The ultimate Taipei 101 travel guide
Everything you need to know before visiting Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is a world-famous skyscraper located in the Xinyi District of Taipei, Taiwan. It is the tallest building in Taiwan and one of the tallest in the world, rising 509 meters above the city skyline.
This iconic landmark has become a symbol of Taipei, and a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting the city. In this travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Taipei 101, from its history and design to the activities and attractions nearby.
About Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is located in the Xinyi District of Taipei and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. It was built in 2004 and quickly became the world's tallest building, with a height of 509 meters.
Taipei 101 was designed by C.Y. Lee & Partners and incorporated traditional Feng Shui principles in its design. The building features eight distinctive segments that represent different aspects of Taiwan’s culture, such as good luck, prosperity, and longevity.
Taipei 101 has been praised for its modern design, energy efficiency, and impressive views of the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Taiwan and continues to draw visitors from all over the world.
Getting There
Getting to Taipei 101 is easy. The nearest metro station is Taipei City Hall, which is just a five-minute walk away. Alternatively, there are several bus lines that go near the tower and can be caught from major locations in the city. Taxis are also an option, although it can be difficult to find one during rush hour.
What to See and Do
Taipei 101 is one of the most popular attractions in Taipei. Its unique architecture and design make it a must-see. Visitors can explore the observation deck to get incredible views of the city.
Other highlights include the world's fastest elevator, shopping malls, and the open-air markets on the 5th and 6th floors. There is also an indoor food court offering delicious Taiwanese cuisine. Visitors should also take time to visit the neighboring Xinyi District which offers plenty of shopping and nightlife.
The surrounding area has many historical sights, including the National Revolutionary Martyr's Shrine and Longshan Temple. For those looking for some outdoor activity, the nearby Elephant Mountain has several hiking trails with stunning views of Taipei.
Shopping
Taipei 101 is a great place for shopping. It houses many upscale shops, offering everything from luxury clothing to jewelry and accessories. The mall has five floors of shopping, plus a basement filled with electronic stores. Be sure to check out the weekend bazaar for unique souvenirs and gifts.
There’s also a food court on the fifth floor where you can find traditional Taiwanese snacks and dishes. Taipei 101 also hosts seasonal events, such as Christmas markets and Chinese New Year fairs. Don't forget to buy yourself a piece of Taipei 101 memorabilia, like mugs and t-shirts. With so much to offer, Taipei 101 is sure to have something special for everyone.
Observation deck
Taipei 101’s observation deck is the highest in Taiwan, located on the 89th floor of the iconic building. This deck offers one of the best views of Taipei and its surrounding areas, with a 360-degree view of the city and nearby mountains. Visitors can take in the beauty of the city from high above, and enjoy stunning sunsets or a look at the illuminated cityscape at night.
The observation deck provides a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. There are interactive multimedia displays, a photo gallery, and a souvenir shop with a selection of traditional Chinese items. The deck also has telescope viewing points, and two glass sky-bridges that give visitors a unique perspective on Taipei.
The observation deck is open daily from 9am-10pm and tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket booth on the ground floor. Ticket prices range from NT$200-NT$500 ($6.5-$17 USD). There is also a special “Sunset Viewing Package” that includes access to the observation deck after sunset.
Dining
Taipei is a foodie paradise, and Taipei 101 offers a variety of options for dining. From street food to fine dining, there's something for every palate. Popular spots include the Din Tai Fung Restaurant, Shilin Night Market, and Tonghua Night Market.
Each offers a variety of dishes from traditional Chinese fare to international cuisine. For those looking to get a quick bite, there are plenty of nearby cafes and convenience stores. There's something for everyone in Taipei 101, so be sure to check out all of the food options while you're there!
Taipei 101 tickets
A visit to Taipei 101 is an essential part of any Taipei trip, and one of the best ways to make the most of the experience is by purchasing tickets in advance.
For visitors who would like to skip the line and get a great view from the observation deck, Taipei 101 offers a ‘ticket bundle’, which allows access to the tower and its observation deck, as well as discounted rates for other attractions. It is also possible to buy tickets separately for each attraction.
Taipei 101 also offers an express ticket for those who want to take advantage of the super-fast elevators and make the most of their time. This includes access to the observation deck, an audio guide, and a fast pass for the elevators.
The ‘tourist package’ is a good option for those who want to make the most out of their visit and explore all that Taipei 101 has to offer. The package includes admission to the main attractions, including the observation deck, an audio guide, a souvenir booklet, and discounts for other attractions in Taipei.
It is important to note that tickets to Taipei 101 are non-refundable and must be purchased in advance. Also, certain attractions at Taipei 101 may have special hours or closed days, so make sure to check in advance.
Recommended hotels near Taipei 101
If you're looking for a luxurious place to stay near Taipei 101, there are several premium options that are sure to please.
The Grand Hyatt Taipei is an ideal choice. Located only a few blocks away from Taipei 101, this five-star hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, and several restaurants. It also has an exclusive Club Lounge offering great views of the city.
Another option is the W Taipei. This vibrant hotel is located just steps away from Taipei 101 and offers a variety of facilities such as an outdoor pool, spa, and gym. You can also take advantage of the hotel's signature W Hotels service.
The Mandarin Oriental Taipei is also a great choice for those seeking luxury accommodation near Taipei 101. The hotel has a beautiful outdoor pool and spa, as well as several restaurants offering exquisite dishes. It also has a complimentary shuttle bus service to and from the iconic skyscraper.
Each of these hotels offer an unparalleled level of luxury and are conveniently located close to Taipei 101. Whether you're planning a business trip or vacation, they are sure to meet all your needs.
More things to do nearby
1. Visit the National Palace Museum: Located near Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum showcases a vast array of artifacts, treasures and artwork from the Chinese Imperial collections. Here you can learn about the history and culture of China through various exhibitions, artifacts and sculptures.
2. Explore Ximending: Ximending is an energetic neighborhood in Taipei that is home to trendy shops, street performers, and delicious local eats. It’s perfect for wandering around and discovering new places to explore.
3. Enjoy the city views from Elephant Mountain: Elephant Mountain offers breathtaking views of Taipei 101, the city skyline, and beyond. Take a hike up the mountain for stunning sunset views or just enjoy the sweeping cityscapes.
4. Check out the night markets: Night markets are a popular part of Taiwan’s culture, and many of them are located near Taipei 101. Explore and shop for souvenirs, sample local street food, and observe the lively atmosphere of these vibrant marketplaces.
Read next: The best things to do in Taipei, Taiwan
Tips for Visiting
• Plan your visit to Taipei 101 in advance as tickets to the observation deck and other attractions can often be booked in advance.
• Take public transportation to Taipei 101 since the area can become congested with cars. The nearest MRT station is Taipei City Hall station.
• Visit Taipei 101 during the day to enjoy the best views from the observation deck, and to get the most out of shopping and sightseeing.
• Explore the area around Taipei 101 for some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city.
• Avoid visiting on a weekend or public holiday if you want to avoid crowds.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is much to explore around the area.
• Be prepared for rain as Taipei has a tropical climate, so bring an umbrella.
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