TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei 101 will no longer accept applications for exterior climbing activities, Chairperson Janet Chia (賈永婕) announced Thursday (Jan. 29) while promoting Skyline 460, Asia's highest outdoor observatory located 48 meters (157.5 feet) below the tower's pinnacle. The exclusive platform offers 360-degree views of Taipei City, with only 400 tickets available daily at NT$3,000 (around US$96) per person, making it one of Taiwan's most sought-after attractions.
The announcement comes after climbing legend Alex Honnold recently free-soloed Taipei 101, putting Taiwan's iconic landmark in the international spotlight. Chia said the platform remains accessible to all visitors, with safety gear provided to ensure a secure experience. She noted a personal connection to the views, saying she could trace her life's journey from the skywalk, including landmarks like the National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (國父紀念館).
A TVBS News reporter who experienced Skyline 460 described challenges posed by strong winds and glaring sunlight at the outdoor observatory, comparing the difficulty to feats of a climbing expert like Alex Honnold. Indoors at Taipei 101, the annual exhibition "FERNS AND ORCHIDS OF FORMOSA" (蕨蘭之美), curated by floral artist Alfie Lin (凌宗湧), offers a contrasting attraction for visitors seeking a calmer experience at Taiwan's tallest building.
Honnold's daring feat drew widespread praise, with some urging Chia to run for Taipei mayor in future elections. Chia responded that a mayoral bid is "absolutely not an option" for her. She confirmed that during her term as chairperson, Taipei 101 will ban all exterior climbing applications, marking a significant policy shift for the iconic 508-meter (1,667-foot) skyscraper that dominates the Taipei skyline. ◼