Discover the Scenic Maokong Gondola in Taipei
Have you ever dreamed of gliding above green hills while gazing at the Taipei skyline? If not, the Maokong Gondola in Taipei is the perfect place to experience that magical feeling. This cable-car ride offers breathtaking views of the city, forested slopes, tea plantations, and the famous Taipei 101 tower in the distance.
A Ride Above the Clouds
The Maokong Gondola is a cable-car transportation system operated by the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation. It connects the busy city area near Taipei Zoo to the peaceful highlands of Maokong in Wenshan District. Along the way, passengers are treated to a panoramic journey through lush greenery and mountain mist.
The gondola has six stations that run in sequence:
Taipei Zoo Station, Angle Station 1, Taipei Zoo South Station, Angle Station 2, Zhinan Temple Station, and finally Maokong Station.
The ride from Taipei Zoo to Maokong takes around 20–25 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. One of the highlights is seeing the colorful Zhinan Temple, beautifully nestled among the hills.
What to Expect at the Top
At Maokong Station, you’ll discover charming tea houses, small restaurants, and food stalls where you can taste Taiwan’s locally grown teas. The area is famous for its Maokong Tea Village, where you can enjoy a cup of oolong while overlooking the city below. There are also walking trails, perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll surrounded by nature.
My first gondola ride was both nerve-racking and exciting. As the car ascended, my nervousness turned to awe—the views of the city and the surrounding mountains were truly unforgettable. It’s one of those experiences that make you appreciate the beauty of Taipei from a new perspective.
Visitor Information
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Address: Wenshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan
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How to Get There: From Taipei Main Station, take the MRT Red Line to Daan Station, transfer to the Brown Line (Wenhu Line), and get off at the last stop, Taipei Zoo Station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the gondola entrance.
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Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (may extend to 10:00 PM on weekends and holidays; closed occasionally for maintenance)
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Fare: NT$ 180 per single ride for a regular cabin; NT$ 230 for a Crystal Cabin (glass-bottom). A one-day unlimited pass costs NT$ 300. Children under 5 ride free when accompanied by an adult.
A Must-Try in Taipei
The Maokong Gondola is more than just transportation—it’s an adventure that blends nature, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re sipping tea at Maokong Village, taking photos at Zhinan Temple, or simply enjoying the cool breeze, every moment on this ride feels special.
If you’re visiting Taipei, make sure to include the Maokong Gondola in your itinerary—it’s one of the most scenic and memorable experiences the city has to offer.
