Taiwan: Taipei 101

In 2004, Taipei 101 (formerly known as Taipei World Financial Centre) was declared the tallest building in the world. 101 floors high, it stands above the rest of the buildings in Taiwan’s capital, and, pollution depending, can be visible for miles.

Taipei 101 lost it’s ‘tallest building’ crown to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai in 2009, and as of 2023, Taipei 101 is ranked as the 11th tallest building on earth, but it’s still well worth a visit!

Several years ago, I visited Taipei on a budget (shock). I only had 2 days to explore the city and wanted to hit all the ‘MUST SEE’ places. After doing some research, I found that Taipei 101 made most Top 10 lists and in many cases was the #1 thing to see/do in Taipei.

Taipei has an efficient subway system that covers the main areas of the city. To get to Taipei 101, simply get off at the conveniently named ‘Taipei 101’ stop — It’s that easy!

The building itself is immensely impressive and looks like a giant pagoda, you can’t miss it.

As you enter the building you’ll notice the bottom floors are mostly occupied by food courts, shops, and crowds of tourists. The real spectacle is on the 89th floor: the 360degree Observation Deck.