Yilan is easily accessible from Taipei, with several convenient transportation options including the train, long-distance buses, and car (via National Highway No. 5). Travel time from Taipei for each of these options is typically one to one-and-a-half hours. Within Yilan County, travelers can continue their onward journey to the county’s townships and attractions using local buses, taxis, or a rental car. You may use the overview of available travel options below to plan the perfect, carefree trip.
Taipei to Yilan
1. Train (Taiwan Rail)
The easiest way to travel from Taipei to Yilan is to catch a Taiwan Railway (TRA) train. Commuter trains departing from Taipei Main Station, Songshan, Nangang, and Banqiao take about 1.5 hours to reach Yilan destinations, while Puyuma Express and Tze-Chiang Limited Express trains cover the distance in around one hour. Tickets tend to sell out quickly during peak travel seasons, so reservations made 1–2 weeks before travel are recommended.
- Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA): https://tip.railway.gov.tw/tra-tip-web/tip?lang=EN_US
- Departure stations: Taipei Main / Songshan / Nangang / Banqiao
- Arrival stations: Yilan / Luodong
- Recommended trains: Puyuma Express / Taroko Express (Tze-Chiang Limited Express is the fastest)
- Travel time: approximately 1 hour 5 minutes to 1.5 hours
- Ticket price: NT$140–200 (varies by train type)
2. Inter-City Bus
Several long-distance bus companies, including Kavalan, Kuo-Kuang, and Capital, operate direct routes from Taipei to Yilan. Major boarding points include Taipei Bus Station, Taipei City Hall, Nangang Exhibition Center, and Banqiao. Buses depart every 15–30 minutes, and travel times range from about 55 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and route. Some bus routes stop in Jiaoxi before reaching Yilan City. Kavalan 1916 and Capital 1571 take faster, direct routes to Yilan City.
- Travel time: approximately 55 minutes to 1.5 hours
- Ticket price: around NT$120–150 (EasyCard or cash accepted)
| Bus Company | Pick-up Locations | Bus No. |
|---|---|---|
| Kamalan Bus |
|
1915, 1916, 1917 |
| Capital Bus |
|
1570, 1571, 1572 |
| Kuo-Kuang Bus |
|
1877, 1878, 1878B, 1879, 1879A, 1881A |
3. Car
Driving or hiring a car to Yilan is also a popular and easy option, especially for families and groups of friends. Take National Highway No. 5 and exit at Yilan City after passing through Hsuehshan Tunnel. In normal traffic, the Taipei-to-Yilan journey should take about one hour. Making the journey in a passenger vehicle lets you stop at popular attractions along the way such as Pinglin Rest Stop and Jiaoxi and enjoy a relaxing and carefree trip overall.
- Route: Take National Highway No. 5 through the Hsuehshan Tunnel
- Time: approximately 1 hour in normal traffic
- App recommendation: use a Google Maps–enabled navigation device
Transportation Within Yilan County
1. e-Land Bus
Yilan’s e-Land Bus system provides convenient public transportation connecting major townships and tourist attractions. Take e-Land buses to travel through Yilan City, Luodong, Jiaoxi, Wujie, Dongshan, and Su’ao, with stops at scenic spots, cultural sites, and train stations. Updated timetables and route information may be found on e-Land’s official website: https://e-landbus.tw/eLandBus/
2. Taxi Services
Taxis are available throughout Yilan County, especially near train stations, popular attractions, and town centers. They are a practical option for travelers heading to rural areas, hillside locations, or destinations with limited bus service. Taxis may be hailed curbside, booked by phone, or arranged by your hotelier, hostel, or B&B.