Taipei 101 Observatory Guide: 4 Highlights You’ll Regret Skipping

When visiting Taiwan, the Taipei 101 Observatory is an absolute must-see! Once the tallest building in the world, this architectural icon features a high-speed elevator that zips you to the 89th floor in just seconds. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 4 must-see highlights of the Taipei 101 Observatory, ensuring you don’t miss any of its signature experiences. Whether you're visiting Taipei for the first time or returning for another view, this will help you make the most of your visit.

Why Is the Taipei 101 Observatory So Famous?

As Taiwan’s most celebrated attraction, the Taipei 101 Observatory provides sweeping panoramas of the city skyline and surrounding mountains. It remains an unmissable landmark for any visitor to the capital. Standing at 508 meters, Taipei 101 includes an observatory at 449 meters, making it one of the tallest in the world. You can thrill at the rapid elevator that zooms to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds, and admire the impressively tuned mass damper, which is a 660-ton golden sphere that stabilizes the tower during strong winds and earthquakes. To make your trip seamless, here’s everything you may want to know before visiting the Taipei 101 Observatory: Opening Hours 101F: 11:00-20:00 (Last entry 19:00) 89F: 10:00-21:00 (Last entry 20:15) Mall: 11:00-21:30 (Sun-Thurs); 11:00-22:00 (Fri-Sat) Getting There Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line): Take the Red Line to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station, then exit from Exit 4. The entrance is just a short walk from there. Blue Line (Bannan Line): Take the Blue Line to City Hall Station, then walk about 10 minutes from Exit 2. Adult Ticket Prices Main Deck Ticket (89th Floor Observatory): NT$600 Top Deck Ticket (89th & 101st Floors): NT$980 Express Pass (Fast Pass to 89th Floor): NT$1,200 Ticket Type Floors Included Special Access Ideal For Notes Main Deck 88F + 89F Standard entry First-time visitors Great 360° view and wind damper Top Deck 88F + 89F + 101F VIP “Secret Garden” on 101F Those seeking a premium experience Must book in advance Express Pass 88F + 89F Fast-track entry Time-sensitive travelers Bypass regular queues The Taipei 101 Observatory is located at No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District. Visitors can enter through the 5th floor of the mall, where the ticket counter is. If needed, you can contact them at +886 2 8101 8800. Further Reading: Taipei Where to Eat 2025: 10 Iconic Dishes & 3 Surprising Things

What Can You Do at the Taipei 101 Observatory?

The Taipei 101 Observatory offers a range of unique experiences, each showcasing the city from a different perspective. Remember to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines, particularly during weekends and holidays.

89F: Cityview360

The indoor observatory delivers stunning 360-degree panoramas of Taipei and its surrounding mountains. It’s the ideal spot to admire the city’s layout, capture panoramic photos, and simply take in the beauty of Taipei from above.

91F: The Horizon

Step outside onto this open-air platform and take in the full skyline experience. The Horizon reveals sweeping, unobstructed cityscapes of Taipei, perfect for snapping unforgettable photos. Access depends on weather conditions. The 91F outdoor observatory opens depending on weather conditions. On clear days, it’s a highlight you shouldn’t miss, but operations may be suspended during rain or strong winds — check the forecast in advance! Further Reading: 11 Taipei Tourist Attractions That You Can’t Miss in 2025

101F: Skyline460

Situated on the 101st floor, this exclusive outdoor deck delivers a truly memorable experience. As Asia’s highest outdoor observatory, Skyline460 showcases peerless vistas and an unforgettable sense of elevation above the clouds. Visitors can check out the 88th-floor exhibition at Taipei 101, featuring an up-close view of the iconic damper, interactive displays, and themed souvenirs. After your observatory visit, unwind at A Joy on the 86th floor. This upscale restaurant spans two stories in height, presenting a remarkable fine-dining journey and a multi-sensory experience, featuring over 300 dishes, impressive light displays, and contemporary Taiwan-inspired art. You can enjoy a breathtaking night view that rivals the beauty of the observatory. Stay until 21:30 to see the city lights sparkle—a perfect ending to your Taipei 101 visit! Further Reading: Best Buffet in Taipei: Top 6 Must-Try All-You-Can-Eat Restaurants

Dining at Taipei 101: A Joy

Perched on the 86th floor of Taipei 101, A Joy redefines fine dining with panoramic views of the Taipei skyline. This restaurant specializes in modern Taiwanese-fusion cuisine, skillfully merging traditional island flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. What sets A Joy apart is its fine-dining-level buffet experience — over 300 dishes are thoughtfully curated and prepared with the same attention to quality and presentation you would expect from an upscale à la carte restaurant. From premium seafood and Wagyu beef to creative Taiwanese-inspired bites, every dish elevates the traditional buffet into a luxurious culinary journey. The seasonal tasting menus are a standout feature, providing diners with a creative and flavorful culinary journey. For anyone in search of an unforgettable dining experience above the city, A Joy is the quintessential choice within Taipei 101. Don’t just see the city — taste it. Book your evening at A Joy, where every dish tells the story of modern Taipei under the stars.

FAQs

Q1: How long should I spend at the Taipei 101 Observatory?

Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the indoor and outdoor decks, taking photos, and enjoying the views. If you plan to dine at A Joy afterward, allow around 3 to 3.5 hours in total — including the observatory visit, elevator rides, and a leisurely fine-dining experience with a skyline view.

Q2: What is the best time of day to visit Taipei 101?

Arriving in the late afternoon is ideal—try to get here before dusk so you can enjoy the clarity of daylight alongside the sparkle of nighttime city lights during your visit. It’s also wise to steer clear of weekends to avoid long lines.

Q3: What time does Taipei 101 light up?

Every evening from sunset until 23:00, the tower lights up with dynamic displays that change daily, reflecting the day of the week or celebrating special events.

Q4: Can I buy Taipei 101 Observatory tickets online?

Yes! Tickets can be purchased on-site or through the official website for faster entry.

Q4: Is Elephant Mountain worth visiting?

Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) offers a great view of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. It’s a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. The hike is short, and you’ll enjoy a fantastic view—especially around sunset or after dark when Taipei 101 lights up. If you’re wondering where to eat in Taipei, don’t miss our insider picks in “Taipei Where to Eat 2025: 10 Iconic Dishes & 3 Surprising Things” — the perfect way to wrap up your day! Further Reading: Famous Restaurants in Taipei 2025: 8 Hot Picks You'll Love 15 Popular Food in Taiwan: A Foodie Guide to Eating Like a Local