Taipei 101

Resembling both a traditional pagoda and a stalk of bamboo, Taipei 101 features innovative and energy-saving design. It’s also incredibly safe, designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoon-level winds. Super-fast elevators travel at nearly 38 miles (60 kilometers) per hour and whisk passengers from the 5th floor to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds. The indoor observatory is on the 88th and 89th floors, while the outdoor observatory is on the 91st floor. If you prefer not to journey that high, you can shop and dine at the building’s retail complex on the first five floors.

One of Taipei’s most popular attractions, Taipei 101 features on most city sightseeing tours. Combine the structure with a visit to other attractions like the National Palace Museum or the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. Hop-on hop-off bus tours offer the most flexibility. Or book a private tour to experience Taipei 101 along with other must-sees on your list.

• Taipei 101 is a must-visit for all first-time visitors to Taipei, especially architecture enthusiasts.

• Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the observatories’ 360-degree views.

• To avoid waiting in line at peak times, book tickets ahead of time or purchase a priority pass.

• Audio tours in eight languages are available at the observatory.

• Appropriate dress and footwear is required for admission; slippers are not allowed.

• The outdoor observatory is open only when the weather permits.

• Taipei 101 is accessible to wheelchair users.

Taipei 101 is located in Taipei’s Xinyi district. By MRT, take the Red Line to Taipei 101 Station. Alternatively, board a bus to Taipei 101 at Taipei City Hall, the World Trade Center, Xinyi Administrative Center, or the Grand Hyatt Taipei.

The building is open from 9am to 10pm daily, with last admission at 9:15pm. For best views and photos, visit on a clear day, perhaps just before sunset for beautiful nighttime views. New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular times at Taipei 101, with locals and visitors flocking here for the annual fireworks display.

Taipei 101 features the world’s largest and heaviest wind damper, at 18 feet (5.5 meters) in diameter and weighing 728 US tons (660 metric tons). Suspended between the 87th and 92nd floors at the building’s center, the damper counteracts any movement caused by strong winds or an earthquake. You can view it from the 88th floor’s indoor observatory.