Maokong Gondola

The Maokong Gondola offers families a spectacular 30-minute cable car journey ascending from Taipei Zoo through lush mountain terrain to the famous tea-growing region of Maokong. Kids will be mesmerized by the panoramic bird's-eye views of Taipei 101, the city skyline, and verdant tea plantations below, while parents appreciate the comfortable, air-conditioned cabins and the chance to combine urban exploration with mountain nature in one unforgettable outing.

• ✓Riding in glass-bottom gondola cabins with see-through floors for an extra adventure
• ✓Spotting Taipei 101 and the entire cityscape from high above during the scenic ascent
• ✓Exploring tea plantations and watching tea being processed at family-friendly tea houses
• ✓Walking easy hiking trails through bamboo forests and mountain paths suitable for children
• ✓Trying bubble tea at its source and tasting fresh tea-flavored ice cream at mountain cafes

1. 1.Book tickets online in advance to skip long queues, especially on weekends when wait times can exceed an hour. The official Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation website has English language options.
2. 2.Request a crystal floor gondola cabin (called 'Eyes of Maokong') for an extra thrill. Kids love the transparent floor, but book early as these fill up fast. Not recommended for those with fear of heights.
3. 3.Start your visit at Taipei Zoo station in the morning, ride up to Maokong for lunch and tea tasting, then explore the trails before returning in late afternoon to avoid the evening rush.
4. 4.Bring light jackets even in summer as it can be cooler and windier at the mountain stations. Weather changes quickly, so check forecasts and note that the gondola closes during heavy rain or strong winds.
5. 5.Download the EasyCard (Taiwan's transit card) app or purchase a physical card at any MRT station. It works on the gondola and makes travel throughout Taipei seamless with kids in tow.

Weekday mornings (9-11am) offer the shortest lines and clearest views. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) provide the most comfortable temperatures and best visibility. Avoid weekends, holidays, and after 3pm when crowds peak with locals finishing work.

The gondola operates Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays except holidays). Round-trip fares are approximately 260 TWD for adults and 130 TWD for children, with EasyCard discounts available. Several tea houses at the top welcome families and offer kid-friendly noodle dishes alongside traditional tea experiences.

The gondola occasionally closes during typhoon season (July to September) and in strong winds or heavy rain, so check operating status before visiting. Cherry blossom season (late February to March) and firefly season (April to May) offer special natural attractions. Winter months can be foggy, reducing visibility, but are less crowded.

The Maokong area at the top station features numerous family-friendly tea houses like Yao Yue Tea House and A-Yi Tea House that serve child-friendly fried rice, noodles, and dumplings alongside traditional tea. At the bottom station, Taipei Zoo has several cafes and snack stands, making it easy to combine both attractions in one day.