Taipei 101

The Taipei World Financial Center, the former name of Taipei 101, is a skyscraper in Taipei, Taiwan. From its opening in 2004 until the completion of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE in 2009, this structure was officially classified as the world's tallest. It was the world's first skyscraper to reach a height of more than half a kilometer when it was completed.

The elevators that travel from the 5th to the 89th floors in 37 seconds (at a speed of 60.6 km/h (37.7 mph)) achieved speed records. Taipei 101 got a Platinum rating from the LEED certification system in 2011, making it the world's tallest and largest green building. The structure is frequently featured in worldwide media as a symbol of Taipei, and the Taipei 101 fireworks displays are a staple of New Year's Eve broadcasts.

In a futuristic construction made of industrial elements, Taipei 101's postmodernist architectural style reflects traditional Asian aesthetics. Its design combines a number of elements that allow it to survive earthquakes and tropical storms in the Pacific Ring of Fire region. Offices, cafés, and indoor and outdoor observatories are all located in the tower. A multilevel shopping center with the world's largest ruyi sign as an exterior feature adjoins the tower.

Taipei Financial Center Corporation owns Taipei 101. To commemorate New Year's Eve, the building debuted on December 31, 2004.

Location: Taipei

Height: 1,667 ft (508 m)

Floors: 101

Architects: C.Y. Lee & Partners Architects/Planners

Building Function: Offices

Completion: 2004