Maokong Gondola Closure Dates 2026: What to Do If the Gondola is Closed?
Maokong Gondola is closed April 20–24 and June 8–28, 2026. Here's what's happening, when it reopens, and three bus routes to reach Maokong without the gondola. Ganito lang 'yan!
If you're planning a trip to Maokong and the gondola is on your itinerary, check these dates first. The Maokong Gondola has two scheduled suspension periods in 2026 — one in April and one in June — and both are worth knowing about before you book.
Closure Schedule 🗓️
❌ April 20–24, 2026 — The gondola will be suspended for cable trimming maintenance on Section 2 (between Corner Station 2 and Maokong Station). This is a scheduled safety procedure to adjust cable tension, which naturally extends over time due to the weight of the cars and passengers. Operations are expected to resume on April 25, 2026.
❌ June 8–28, 2026 — The gondola will undergo its annual major maintenance shutdown. This covers overhaul of core equipment including the drive wheel bearings, gearbox, and main motor, plus required system safety testing. Operations are expected to resume on June 29, 2026.
👀 Both closures are announced by Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation. The full official notice is available at gondola.taipei (published April 13, 2026, last updated April 23, 2026).
How to Get to Maokong Without the Gondola 🚠
The gondola is the most popular way up to Maokong, but it's not the only way. During closure periods, three bus options service the area:
✅ Bus Brown 15 — Runs from Taipei Zoo MRT Station (exit 1) up to Maokong. This is the most straightforward bus alternative and follows a similar route to the gondola's upper stations.
✅ Bus S10 / Mini Bus 10 — Also runs to the Maokong area, including interval services. A good option if Brown 15 is full or you're coming from a different starting point.
✅ Maokong Sightseeing Bus Left Line — Departs from Taipei Zoo and loops through the Maokong area, stopping at key spots including tea houses and scenic viewpoints. Good if you want to cover more ground once you're up there.
All three bus routes accept the Taiwan EasyCard for payment. Travel time is longer than the gondola but the routes are manageable and the views on the way up are still worth it.
Brown 15 and Mini Bus 10 are Taipei city buses and should be covered under the Taipei Fun Pass Unlimited bus rides. The Maokong Sightseeing Bus Left Line is a dedicated tourist shuttle not listed in the Fun Pass's six covered shuttle routes — use your EasyCard as a backup for that one. Always verify at funpass.travel.taipei before your visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions 💭
Is Maokong still open when the gondola is closed? Yes. The Maokong area itself — including tea houses, restaurants, Zhinan Temple, and hiking trails — remains fully open. Only the gondola ride is suspended.
Can I use the EasyCard or Taipei Fun Pass on the alternative buses? Yes. All three bus alternatives (Brown 15, Mini Bus 10, and the Maokong Sightseeing Bus Left Line) accept EasyCard. Check whether your Taipei Fun Pass covers these specific routes before you go.
How long does it take to get to Maokong by bus? Travel time by bus is approximately 30–45 minutes from Taipei Zoo Station, depending on traffic and the specific route. Longer than the gondola's 25-minute ride, but entirely manageable.
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Ian Calimbahin
Hope this helps! More travels soon!