September 8, 2025
Introduction to Maokong Gondola
The Maokong Gondola is one of Taipei’s most scenic and popular attractions, offering breathtaking views of the city and lush mountains. Stretching nearly 4 kilometers from Taipei Zoo to Maokong, this cable car system provides a unique and relaxing way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Taipei. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or tea culture, the Maokong Gondola has it all.
The Maokong Gondola was opened in 2007 and was designed to provide an easy, scenic route from the Zhinan Temple area to the Maokong mountain region. The gondola ride not only offers a convenient way to reach Maokong but also serves as a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains, as well as its access to the area’s tea culture.
The Maokong Gondola system is 4.03 kilometers long and its body is in the shape of a “7”. This is Taipei City’s first fully automatic circular cable car system.
A Scenic Ride Above the City
Glide high above treetops and winding trails as you travel between four stations—Taipei Zoo, Taipei Zoo South, Zhinan Temple, and Maokong. The ride itself is a highlight, especially in the glass-bottom “Crystal Cabins,” where you can look straight down into the forest. On clear days, the gondola gives stunning panoramic views of both urban Taipei and the rolling hills beyond.
Gateway to Tea Culture
The gondola ride ends in Maokong, a hilltop area long known for its high-quality oolong tea and charming teahouses. Visitors can immerse themselves in Taiwan’s rich tea culture by enjoying freshly brewed local teas, participating in tea tastings, and learning about traditional brewing methods. Maokong is a peaceful escape and a haven for tea lovers.
Spiritual Stops: Zhinan Temple
Halfway up the gondola line is Zhinan Temple, a beautiful and historic site nestled into the mountainside. Dedicated to the Taoist deity Lü Dongbin, this temple offers a spiritual pause and panoramic platforms perfect for photos. It’s a great spot to explore on foot, with forested trails and traditional architecture adding depth to your journey.
Perfect for Day Trips and Families
The Maokong Gondola is an ideal half- or full-day trip for families, couples, and solo travelers. It’s easily accessible from Taipei via the MRT, and there’s plenty to do around each station. Enjoy street snacks near the zoo, walk peaceful trails in Maokong, or simply relax at a hillside café with tea and a sunset view.
When to Go and Travel Tips
Maokong is beautiful year-round, but the best time to ride the gondola is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the skies are clearer. Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds, and check the weather before heading up, as the gondola service may pause during rain or high winds. Don’t forget your EasyCard for a discounted ride.
Gondola Route & Stations
There are 6 stations in Maokong Gondola, 4 of which are for passengers to get on and off the cable car. There are four stations on the Maokong Gondola route:
1. Taipei Zoo Station – The starting point
2. Taipei Zoo South Station – For aerial views of the zoo
3. Zhinan Temple Station – Near a historic temple nestled in the hills
4. Maokong Station – Final stop, famous for tea houses and mountain views
The other two stations are used only for mechanical equipment and electricity and do not provide passenger services.
It is very convenient to take the Maokong Gondola. Just take the MRT Wenhu Line to the last stop, Taipei Zoo Station, then walk to the Maokong Gondola’s Taipei Zoo Station and transfer to the Maokong Gondola.
Use EasyCard to Take the Maokong Gondola
Each EasyCard can be used for one passenger only. The most convenient way to take the Maokong Gondola is to use the EasyCard. You swipe your EasyCard before boarding.
Please be sure to top up before queuing. If your EasyCard balance is insufficient, you may lose your place in the queue when you top up at the counter.
Regular Cabin and Crystal Cabin
There are a total of 147 cabins, including 31 crystal cabins. The Regular Cabin can accommodate up to 8 people. The Regular Cabin floor was changed to 3 layers of tempered glass with a total thickness of about 48 mm and a glass weight of about 213 kg.
The transparent floor has passed the European CE safety certification and each vehicle is limited to 5 people. The Crystal Cabin transports passengers every 2 to 4 minutes on average.
Note: If you want to ride in the Crystal Cabins, you need to go to the ticket booth to buy an upgraded ticket and then queue up. NT$50 per person per time.
▼ There are two queues: one for Crystal Cabins(Right) and the other for Regular Cabins (Left).
How Long does The Ride Take?
Because the weather changes, it won’t run at the same speed. It usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes. According to the official website, the one-way cable car journey takes approximately 17 to 37 minutes. Depends on the system speed (operating speed is 5 m/s ~ 2 m/s).
Convenience Store at Maokong Station
The convenience store at Maokong Station of Maokong Gondola covers an area of about 50 square meters, providing tourists with a good place for leisure and shopping. The spacious lounge area has dozens of seats.
Through the floor-to-ceiling glass, you can not only see the mountain scenery of the Maokong area, but the convenience store also has a Maokong and Taipei specialty area, providing a variety of souvenirs, making it convenient for tourists entering and leaving Maokong to rest and shop.
Maokong Gondola Luggage Storage
Lockers are located at Taipei Zoo Station. If you can’t find the location, you can ask the staff
How to Get to Maokong Gondola
The Maokong Gondola is a scenic cable car ride in Taipei that takes you up into the mountains of Maokong, an area famous for its tea plantations and beautiful views. It’s easy to reach by public transportation. Here’s how to get there:
By MRT (Taipei Metro)
Step 1: Take the MRT to Taipei Zoo Station
Start your journey by taking the MRT (Taipei Metro):
The easiest way to reach the Maokong Gondola is to take the Taipei MRT Brown Line (Wenhu Line).
Ride it all the way to the last stop — Taipei Zoo Station (BR01).
Once you arrive, exit the station through Exit 2.
Note: Arrive at Taipei Zoo Station, after exiting the MRT station, walk to the right to go to Taipei Zoo, and walk to the left to go to Maokong Gondola
Tip: If you’re coming from central Taipei (like Taipei Main Station), you may need to transfer to the Brown Line at Zhongxiao Fuxing Station.
Step 2: Walk to the Gondola Station
After exiting the MRT, the Maokong Gondola station is just a 5-minute walk away:
Follow the signs toward Maokong Gondola / Taipei Zoo South Station.
It’s a straight, easy walk and clearly marked.
Alternatively, if you’re visiting the zoo first, there’s a small shuttle train inside the zoo that connects to the gondola.
Maokong Tour Bus: Free or Single-Fare
Passengers who ride the Maokong Gondola(swipe your EasyCard) can transfer for free to the Maokong Tour Bus on the same day. Feel free to make use of this service as needed. Swipe your EasyCard to ride.
▼ Free transfer requires swiping the card reader below
Maokong Tour Bus (Right Line)
Route: Maokong Gondola Maokong Station → Tianliao Bridge →North Entrance of Camphor Tree Trail → Zhangshan Temple → Telescopic Deck→Apricot Grove → South Entrance of Camphor Tree Trail → Zhanghu Walkway → Maokong Gondola Maokong Station
Frequency: Weekdays every 10-30 minutes
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 09:00-20:00; Weekends and Holidays, 08:30-20:00
Maokong Tour Bus (Left Line, Zhinan Temple)
Route: Maokong Pothole → Mini Skywalk→ Pavilion → Yuanshan → Caonan → Maokong Gondola Zhinan Temple Station
Things to Do in Maokong Gondola
The Maokong Gondola offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Taipei from a stunning aerial perspective, and it provides access to the serene Maokong area, known for its tea plantations, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Here are the best things to do while visiting the Maokong Gondola:
Enjoy Scenic Gondola Rides
One of the biggest draws of visiting Maokong is the gondola ride itself. Stretching over 4 kilometers with four scenic stations (Taipei Zoo, Taipei Zoo South, Zhinan Temple, and Maokong), the Maokong Gondola offers breathtaking aerial views of Taipei’s mountainous landscape, forests, and tea plantations. The ride is peaceful and relaxing, taking around 20 to 30 minutes one way, giving passengers ample time to soak in the panoramic vistas.
For those seeking a unique twist, try riding in one of the “Crystal Cabins” with glass-bottom floors—an exciting way to see the treetops and terrain right beneath your feet. Whether you’re heading up during the day to catch lush greenery or riding back at night under a glowing skyline, the gondola experience adds a fun and picturesque start and finish to your Maokong adventure.
Key Points:
Glide above Taipei’s mountains and forests on a 4-km scenic cable ride
Try the glass-floor “Crystal Cabins” for a thrilling view below your feet
Hike Through Tea Trails and Mountain Paths
Maokong is a haven for hikers and casual walkers alike, offering a range of nature trails that weave through its misty hills. One popular route is the Camphor Tree Trail, which takes you through shaded paths lined with tea fields and local flora. Another favorite, the Tea Fragrance Loop, offers peaceful scenery and occasional rest stops that provide a moment to appreciate the surroundings.
If you’re looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path, try the Pothole Trail along the Zhinan River, where natural rock formations and suspension bridges add a bit of adventure to your walk. These trails are generally easy to moderate in difficulty, making them suitable for families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to escape the bustle of Taipei for a few hours.
Key Points:
Enjoy family-friendly hikes through tea fields and forested paths
Explore unique trails with rock formations, bridges, and tranquil views
Suggested Travel Itineraries: Click image to view full size
Experience Traditional Teahouses & Tea Culture
As you step off the gondola at Maokong, you’ll be welcomed by rows of tea plantations and cozy hillside teahouses. This area is famous for producing some of Taiwan’s best oolong and Baozhong teas. Many of the local teahouses invite visitors to relax with a warm pot of freshly brewed tea while soaking in panoramic views of the city below. You can also try snacks infused with tea, like tea jelly or steamed buns with tea leaves, all served in tranquil settings that highlight the region’s natural charm.
Some teahouses offer more than just refreshments—they provide hands-on tea-making experiences. You can learn how to brew tea the traditional Taiwanese way, guided by knowledgeable hosts. These tea stops are not only relaxing but educational, making them a great way to connect with Taiwan’s rich tea heritage in an authentic, scenic setting.
Visit Zhinan Temple
If you’re interested, Maokong has a variety of teahouses and cafes where you can relax and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of tea. Many of these places offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the mountains and city. Some teahouses also serve traditional Taiwanese snacks and are a great place to have a leisurely meal or enjoy a delicious meal. The price of tea varies from store to store, ranging from NT$200 to NT$800 depending on the type of tea. You can check out the menu before entering.
Key Points:
Relax in local teahouses serving fresh oolong and tea-based snacks
Learn traditional tea brewing and enjoy immersive tea-tasting sessions
Visit the Scenic Zhinan Temple
Zhinan Temple is a peaceful spiritual site located just a short walk from the Zhinan Temple Gondola Station. This historic Taoist temple is dedicated to Lu Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals of Taoism, and is known for its colorful architecture and quiet hillside location. Visitors can wander through incense-filled prayer halls and admire sweeping views of the city below.
Beyond the main temple, there are several smaller pagodas and scenic lookouts along the trail that circles the mountain. These peaceful spots are great for contemplation, photography, or simply catching your breath while enjoying a serene perspective over the Taipei basin.
Key Points:
Explore a Taoist temple rich in history and cultural detail
Panoramic viewpoints offer stunning photo opportunities
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Friday: 09:00 – 21:00
Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 – 22:00
Closed on Mondays and during bad weather (e.g., typhoons, strong winds)
Always check the weather forecast and the gondola’s official site before heading out, especially during rainy season.
Maokong Station Visitor Center: Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00~18:00
Conditions of Service Suspension
When one of the following events happens, the system will suspend service temporarily and will resume service after assessing locale conditions.
▎The service will be temporarily suspended when wind gusts reach 16 m/sec (about Force 7) and continue for over 3 seconds; or when wind gusts exceed over 18 m/sec (about Force 8).
▎The service will be temporarily suspended when there is a lightning strike in any section of the route.
▎The service will be temporarily suspended in the event of an earthquake of an amplitude exceeding Scale 4.
▎Service will be temporarily suspended during land warnings for typhoon (if warning includes Taipei), depending on actual weather conditions and whether school and work has been called off.
Maokong Gondola Ticket Price
Ticket Options & Prices
▸ Single Ride (Standard Cabin):
- Adult Fare: NT$180 (per person per ride)
- Discounted Fare (Taipei citizens only): NT$50
- This is a one-way ticket between any of the four stations on the gondola line.
- Chartered Cabin: Add NT$600 per car per ride
Children aged 0-5 years old can ride for free when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Each adult is limited to 2 children.
▸ One-Day Unlimited Ride Pass:
- Price: NT$300 for adults
- Great for those planning to get on and off multiple times in one day.
▸ Upgrade to Crystal Cabin (Glass-Bottom Gondola):
- Add NT$50 per person per ride (for a see-through floor experience)
- These cabins carry fewer passengers (up to 5) and usually have shorter lines.
▸ Using an EasyCard to Ride the Maokong Gondola:
You can simply tap your EasyCard at the gate to enter the Maokong Gondola—there’s no need to buy a separate ticket.
Details:
● How it works: Just tap your EasyCard at the gondola gate to board. No need to line up for tickets.
● Fare deduction: The system will automatically deduct the fare based on how many stations you travel.
● Daily fare cap: On your first ride, the system charges a single-ride fare. On your second ride, it deducts the difference up to the NT$300 daily cap. From your third ride onward, all rides that day are free.
How to Buy Tickets
You have a few different ways to buy Maokong Gondola tickets:
Online via Travel Platforms
● You can pre-book tickets on platforms like Klook.
- Maokong Gondola Ticket
- Taipei Fun Pass (Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola, National Palace Museum, Taipei MRT, city buses, and 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle)
● These often offer bundles (e.g., Gondola + Taipei Zoo entry or local tea tastings).
● You’ll receive a QR code that you can scan at the machines to enter.
At the Station
● You can buy tickets from vending machines or service counters at any gondola station (Taipei Zoo, Taipei Zoo South, Zhinan Temple, or Maokong).
● Paper tickets come with QR codes and can be used immediately.
Use Your EasyCard
● The easiest option. Just tap your EasyCard to enter the gondola.
● No ticket needed. Please be sure to top up before queuing.
● If you want to ride in the Crystal Cabins, you need to go to the ticket booth to buy an upgraded ticket and then queue up. NT$50 per person per time.
The Best Time to Visit
The Maokong Gondola can be enjoyed year-round, but it’s especially lovely in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush and green.
To make the most of your Maokong Gondola experience, it’s best to visit on a clear, sunny day. The gondola service is highly weather-dependent and will be suspended during poor weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, or typhoons for safety reasons.
Before heading out, always check the official Maokong Gondola website or local Taipei weather updates to ensure operations are running smoothly. Clear days not only guarantee uninterrupted service but also provide the most stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, tea farms, and city skyline.
Visiting the Maokong Gondola is not just about the ride — it’s about the views, the atmosphere, and the experience once you reach the mountaintop. To make the most of your trip, timing your visit is key.
The Best Time to Ride
It is recommended to come to Maokong Gondola on weekdays, as 9 am is the least crowded time. If you are alone or with two people you have the opportunity to ride alone without having to share a ride with others.
It will be more crowded after 10:30 am, and you may have to queue for 20-30 minutes after 11:00 am. If it is the weekend, there may be more locals and tourists, and you may need to queue from 10:00 am.
Here’s a guide to help you choose the best time to go:
Morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Pros: Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, peaceful teahouses
Perfect for: A relaxed tea brunch or a calm nature walk
Tip: Great time for photography with softer lighting and fewer crowds
Afternoon to Sunset (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Pros: Stunning sunset views, golden-hour light over the city
Perfect for: Photography, couples, and those wanting to dine with a view
Note: The cable car is not air-conditioned in the cabin
Tip: Arrive around 3:30 PM, enjoy a hike or tea, and catch the sunset before descending
Evening (After 6:00 PM)
Pros: City lights, romantic atmosphere, fewer families
Perfect for: A unique nighttime gondola ride and quiet tea experience
Tip: Some teahouses stay open late, but check their hours before heading up
Autumn (October to December) – Best Overall
Clear skies, cool weather, and vibrant foliage
Ideal for hiking and sitting outdoors in teahouses
Spring (March to May) – Lush and Refreshing
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers
Occasional light rain, so bring an umbrella just in case
Summer (June to August) – Hot but Lively
Green scenery at its fullest, but be prepared for heat and humidity
Visit early or late in the day to avoid the afternoon sun
Note: The cable car is not air-conditioned and the temperature in the cabin may exceed 40 degrees in summer. Please carefully assess your own condition before riding.
Winter (January to February) – Chilly but Peaceful
Crisp mountain air and fewer tourists
Wear layers, as it can get cold at the top, especially after sunset
Extra Tips
Go on a clear day for the best views. The cable car goes through the undulating terrain, and you can see the running subway trains, the park of the Jingmei River, the Giraffe Incinerator, the highway, etc. on the way.
Try a teahouse once you reach Maokong – the area is known for its high-quality tea.
Avoid weekends if possible – it gets crowded.
If you’re afraid of heights, stick to the regular cabins instead of the crystal-clear ones.
Overall, the Maokong Gondola is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Taipei, combining scenic views, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, all while offering an easy and fun way to explore the hills surrounding the city.
Weather Tips
It is important to choose good weather to ride, otherwise you may encounter Service Suspension.
The gondola doesn’t operate during bad weather (like typhoons, strong wind, or heavy rain).
Always check the official site or Taipei weather on the day you plan to go.
Clear days offer the best visibility for scenic views.
Blossom Season
Apricot Blossom Season: Jan~Feb
Lupin Season: Feb-Mar
Tung Tree Blossom Season: Apr~May
Bamboo Shoot Season: May~Jun
Spring Tea: May~Jun