When you think of Taipei, one building immediately comes to mind: Taipei 101. Standing at 509 meters, it’s a marvel of engineering, and visiting its observation deck is a highlight for any traveler. This tour offers skip-the-line access for $40, giving you a chance to ascend quickly via express elevators and enjoy panoramic vistas from the 89th and 88th floors, plus the rooftop.
What we love about this experience is the speedy elevator ride, which takes just 37 seconds—a thrill in itself—and the stunning 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and beyond. Also, the WiFi on top allows you to share your photos instantly. The downside? The weather can be unpredictable—fog or rain might obscure your views, as some reviews note.
This tour best suits travelers who want efficient access and high-quality views without long waits. It’s ideal for those with limited time or who prefer to skip lines, especially on busy days or during peak holiday hours. If you love authentic cityscapes and modern architecture, this experience delivers.
Key Points
- Skip-the-line access saves hours of waiting in queues.
- Fast elevators whisk you to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds.
- Breathtaking panoramic views over Taipei and the surrounding mountains.
- WiFi available on the observation deck for instant sharing.
- Guided insights about Taipei 101’s bamboo architecture and engineering.
- Weather-dependent visibility can vary, so check forecasts.
What to Expect at Taipei 101 with Priority Pass
Starting at the Taipei 101 Fast Pass Counter, you’ll hand over your QR code voucher to staff for your priority access. You’ll then be directed to the express elevator, which propels you from the 5th floor to the 89th floor in about 37 seconds—a ride that’s often described as “thrilling” and “blazing fast.” This rapid ascent is part of what makes the experience memorable; it’s a chance to feel the power of modern engineering.
Once at the top, you’ll find yourself on the observation deck on the 87th and 88th floors, with spectacular views that stretch across downtown Taipei, the mountains, and even the Taiwan Strait on clear days. Several reviews mention the use of telescopes to get a closer look at the cityscape, and some highlight the fascinating giant tuned mass damper (TMD)—a 660-tonne sphere that stabilizes the tower during high winds and earthquakes. Seeing it up close adds a touch of engineering marvel to the scenic experience.
The WiFi throughout the deck means you can upload photos or even do quick live updates, which many travelers appreciate. For those interested in the architecture, informative displays explain Taipei 101’s bamboo-inspired design and its technological innovations, adding an educational element to your visit.
The Experience on the Observation Deck
Visiting during daytime gives brilliant views of Taipei’s city grid stretching out in all directions. Many reviewers mention that sunset viewing is particularly special, with the city lighting up as dusk falls. However, some travelers, like Michael, had their plans clouded—literally—by fog or rain, which obstructed the views. It’s worth checking the weather forecast before you go if panoramic vistas are a priority.
The outdoor viewing areas are open in good weather, providing a different perspective with fresh air and unobstructed sights. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not allowed, and the food court upstairs can be pricey, so plan accordingly if hunger strikes after your ascent.
Efficiency and Convenience
The priority pass truly shines in its ability to bypass long lines, especially during busy weekends or holidays. As Yen and Steven noted, “Getting the priority pass was key to avoiding long lines”, saving you hours and making your visit stress-free. The return trip from the 88th floor also benefits from a fast-track, so you’re not stuck waiting in queues after your visit.
Meeting points are straightforward: just head to the Fast Pass Counter at the 5th floor of Taipei 101, near Exit 4 of the MRT station, and show your voucher. The staff will guide you through the process. From there, it’s smooth sailing, with clear instructions on how to maximize your time and enjoy the views.
Pricing and Value
At $40 per person, this ticket offers excellent value for the convenience and experience. For that price, you get skip-the-line access, express elevators, and the chance to see one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers from its most iconic vantage point. Many reviews emphasize that avoiding the queues makes the experience much more enjoyable, especially when time is limited or during busy periods.
While souvenirs or photos cost extra, many travelers mention that the views and experience alone justify the price. Some noted that general tickets can be cheaper, but the priority pass minimizes wait times significantly, which, for many, is worth the additional cost.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Weather and Timing
The experience can vary depending on the weather. Some reviews mention foggy mornings or cloud cover that limits visibility, but others found that clearer evenings or sunset hours offered breathtaking vistas. The open hours are 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last entry at 8:15 PM, giving flexibility to plan your visit around sunset or late evening city lights.
Accessibility and Practicalities
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. Be sure to bring your passport or ID for check-in. The elevator ride is smooth, and staff are generally helpful in guiding visitors through the process.
It’s also wise to avoid bringing pets, food, drinks, slippers, or smoking into the observation area, as these are not permitted.
This tour is perfect for travelers short on time who want to maximize their Taipei visit. The skip-the-line feature is especially appreciated during busy periods, saving hours of waiting. It’s also great for architecture buffs, photo enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Taipei from above.
If you’re visiting during good weather, you’ll likely leave with stunning memories and plenty of photos. However, if your trip aligns with cloudy or rainy days, be aware that your views might be limited, but the experience of riding the fastest elevators and enjoying the sleek interior still remains.
A visit to Taipei 101 with a priority pass offers timely access, amazing panoramic views, and the chance to enjoy one of the world’s most impressive skyscrapers without the hassle of long queues. The fast elevators, informative displays, and WiFi make this experience both engaging and efficient.
It’s especially well-suited for busy travelers or those seeking the best value for their time and money. The cost is justified by the convenience and quality of the view, turning what could be a crowded, stressful outing into a smooth, memorable highlight of your Taipei trip.
While the weather can influence your experience, a well-planned visit on a clear day will reward you with spectacular scenery and unforgettable memories. This tour balances modern engineering with authentic cityscape views, making it a must-do for anyone eager to see Taipei from its most iconic height.
FAQs
Is the ticket price of $40 per person worth it?
Yes, especially when you factor in the skip-the-line convenience, fast elevators, and premium panoramic views. It offers good value to avoid long waits and enjoy a stress-free experience.
How do I access the priority pass?
You need to go to the Fast Pass Counter on the 5th floor of Taipei 101, show your QR voucher, and staff will guide you to the express elevators.
Can I visit at any time?
The tour is valid for one day, with daily hours from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Check availability for specific starting times.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card to verify your booking. No pets, food, or smoking are permitted on the observation deck.
Is the experience suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate mobility needs comfortably.
Will the weather affect my visit?
Certainly. Clear days provide better views, while fog or rain might limit visibility, as some reviews noted.
Are there any extra costs?
Souvenirs and photographs cost extra, but the main view experience is included. Keep some cash or cards if you wish to buy snacks or souvenirs.
What’s the best time to visit?
For the best views, consider sunset hours—just be aware that the outdoor areas may be closed in bad weather or during maintenance.
This experience combines convenience, modern marvels, and breathtaking scenery into one memorable Taipei highlight. Whether you’re a skyline enthusiast or just eager to avoid long lines, this tour offers a smart, satisfying way to see the city from above.
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