Question 1

What is the "Overpriced Taxi from Taoyuan Airport" scam in Taipei?

Accepted Answer

Some drivers outside the official taxi queue at Taoyuan International Airport approach arriving tourists and quote flat fares to Taipei city that are 50–100% above the metered rate. They are convincing and insist that the meter will cost more due to traffic. Use only taxis from the official taxi rank inside the terminal. The meter will always be used by licensed drivers. Alternatively, take the Airport MRT directly to Taipei Main Station for a fixed, much cheaper fare.

Question 2

What is the "Airport Taxi Overcharge" scam in Taipei?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed taxi drivers outside Taoyuan International Airport approach tourists before they reach the official taxi rank and offer rides at flat rates well above the metered fare to Taipei city. Use the official Taoyuan Metro direct train to Taipei Main Station (fastest and cheapest). If taking a taxi, use only yellow taxis from the official rank with a meter. The legal metered fare to central Taipei is approximately NTD 1,200.

Question 3

What is the "Commission-Based Traditional Medicine Shop Steering" scam in Taipei?

Accepted Answer

Taxi drivers and informal guides steer tourists to specific traditional Chinese medicine shops or tea shops in Wanhua or Datong districts where they receive a referral commission. Tourists are given exaggerated health pitches and pressured to buy expensive herbal products. If you are interested in traditional medicine products, research reputable shops independently before your visit. Politely decline any driver's recommendation of a specific shop, especially if it was unsolicited.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Taipei

Overpriced Taxi from Taoyuan Airport

Airport Taxi Overcharge

Commission-Based Traditional Medicine Shop Steering

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