Go to Taipei 101 – Complete Taipei City Guide

Go to Taipei 101 – Complete Taipei City Guide

What will come to your mind while talking about Taipei?

I believe Taipei 101 will pop up on your mind.

Taipei 101 is a famous hot spot, popular shopping mall and the tallest building in Taiwan, which draws many tourists all over the world every year. Besides shopping, there are more fun waiting for you to explore.

Keep reading and don’t miss this post we have prepared for you.

Let’s go to Taipei 101 and remain an unforgettable memory!

Let’s Go To Taipei 101

Go To Taipei 101

TAIPEI 101 

  • Location : Xinyi District, Taipei City
  • Built : 31 December 2004
  • Height : 509.2 m (1,671 ft)
  • Floors : 101 (5 basement)
  • Record Height : Tallest in the world (2004 – 2010)
  • Speed of Elevators : 60.6 km/h (37.7 mph) ; From the 5th to 89th floor in 37 seconds
  • World Tallest Building Ranking(2019) : No.12

Taipei 101 (Taipei Financial Center) is a landmark in Taipei, Taiwan, also was the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010.

Taipei 101 literally means has 101 floors gathering together the world-class office, outstanding observatory, premier international shopping mall and variety of restaurants.

Go To Taipei 101

This tallest green building resembles a gigantic bamboo staking on the Taipei bustling area, the stalk of bamboo symbolizes “Prosperous” in Chinese culture.

  • Taipei 101
    • Hours:Sun – Thu 11:00~21:30 | Fri – Sat 11:00~22:00

Way to Taipei 101

The transportation in Taipei city is very convenience, many ways you can get to Taipei 101.

MRT (Recommend)

Source: Metro Taipei

Public Bus

  • Any bus to Taipei City Hall, the World Trade Center station, the Hotel Grand Hyatt Taipei, or Xinyi Administrative Center can be boarded.

Taxi / Uber

Youbike

  • If you are not far from Taipei 101, you can lease Youbike from your nearest stop and return the bike at the stop nearby Taipei 101. Ubike Station Map

 ▎See Also: Taiwan Transportation Guide – Getting Around Taiwan

Do & See in Taipei 101

Taipei 101 Observatory

Whether you come to Taipei for a day or a week, it is not complete without experiencing the top of Taipei 101.

” There Are 3 Reasons You Should Go “

1.The Fastest Elevator in the World

Two high-speed elevators(1010 m/min) are capable of carrying passengers from the 5th to the 89th floor just in 37 seconds.

2.The Largest and Heaviest Wind Damper in the World

Due to typhoons and earthquakes happen constantly, Taipei 101 must be designed to withstand both of them, so suspended a tuned mass damper weighing 661.02 tonne and 5.5 m (18 ft) diameter from the 92nd floor to the 87th floor.

You can come close to see how does this wind damper work and even taking photos.

3.The Highest Open-Air Observatory in Taipei

The 91st-floor outdoor observatory deck wraps around the building’s spire, you can feel the strong wind on the top and enjoy the most spectacular 360° views of the Taipei city.

  • Taipei 101 Observatory
    • Hours:Open 365 days, 0900 – 2200 (The last elevator up is at 21:15)
    • Ticketing and entrance:Taipei 101 Mall, 5th Floor
    • Admission Fees:
      • Adult:NT$600 ($19.5) 
      • Concession(Children above 115cm & Students):NT$540 ($17.5)
      • Free admission:Children below 115 cm
    • Get Directions
    • Tel:+886 2 8101 8800

The original ticket price is NT$600($19.5), but you can get 15% off just click below button!


*If you don’t want to pay NT$600 ($19.5) to the observatory, there is another way you can pay less and also can see spectacular views of the Taipei city.

Starbucks 101

YES! Don’t be doubt, there is a Starbucks on the 35th floor of Taipei 101.

How to get there?

First of all, you have to make a reservation one day in advance via phone call.

→ Call +886 2 8101 0701

After choosing your appointment slot, on the specific appointment date, you can go to the waiting line at door 7 in the lobby. Don’t be late and staff will check your appointment then usher you to the 35th floor.

Moreover, there are some information and tips I would like to tell you.

  • Make a reservation one day ahead is necessary.
  • Avoid wearing shorts and slippers.
  • The minimum spend is NT$200 ($6.5) per one.  
  • There is a time limit of 90 mins for your stay.
  • Space is small and about 30 seating, so you can go early for window seats.
  • Choose morning time slot or after 1700 time slot avoiding the hot sunshine.

It’s an alternate way for you to see the views of Taipei city, and also watch the sunset while having a cup of coffee.

  • Starbucks 101
    • Hours:Mon – Fri 07:30~20:00 | Sat – Sun 09:00~19:30
    • Get Directions
    • Tel:+886 2 8101 0701

Dining in Taipei 101

鼎泰豐・Din Tai Fung

If you mention the most famous Taiwanese food, most of the people will say “XiaoLongBao

Located at B1 in Taipei101, “Din Tai Fung” is widely known for their “XiaoLongBao”, people always make a line to taste the amazing dumpling with 18 folds delicate skin and juicy filling, once you try it, you will know how they take the signature dishes so seriously.

Although XiaoLongBao is the most popular dish of Din Tai Fung, they also have various kinds of cuisine, I recommend you try my favorite dishes like “Braised Beef Noodle Soup“, “House Steamed Chicken Soup“, ”Pork Chop Fried Rice “, “Spicy Shrimp and Pork Wontons“, “Green Squash and Shrimp Xiaolongbao“, all of the dishes are so delicious that I entertain my foreign guests here every time.

Nowadays,”Din Tai Fung” has many branches in China、Hong Kong、Japan、South Korea、Macau、Singapore、Indonesia、Malaysia、Thailand、Australia、United Kingdom and the United States, but if you come to Taiwan, you must taste the authentic flavor here, it definitely will become an unforgettable memory in your tour of Taiwan!


*There are two different styles of restaurants on the 85th floor of Taipei 101. Shin Yeh Dining offers traditional Taiwanese cuisine; Diamond Tony is Taipei’s most historic Italian restaurant. Either of both can enjoy the beautiful scenery, not only overlooking Taipei city view during the day but also the night is 100% romantic.

Shin Yeh Dining

Diamond Tony’s 101 Panorama Restaurant

What Else Fun Nearby Taipei 101

Four Four South Village

Four Four South Village was a military kindred village, today it has been renovated but still keep part of the village.

There is the creative bazaar on Sunday(1300-1900) so you can stroll to here from Taipei 101 in 5 minutes and experience some old house culture.


Xiangshan (Mountain Elephant)

A good place to look out over the Taipei Basin and Taipei 101.

Take MRT to next stop [R02] Xiangshan station, exit 2, and walk about 10 minutes along the park to the trail entrance.

It takes about 10 minutes from bottom to the observation deck, you can take the photo of Taipei 101 standing in front of you.

After taking some photos do not go downhill in a hurry, just keep going further up to the best photogenic spot – Xiangshan Six Rocks.

You can climb atop these rocks and the whole Taipei basin is under your feet.

Of course, you can come here at day time or night time for experiencing two different views.


Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

Go To Taipei 101

It is a memorial to the Republic of China‘s National Father, Dr. Sun Yat-sen.

It takes about 15 minutes walking there from Taipei  101, and I suggest you can visit especially during the changing of the guards every hour. 

Go To Taipei 101

There is also an exhibition which talking about the life of Sun Yat-sen and his revolutions.


Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

The park was initially built as a tobacco factory under the Japanese government in 1937, today has transformed into a creative hub of Taipei.

It takes about 10 minutes from Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall.

There are gallery, cafe, bookstore、museum, and many cultural and creative shops without commercial focus, you can come here and enjoy the leisure moment.

How About Tonight?

Linjiang Street Night Market(Tonghua Night Market)

One of the popular night markets in Taiwan is not far from Taipei 101, nearly 200 stalls sell foods along the street throughout the night, variety of selection can fill up your stomach.

Go To Taipei 101

Come here and don’t miss these Taiwanese foods, like “Ice and hot rice ball“, “Pan-fried bun“, ” Squid potage soup“, ” Pig Blood Cake“, ” Deep-fried potato ball “, ” Gua Bao“, “Grass jelly” and “ Stinky tofu“, just give these a try!


Nightlife

Taipei is famous for having a lot of fun at night.

Many popular bars are around Taipei 101 area, you can go to Placebo – an eastern culture style bar or MQ [ Marquee Taipei ] – Jazz music bar.

And there are two bars I highly recommend, R&D Cocktail Lab and Alchemy Bar Taipei, but they are hidden and the entrance is a bit hard to find so that you might probably miss it easily. Read this post find the way → BEST BARS IN TAIPEI – SECRET HIDDEN BARS YOU CAN’T MISS

Where to Stay

Five-Star Hotels


Grand Hyatt Taipei

Nearby the bustling Taipei 101, this luxury 5-star famous hotel Grand Hyatt Taipei features an outdoor pool, spa, sauna, fitness center and 850 exquisite guestrooms own stunning views of Taipei 101 or the Taipei city.

  • Price: $ 303 +
  • Internet review: 4.8/5 (1k+ reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Grand Hyatt Taipei

W Taipei

Luxurious W Taipei has scenic views of Taipei 101 located directly above the Uni-UStyle Taipei store. All exquisite rooms with interior decorations of local elements own signature beddings, seating area, flat-screen TV and audio system. Additionally, it features the beautiful WET® outdoor pool, pampering massage at AWAY® Spa and the trendy Woobar.

  • Price: $ 289 +
  • Internet review: 4.7/5 (994 reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: W Taipei

Humble House Taipei

Humble House Taipei is about 5 minutes walk to Taipei 101, all modern rooms are spacious with wood furnishings, flat-screen TV, mini-bar and free Wi-Fi. Also, the hotel provides own fitness center and restaurant.

  • Price: $ 262 +
  • Internet review: 4.8/5 (1k+ reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Humble House Taipei

Le Meridien Taipei 

5-star luxurious Le Meridien Taipei has panoramic city views featuring indoor heated pool、five restaurants、large fitness center and a lounge area. All spacious rooms come with a comfortable Le Méridien Signature Bed, a Nespresso machine, marble desks, leather chairs, DVD player, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi.

  • Price: $ 328 +
  • Internet review: 4.7/5 (407 reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Le Meridien Taipei 

Hotel Proverbs Taipei

Hotel Proverbs Taipei is located in the East District shopping area and features own rooftop swimming pool with great city views. All room has air-conditioner, a capsule coffee machine, mini-bar, refrigerator, and free WiFi.

Inexpensive Hotels


Home Hotel

Home Hotel is just two minutes walk to Taipei 101, all modern rooms provide air-conditioner, flat-screen TV, mini-bar, personal safe, ironing facilities, attached bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. It also has own business center and a gym.

  • Price: $ 219 +
  • Internet review: 4.6/5 (1k+ reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Home Hotel

JSL Apartment

JSL Apartment is a minute walk to the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, all modern and spacious room with a wooden flooring has air-conditioned, sofa, desk, flat-screen TV, refrigerator、electric kettle, safe, private bathroom, and free WiFi.

  • Price: $ 130 +
  • Internet review: 4.1/5 (276 reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: JSL Apartment 

Just Inn Taipei 

Just Inn Taipei (Xin Yi) is about 16 minutes walk to Taipei 101, all rooms have an air-conditioner, desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and free WiFi.

  • Price: $ 75 +
  • Internet review: 4.1/5 (620 reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Just Inn Taipei 

Work Inn 101

Work Inn 101 is about 10 minutes walk to Taipei 101 and MRT Taipei 101/World Trade Center station, all rooms have an air-conditioned, personal reading lights, flat-screen TV and the shared bathroom with shower facilities.

  • Price: $ 37 +
  • Internet review: 3.9/5 (152 reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Work Inn 101

Folio Daan Taipei

Folio Daan Taipei is about 3 minutes walk from MRT Daan station, it features old building structure but has been renovated and decorated with art. All modern rooms have own furniture and air conditioner, flat-screen TV, refrigerator, electric kettle, private bathroom and free WiFi.

  • Price: $ 141 +
  • Internet review: 4.6/5 (508 reviews from Klook) 
  • Reservation website: Folio Daan Taipei

What Are You Waiting For?

There are some events you would probably like to know:

Taipei 101 Run Up Race

Since 2005, TAIPEI 101 Run Up Race has been attracting numerous players from the world annually. Taipei 101 has a total of 2046 steps from the 1st floor to the 91st floor, which equals 390 meters height.

Record holder of Male is 10’29”32 in 2005; Female is 12’38”85 in 2005.

Wanna break the record? Click here to register!

Taipei 101 New Year’s Firework

On the last day of each year, the Taipei 101 fireworks show attracts nearly 1 million onlookers, If your itinerary is during these days, and you don’t even want to miss the fireworks show, be prepared, it’s crowded.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s pack up and go to Taipei 101!

I hope you enjoyed reading this post. If any questions on your trip to Taipei you have, please leave in the comments below.

20 Comments

  1. Strahinja

    Wow. I’ve never read more engaging article about Taipei. You really outdone yourself. I am traveling to Taipei in August and I am now gathering all the info I need to make the most out of my stay.

    I’m guessing I should not miss Taipei 101 and the landmark building. Quite amazed to see that Taiwan is actually such a jewel. Very glad to ride the fastest elevator on planeth earth and drinking my Starbucks coffee in the clouds :).

    Are you from Taiwan/Taipei? Is it okay if I contact you when I am in the town.

    Thank you.

  2. Moe

    Wow this article brings out alot of facts about Taipei. I always wanted to go there but haven’t had any time yet to go, but I always wanted more detailed information about it and your article just gave me all the information I needed for when I go on this trip. I am very excited about the food they have there and it looks and sound pretty tasty. Great article!

  3. Ali

    What a nice post you wrote! I really enjoyed reading it and I could not be silent about your post so I decided to leave my comment here and say Thank You! For sharing this quality post with others.
    Actually this is exactly the information that I was looking for information about the tradel guide for Taipei and when I landed on your website and read this post, it answered all my questions in details.
    So I’m happy that you decided to write about this topic and share it with people. It’s very useful and can definitely be used as a great source for everyone who is interested in this city.
    I will come back to your website again for sure and I’m looking forward to reading your new posts.)

    Thanks!

  4. Wow. The view just blew me away. I’ve always had a thing about high-altitude dining, especially one that offers the best view of the city. Taking a sip at the Starbuck is fine, but I wouldn’t mind spending more if it means it’s less crowded at the observatory deck. Thanks for the options though. Definitely will screenshot all the useful tips for my next trip abroad.

  5. Kat

    What a great thorough post for Taipei 101. I’m glad you pointed the number of floors is how it got it’s name. I would not have figured that out haha! I love the shape that it’s been made into – using the bamboo for prosperity shape. A lot of thought had gone into creating the building too. The fastest elevator sounds scary at 37 seconds to level 89. Gosh there’s so much to see and do just at the building. It sounds like it makes for a great destination. Thanks for sharing so many things that can be done during one’s visit to Taipei 101!

  6. Wow you pretty much covered it. I had no idea Taipei 101 had such an interesting history. Reading this article makes me want to book my vacation right now so I can check out these amazing sites.

  7. Steve

    My wife and I are looking to take a trip, somewhere different and have been looking at Taiwan among other places. After reading your article, I am definitely more intrigued with Taiwan than I was before. I think the food looks amazing, and the hotel prices, although higher than I expected, are still reasonable. I have been doing research on Thailand as well, it’s going to be a tough choice. Thank you for writing this very thorough post, it’s been extremely helpful.

  8. What a spectacular post. So much information and and so well put together. Makes me want to visit Taipei. I enjoyed reading all the details about Taipei 101. The elevator sounds like a thrill. Amazing fireworks. The food looks wonderful. Beautiful rooms. Definitely a place I’d want to visit.

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