For travelers with a layover in Lanyu, the proximity of KYD to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of KYD:
- Can you legally enter Taiwan? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Lanyu from KYD
The most straightforward way into Lanyu is the local transport, 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 local transport is usually the smarter call.
How to Spend Your Time in Lanyu
If you head into Lanyu, here are two things worth checking out:
Dawo Village Underground Houses is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Dongqing Bay Beach & Snorkeling is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
If you’d rather stay inside KYD — 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:
- Lanyu Airport Terminal Scenic Views
- Lanyu Airport Local Souvenir Corner
Best Bites Near KYD
- In the city: Do Do Go Restaurant (å¤å¤å¥é¢¨å³é¤) and Man Tou Yu Restaurant (é¥é éæµ·ç¢åº) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Lanyu.
- At the airport: Lanyu Airport Snack & Drink Kiosk and Lanyu Airport Local Delicacies Corner will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Lanyu might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Lanyu, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Lanyu Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at KYD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Lanyu’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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and KYD is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Lanyu 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at KYD.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Lanyu doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from KYD, 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.