Riding the Bullet Train in Taiwan

I’ve been on many trains and trams over the years, but have never had the chance to ride a high speed bullet train. I was excited when I found out the best way to get from the airport to where we were staying was by taking a bus and then a high speed bullet train.

The station in Taipei is not that much different than normal train and subway stations in Europe. The train cars are very spacious and had plenty of room for us and our rolling luggage and back day packs. After the doors closed, the train began its slow acceleration. I had thought the train would accelerate quickly pushing you back into the seats much like an airplane at takeoff, however, the acceleration seemed very slow making me temporarily doubt if this really was a bullet train. However, after about ten minutes it became clear by looking out the window that the train was really moving along quickly. I don’t know our exact speed, but after 10 minutes I would guess the train had reached speeds of well over 100 mph. The ride was silky smooth with only the smallest of clicks and bumps as it sped down the tracks. The passenger windows were large and gave a great view of the surrounding area. The only disturbing part for me was looking at the ground closer to the train which was moving by at an almost terrifying pace.

The total cost for our 25 minute journey was 125 Taiwanese dollars (about $4 USA).