers, unclean vehicles, taking unnecessarily long routes, poor service, or any violation of regulations.

Option 3: Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber and Local Apps)

Uber operates in Kaohsiung and is popular with both locals and travelers who prefer app-based transportation.

How to Use Uber from Kaohsiung Airport

Step 1: Download the Uber app before your trip and set up payment

Step 2: After collecting luggage, request a ride using the app

Step 3: The pickup location is usually in the parking lot across from the terminal building—the app will show you exactly where

Step 4: Walk outside the terminal, cross the street to the designated parking area

Step 5: Meet your driver at the specified location

Pros of Ride-Hailing

• No language barrier: Everything happens through the app in English
• Clear pricing: You see the fare before accepting
• Cashless payment: Charged to your credit card automatically
• Driver rating system: Quality control through reviews
• GPS tracking: You can share your trip with friends/family for safety

Cons of Ride-Hailing

• Slightly more expensive than regular taxis: Usually NT$300-450 to the city centre
• Pickup requires a short walk: You need to exit the terminal and cross to the parking area
• Surge pricing: During peak times or bad weather, prices can increase
• Availability varies: Not always as many drivers as traditional taxis

When Ride-Hailing Makes Sense

• You're comfortable with apps and prefer cashless payment
• You don't speak Mandarin and want to avoid communication issues
• You're okay paying a bit more for convenience and clarity
• You want a record of your trip for expense reports

Option 4: Private Airport Transfer Service

Pre-booked private transfers offer maximum convenience at maximum cost.

What Is a Private Transfer?

A dedicated driver waits for you at arrivals holding a sign with your name, helps with luggage, and drives you directly to your hotel door in a private vehicle.

How to Book

Book through:

• Your hotel (many offer transfer services)
• Online platforms like Klook, KKday, or dedicated transfer companies
• Travel agencies

Book at least 2-3 days in advance, providing your flight details and hotel address.

Costs

• Airport to city centre: NT$1000-1500 (US$32-48)
• Airport to Kenting: NT$2500-3500 (US$80-110)
• Airport to Tainan: NT$1800-2500 (US$58-80)

Prices vary based on:

• Vehicle size (sedan, van, luxury vehicle)
• Time of day (night surcharges may apply)
• Distance
• Special requests (child seats, extra luggage space)

What's Included

• Driver waiting at arrivals (even if flight is delayed)
• Help with luggage
• Door-to-door service
• English-speaking driver (usually, but confirm when booking)
• Fixed price (no meter, no surprises)

When Private Transfers Make Sense

• Families with young children: Car seats can be arranged, no hassle with public transport
• Large groups (4+ people): Splitting the cost among several people makes it reasonable
• Elderly travelers or those with mobility issues
• Very late or very early arrivals: Peace of mind knowing someone will be waiting
• Business travelers: Efficiency and comfort justify the cost
• Traveling beyond Kaohsiung: If heading directly to Kenting, Tainan, or elsewhere, a private transfer can be more convenient than public transport

Option 5: Bus from Kaohsiung Airport

Buses do operate from the airport, but they're not the most practical option for most city-bound travelers.

Why Buses Are Less Popular for City Centre

• Limited routes: Only a few bus lines serve the airport
• Longer travel time: 40-60 minutes to the city centre due to multiple stops
• Less luggage-friendly: Buses can get crowded
• Harder to navigate: Understanding bus routes and stops requires more local knowledge

When Buses Make Sense

Route 9117/9117A/9117B: Kaohsiung Airport to Kenting

This is the main useful bus route from the airport—a direct service to Kenting National Park in the south.

Details:

• Cost: NT$350-450 (US$11-15)
• Travel time: 2-2.5 hours
• Ticket purchase: Pingtung Bus counter in international arrivals hall near Gate 5
• Schedule: Limited departures (check current timetable)
• Best for: Budget travelers heading directly to Kenting without staying in Kaohsiung

Other city buses: Exist but are impractical when the MRT is faster, cheaper, and more direct.

Our Recommendation

Unless you're going directly to Kenting on a tight budget, skip the bus and take the MRT for getting to Kaohsiung city centre. It's faster, easier, and actually costs less.

Where Should You Stay in Kaohsiung?

If you're still deciding where to base yourself in Kaohsiung, these neighborhoods are popular with travelers and all easily accessible from the airport via MRT:

Formosa Boulevard / Liuhe Night Market Area

Best for: First-time visitors, nightlife, central location

Why stay here:

• Formosa Boulevard Station (R10/O5): Central hub where Red and Orange Lines meet
• Walking distance to Liuhe Night Market—one of Taiwan's most famous night markets
• Easy access to both MRT lines
• Lots of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in all price ranges
• Close to Love River

From airport: 15 minutes via MRT Red Line

Yancheng District / Pier-2 Art Center Area

Best for: Creative travelers, waterfront lovers, younger crowd

Why stay here:

• Near Pier-2 Art Center (駁二藝術特區)—Kaohsiung's coolest neighborhood with galleries, indie shops, cafés, and street art
• Waterfront location with harbor views
• Trendy restaurants and bars
• More relaxed, less touristy vibe
• Good for walking and cycling

From airport: 15-20 minutes via MRT to Yanchengpu Station (O2)

Zuoying Area

Best for: Onward travel, families, quieter stay

Why stay here:

• Next to Zuoying High-Speed Rail (HSR) Station—perfect if continuing to other Taiwan cities
• Near Lotus Pond (蓮池潭)—scenic area with temples and pagodas
• More residential, quieter than downtown
• Good hotel values
• Easy access to the famous Original Zuoying Yaki Mein (劉家酸菜白肉鍋) restaurant

From airport: 24 minutes via MRT Red Line direct

Sizihwan / Hamasen (Hamaxing)

Best for: Sunset views, seafood, romantic atmosphere

Why stay here:

• Beautiful harbor area
• Sizihwan Beach for sunset watching
• Hamasen Railway Park and historic British Consulate
• Fresh seafood restaurants
• More upscale, relaxed vibe
• Slightly farther from city centre but very accessible via Orange Line

From airport: Transfer at Formosa Boulevard, about 25-30 minutes total

Pro tip: All these areas are on the MRT system, making them easy to reach from the airport and easy to explore from. Choose based on your interests rather than worrying about transportation—Kaohsiung's MRT makes everywhere accessible.

First-Time Tips for Arriving in Kaohsiung

Before You Land

• Download essential apps: Google Maps (works perfectly in Taiwan), Google Translate or Papago (for Chinese translation)
• Know your hotel address in Chinese: Screenshot it or save it offline
• Check MRT operating hours: If arriving after midnight, plan for taxi/Uber
• Consider pre-booking a Taiwan SIM card: Available online for airport pickup, or buy at airport counters

At the Airport

• Free WiFi is available: Connect before leaving the terminal if you need to contact your hotel or check directions
• ATMs are readily available: International cards work at most ATMs with no Kaohsiung airport-specific surcharges (your home bank may charge fees)
• Currency exchange: Available but ATMs typically offer better rates
• English signage is everywhere: Airport, MRT, and major stations all have clear English
• Taiwan is cash-based: While cards work in hotels and larger restaurants, many small shops, night markets, and local eateries only accept cash

Cultural Notes

• Taiwan is incredibly safe: Even at night, even for solo travelers
• People are helpful: If you look lost, locals often approach to offer help (many young Taiwanese speak English)
• Cleanliness matters: Taiwan is very clean; dispose of trash properly
• No tipping culture: Tipping is not expected or practiced in Taiwan
• Public transport etiquette: Queue orderly, let passengers exit before boarding, offer seats to elderly/pregnant people, no eating/drinking on MRT

Language Barrier Reality Check

Good news: You can absolutely navigate Kaohsiung without knowing Mandarin.

• MRT announcements are bilingual (Mandarin and English)
• Station names displayed in English and Chinese
• Many convenience store and restaurant workers speak basic English, especially younger people
• Translation apps work well
• Pointing, smiling, and Google Translate get you surprisingly far

Taiwan ranks as one of the most foreigner-friendly destinations in Asia specifically because of clear English signage and helpful locals.

What to Do After You Arrive in Kaohsiung

Once you've checked into your accommodation, Kaohsiung really opens up—especially when you explore it with someone who actually lives here.

Beyond the Tourist Trail

Sure, you can hit the major attractions—Fo Guang Shan Monastery, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Love River, Liuhe Night Market. But Kaohsiung's real magic lives in its neighborhoods, local food scenes, and everyday rhythms that guidebooks barely mention.

Many travelers prefer experiencing Kaohsiung through:

• Walking residential neighborhoods with a local host who explains how daily life actually works
• Discovering food spots they'd never find on their own—the breakfast stalls locals line up at, the family-run eateries serving authentic Taiwanese comfort food, the hidden dessert shops
• Learning cultural context that transforms random observations into meaningful understanding
• Adjusting plans on the fly based on what interests you most

Experience Kaohsiung With a Local Host

Landing in Kaohsiung is easy—the MRT gets you from airport to city centre in 15 minutes. But truly understanding this laid-back southern Taiwanese city takes local insight.

What's different about exploring with a local host?

Instead of following a rigid tour itinerary, you get:

• A Kaohsiung local who adapts to your interests and energy level
• Insider knowledge about where locals actually eat, shop, and spend time
• Cultural explanations that make the city make sense
• Help navigating Mandarin-only situations
• Flexibility to linger where you're enjoying yourself and skip what doesn't resonate
• Recommendations for the rest of your stay

Whether you're in Kaohsiung for a day, a weekend, or longer, starting with a local-led experience helps you get oriented fast and discover sides of the city tourists typically miss.

👉 Book a Private Walking Tour with a Kaohsiung Local Host and explore the city beyond the guidebooks.

Lokafy connects you with friendly Kaohsiung locals who host personalized, flexible experiences tailored to what you actually want to see and do—not a one-size-fits-all tour script.

Getting from Kaohsiung to Other Taiwan Destinations

Many travelers use Kaohsiung as a base for exploring southern Taiwan. Here's how to reach popular nearby destinations:

Kaohsiung to Tainan

By High-Speed Rail (HSR) from Zuoying Station:

• Travel time: 20 minutes
• Cost: NT$250 (US$8)
• Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes
• Best option: Fastest and most convenient

By Regular Train from Kaohsiung Main Station:

• Travel time: 40-50 minutes
• Cost: NT$120 (US$4)
• Frequency: Frequent departures
• Good for budget travelers: Half the price of HSR

Kaohsiung to Kenting

By Bus (Routes 9117/9188 from Zuoying HSR Station):

• Travel time: 2-2.5 hours
• Cost: NT$350-400 (US$11-13)
• Most popular option: Direct and affordable

By Private Transfer:

• Travel time: 1.5-2 hours
• Cost: NT$2500-3500 (US$80-110)
• Best for families/groups: Door-to-door convenience

Kaohsiung to Taipei

By High-Speed Rail (HSR) from Zuoying Station:

• Travel time: 1.5-2 hours
• Cost: NT$1490-1765 (US$48-57) depending on train type
• Frequency: Every 10-30 minutes
• Recommended: Fast, comfortable, scenic

By Regular Train from Kaohsiung Main Station:

• Travel time: 4-5.5 hours
• Cost: NT$843 (US$27)
• Budget option: Takes longer but costs less

Kaohsiung to Alishan

By Bus:

• Travel time: 3-4 hours
• Cost: NT$450-500 (US$15-16)
• Requires advance booking and planning

Essential Kaohsiung Transportation Apps and Cards

Must-Have Apps

Google Maps: Works perfectly in Taiwan for navigation, public transport directions, and finding restaurants. Offline maps recommended.

MRT Kaohsiung App: Official app with routes, schedules, and fare information (though Google Maps usually suffices)

Uber: For ride-hailing if needed

Papago or Google Translate: For translating Chinese text (especially useful for reading menus)

Essential Transit Cards

EasyCard (悠遊卡):

• Used throughout Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Taipei, other cities)
• Works on MRT, buses, trains, YouBikes, ferries
• Accepted at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, OK Mart)
• Provides discounts on public transport (about 20% off)
• Refundable when you leave Taiwan
• Cost: NT$100 card deposit + credit you load (NT$100-500 to start)

iPASS (一卡通):

• Kaohsiung's local transit card (works similarly to EasyCard)
• Widely accepted in southern Taiwan
• Same benefits as EasyCard
• Choose either one—both work well

MeN Go Card:

• Tourist pass offering 48 hours of unlimited MRT, Light Rail, and bus travel
• Also includes discounts at attractions
• Cost: Around NT$700 (US$23)
• Worth it if: You plan to use public transport extensively over two days

Where to buy: All available at Kaohsiung Airport MRT station service counter, convenience stores, or major MRT stations.

Kaohsiung Transportation FAQs

Is Kaohsiung easy to navigate without knowing Mandarin?

Yes, absolutely. Kaohsiung ranks among the most foreigner-friendly cities in Asia. MRT announcements are bilingual, station names are clearly displayed in English, signs at the airport and major areas have English, and younger Taiwanese often speak conversational English. Translation apps help fill any gaps. You won't feel lost or overwhelmed.

What if my flight arrives after midnight when the MRT is closed?

Take a taxi or book a private transfer. Taxis are always available at the airport 24/7. The cost from airport to city centre runs NT$250-400 (US$8-13), which is reasonable for late-night convenience. Alternatively, book a private transfer in advance so a driver is waiting regardless of your arrival time.

Can I use credit cards on the Kaohsiung MRT?

No, only cash or transit cards (EasyCard/iPASS). Ticket machines accept NT$ bills and coins. This is why getting an EasyCard at the airport is highly recommended—you can load it with credit and use it throughout Taiwan without needing exact change.

Is Kaohsiung Airport far from the city?

No, it's remarkably close. Only 8-10 kilometers from central Kaohsiung, meaning 15-30 minutes travel time depending on your destination and transport method. This proximity is one of Kaohsiung's advantages over cities where airports sit an hour outside town.

Which Kaohsiung MRT station should I go to for the High-Speed Rail to Taipei?

Zuoying Station (左營站) on the Red Line (R16). This is Kaohsiung's HSR station, about 24 minutes from the airport on the MRT Red Line direct (no transfers needed). From here, high-speed trains reach Taipei in 1.5-2 hours.

Can I store luggage at Kaohsiung Airport?

Yes, baggage storage is available. The service is on the third floor of the international terminal. Contact: 07-8063366. Useful if you have a long layover and want to explore the city without your bags.

How do I get from Kaohsiung Airport to Kenting?

Option 1: Direct bus (Routes 9117/9117A/9117B) from the airport to Kenting. Purchase tickets at the Pingtung Bus counter in the international arrivals hall near Gate 5. Travel time: 2-2.5 hours. Cost: NT$350-450.

Option 2: MRT to Zuoying, then bus 9188 to Kenting. Slightly cheaper but requires a transfer.

Option 3: Private transfer (NT$2500-3500) for door-to-door convenience.

Are there YouBikes (bike rental) at Kaohsiung Airport?

Yes. Kaohsiung's YouBike station is located opposite the airport entrance on Zhongshan 4th Road, accessible via pedestrian crossing. However, biking with luggage isn't practical—this is more useful for locals or if you're staying nearby without bags.

Final Thoughts: Getting from Kaohsiung Airport to City Centre Made Simple

For the vast majority of travelers, the Kaohsiung MRT Red Line is unquestionably the best way to get from the airport to the city centre. It's fast (15-25 minutes), cheap (NT$30-50 / US$1-1.50), easy to navigate even if you don't speak Mandarin, and runs frequently from early morning until midnight. The airport station connects directly to the arrivals hall—you literally walk from customs to the platform in under 5 minutes.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer flexibility and door-to-door convenience, especially valuable for late-night arrivals, heavy luggage, or groups. Private transfers suit families and those wanting guaranteed pickup. Buses work mainly for direct trips to Kenting on a budget.

The Real Key to Enjoying Kaohsiung

What matters most is that Kaohsiung makes arrival incredibly easy—possibly the easiest airport-to-city transfer in Asia. Once you're in the city, that's when the real experience begins.

Kaohsiung isn't trying to compete with Taipei's urban energy or Tainan's historical density. This port city offers something different: a more relaxed pace, accessible culture, fantastic food, creative neighborhoods, and genuine friendliness that defines southern Taiwan.

It's a place best experienced slowly, with local insight, and without rushing between checkboxes on a guidebook list.

Start Your Kaohsiung Experience the Right Way

You've figured out how to get from the airport to your hotel. Now what?

The difference between seeing Kaohsiung and truly experiencing it often comes down to having local guidance—someone who can show you the breakfast spots locals line up at (not just the famous ones), explain why certain neighborhoods feel the way they do, and help you understand Taiwanese culture beyond surface observations.

Whether you're in Kaohsiung for 24 hours or a week, spending even a few hours with a local host at the start of your trip helps everything else make more sense.

👉 Explore Kaohsiung with a Local– Book a private walking tour tailored to your interests and pace.

Welcome to Kaohsiung. The MRT will get you here in 15 minutes. The city will make you want to stay longer than you planned. 🌴