Taipei 101 Observatory Deck Ticket

Taipei 101 Observatory Deck Ticket Review: A Clear View of the City

Visiting Taipei 101 is often one of those must-do experiences when exploring Taipei, and the Observatory deck offers one of the best vantage points in the city. This review covers what to expect from the ticket experience, including the perks of skip-the-line access, the stunning skyline views, and some potential pitfalls to consider. We’ve looked at both the practical aspects and the authentic snippets from travelers who’ve been there, to give you a well-rounded picture.

What We Love About This Experience:
First, the speed of the elevators is a standout—these Guinness World Record-breaking lifts shoot you up at 1,010 meters per minute and get you to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds. Second, the view from the observatory is genuinely spectacular, especially on clear days when Taipei’s skyline and surrounding hills become a picturesque maze of buildings and greenery. Third, the availability of priority passes allows visitors to bypass long queues and make the most of their limited time, which is a real plus in busy Taipei.

One Consideration:
Most reviews mention that ticketing can sometimes be problematic, especially if purchased through third-party services like Viator, with some users experiencing barcode reading issues or needing to buy tickets on-site. Because of this, travelers should weigh the convenience of pre-booked tickets against the potential hassle, and perhaps consider purchasing directly from Taipei’s official online system if possible.

Who Will Love This:
This tour suits travelers who value quick access to iconic city views, those interested in modern engineering marvels, and anyone looking for a smooth, hassle-free experience with added perks like discounts and souvenirs. If you’re a fan of panoramic vistas or want to skip lines in a busy tourist spot, this is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Fast, Guinness-record elevators deliver a thrilling and quick ascent.
• Stunning panoramic views of Taipei and surrounding hills make the trip worthwhile.
• Priority passes effectively help avoid long lines, especially during peak times.
• Discounts at the souvenir shop and additional benefits like Uber credits add extra value.
• Potential ticketing issues highlight the importance of verifying your booking method beforehand.
• The experience is best on clear, sunny days for optimal visibility.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Quick and Convenient Entry

One of the biggest advantages is how easy it is to get into the observatory. Visitors can go straight to the self-serve redemption kiosks or the priority pass counters, bypassing the long lines that often form in front of the ticket booths. This is especially appreciated during peak tourist seasons or weekends, when waiting times can become frustrating.

Authentic insight from travelers notes that the process is generally smooth, but some faced issues with third-party barcode tickets. For example, one reviewer highlighted that their Viator barcode wasn’t accepted at the entrance, prompting a last-minute purchase at the counter. So, if you’re booking online, it might be safer to buy directly through Taipei’s official channels to avoid these inconveniences.

Multimedia Show & Souvenir Shopping

Before hopping onto the elevators, visitors are greeted with a multimedia presentation—an engaging way to learn about Taipei 101’s engineering feats and history. There’s also a souvenir shop where you can pick up Taipei-themed memorabilia, which some reviews mention as being conveniently located and offering a variety of options.

This area adds a nice touch, letting you extend your experience beyond just the view. Some travelers appreciated the opportunity to grab a quick snack or gift before heading upstairs, making the visit more relaxed.

The Ride Up: Time to Hold Your Breath

The elevators are a real highlight—fast, smooth, and modern, with a pressurized environment that keeps the ride comfortable despite the speed. Watching the city shrink below you in a matter of seconds is quite the adrenaline rush, and many reviews mention how the elevator ride itself is part of the experience.

A few travelers found the ride to be surprisingly fun, with one saying, “The lift up was interesting and we enjoyed the venue and seasonal decorations.” Be sure to arrive early or during off-peak hours if you want a less crowded elevator experience.

The 89th Floor Observatory

Once you reach the top, the view is truly breathtaking. On sunny days, you can see the city’s buildings looking like tiny blocks surrounded by lush green hills. Reviewers have commented that the views are “beautiful” and “phenomenal,” with some even mentioning that the cityscape becomes “cute little blocks,” which is an amusing way to visualize Taipei from such heights.

The observatory itself is well-designed, with glass panels and informative descriptions that help you appreciate what’s in sight. Some visitors noted that the upper floor, which is glazed, offers limited photographic opportunities because of the high railings and safety barriers. One review described it as more “an amusement park for children,” but most found it still worth the visit despite this.

Additional Perks and Shopping

Visitors get access to discounts at the Ever Rich Neihu flagship store, with up to 15% off on purchases, free Wi-Fi, and even Uber ride credits. Many reviewers appreciated these perks, noting they made the visit more convenient and enjoyable. The shop offers a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and local products, perfect for picking up a memento or gift.

Some travelers also used the Wi-Fi and eSIM options, especially useful if they wanted to share photos instantly or navigate around Taipei using their mobile devices.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $30, the ticket price balances well with the experience. The rapid elevator ride, combined with the stunning views and the convenience of skip-the-line access, makes it a good deal—especially considering the added benefits like discounts and the multimedia show.

However, the real value depends on the weather. Many reviewers emphasize that a clear day makes all the difference, allowing for the full enjoyment of Taipei’s skyline and hills. If the weather turns rainy, the views might be limited, as noted by some who went on rainy days but still enjoyed the experience for the ride and the ambiance inside.

Some reviews pointed out the importance of purchasing tickets early or through official channels, as third-party vendors can sometimes cause issues with barcode scans or pricing discrepancies. An overall assessment suggests the experience is worth the cost, especially if you prioritize avoiding long queues and want to maximize your visit time.

The Real Traveler Experience

In actual reviews, visitors shared a range of insights. Many found the staff helpful and caring, mentioning that the staff at the ticket counter and elevators made the process smooth. One highlighted that the elevator ride was a highlight, describing it as “part of the experience.”

On the downside, some users faced technical troubles. For instance, a reviewer named Maria called the Viator barcode “a scam,” adding that the barcode didn’t work, forcing her to buy a ticket on the spot. This underscores the importance of verifying your booking method ahead of time.

A few mention that rainy days can diminish the outlook, but even then, the interior decorations and seasonal displays add charm. For example, a traveler described enjoying the venue’s seasonal decorations despite poor visibility outside.

The Long and Short of It

The duration of around 2 hours is enough for most visitors to enjoy the multimedia presentation, take photos, and explore the shop. Many reviewers suggest arriving early or later in the day to beat the crowds and get the best lighting for photos.

Extra Tips for Visiting

• Book in advance through official channels if possible, to avoid barcode or ticketing issues.
• Visit early or late in the day for less crowded elevators and better light for photos.
• Check the weather forecast—a sunny day really enhances the experience.
• Use your priority pass to skip lines and save time for enjoying the view rather than waiting.

The Sum Up

The Taipei 101 Observatory ticket offers a fantastic way to see one of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks in a hassle-free manner. The speedy elevators, breathtaking views, and extra perks like discounts make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those who want to maximize their sightseeing in a busy city.

This ticket is best suited for travelers who value convenience, quick access, and memorable vistas. If you’re after a smooth, well-organized visit with added benefits, this experience delivers. However, be mindful of potential ticketing hiccups if booking third-party, and always check the weather forecast for the clearest views.

All in all, whether you’re visiting Taipei for the first time or returning for a second look, the Taipei 101 Observatory is a highlight that’s hard to beat. It combines modern engineering with stunning scenery—perfect for pinning your trip’s best moments.

FAQs

Do I need to wait in line to buy tickets?
No, with the self-redeem machine or priority pass, you can enter directly, saving you time especially during busy periods.

Can I use the priority pass anytime within a year?
Yes, many tickets, including some fast-pass options, are valid for use on any date within a year, offering flexible planning.

What should I do if my barcode doesn’t work?
Some travelers have experienced barcode issues with third-party vendors like Viator. It’s advisable to purchase tickets directly through Taipei’s official online system to avoid this problem.

What are the benefits of the discounts at the souvenir shop?
You can get up to 15% off on items, plus free Wi-Fi, Uber credits, and gifts with minimum spending, making your visit more enjoyable and budget-friendly.

Is the view worth the ticket price?
Most visitors say yes, especially on clear days. The breathtaking panorama of Taipei from the 89th floor is the main highlight and makes the ticket price worthwhile.

How long does the entire experience take?
Expect around 2 hours including multimedia shows, shopping, and taking photos. Arriving early helps avoid crowding and improves your overall experience.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
Yes, most reviews mention helpful staff and engaging displays that suit families. However, keep in mind the high railings and safety barriers inside might limit photography.