Taipei: Taipei 101 Observatory Deck Entry Ticket

Visiting Taipei 101 is often on the top of travelers’ must-do lists when exploring Taiwan’s vibrant capital. Known for its impressive height and architectural ingenuity, this skyscraper offers more than just a photo op—it’s a journey into engineering excellence and panoramic beauty. While we haven’t personally ascended (yet!), we’ve gathered insights from countless reviews and official details to give you a thorough look at what to expect.

What we love about this experience is the breathtaking 360-degree views of Taipei, the speed of the elevator, which takes you to the top in just 37 seconds, and the value for money at just $20 per person. Plus, the skip-the-line options help avoid long queues, especially during peak hours. That said, some travelers mention that it can get crowded, and prices might seem steep if you’re comparing solely on cost. This tour suits those who appreciate iconic sights, engineering marvels, and amazing cityscapes—perfect for first-timers or anyone craving a memorable skyline experience.

Good To Know

• Stunning panoramic views: From the 89th floor and beyond, the vistas of Taipei and its surrounding mountains are unforgettable.
• Fast, modern elevator: The ride to the top is quick and smooth, making the ascent exciting rather than tedious.
• Skip-the-line options: Save time with express queues and enjoy your visit without long waits.
• Family-friendly amenities: Child discounts, interactive exhibits, and a prayer space cater to diverse visitors.
• Additional attractions: Inside, you’ll find souvenir shops, telescopes, and detailed info about Taipei 101’s engineering.
• Ideal timing: Visiting near sunset offers especially spectacular photo opportunities, according to reviews.

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The Experience of Visiting Taipei 101

Getting There and Entry Process

Your journey begins at the ticket redemption machine located at the Taipei 101 ticketing hall, inside the Taipei Financial Center. The process is straightforward—scan your QR code, collect your tickets, and you’re ready to go. For convenience, opting for skip-the-line tickets or express elevator access can significantly cut down on waiting times, which is a boon during busy periods. Many reviewers, like Matthew, praise how quick and easy the ticketing process is, with some mentioning they spent only about ten minutes from the train station to the top.

The Ride Up: One of the World’s Fastest Elevators

Once inside, you’ll hop aboard the super speedy elevator that propels you to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds. The ride itself is part of the fun—an adrenaline rush that feels more like a thrill ride than a simple elevator trip. Several travelers, including David, note that the elevator “gets you up and down very quickly” and that waiting times are minimal if you’ve used the express options.

Observing from Taipei 101

Reaching the top, you’ll step onto the Observation Decks on floors 87, 88, and the rooftop, offering glorious panoramic views of Taipei. On clear days, you can see far beyond the city, with some reviews mentioning distant mountains and lush rainforests. For those visiting at sunset, the views become even more enchanting, as the city lights start to flicker on and the sky shifts colors.

Many visitors appreciate the bamboo-inspired architecture and the architectural features like the mass damper—a 660-tonne tuned mass damper that stabilizes the tower against wind and earthquakes. It’s a fascinating piece of engineering that you can view up close, and several reviews highlight how worth seeing it is in person.

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Inside the Observation Area

Inside the deck, you’ll find telescopes that allow for closer looks at the cityscape, along with informational displays about the building’s unique features. Some reviewers mention the interactive exhibits, which make the experience more engaging—particularly for children or those interested in engineering marvels.

Outside and Around the Tower

For a touch of excitement, some tickets include access to the outdoor observation platform on the 91st floor, providing a different perspective of the city. It’s a particularly special experience during sunset or at night when Taipei is illuminated. Reviewers like Céline and Vik loved the outside platform, describing it as a “great experience” with stunning views.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Timing and Crowds

The tower is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last entry at 8:15 PM. For the best experience, consider visiting just before sunset to witness the transition from day to night and capture stunning photos. Crowds tend to peak midday, so early or late visits might be quieter, according to visitor feedback.

Ticket Options and Value

At just $20 per person, the standard ticket offers excellent value considering the stunning views and modern amenities. For those seeking even quicker entry, fast-track options are available, which many find worth the extra cost, especially during high season or weekends.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

Children under 115 centimeters can enter free of charge if accompanied by an adult, making it accessible for families. The interior includes child-friendly zones, and some reviewers noted the presence of themed exhibits, like displays of Star Wars characters, which add a fun touch.

Facilities and Amenities

Inside, expect snack bars, souvenir shops, and areas to relax and take photos. The WiFi throughout the tower keeps visitors connected, perfect for sharing your experience or live streaming the views.

Tips from Reviewers

• Print your tickets in advance at the designated machine to avoid QR code issues.
• Arrive early or late in the day for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
• Don’t forget your camera or smartphone—views are truly picture-worthy.
• Take your time looking through the telescopes and reading the informational displays to enrich your visit.

The Engineering Marvels and Unique Features

Beyond the views, Taipei 101 is a testament to architectural science. The mass damper is a highlight—located between floors 87 and 91, it’s a giant 660-tonne weight that keeps the tower stable against Taiwan’s frequent high winds and seismic activity. Several reviewers mention that seeing it up close adds a layer of appreciation for the building’s resilience.

The building’s bamboo-inspired design isn’t just aesthetic—it’s a nod to Taiwanese culture and symbolism, representing strength and flexibility. Inside, the modern engineering is complemented by interactive exhibits that explain how Taipei 101 withstands earthquakes and typhoons.

Additional Attractions and Nearby Highlights

While the tower itself is the main draw, the large shopping mall at its base provides a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Some visitors mention enjoying local Taiwanese cuisine within the complex, making it a full-day experience.

If you want to extend your visit, explore the surrounding Xinyi District, known for its vibrant nightlife, department stores, and cafes. The area is easily accessible via the nearby MRT station, making it convenient to combine your visit with other city attractions.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth Visiting?

Taipei 101’s observatory deck offers a blend of thrilling rides, impressive engineering, and breathtaking views. It’s an experience that combines modernity with cultural symbolism, appealing to a broad range of travelers—from first-time visitors eager for iconic landmarks to photography enthusiasts chasing the perfect sunset shot.

The ticket price is justified by the quality of the views, the quick elevator ride, and the engaging exhibits. Plus, with options like skip-the-line access, you can enjoy your visit with less stress. The tower’s child-friendly amenities and nearby shopping make it suitable for families and casual explorers alike.

However, if you’re visiting during peak times or on a particularly cloudy day, the experience might be less spectacular, so plan accordingly. Overall, Taipei 101 remains a must-see for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Taiwan’s architectural and cityscape brilliance.

FAQs

Is there a way to skip the lines at Taipei 101? Yes, selecting the fast-track or skip-the-line ticket options allows you to avoid long queues, especially during busy periods.

How long does the visit usually take? Most visitors spend about an hour at the observation decks, including time for photos, exploring exhibits, and enjoying the views.

Are there discounts for children? Yes, children under 115 centimeters can enter for free when accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.

Can I go outside on the observation deck? Depending on your ticket, you might have access to the outdoor 91st-floor platform, which offers a different perspective of the city.

What are the opening hours? Taipei 101 is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last entry at 8:15 PM.

Is WiFi available inside the tower? Yes, WiFi is available throughout the attraction, so you can stay connected during your visit.

Visiting Taipei 101 is more than just riding an elevator—it’s about witnessing Taiwan’s resilience, innovation, and stunning cityscape from a vantage point that few experiences can match. With careful planning and the right ticket options, your trip up this iconic tower will surely be a highlight of your Taiwan adventure.

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