Kaohsiung International Airport
Kaohsiung (Xiaogang), TW · about 9 km (6 mi) south of central Kaohsiung
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Shuttle Bus Bus | — | — |
| Charter Bus Services Coach | — | — |
| City Bus Routes Bus · Often every 10-20 min in daytime; some routes much less frequent at night | Varies widely; 20-40 min to central areas depending on route and traffic | Around NT$12-26 with iPASS/EasyCard |
| Hotel Shuttle Buses Hotel shuttle | — | — |
Insider notes
The Southern Premium Lounge on the 3rd floor is a tranquil spot ideal for working with speedy Wi-Fi. A pass costs around US$40 when booked online.
Remember, EVA Air Lounge doesn’t make boarding announcements. Be at your gate at least 20 minutes before departure.
If flying domestically to internationally, allow extra time for clearing security again in Terminal I. It can feel like two separate airports.
Welcome
Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) may not match Taipei’s grandeur, but it offers a low-stress start for travelers heading overseas or within Taiwan. Sitting just about 9 km (6 mi) south of central Kaohsiung, this airport offers the ease of stepping off the MRT and briskly moving through check-in, security, and immigration. It's a charmingly compact affair that feels more like a relaxed regional station than a bustling international hub, providing a welcome contrast to the typical airport hustle.
At a glance
Handling approximately 7.3 million passengers annually, KHH operates with a single runway and two primary terminals: the Domestic Terminal (D) and the International Terminal (I). It serves as a hub for China Airlines and Mandarin Airlines. Despite its size, the airport efficiently caters to both domestic and international flights, with notable carriers such as Cathay Pacific and VietJet Air operating here. The convenient Kaohsiung MRT Red Line whisks travelers to the city center in as little as 10 to 20 minutes for just NT$20-35, enabling easy city exploration right from the terminal doorstep.
Terminals & layout
KHH's terminal layout is straightforward. Terminal D serves domestic flights, primarily featuring Mandarin Airlines, EVA Air, and Uni Air. Terminal I handles all international flights, with airlines like China Airlines and Cathay Pacific leading operations. Within Terminal I, you'll find the main concourse dotted with lounges such as China Airlines Lounge and EVA Air Lounge. The upper-level corridor between lounges offers one of the quieter experiences for plane-spotting aficionados.
Getting to and from the city
Efficient transit options are at your disposal, with the Kaohsiung MRT Red Line offering the most convenient link to downtown. It takes about 10-20 minutes to reach the city center at NT$20-35. Alternatively, buses, including airport shuttles and city routes, accommodate more variable schedules, with fares around NT$12-26 using an iPASS or EasyCard. Taxi rides range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic, costing between NT$200-300.
Traveller essentials
Beyond the efficient transport, on-site essentials include multiple car parks such as P1 and P2 for those driving to the airport. Look out for motorcycle parking and dedicated bus and taxi zones. While the airport is sufficiently equipped for smooth transits, keep in mind the relative quietness compared to busier Asian airports, allowing for a less hectic experience even during peak times.
Dining & shopping highlights
Dining at KHH is practical if not particularly adventurous. Fast food staples such as McDonald's and Subway cater to travelers in a hurry, while Ikari Coffee and 85°C Cafe offer caffeine fixes. For a taste of Taiwan, check out Tasty Kaohsiung Snacks or grab something more substantial at Taiwanese Noodles. Shopping, especially in the International Terminal, includes Ever Rich Duty Free and the Fashion Boutique, with options focusing on essentials and duty-free indulgence.
Lounges
KHH offers several lounges, with standouts like the Southern Premium Lounge in Terminal I noted for their calm ambiance and reliable amenities. Passes are often available through online aggregators at around US$40, offering access to fast Wi-Fi and showers. Premium flyers may prefer the EVA Air or China Airlines lounges for their Taiwanese comfort dishes and quieter atmospheres. Notably, EVA Air Lounge abstains from boarding announcements, so keep track of time independently.
Insider tips
- Insider: The Southern Premium Lounge on the 3rd floor is a tranquil spot ideal for working with speedy Wi-Fi. A pass costs around US$40 when booked online.
- Time: Remember, EVA Air Lounge doesn’t make boarding announcements. Be at your gate at least 20 minutes before departure.
- Avoid: If flying domestically to internationally, allow extra time for clearing security again in Terminal I. It can feel like two separate airports.
- Quiet: For plane-spotters, the lounge corridor on the upper level provides uninterrupted sightlines of the runway devoid of constant aircraft movements.
- Local: For an authentic snack, grab bubble tea from concessions just past security before heading to the lounges.
- Money: Buying a lounge pass on-site? Double-check hours since they might alter based on flight schedules.
- Local: In-terminal dining is pragmatic, but local bloggers suggest dining in the city or at MRT stations like Formosa Boulevard for better coffee and vegetarian meals.