Taichung International Airport (RMQ) is about 15 km from central Taichung, and the cost of getting into the city depends on which transport you choose and what time you arrive.
Taxi Fares
Metered taxis from RMQ to central Taichung typically cost between TWD 500 and 700, which works out to roughly USD 16–22 at current exchange rates. The meter starts at TWD 85 and increments with distance and wait time. After 11 PM, a nighttime surcharge of about 20% applies. If your hotel is in the Fengjia Night Market area, expect TWD 400–600. To the Taichung High Speed Rail station, fares run TWD 600–900. Expressway tolls, if used, are added to the meter fare.
Bus Fares
Bus route 302 runs from the airport to Taichung Railway Station. The fare is TWD 50–100 depending on where you get off, making it by far the cheapest option. However, this only works during daytime hours when the bus is actually running, and the journey takes considerably longer with multiple stops along the way.
Private Transfer Pricing
A pre-booked private transfer to central Taichung runs TWD 800–1,200 (USD 25–38) for a standard sedan. Larger vehicles suitable for families or groups cost TWD 1,200–1,800. The price is fixed at booking, so there are no surprises with meters, surcharges, or tolls. This includes meet-and-greet at the arrivals hall and door-to-door service.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Taxi drivers at RMQ generally use meters, but occasionally a driver may suggest a flat fare — this almost always works in their favor, not yours. Insist on the meter. Expressway tolls are legitimate charges added to your fare. Tipping is not expected in Taiwan, though rounding up is appreciated. If you use Uber, surge pricing can apply during peak hours, pushing the fare above what a regular taxi would charge.
What Makes the Price Change
Three factors affect your final cost: time of day (nighttime surcharge adds 20%), route chosen (expressway is faster but adds tolls), and traffic conditions (rush hour around 5–7 PM can add 15–20 minutes and TWD 100–200 to a metered fare). Weekend traffic into the Fengjia area can also be heavy.
Bottom Line
For a solo traveler or couple arriving during the day, a metered taxi at TWD 500–700 offers the best balance of cost and convenience. For late arrivals or families, a pre-booked transfer at TWD 800–1,200 removes all uncertainty. The bus works for the very budget-conscious, but the savings of a few hundred TWD come at the cost of time and comfort.