Western Taiwan, Taiwan
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Situated near Taipei, TPE is Taiwan's main international gateway. Most long-haul international flights from North America, Europe, and Australia arrive at TPE. This airport is larger and offers more flight options globally.
Taichung International Airport (RMQ): Located about 20 kilometers northwest of Taichung city center. This airport handles some international flights, mainly from East Asia (e.g., Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam), and domestic flights within Taiwan.
Both airports provide currency exchange counters and ATMs for cash withdrawals.
Duty-free shops, food courts, and restaurants offer diverse options. TPE, being larger, has more extensive services.
SIM card purchase options are available for immediate connectivity upon arrival.
Provides fast and comfortable travel along Taiwan's western corridor. Taichung HSR Station connects to major cities like Taipei (40-50 min), Tainan (40-50 min), and Kaohsiung (~1 hour). Book online, at stations, or convenience stores.
Operates conventional trains. Taichung Main Station is a major hub. TRA trains are slower and cheaper than HSR, offering more extensive coverage and scenic routes. Good for budget travelers or those wanting to see more landscape.
Extensive network with companies like Kuo-Kuang, Ubus, and Aloha Bus. They offer comfortable services connecting Taichung to most major cities and towns. Often the cheapest option for inter-city travel, serving specific neighborhoods.
Renting a vehicle grants flexibility, especially for exploring areas beyond public transport reach. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid national driving license. Without both, you cannot legally rent or drive a car in Taiwan. Most rental companies also request a credit card for deposit purposes.
A valid international motorcycle driving permit is usually necessary, along with your national motorcycle license. Most rental shops will not rent without proper documentation. Numerous local shops offer scooter rentals, specifically near tourist areas or train stations.
Taichung features an extensive YouBike public bicycle sharing system with docking stations throughout the city. This is an excellent, low-cost way to explore. You need an EasyCard or iPASS linked to a local phone number for easy rental.
Drive on the right side of the road. Helmets are mandatory for all motorcycle and scooter riders. Speed limits are enforced. Many traffic lights have countdown timers.
Sea or river travel is not a main mode of arrival for international tourists visiting Taichung. Taichung Port mainly handles cargo operations.
Taichung's rivers are not set up for public passenger transportation services that would bring international visitors into the city.
Some small local boats operate for fishing or local leisure, but not as tourist transport.
While rivers flow through Taichung, they are not developed for regular scenic boat tours for transport purposes.
For Taichung, air and land travel routes are the main options for visitors.
No specific exit fees or taxes are typically levied for international air travel from Taiwan. These charges are usually included in your airfare at the time of booking.
Both RMQ and TPE provide standard airport facilities and services for travelers.
Available at both airports for converting any remaining local currency.
For assistance with any last-minute questions or directions.
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) offers a wider range of dining and shopping options due to its larger size and international passenger volume.
Allocate sufficient time for your departure, especially from TPE, to navigate check-in, security, and immigration without rush.
