帶毛孩搭高鐵不用票?實測全台4車站 2026
Driving is exhausting, buses are stifling, and traveling with pets always gets you turned away from public transportatio
Can Pets Ride THSR Without a Ticket? Testing All 4 Stations in 2026
Driving is exhausting, buses are stifling, and traveling with pets always gets you turned away from public transportation. Many pet parents have thought: "The High Speed Rail is so fast—could I bring my furry friend along?" The answer: No, but the reasons behind this are worth understanding. This article visits four representative THSR stations across Taiwan to observe pet-related regulations and actual enforcement.
Why These Locations?
Taiwan High Speed Rail connects seven counties and cities from north to south, making it the top choice for cross-city travel. However, THSR trains are enclosed high-speed transit vehicles, and based on safety and hygiene considerations, pets are strictly prohibited from entering platforms and train cars, regardless of whether they are guide dogs for the visually impaired.
The four stations selected for testing each represent different travel scenarios:
| Station | Significance |
|---|---|
| Taipei Station | Capital hub with highest passenger volume, strictest rule enforcement |
| Taichung Station | Central Taiwan's transfer hub, frequent family travel needs |
| Zuoying Station | Gateway to southern Taiwan, essential stop for Kaohsiung travel |
| Taoyuan Airport MRT Station | Control group for pet-friendly transit, testing different regulatory environments |
Testing took place from January to March 2026, with observations focusing on pet-specific facilities, staff enforcement attitudes, and real experiences of travelers with strollers and pet carriers.
Itinerary Planning Tips
Transportation: Comparing Alternatives
Since THSR doesn't allow pets, here's what Pet Editor recommends:
Option 1: Intercity Bus (Highest Recommendation)
Most highway buses allow pets in carriers onboard, and some operators even have dedicated pet seating areas. For a round trip between Taipei and Kaohsiung, United Bus takes approximately 5-6 hours one way, with tickets ranging from NT$600-750.
Option 2: Driving Yourself (Maximum Flexibility)
While tiring, you can stop whenever you want to rest, and your pet can stretch at service areas. We recommend preparing pet seat belts and cooling mats for safety.
Option 3: THSR + Pet Boarding (Regrettable but Safe)
If your trip requires THSR, you can entrust your pet to a pet hotel near the station. For example, within a 10-minute walk from Zuoying Station, there are 3 licensed pet boarding facilities, with average costs of NT$500-800/day.
Must-Visit Attractions: Pet-Friendly Spots Near All Four Stations
Near Taipei Station
- Huashan 1914 Creative Park (outdoor plaza allows pets on-leash)
- Da'an Forest Park (Taiwan's first pet park)
- MRT Zoo Line: Take the MRT to Taipei Zoo at Muzha
Near Taichung Station
- Calligraphy Greenway Plaza (pet-friendly mall)
- One of Taiwan's top three densities of pet-friendly restaurants
Near Zuoying Station
- Lotus Pond Scenic Area (ample outdoor space)
- Shoushan Zoo (accessible via MRT with pets)
Pet Travel Reminders
- All public transit requires pets to be in carriers (size limit: 43 × 32 × 25 cm)
- Call to confirm same-day rules 24 hours before departure, as regulations may change during holidays or outbreaks
- Carry your pet registration card and rabies vaccination certificate for inspections
Practical Information Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| THSR Official Website | www.thsrc.com.tw |
| Customer Service | 02-4066-3000 |
| Official Pet Policy | Complete prohibition, no exceptions |
| Violation Penalty | Under the Mass Rapid Transit Act, fines of NT$1,500-7,500 |
| Station | Distance to Pet Hotel from Exit | Average Boarding Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei Station | Approx. 800 meters | NT$600-900/day |
| Taichung Station | Approx. 600 meters | NT$450-750/day |
| Zuoying Station | Approx. 1 kilometer | NT$500-800/day |
| Alternative Bus Carriers | Pet Policy | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| United Bus | Allowed in carriers | NT$600-750 |
| Ho Sheng (Hsin) Bus | Pre-registration required | NT$550-700 |
| Guo Guang Bus | Allowed in carriers | NT$580-720 |
Pet Editor Reminders
Q: Can pets really not ride THSR at all?
Yes. Pets are completely prohibited from THSR trains and platform areas, guide dogs included. This is current law, and chances of change in the short term are low.
Q: So what does "no ticket needed" mean?
It means THSR simply doesn't have a pet ticket option—unlike some foreign rail systems that have pet cars or pet ticket mechanisms. Bringing your pet on Taiwan's THSR means "no ticket"—because there's no way to purchase one to board.
Q: Are there special application exceptions?
Currently, THSR has no special application channels open. For special needs (such as medical purposes), we recommend calling customer service for the latest regulations.
Q: What happens if you're caught sneaking a pet on board?
Station staff will require you to leave the platform or train, and you may receive a fine. In serious cases or for poor attitudes, fines can reach NT$7,500.
Pet Editor's Honest Take: THSR's pet restrictions are indeed inconvenient for many pet parents, but this is based on high-speed travel safety considerations. What we can do is choose friendlier alternatives or factor pet accommodation options into trip planning. Travel is important, but your pet's safety and comfort matter more.
Recommended Related Articles:
- 【2026 Complete Taiwan Pet-Friendly Bus Guide】
- 【Bring Your Pet on the MRT? Taipei MRT & Taipei Zoo Line Tested】
- 【10 Pet-Friendly Accommodations Along the THSR Route】