Grace K.
Yelp
This is my favorite airport. Whenever I can, I try to fly in and out of this airport over the Songshan Airport in Taiwan when visiting Taipei. I love this airport for many reasons: 1) Efficient security and customs processing, 2) fast and direct MRT routes between airport and Taipei main station, 3) great shopping scene, 4) good variety of restaurants and lounges, and 5) clean and spacious. It usually only takes me ~15 minutes tops if not less after dropping off checked bags to get through security. I do, however, usually arrive about 3 hours before international flights to be a the lines which may be considered a little early by some who prefer to arrive 2 hours ahead of time which is generally what's recommended. I would rather be safe than sorry and try to maximize my stay at the lounge which typically has a 3 hour stay limit. Security has taken me anywhere between 10-45 minutes depending how congested it is, but it's a fairly efficient process compared to other airports I've visited. Between the airport and Taipei main station, you can take a quick, ~38 minute ride on the MRT to get to where you need. The cost is very reasonable compared to a private taxi. My favorite part is flying from this airport and being able to use the baggage service to ride the MRT free of my checked bags while coming from Taipei. I simply check in ahead of time and drop off my bags before boarding. I've never had to wait for baggage service. Once I drop off my checked bags, I wait a few minutes to make sure they clear the security/x-ray scan before getting on the MRT. A train comes every 15 minutes for this particular route. There's a great duty free shopping scene ranging from more affordable tea/snack/souvenir shops and luxury goods. I usually like to snag some alishan tea and some sun biscuit pastries and pineapple cakes as gifts for friends/family coming to and from Taiwan. I like to visit the Premium Plaza Lounge or Oriental Club while waiting for my flight. On my last visit, I enjoyed unlimited beef noodle soup, Taiwanese beer on tap, and many other delicious foods at the Oriental Club. They also offer showers and massage chairs for interested visitors. The airport feels very clean, spacious, and beautifully designed. The bathrooms are well-maintained. I love that the water dispensers provide both cold and hot water. Definitely my favorite airport!