Ridding the Gondola Up the Maokong Mountain in Taipei

On our visit to Taipei, we met up with Anita and Johnson at the Maokong station via the Tapie subway at 10;45am on a weekday. It was about a 45 minute ride from our area - Tian Mu to Maokong.

Victoria bought us each a subway card loaded with T$ 500.00 and we used it the whole time we were in Tapei. It was convenient and sped thingw up a lot while entering and exiting the subway as there was no payment of fares by cash, giving back changes or visa cards not working etc.

Taipei's transit system is efficent, clean and very affordable for the average resident. There is really no need to buy yur own vehicle as one can go pretty well everywhere via pubic transit. If one cannot get to where one wants, the taxi system is equally efficent and affordable.

We were surprised to find out that our transit metro card could also be used for the Maokong gondola rides taking us up to the mountain and allowing us to board the shuttle on the mountain as well. Very convenient indeed.

There was a long lineup at the Maokong Gondola. We were informed of two options; 1. Ride the regular gondola and the wait would be about 10 to 15 minutes, or 2. Ride the glass bottom gondola and the wait would be about 45 minutes

We chose to ride the galss bottom gondola from where we could see what would be under our feet on our ride up. It was worth the wait.

The Maokong gondola ride was pleasant and comfortable. Since we were in the glass bottom gondola we could see the trees and canopies beneath us. The ride was not merely a 5 minute ride but a good 15- 20 minute ride allowing us an excellent 360 degree view of the city of Taipei.

I never knew that Taipie has so many mountains and very green. Farmers actually grow their own teas right in this area. Lots of nice tea shops on this mountain.

I just wished that we had time to sample some of the local teas and spend more time to explore this lovely region.

It was a breathtaking view from the top of the mountain1! We had lunch in an open air patio of the restaurant commanding an excellent view below.

We enjoyed a western style lunch - a full roasted chicken, pizza and some delicious trimmings.

Most important of all, we had some great honest sharing, meaningful conversations and sincere fellowship with our church friends.

Prasie God for this great trip in Taipei and fellowship in Taipei.

Taipei, Taiwan July, 2023