TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei's Maokong Gondola (貓纜) will shift from a station-based fare to a flat rate of NT$180 per ride or NT$300 for a day pass starting March 3 to maintain safe and reliable service, the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC, 台北捷運公司) announced on Thursday (Feb. 27).
Taipei residents, city government retirees, children aged 6-12 nationwide, seniors over 65, Taipei's indigenous people aged 55 and above, and individuals with disabilities, along with one necessary companion, will continue to enjoy discounted fares of NT$50 per ride and NT$100 for a day pass. This move ensures that the gondola remains accessible to these groups despite the fare adjustment.
The change follows consultations with local representatives and comparisons with international tourist cable car fares. The new pricing aligns with global standards and addresses increased operational costs due to inflation, rising electricity prices, and wage hikes. TRTC highlighted that the previous system, charging NT$70 for one station, NT$100 for two, and NT$120 for three, was overly complex and underpriced compared to international counterparts.
Also, all Maokong Gondola passengers can now ride the Maokong Right Line (貓空右線) and Maokong Left Line (貓空左線) buses for free, integrating the gondola, zoo, and Maokong area into a comprehensive tourist zone. This integration aims to expand the travel scope from the gondola stations to the entire Maokong region, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.
