Both taxis and private transfers will get you from RMQ to your hotel in Taichung. The question is which one makes more sense for your specific situation.
The Taxi Experience
Yellow metered taxis wait outside the arrivals exit. During daytime hours, there are usually a few available — this is not a major international hub, so the queue is short on both sides. You get in, show your address (ideally in Chinese characters), and go. The ride is metered, straightforward, and costs TWD 500–700 to the city center.
The downsides are real but manageable. Most drivers speak very limited English. If your destination is not a well-known hotel or landmark, communication can be frustrating. Taxis at RMQ are typically Toyota Wish minivans, which are fine for 2 people with luggage but cramped for larger groups. Late at night, taxi availability drops sharply — you might wait 20 minutes or find only one car.
The Private Transfer Experience
Your driver meets you inside the arrivals hall with a name sign. They take your bags, walk you to the car, and drive you directly to your address. The price is fixed at booking — no meter anxiety, no negotiation, no language issues. Most transfer services offer English-speaking drivers or at minimum have all details pre-arranged so communication is not an issue.
The cost is higher: TWD 800–1,200 for a sedan versus TWD 500–700 for a taxi. But you are paying for certainty and comfort, not just the ride itself.
When a Taxi Is the Better Choice
If you are arriving during daytime hours, traveling light, are comfortable with minimal English communication, and want to save TWD 200–400, a taxi is perfectly fine. Taichung taxis are safe and generally honest with meters. For solo travelers and couples on daytime flights, there is no strong reason to pay more.
When a Private Transfer Is Worth It
Late night arrivals — taxis may not be available. Families with children — you can request a child seat. Groups with heavy luggage — a larger vehicle can be arranged. First-time visitors who do not speak Chinese — the language barrier is eliminated. Anyone arriving exhausted after a long connection — having someone waiting with your name and handling everything is genuinely worth the premium.
The Practical Verdict
The price difference between a taxi and a private transfer at RMQ is modest — roughly TWD 300–500 (USD 10–16). For daytime arrivals, choose based on your comfort level. For anything after dark, families, or groups, the private transfer is the more reliable option at this airport.