Qiang Huang
What's Inside
I've lost count of how many times I've guided travelers up Taipei 101. And every single time, someone asks: "When should we go to avoid the crowds?" The answer isn't just a time slot—it's a whole strategy. Let me break it down, starting with the basic opening hours, then the real deal on timing, tickets, and the mistakes I see tourists make again and again.
When Does Taipei 101 Open?
The Taipei 101 Observatory (the 89th floor) keeps fairly consistent hours year-round. Here's the official schedule:
| Day | Opening Hours | Last Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM | 9:15 PM |
| Public Holidays | Same as above (unless announced) | 9:15 PM |
| Special Closures (e.g., maintenance) | Check official website | — |
Important: The ticket counters close at 9:15 PM, but if you're already inside, you can stay until 10:00 PM. That last 45 minutes can be magical—almost empty, with the city lights sparkling below. I always tell my clients: aim for the last entry if sunset is too early but you want a quieter vibe.
The Best Time to Visit Taipei 101
Here's where my experience really pays off. Most online guides will tell you "go at sunset." Sounds romantic, right? But here's the catch: between 4:00 PM and 6:30 PM, the observatory is absolutely packed. You'll be elbowing for a window spot, and the queue for the elevator can stretch 30 minutes. I've seen families give up and leave.
My golden window? 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM (right when it opens) or 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM (after the dinner rush). Mornings are serene—visibility is often clearer, and you can get that iconic shot without strangers in the frame. Evenings after 8 PM are calm, with a cool breeze and fewer people.
Also, consider the weather. Taipei is notorious for haze. I always check the Central Weather Bureau before planning a visit. If the forecast says rain or low clouds, postpone. You'll waste 600 NTD ($20 USD) on a gray sky. I've done that myself once—never again.
Weekday vs. Weekend
Tuesday to Thursday are your best bets. Monday is also okay, but some local schools have field trips. Weekends, especially Saturdays, are a zoo. If you must go on a weekend, arrive by 9:15 AM or after 8:30 PM.
How to Buy Tickets and Skip the Line
Standing in line at the ticket booth is a pain—I've seen it take 20 minutes during peak times. Save yourself. Buy online in advance. The official site (taipei-101.com.tw) lets you book a specific date and time slot. It's the same price as at the door (adult: 600 NTD, student: 540 NTD, senior: 300 NTD).
Alternatively, use Klook or KKDay. They sometimes offer slight discounts or combo deals with the elevator ride and a drink at the cafe. I snagged a combo for 680 NTD once—saved about 40 NTD and got a coffee. Not huge, but hey, every bit counts.
| Ticket Type | Price (NTD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (at door) | 600 | — |
| Student (with ID) | 540 | Ages 12–25 |
| Senior (65+) | 300 | Must show passport |
| Child (under 6) | Free | With adult |
Another insider move: if you're staying at a nearby hotel (like the Grand Hyatt or W Taipei), ask the concierge. They sometimes have pre-purchased tickets or can get you a slight priority. I've seen guests walk straight to the express lane with a voucher. Worth asking.
Insider Tips for a Smooth Visit
Let me rant for a second. The elevator from the 5th floor lobby to the 89th floor is an experience itself—it takes 37 seconds and your ears pop. But the queue for it can be brutal. Here's what I do with my groups: I go to the 5th floor ticket counter, scan my pre-booked QR code, and then head immediately to the elevator line. No dawdling at gift shops beforehand.
Also, the 89th floor has two levels: the main observatory and a small cafe. The best photo spot is near the northern corner, facing the Grand Hotel. The southern side? You'll mostly see boring office buildings. Save your phone battery for the north-facing windows.
Bathroom situation: There's a restroom on the 89th floor, but it's tiny and gets messy fast. I always tell my clients to use the restroom on the 5th floor before going up. Saves a headache.
What About Holidays and Special Closures?
Taipei 101 is open every single day of the year, including Lunar New Year, Christmas, and typhoon days (though they close if the city declares a typhoon holiday—check local news). During Chinese New Year, hours may shorten to 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, but they usually announce it a week ahead on their Facebook page. I've been there on New Year's Eve—it's absolutely insane. The area is closed to traffic, and if you want to see the fireworks, you need to buy special event tickets months in advance. Don't even think about walking in without one.
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