Let’s Visit Taipei 101!

Soaring above Taiwan’s capital, Taipei 101 is an iconic landmark visible from afar. As the country’s tallest building, its observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views that are a must-see for any visitor. This guide covers the things you need to know before visiting this top tourist attraction: how to get there, ticket prices for the observatory, things to see, dining options, nearby attractions, and more.

Taipei 101

Rising to a height of 508 meters, with a total of 101 floors, Taipei 101 was, upon its completion in 2004, the world’s tallest skyscraper. The architectural marvel draws inspiration from traditional Chinese pagodas and the segmented structure of bamboo stalks.

The building’s design also reflects a deep reverence for the number “8,” considered auspicious in Chinese culture. Each set of eight floors forms a distinct unit, emphasizing this symbolic significance. The unique combination of a reverse trapezoidal shape and a glass exterior seamlessly blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with cutting-edge modern design.

Taipei 101 offers a multifaceted experience. The lower levels (floors B1-6) house a vibrant shopping mall. Restaurants on floors 85 and 86 offer stunning city views, while the observatory, on floors 88-91, provides unparalleled panoramic vistas. From shopping and dining to breathtaking views, Taipei 101 is a captivating destination for a full day of exploration.

Hot to Get to the Observatory

The easiest way to reach Taipei 101 is by taking the Taipei MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line). Get off at the Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station and leave the station via Exit 4. Then, walk straight ahead. You’ll pass the popular Din Tai Fung restaurant on your right. Continue walking straight, and you’ll arrive at the B1 level of Taipei 101.

Then, take the No. 2 elevator immediately on your right to reach the 5^th floor, where you’ll find the ticket counter and observatory entrance.

If you wish to explore the shopping mall on the 1^st to 4^th floors first, you can take the escalator from the 4^th floor to the 5^th floor afterwards to find the ticket counter and observatory entrance.

5th Floor Ticket Counter

If you have a reservation or need to purchase tickets: Proceed to the ticket counter. Tickets are also available from the Ticket Kiosk located to the left of the counter.

If you have a pre-paid ticket or a QR code from an online reservation: Proceed directly to the entrance.

Ticket Prices and Access

• General Admission:
  • Adults: NT$600
  • Students: NT$540
  • This ticket grants access to the 88th, 89th, and 91st floors.
  • Please note that the outdoor observatory on the 91st floor may be closed due to inclement weather.
• Priority Pass (Fast Pass): NT$1,200 (allows for faster entry)

Note: Students must present both their ID and student card. Children under 115 cm tall enter free. Elementary and middle school children must be accompanied by an adult.

SKYLINE 460

Price: NT$3,000, reservation required

Height Restriction: Minimum 145cm

Includes access to floors 88, 89, 91, 101, and the rooftop outdoor observatory.

Note: The schedule may be canceled or changed due to inclement weather.

Observatory Tickets: klook, kkday
SKYLINE 460: klook, kkday

Observatory Entrance

After obtaining your ticket, scan it at the observatory entrance and join the line for the elevator. Please note that wait times for the elevator can vary, especially during peak hours. Expect potential wait times of 10 to 30 minutes. Allowing extra time in your schedule to accommodate potential delays is recommended.

Super-Fast Elevators

The high-speed elevators whisk you from the 5th-floor reception area to the 89th-floor indoor observatory in just 37 seconds, reaching a breathtaking height of 382 meters.

During your ascent, enjoy:

• Real-time updates: Monitor your ascent on a wall panel displaying travel time and current height.
• Starry spectacle: Look at the starry ceiling lights, heightening the anticipation as you approach the observatory.

89th Floor Observatory

View from the Observatory

The 89th-floor observatory offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Taipei City.

• Daytime: On clear days, your gaze can extend to the distant Tamsui River and Mt. Guanyin.
• Sunset: Witness a breathtaking spectacle as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the western sky with vibrant hues.
• Night: Immerse yourself in the dazzling spectacle of the city lights below, twinkling like a million scattered jewels.

Identify landmarks with ease! Use the interactive touch panel guide to learn the names of buildings and landmarks visible below. For a closer look, utilize the high-magnification telescopes provided. Capture stunning photos from the glass-floor and glass-ceiling areas, offering unique perspectives of the city.

There are many spots for taking photos inside the observatory too. Pose with the iconic “Damper Baby” statue, explore the vibrant “Rainbow Light Zone” with its cool neon lights, and discover photo opportunities in areas representing the changing seasons.

Gift Shop & Café

The observatory offers a range of amenities to enhance your visit.

• Gift Shop: Discover a delightful selection of exclusive Taipei 101 souvenirs. From delectable Taiwanese snacks and aromatic teas to stylish bags, unique cups, and elegant stationery, you’ll find the perfect memento to cherish.
• Café: Relax and savor a refreshing beverage or light snack while enjoying the views.

Indulge in the flavors of Taiwan and recharge for your continued exploration.

• Milksha: Try unique Taiwanese beverages, perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up.
• kafeD: Enjoy expertly brewed coffee, delectable sweets, and light meals in a relaxing atmosphere.
• Bai Shui Douhua: Experience the smooth and silky texture of traditional Taiwanese tofu pudding.

Tuned Mass Damper (TMD)

Taipei 101 incorporates an ingenious engineering marvel: the Tuned Mass Damper (TMD). Located centrally between the 87th and 92nd floors, this massive device counteracts the vibrations caused by strong winds.

• Giant Pendulum: The TMD is a colossal sphere composed of stacked steel plates, weighing an impressive 660 tons, making it the world’s largest and heaviest wind damper.
• “Damper Baby”: The TMD, a remarkable feat of engineering, inspired the creation of Taipei 101’s official mascot, “Damper Baby.”
• Impressive Suspension: Four robust cables suspend the TMD from the 92nd floor, providing a secure and stable foundation.
• Unique Spectacle: View the TMD from the 89th-floor observatory or the 88th-floor exit.

Special Exhibition “Dream High”

From November 13, 2024, to March 2, 2025, the 89^th-floor observatory hosts the special exhibition “Dream High.” A centerpiece of this exhibition is the historic home run ball hit by Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels on September 19, 2024, when he achieved the unprecedented feat of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.

In addition to the commemorative ball, the exhibition also showcases Ohtani’s uniform, baseball cap, and other items. It has captivated a wide audience, garnering significant attention from both domestic and international baseball fans, as well as general tourists.

To enhance the visitor experience, the Tuned Mass Damper itself has been incorporated into the exhibition. During the event, a special projection will showcase the moment Ohtani hit his 50th home run, along with the unique stitching pattern of the baseball, directly onto the surface of the damper.

Special Exhibition “Dream High”
Venue: Taipei 101, 89th Floor Observatory
Dates: November 13, 2024, to March 2, 2025

91st Floor Outdoor Observatory

From the 89th floor, take the stairs to the 91st floor, which is 390 meters above ground. This level offers two distinct experiences:

Indoor “101 Impressions”: Check out a miniature Taipei 101 model and watch an engaging video presentation.

Outdoor Observatory: Enjoy unparalleled views with an unobstructed panorama. While a safety fence is in place, it doesn’t impede your direct connection to the breathtaking scenery.

101st Floor Skyline 460

The exclusive “SKYLINE460” outdoor deck on the 101st floor offers an exhilarating skywalk experience with all necessary safety equipment provided.

Reservations Required: This thrilling adventure is available by reservation only.

Height Restriction: Participants must be 145cm or taller.

Unforgettable Package: For NT$3,000, enjoy an unforgettable experience that includes a commemorative photo, Taipei 101 souvenirs, and refreshing beverages.

On the day of your adventure, ascend to the 101st floor. After donning the provided safety gear, you’ll embark on a short stair climb to the rooftop.

Important Note: For safety reasons, women are kindly requested to avoid wearing skirts or high heels.

Once on the rooftop, you’ll be securely harnessed and ready for your skywalk. Unlike the 91st-floor observatory with its high fence, SKYLINE460 offers a more exhilarating experience with only a handrail for support.

Observatory Tickets: klook, kkday
SKYLINE 460: klook, kkday

88th Floor Observatory Exit

After concluding your observatory visit, descend via the elevator from the 88th-floor exit to the ground level.

Before departing, take a moment to savor the unique ambiance of the 88th floor:

• Art Encounter: Immerse yourself in the captivating art on display within the gallery space.
• Panoramic Views: Continue to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei City.
• Damper Perspective: Experience a different vantage point of the iconic Tuned Mass Damper in the central area.

Souvenirs at Taipei 101

Conclude your visit with a special memento of your Taipei 101 experience!

Unique Finds: Discover a wide range of exclusive Taipei 101 merchandise and souvenirs at:

The 89th-floor observatory

The gift shop located in front of the 5th-floor ticket counter

The gift shop on the basement level (B1)

Find an array of delightful souvenirs, including aromatic teas, delectable snacks, stylish cups, elegant bags, and unique stationery.

Taipei 101 Recommended Restaurants

A Joy (86th Floor Buffet Restaurant)

Opened in July 2023, “A Joy” is a premier panoramic buffet restaurant on the entire 86th floor of Taipei 101. This culinary haven features eight distinct dining sections, each section with an open kitchen where skilled chefs showcase their culinary artistry across diverse cuisines.

A Feast for the Senses:

Indulge in over 300 exquisite dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, including premium Wagyu beef, Iberico pork, bluefin tuna, and fresh lobster sourced from both Taiwan and around the world. Experience a fusion of culinary traditions, with dishes inspired by Taiwanese, Chinese, Japanese, and Western cuisines.

Sweet Delights and Exquisite Beverages:

Conclude your culinary adventure with a delightful selection of decadent desserts, expertly brewed coffee, and exquisite Taiwanese teas crafted in collaboration with renowned brands.

Tel: (02) 8101-0111
Hours: Mon-Fri: lunch 11:30am-3pm, dinner 6pm-9:30pm;
Sat, Sun, and holidays: lunch (1) 11:30am-2pm, lunch (2) 2:45pm-5:15pm, dinner 6pm-9:30pm
Price: Lunch NT$3,280, dinner NT$3,880 (+10% service charge)

Reservation: klook

Din Tai Fung 101 Store (B1 Xiaolongbao)

Founded in 1958 as a store selling oil, Din Tai Fung embarked on a culinary journey that would redefine Taiwanese cuisine. In 1972, they introduced xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) as a side offering, little knowing that this humble dish would become a global sensation.

By 1993, the exquisite taste of Din Tai Fung’s xiaolongbao had garnered international acclaim, earning a coveted spot on The New York Times’ list of “Top 10 Restaurants in the World.” Today, Din Tai Fung is a renowned global brand, beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide.

The Art of Xiaolongbao:

Each Din Tai Fung xiaolongbao is meticulously crafted with precision. The filling weighs exactly 16g, while the delicate, translucent skin, folded into 18 intricate pleats by skilled artisans, weighs a mere 5g, resulting in a perfectly balanced 21g dumpling.

A Culinary Extravaganza:

Beyond the iconic xiaolongbao, Din Tai Fung offers a diverse menu of culinary delights. Explore a range of flavorful options, including:

• Classic Pork: The original and timeless favorite.
• Creative Variations: Indulge in unique flavors like crab roe, truffle, loofah, and shrimp.
• Steamed Dumplings: Savory and satisfying.
• Shumai: A delightful dim sum staple.
• Fried Rice: A flavorful and comforting dish.
• Clay Pot Chicken Soup: A heartwarming and flavorful broth.

Location: B1F, 45, Shifu Rd., Xinyi District, Taipei City
Hours: 10:45am-8:30pm

Reservation: klook

Tourist Spots Around Taipei 101

Jimmy’s Moon Bus

This enchanting art bus is a collaborative project with renowned Taiwanese picture book author, Jimmy.
Inspired by his beloved book, “The Moon Forgot,” the bus interior was transformed into a whimsical wonderland. Encounter enchanting elements, including a bear driver, a magical book, and a child tenderly holding the moon, all brimming with playful charm. As night falls, the bus truly comes alive. A child, standing atop the vehicle, proudly holds aloft a luminous moon, casting a magical glow and transforming the bus into an even more enchanting spectacle.

Location: 100, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City
Hours: 9am-9pm, closed on Monday
Admission: Free

 

44 South Military Village

Just a 5-minute stroll from Taipei 101 lies 44 South Military Village, a captivating photo spot where you can capture a unique blend of the past and present – the charming retro architecture of the village juxtaposed against the towering modern marvel of Taipei 101.

Originally built as military housing for soldiers and their families who relocated to Taiwan from mainland China after World War II, the village’s history is deeply intertwined with the island’s past. These structures, repurposed from former Japanese military warehouses, once served as a vibrant military dependent’s village.

Today, four meticulously preserved buildings offer a glimpse into this bygone era. They now house an exhibition hall, art galleries, charming shops, and inviting cafes. Visitors can step back in time and experience the unique atmosphere of this historic village.

Location: 50, 52, 54, and 56 Songqin Street, Xinyi District, Taipei City
Hours: 9am-5pm, closed on Monday and holidays
Admission: Free

 

Elephant Mountain

Located just 1.5 kilometers southwest of Taipei 101, Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) offers a rewarding hike with breathtaking city views.

• Easy Access: The trailhead is conveniently located not far from MRT Xiangshan Station, making it easily accessible.
• Scenic Trail: The well-maintained trail, with an elevation of 183 meters, features a series of stairs, making the ascent manageable for most hikers.
• Photographic Paradise: Multiple lookout points along the trail, particularly the iconic “Six Giant Stones,” provide stunning photo opportunities. Capture the mesmerizing panorama of the Taipei Basin with the majestic Taipei 101 right in the center.
• Summit Views: Continue your ascent to the Yixian Pavilion at the summit for a different, equally spectacular perspective of the city skyline.

The mountain offers a rewarding hiking experience with breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Taipei.

Access: From MRT Xiangshan Station, walk through Zhongqiang Park and enter the alley at No. 150, Section 5, Xinyi Road. From there, it takes about 30 minutes to walk to the Six Giant Stones. There are also other trailheads at Yongchun High School and Songshan Sanatorium.

 

Explore Taipei 101 and the Xinyi Area!

Taipei 101 is an iconic destination offering an unforgettable experience. Beyond breathtaking city views, discover a world of excitement within its walls:

• Photographic Paradise: Capture stunning photos at every turn.
• Unique Souvenirs: Find exclusive Taipei 101 merchandise and delightful souvenirs.
• Gourmet Delights: Indulge in a culinary journey with a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes.
• World-Class Shopping: Explore a vibrant shopping mall with a wide array of designer brands and local treasures.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Taipei 101 promises an unforgettable experience.

Explore Beyond the Tower:

Make the most of your visit by venturing beyond Taipei 101 and exploring the vibrant Xinyi District. Discover nearby attractions and immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of the city.

INFORMATION

Taipei 101 Observatory
Add: No. 45, Shifu Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City
Tel: (02) 8101-8800
Hours: 11am-7pm, Sat, Sun, and holidays 10am-7pm
Tickets: General (88F, 89F, 91F): NT$600, SKYLINE460 (88F, 89F, 91F, 101F): NT$3,000
Access: Exit 4 of MRT Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station

Observatory Tickets: klook, kkday
SKYLINE 460: klook, kkday