Domestic Flights

Taiwan’s small size means flights rarely make sense for most travellers, but specific routes justify flying.

Island destinations: Regular flights connect Taiwan proper to offshore islands: Kinmen, Matsu, Penghu, Lanyu, and Green Island. Reaching these islands otherwise involves lengthy ferry journeys, which are sometimes weather-dependent or uncomfortable in rough seas. Flying saves considerable time and avoids seasickness.

Domestic routes: Taipei’s domestic flights leave from Songshan Airport rather than Taoyuan. The network has contracted sharply since the HSR opened and is still shrinking, so check current schedules first. Where flying still earns its cost is the east coast and the offshore islands: Taipei to Taitung takes 3-4 hours by train but about an hour in the air, before airport time is added. Since the HSR opened, it has largely displaced domestic flights along the west coast.

Ferries: Reaching Taiwan’s Islands

Taiwan’s identity extends beyond the main island to several inhabited outlying islands, each accessible by ferry and offering distinct experiences. If visiting outlying islands, ferries become essential unless flying. For mainland Taiwan, ferries aren’t part of standard transport, except for short crossings like Cijin Island from Kaohsiung or Tamsui-Bali ferry near Taipei.

Major ferry routes: The most common ferry journeys connect:

• Kaohsiung to Penghu (4 hours)
• Budai (Chiayi County) to Penghu (90 minutes)
• Taitung to Green Island (50 minutes) and Lanyu (2-3 hours)
• Keelung to Matsu islands (8-10 hours overnight)

Ferry schedules vary seasonally, with more frequent services during summer tourism peak. Winter services reduce dramatically because of rough seas, and some routes are suspended entirely during typhoons or high winds.

You can book ferries online through operator websites or at ports on the day, though popular dates sell out quickly. Bring identification (passport) for check-in. Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.

Ferry comfort levels vary enormously. Large vessels to Penghu and Matsu have cabin classes (business, economy) with seats or bunks. Smaller boats to Green Island and Lanyu provide basic seating. Seasickness is common in rough seas; take medication beforehand if you are susceptible. Some ferries have outdoor decks; fresh air helps queasy stomachs.