Traveling through Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is an experience in itself, with modern amenities, a quirky design, and even a virtual aquarium…featuring your face. However, the signage is poor, and navigating the airport can present a unique challenge for smokers. Let’s take a look at where you can smoke at TPE.
Where To Smoke AT TPE
Before diving into the specific locations, it’s important to note that Taiwan adheres to strict smoking regulations, especially in public spaces like airports. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas, and violations can result in hefty fines (translation: this isn’t the Mainland…). TPE is a smoke-free airport outside of these designated spots, so be respectful and don’t smoke in the bathrooms…
Terminal 1 Smoking Areas
Terminal 1, serving primarily international flights (China Airlines, AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, Garuda Indonesia, Philippine Airlines, Tigerair Taiwan, Scoot, and Starlux) has several smoking rooms strategically placed to cater to passengers in transit.
- Main Smoking Room – Near Gate A9: Located near Gate A9, this smoking room is easily accessible if you’re departing or arriving through this section. It’s well-ventilated and provides a decent space for a quick cigarette. The room is usually clean, though it can get crowded during peak hours.
- Satellite Smoking Room – Near Gate A3: A smaller smoking area is situated near Gate A3. It’s less frequented, making it an ideal spot if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. While it offers less space, it’s a quieter option.
Terminal 2 Smoking Areas
Terminal 2, known for handling a mix of international and regional flights (EVA Air, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines), also offers a few smoking areas.
- Primary Smoking Lounge – Near Gate D6: If you’re passing through Terminal 2, head towards Gate D6. The smoking lounge here is spacious and well-maintained, providing ample seating and a comfortable environment for smokers. It’s one of the larger smoking areas in the airport, so you won’t feel cramped even during busier times.
- Secondary Smoking Room – Near Gate C3: Another option in Terminal 2 is the smoking room near Gate C3. This area is a bit more compact but still offers adequate ventilation and seating. It’s a good alternative if the lounge near Gate D6 is too crowded or out of your way.
Transit Area Smoking Rooms
For those in transit, TPE provides smoking rooms in the secure areas of both terminals. These rooms are typically located near the gates, so you won’t have to venture far if you’re between flights.
- Transit Area – Near Gate B
- Transit Area – Near Gate D3
CONCLUSION
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport has made provisions for smokers, ensuring that you can find a spot to enjoy a cigarette without violating the airport’s strict smoking regulations. While the smoking rooms are fairly standard in design and amenities, they serve their purpose well, offering a reprieve for smokers amidst the hustle and bustle of one of Asia’s busiest airports.
I am not a smoker, but my views on smoking at airports remain unchanged. A final warning: marijuana is not permitted…
In my experience , China Airlines (Taiwan) has the smallest , cramped seating , and the lesser quality food . They obtain customers by low prices .
on what flight were your experiences? i’ve had the opposite both on short haul and long haul flights
I kind of prefer what IST does with it’s smoking rooms, in that they are outdoors. Yeah it can suck in the summer and winter, weather wise, but it does keep people from lingering in there.
I like the Istanbul solution too – I am just thankful there is one.
Are you a smoker?
Used to be. Quit 4 years ago.
Let’s face it, anyone still smoking in 2024 is a fool knowing it will shorter their life span. There are tools available to stop if you are addicted and want to quit.
I think this may be a subject almost all of can agree on, even the pole smokers.
I’d never consider smoking, but it is a struggle for a lot of people and some truly are indifferent to the risk. Every time I go to Germany I am shocked at how many kids are smoking.
Smokers are jokers.
Smoking kills over 8 million people every year, more than terrorism, war, guns, accidents, natural disasters, and illegal drugs combined. Smoke at home and don’t poison other people. If I can refrain from having sex for a few hours (or days), you can refrain from smoking for a few hours (or days).
Asia aside, you will see in Europe and the ME now that the number of people vaping (including Iqos) is appearing to be far more prevalent than cigarette smoking.
With that, “Vaping Rooms” in many airports, especially in Europe and the ME, would be far more effective in encouraging the trend away from cigarettes. Clean, no odor, no ashes, and a healthier atmosphere. You could even turn them into cash centers as bars or clubs for a fee.
Don’t believe me in how non-intrusive vaping is (excluding the large cloud vapes)? I do it across the world on flights every week in J and F when in a pod style seat. Quite comfortably I will add. You never noticed. No more than I noticed if you are sipping a Chardonnay.
Matthew, I was just going to say how shocking it’d be if you were a smoker. Your body is your temple!
Why is this news? TPE has had these smokers’ lounges for years.
But I’ve never written about it.