The hype
Travelers universally worship the rooftop pool and the breakfast buffet, but younger guests often find the room aesthetics a bit 'grandma's mansion'.
Shangri La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei
$220-350/ night
Book this if You want the absolute best view of Taipei 101 from a rooftop pool and appreciate old-school, marble-clad luxury over trendy minimalism.
Why People Love It
- The 43rd-floor heated rooftop pool offers the single best panoramic view of Taipei 101 in the city
- Rooms are massive by Taipei standards (starting at 430 sq ft) with walk-in closets
- Shang Palace (Cantonese) and Marco Polo (Italian) are destination dining spots in their own right
Quick Take: It’s the grand dame of Taipei hotels—impeccable and imposing, but the 'Song Dynasty' decor feels a decade behind the modern luxury curve.
Reviewed by @homeintheworldblog: I felt like absolute royalty staying here. Waking up to that direct view of Taipei 101 was a total bucket list moment for me. The rooftop pool is the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the city. If you love classic luxury, this is the place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the view and the service; don't expect smart-home tech or USB-C ports in every corner of the older rooms.
- You are a swimmer—the rooftop pool is heated and open year-round
- You need a quiet, spacious room for business or deep sleep
- You love classic high-tea culture and lobby piano lounges
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.4
- Housekeeping: Immaculate. Twice-daily service (including turndown) is standard.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless marble. Grout is scrubbed white, no signs of mold despite the humidity.
- Maintenance: Excellent, though some furniture shows the patina of age (scratches on wood, worn velvet).
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-thread-count cotton. Towels are thick and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Signature 'Shangri-La' fragrance in lobby; rooms smell fresh and neutral.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- None significant on high floors
- Minor hallway noise during peak housekeeping hours
Before you book
Good to know
- The rooftop pool (43F) is heated, but the outdoor summer pool (7F) closes in winter.
- Join the Shangri-La Circle loyalty program before booking—it often unlocks free Wi-Fi or dining perks.
- The airport shuttle is expensive; Uber or a private hire arranged via Klook is half the price.
What to pack
- Swim cap (mandatory for the 7F outdoor pool, though often relaxed for the rooftop)
- Universal travel adapter (outlets are mostly Type A/B but older rooms may lack USB ports)
- Smart casual clothes for the Marco Polo Lounge (dress code enforced)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premier King with Taipei 101 View (worth the upgrade for the floor-to-ceiling skyline shot)
- Plaza Suite (massive, often good value for families)
Rooms to avoid
- Superior Rooms on lower floors (views are of neighboring apartments rather than the skyline)
- Rooms near the elevator bank if you are a light sleeper (though soundproofing is good)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a high-floor room facing Taipei 101. If a 101 view isn't available, a quiet room away from the elevators with an unblocked city view is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, the rooftop pool on the 43rd floor is heated and open all year. The 7th-floor outdoor pool is seasonal.
How far is the nearest MRT station?
Liuzhangli Station (Brown Line) is about a 10-minute walk. The hotel also offers a shuttle to nearby spots.
Does the hotel have a resort fee?
No hidden resort fee, but expect a 10% service charge and 5% tax added to all room rates and dining bills.
Is breakfast included?
Not in the base rate. It costs approx. TWD 980 ($30 USD) per person if not booked with the room, but it's highly rated.
Can I see Taipei 101 from my room?
Only if you book a specific 'Taipei 101 View' category room. Standard rooms may face the mountains or city streets.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, but in a 'well-behaved child' way. There are no kids' clubs, but the pools and spacious rooms work well for families.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Cake Room' in the lobby sells discounted pastries after 8 PM.
- ✨
You can access the rooftop terrace for photos even if you aren't swimming—just ask the attendant.
- ✨
The sauna and steam room in the Health Club (6F) are free for guests and often empty during the day.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators are incredibly fast but can be confusing—there are different banks for different floors.
💡The 'Song Dynasty' decor includes real antiques in the lobby that are worth a mini-tour.
💡Room service beef noodle soup is excellent but costs 3x what you'd pay at a street stall.
💡The manual window shades in some rooms are heavy and old-school—no push-button luxury here.
💡The lobby scent is a custom 'Shangri-La Essence' that you will either love or find overpowering.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Shangri La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Taipei is located and what's nearby.