THSR's Biggest Schedule Overhaul in 20 Years: Will Fares Rise? Introducing the New 'Super Express' and Additional Trains

The Executive Yuan recently approved the THSR Yilan Extension Project, investing approximately NT$35 billion to extend the line from Nangang to Yilan, spanning about 60.6 kilometers, with completion targeted 11 years after approval. However, the project has drawn criticism over concerns of being an "election perk" or a "cul-de-sac railway." Meanwhile, THSR has procured 12 next-generation N700S-T (N700ST) trains from Japan, with the first set expected to arrive in Taiwan by mid-August this year. As the new trains prepare for service, THSR is initiating its most extensive operational adjustment since opening nearly 20 years ago—adding more peak-hour trains and introducing new stop patterns such as the north-south 'Super Express' and direct services between Yunlin/Chiayi and Taichung/Taipei.

Currently, THSR operates 34 sets of 700T trains. With the 12 N700ST trainsets scheduled to enter service between July 2027 and September 2028, the fleet will expand to 46 sets. This will increase peak-hour train frequency from a maximum of seven to ten trains per hour, boosting overall capacity by approximately 25%, while also enhancing scheduling flexibility.

The first N700ST train has already been completed at Hitachi's Kudamatsu Factory in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, and is scheduled to arrive at Kaohsiung Port on August 15. THSR Chairman Shih Che stated that the goal is to have the new trains enter passenger service by July 1, 2027, following assembly, testing, and obtaining operational permits—marking THSR's official entry into a new era of next-generation train operations.

The Taiwan High Speed Rail N700ST next-generation train officially rolled off the production line on July 30 at Hitachi's Kudamatsu Factory in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. (Photo courtesy of THSRC)

When will THSR fully revise its timetable? Two new types of direct services introduced

In coordination with the phased introduction of new trains, THSR plans to roll out a 'Next-Generation Timetable,' with details to be announced in the fourth quarter of this year and implemented starting early 2027. Subsequent phases will gradually add more services based on train delivery progress. This marks the first large-scale timetable overhaul since the opening of Miaoli, Changhua, and Yunlin stations at the end of 2015. The most notable changes include two new stopping patterns:

'Super Express' service connecting Nangang and Taipei directly to Tainan and Kaohsiung (Zuoying): By reducing intermediate stops, this service will further shorten north-south long-distance travel times.

Direct trains from Yunlin and Chiayi to Taichung and Taipei: Enhancing convenience for central Taiwan and Yun-Chia-Nan region travelers commuting to northern cities.

Which additional services will operate during weekend peak hours? THSR considers extending stop duration at Taoyuan Station

THSR also plans to add extra interval trains between Nangang and Taichung during Friday and Sunday evening peak hours. Using a rapid turnaround mechanism at Taichung Station, trains will run approximately every 10 minutes north of Taichung, alleviating waiting pressure at Nangang and Taipei stations and ensuring more even distribution of northbound departures from Taichung.

Additionally, to accommodate growing airport passenger traffic, THSR is considering slightly extending stop durations at Taoyuan Station, allowing passengers with large luggage more time to board and alight, thereby improving connectivity with the Airport MRT and flight schedules.

What are THSR's latest schedules and fares? 12 stations island-wide, over 200 daily services

Regarding THSR's schedules and fares: the current operational route spans approximately 350 kilometers, serving 12 stations—Nangang, Taipei, Banqiao, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Miaoli, Taichung, Changhua, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, and Zuoying. On weekdays, over 200 services operate daily, with additional trains added during holidays and peak travel periods.

As for fares, full-fare prices remain unchanged. The standard class fare from Nangang to Zuoying is NT$1,530, business class is NT$2,440; Nangang to Taichung is NT$700, and Nangang to Tainan is NT$1,350. Passengers can still reduce travel costs through early-bird discounts, TGo membership points, periodic tickets, and multi-ride ticket programs.