A layover in Cimei is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Chi Mei Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Scooter rental, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside CMJ
A few things to sort out before you leave CMJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Taiwan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Cimei takes about 30 minutes by Taxi / Scooter rental. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is TWD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some TWD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Cimei on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Cimei:
Start with Double-Heart Stone Weir. Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Then, if time allows, make your way to Little Taiwan. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside CMJ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Qimei Airport Waiting Area
- Local Product Display
Getting from CMJ to Cimei
The most straightforward way into Cimei is the Taxi / Scooter rental, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Scooter rental is usually the smarter call.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Cimei, local travelers recommend Xiang Ting Seafood Restaurant (é¦äºæµ·é®®). If you have time for a second stop, Qimei Seafood Restaurant (ä¸ç¾æµ·ç¢åº) is another popular pick.
Back at CMJ, Qimei Airport Snack Bar is the go-to. Local Drinks Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Cimei layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Cimei, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CMJ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cimei and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Storing Your Luggage at Chi Mei Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at CMJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Cimei’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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at CMJ
Long overnight layover? Your options at CMJ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Taiwan also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Cimei count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CMJ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.