TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei's Maokong Gondola will raise fares starting March 3.
A single ride will cost NT$180 (US$5.5), while a one-day ticket will be NT$300. An additional NT$50 surcharge will apply for the crystal cabin upgrade, per Taipei Metro.
The fare adjustment will replace the previous station-based pricing system with a flat-rate fare. The system is complicated and not in line with international standards for similar tourist cable cars, Taipei Metro said.
Domestically, the Nantou Sun Moon Lake Ropeway charges approximately NT$100 per kilometer. Compared to its international counterparts, Japan’s Hakone Ropeway costs about NT$80 per kilometer, Singapore's Cable Car charges NT$230 per kilometer, and South Korea’s Songdo Cable Car is priced at NT$210 per kilometer.
In contrast, the Maokong Gondola’s adjusted fare will average NT$45 per kilometer, lower than global standards. Taipei MRT explained that after 17 years of operation, the Maokong Gondola faces rising maintenance costs, inflation, and increases in electricity rates and minimum wages.
The crystal cabin's NT$50 surcharge aligns with international practices where transparent cabins often carry differential pricing, Taipei Metro said. While offering added transparency and scenic views, the crystal cabin's floor necessitates a reduced passenger capacity of five and results in increased maintenance expenses.
The price for Taipei residents, the city's government retirees, children aged 6 to 12, seniors aged 65 and above, Indigenous residents aged 55 and above, as well as people with disabilities and their caregivers will remain unchanged, with NT$50 per ride and NT$100 for a one-day ticket.
Transport Commissioner Hsieh Ming-hong (謝銘鴻) said the fare increases for the Maokong Gondola will not affect bus or YouBike fares. He reiterated the city’s goal of achieving 70% green transportation by 2030 while minimizing the commuting burden on residents.
