Defying Gravity: Alex Honnold Conquers Taipei 101

In January 2026, the world stood still as Alex Honnold, the legendary free solo climber, achieved the unimaginable: scaling the 508-meter-tall Taipei 101 without ropes or safety nets. This monumental feat has transformed the silhouette of Taiwan's capital into a monument of human daring. For travelers visiting Taipei, the skyscraper is no longer just an observation point; it is the site of a historic legend, offering a newfound sense of awe to everyone who gazes up at its bamboo-inspired structure.


Experiencing the Thrill from the Observation Deck

The unique architecture of Taipei 101, designed to resemble a growing bamboo stalk, provided the very grips Honnold used to navigate his way into the sky. While Honnold faced the elements with raw strength, visitors can replicate that sense of vertical wonder via one of the world's fastest elevators, whisking you to the 89th-floor observatory in mere seconds. Gazing down from the floor-to-ceiling glass, one can almost feel the vertiginous thrill Honnold experienced during his ascent.

To get even closer to that "free solo" sensation, we recommend the 'Skyline 460' experience on the 101st floor. Standing at 460 meters above ground with the wind in your face, you will truly understand why this skyscraper was the ultimate challenge for the world's greatest climber. Given the surge in global interest following Honnold’s climb, utilizing WAUG’s pre-booking services to secure your spot—especially during the golden hour—is essential to experience the summit’s profound achievement without the distraction of long queues.