Tokyo to Taipei - EVA and China Airlines compete with Japanese LCCs, and Lunar New.
EVA Air and China Airlines both run multiple daily nonstops from Narita and Haneda to Taoyuan (TPE), and their product quality - particularly EVA in business class - rivals Japanese carriers. ANA and JAL add further capacity. Peach (ANA subsidiary) operates budget flights from Narita, keeping the bottom end of pricing competitive. The 3.5-hour flight time makes this a popular long-weekend trip from Tokyo. When booking Tokyo - Taipei, benchmark this option against nearby alternatives for better value.
Lunar New Year (January or February) creates the sharpest fare spike - Taiwan is a major Chinese New Year celebration hub. Japanese Golden Week (late April to early May) produces a second surge as Japanese tourists flock to Taipei for food and night markets. The cheapest months are February (after Lunar New Year), May (after Golden Week), and November. Booking 4 to 6 weeks ahead captures most promotional fares. Tokyo - Taipei spans about 2,100 km, so itinerary structure can change total travel time.
Taoyuan (TPE) connects to Taipei Main Station via the Taoyuan Airport MRT in about 35 minutes. Songshan (TSA) is the city-centre airport but receives limited international flights - most Japan services use TPE. If your carrier offers a Haneda-Songshan option, grab it: the convenience rivals a domestic flight. With Tokyo - Taipei, small time shifts often unlock better fares and smoother airport transfers.
Both are excellent. EVA Air has a strong reputation for cabin cleanliness and soft product, while ANA offers Star Alliance connectivity (same alliance as EVA). Compare departure times - on this short route, schedule convenience usually trumps product differences.
Peach (ANA subsidiary) offers Narita-Taoyuan flights at roughly half the ANA full-service price. You get a smaller seat, no meal, and tight cabin bag limits. For a 3.5-hour flight, most travellers find the savings worth the trade-off. Pack light to avoid luggage fees.
Late February through March (after Lunar New Year), late May through June (after Golden Week), and November are the best-value windows. Midweek departures are consistently cheaper. Avoid the first two weeks of February and late April at all costs - fares can double.
