Maokong Gondola Taipei
Ascend to Maokong Mountain via a scenic gondola ride for breathtaking Taipei views and a rich tea culture experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Day, sunset, and night views
Maokong Gondola Taipei
Best Time
Day, sunset, and night views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to Maokong Mountain via a scenic gondola ride for breathtaking Taipei views and a rich tea culture experience.
"Soar above the city on a gondola, indulge in adorable cat ice cream, and savor tea with a stunning sunset view."
🎟️ Save with EasyCard
Use your EasyCard for a discount on gondola tickets and a smoother boarding process.
💎 Crystal Cabin Views
Opt for a Crystal Cabin for a thrilling transparent floor experience and unobstructed views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Gondola Ride
Taipei Zoo Station to Maokong Station
Soar above lush greenery and enjoy breathtaking cityscapes on this iconic cable car journey.
Maokong Tea Culture
Maokong Village
Sip traditional Taiwanese tea at charming teahouses with stunning mountain and city views.
Day to Night Views
Maokong Mountain
Witness Taipei transform from day to night with spectacular panoramic vistas from the mountaintop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Crystal Cabins & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Save with EasyCard
Use your EasyCard for a discount on gondola tickets and a smoother boarding process.
💎 Crystal Cabin Views
Opt for a Crystal Cabin for a thrilling transparent floor experience and unobstructed views.
🍵 Tea Tasting Experience
Dedicate time to explore the numerous teahouses and savor authentic Taiwanese tea.
🚶♀️ Explore Hiking Trails
Discover scenic walking paths and hiking trails around Maokong Mountain for a nature escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Save with EasyCard
Use your EasyCard for a discount on gondola tickets and a smoother boarding process.
💎 Crystal Cabin Views
Opt for a Crystal Cabin for a thrilling transparent floor experience and unobstructed views.
🍵 Tea Tasting Experience
Dedicate time to explore the numerous teahouses and savor authentic Taiwanese tea.
🚶♀️ Explore Hiking Trails
Discover scenic walking paths and hiking trails around Maokong Mountain for a nature escape.
🌃 Day & Night Spectacle
Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy both daylight and magical night views of Taipei.
🐱 Adorable Cat Ice Cream
Don't miss the cute cat-shaped ice cream, a popular and photogenic treat!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Maokong Gondola for its scenic beauty and affordable price, especially when using an EasyCard. The opportunity to experience Taipei's skyline from day to night and indulge in local tea culture are major highlights. However, some reviews mention issues with staff attitude and challenges with night photography inside the gondola.
"It was a rainy, cool day but the ride on the gondola was great! Smooth ride up & down. The entrance fee was very inexpensive. Great views despite the rain and fog. We saved twd $20 by using our easy card. We went straight up to the third stop at the top. Lots to do and see once we got out. We had a nice local lunch across from the station. The owner was bbqing some cuttlefish balls and sausages out front. We had some ice cream across the way after. Walked around and went back down. It was busier but still fairly fast to get on the gondola. Would totally recommend this ride."
Fiona Bratvold
"I ride this gondola with my husband and 2 kids... To be honest the ride was fine... But the attitude of the operator girl name niqi or tiki or whatever her name was NOT!!! POOR SERVICES!! SHE SHOULDN'T WORK NEAR ANY KIDS! PARENT PLEASE BE AWARE!
Inside the gondola, there are 2 paper/plastic fan that i think it can be use during summer as the condition inside the cabin can be a little bit hot, so my kids take the fan and use it.
Arrived at the Maokong Station, we ask if it's possible to stay in the cabin as we bought the all day ride ticket, but thi operater girl name niqi/tiki/maqi or whatever her name is said no we can't, so she Rush us to get down (we bring 2 strollers), then without saying anything, SHE PULL THE FAN THAT MY KIDS HOLD HARSHLY AND THEN PULL MY KIDS HAND HARSHLY WITHOUT EVEN SAYING A WORD!!!!! SHE EVEN ACCUSED MY SON (5.Y.O) STOLE THE FAN!!! ARE YOU CRAZY???? It's not OKAY TO DO THAT TO KIDS!!!! YOU CAN ASK NICELY! NOT PULLING KIDS HANDS!
I did make complain with her supervisor twice (Once in that station, the second in the station where we coming from) they are all apologized. I wish something like this never happened to other people kids!"
Louise Agustine Gunawan
"Come at 5pm able see day and night view.😍😍😍"
Joyce
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach the Maokong Gondola is by taking the Taipei Metro (MRT) to the Taipei Zoo Station (Brown Line). From there, it's a short walk to the Maokong Gondola Station. Some visitors also opt for private car services for convenience. +1
Yes, the Maokong Gondola's main station is conveniently located next to the Taipei Zoo. You can easily combine a visit to both attractions in one day. 
Taking the MRT to Taipei Zoo Station and then the gondola is highly recommended for the scenic experience and ease of access.
While driving is possible, parking can be limited, and the gondola ride itself is a major attraction. Public transport is generally preferred.
From central Taipei, the MRT ride to Taipei Zoo Station typically takes around 30-40 minutes, followed by a short walk to the gondola. The gondola ride itself is about 20-30 minutes depending on the stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are very affordable. A standard ride is around NT$150, but using an EasyCard can offer a discount, saving you about NT$20.
The gondola typically operates from around 9 AM to 9 PM or 10 PM, but hours can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site. However, using an EasyCard is a popular and efficient method for payment and can sometimes expedite boarding.
Yes, you can choose between standard cabins and 'Crystal Cabins' which feature a transparent glass floor for a more thrilling experience.
The gondola ride has a fee, but exploring Maokong Mountain and its teahouses is generally free, though you'll likely spend money on tea and food.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Maokong is famous for its tea culture, offering numerous teahouses to relax and enjoy local brews. You can also explore hiking trails, enjoy panoramic city views, and find unique treats like cat-shaped ice cream.
Popular choices include Sunyang Tea House for its views and offerings, and Yaoyue Teahouse, known for its 24-hour operation and night views. Many teahouses offer tasting menus and local dishes.
Absolutely! Maokong offers spectacular panoramic views of the Taipei skyline, especially beautiful during sunset and at night when the city lights up. +1
Yes, Maokong is surrounded by several hiking trails that offer a chance to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy different perspectives of the landscape.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic gondola ride, the Taipei Zoo nearby, and the unique treats like cat ice cream. Some visitors have noted potential issues with staff attitude, so parental supervision is advised.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Maokong is renowned for its tea. You can enjoy various types of Taiwanese tea, often paired with local snacks and dishes. Some teahouses also serve more substantial meals.
Yes, numerous teahouses function as restaurants, offering a range of local Taiwanese cuisine alongside their tea selections.
Some teahouses, like Yaoyue Teahouse, are open 24 hours, allowing you to enjoy food and tea with the night view of Taipei.
Besides various teas, look for local snacks like cuttlefish balls and sausages, and don't forget the popular cat-shaped ice cream.
Prices can vary, but generally, dining in teahouses can be moderately priced, especially if you're just having tea and snacks. A full meal might be more expensive.
📸 📸 Photography
The gondola ride itself offers incredible photo opportunities. Once at Maokong, the viewpoints overlooking Taipei, especially during sunset and at night, are prime spots. Teahouses also provide scenic backdrops.
While the night view of Taipei is stunning, taking clear photos from inside the gondola can be challenging due to glass reflections and fingerprints.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views and the gondola. A tripod can be helpful for low-light photography, but be mindful of crowds.
The cat-shaped ice cream and the charming teahouse interiors offer unique and photogenic subjects.
Late afternoon into early evening provides the best light for capturing both the daytime scenery and the transition to the illuminated city at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combining a visit with the nearby Taipei Zoo is a popular choice for a full day of family fun. Once in Maokong, look for unique treats like cat-shaped ice cream and explore the gentle walking paths. While the experience is generally positive, be aware of potential staff attitude issues reported by some visitors, and ensure children are supervised. 🍵 Tea Enthusiasts
+1 Sample a variety of Taiwanese teas, learn about their origins, and enjoy them with traditional snacks or a full meal. The serene atmosphere and the quality of the tea make it a perfect retreat for anyone passionate about this ancient beverage.📸 Photography Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Maokong Gondola Experience
This unique perspective makes the journey an unforgettable part of any Taipei itinerary. Visitors often recommend using an EasyCard for ticket purchases, which can provide a small discount and a smoother boarding process.
It's worth noting that while the ride is generally smooth, some reviews mention that the cabins can get a bit warm, particularly during summer months.
Discovering Maokong's Tea Culture
Many teahouses provide tasting sessions, allowing you to learn about the different varieties and brewing methods. Beyond just sipping tea, many teahouses offer delicious local dishes and snacks that perfectly complement the beverages.
Exploring these establishments is a key part of the Maokong experience, offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle. Visitors often recommend taking your time to wander through the village, discover hidden trails, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Capturing Maokong's Views
+1The most sought-after photographic moments occur during sunset and at night, when Taipei transforms into a glittering tapestry of lights.
+1Beyond the grand cityscapes, don't forget to capture the smaller details that make Maokong unique, such as the adorable cat-shaped ice cream
or the intricate designs of the teahouses. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the expansive views, and visiting during the golden hour can enhance the beauty of your shots.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit