Passing through Taichung Airport? A layover in Taichung is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 120 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of TXG:
- 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 120-minute journey each way by Airport Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the TWD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some TWD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Taichung is the Airport Bus, which takes about 120 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 140 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Airport Bus is usually the smarter call.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Taichung, budget roughly $25 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $10 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Taichung.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at TXG aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Taichung itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Taichung
For a layover visit to Taichung, we’d suggest Rainbow Village (彩è¹ç·æ) and Donghai University & Luce Memorial Chapel (æ±æµ·å¤§å¸è·¯æ義æå ). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TXG, you can spend time at Taichung Airport Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops or try Airport Cafe & Relaxation Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near TXG
For food in Taichung, local travelers recommend Wuqi Fishing Port Seafood Market Eateries. If you have time for a second stop, Chun Shui Tang (Mitsui Outlet Park Taichung Port Branch) is another popular pick.
Back at TXG, Mr. K’s Kitchen (Mr. K. Fast Food) is the go-to. 7-Eleven (Taichung Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Sleep & Lounge Options at TXG
Long overnight layover? Your options at TXG 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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TXG, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Taichung 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 Taichung is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Taichung.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.