Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Chiayi. Chiayi Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at CYI:
First, verify that you can enter Taiwan — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Local Bus and Taxi takes about 50 minutes into Chiayi, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — TWD is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting from CYI to Chiayi
From CYI, the Local Bus and Taxi gets you to Chiayi in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Bus and Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Chiayi, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Chiayi, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at CYI may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Chiayi’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What’s Worth Seeing in Chiayi
For a layover visit to Chiayi, we’d suggest Hinoki Village (æªæ森活æ) and Alishan Forest Railway Garage Park (é¿é山森æéµè·¯è»åº«åå). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CYI, check out CYI Airport Waiting Area & Wi-Fi or Local Souvenir Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Chiayi: Smart Fish (æè°ææ²ééé ) and Old Kuo’s Turkey Rice (èçå義ç«éè飯). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CYI Airport Snack Bar or Airport Coffee & Tea Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Need a Nap? Options at CYI
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CYI has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CYI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Chiayi itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Taiwan that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chiayi doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from CYI, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.