Taiwan High Speed Rail adds 38 trains for lantern fest

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan High Speed Rail (台灣高鐵) announced on Tuesday (Feb. 10) the addition of 38 train services to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors for the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival. The festival will take place from March 3-15 in Chiayi County, and advance ticket sales will begin on Thursday (Feb. 12).

The festival's relocation to Chiayi County this year has prompted Taiwan High Speed Rail to enhance its services around the Chiayi High Speed Rail Station. The company will offer 21 southbound and 17 northbound services from Thursday. They plan to add more trains between Taichung and Zuoying, increasing the number of non-reserved seating cars on some evening services.


Taiwan High Speed Rail recommends that passengers with reserved seats book and collect tickets in advance. Travelers using non-reserved seating can purchase tickets via ticket machines or the "T-EX Mobile Ticketing" app. Those with EasyCard/iPASS co-branded credit cards should ensure the auto top-up function is activated for seamless entry.


During the festival, Chiayi Station will implement separate entry and exit routes, with traffic control measures around the area. Taiwan High Speed Rail advises travelers to arrive early to avoid delays due to crowds. The company will deploy additional staff at stations to assist passengers, encouraging orderly queuing and cooperation.


Taiwan High Speed Rail has also introduced "High Speed Rail Holidays" for themed lantern events in Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung, offering packages that include accommodation or itineraries. Travelers preferring self-arranged plans can opt for the "Hotel Combo Ticket," which provides up to a 25% discount on train tickets when booking Chiayi area hotels through hotel websites.