8 Best Places to Enjoy Cable Car Rides in Asia

8 Best Places to Enjoy Cable Car Rides in Asia

March 20, 2025 | General

Soaring Views and Unforgettable Experiences from Above

Asia is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth—from soaring mountains and sparkling coastlines to bustling cities and ancient landmarks. And what better way to take in these incredible views than from a cable car? Whether you’re gliding over misty peaks or crossing over turquoise bays, a cable car ride offers a unique and exciting perspective.

Here are 8 of the best places to enjoy cable car rides in Asia that will leave you awestruck!

Ngong Ping 360 – Hong Kong

The Ultimate Scenic Ride to Big Buddha

Ngong Ping 360 is one of the most famous cable car rides in Asia. It connects Tung Chung on Lantau Island to the Ngong Ping village, home to the iconic Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) and Po Lin Monastery. The 25-minute ride offers panoramic views of the South China Sea, lush mountains, and even the Hong Kong International Airport.

👉 Tip: Try the Crystal Cabin, which has a glass floor for a thrilling view beneath your feet!

Ba Na Hills Cable Car – Da Nang, Vietnam

Record-Breaking Heights and Fairy Tale Views

Ba Na Hills is home to the longest non-stop single-track cable car in the world. It whisks you up to Ba Na Hills Resort, famous for the Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands. The journey glides over pristine forests and waterfalls, climbing to over 1,400 meters above sea level.

👉 Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the clouds drifting below the Golden Bridge!

Langkawi SkyCab – Langkawi, Malaysia

A Ride Above Tropical Rainforests and Turquoise Waters

The Langkawi SkyCab is one of the steepest cable car rides in the world. It takes you up to Gunung Machinchang, where you’ll find the SkyBridge—a curved pedestrian bridge with stunning views of Langkawi’s islands, sea, and jungles.

👉 Tip: On clear days, you can even see as far as Thailand!

Mt. Takao Cable Car – Tokyo, Japan

Nature and Spiritual Vibes Close to the City

Only an hour from downtown Tokyo, Mt. Takao is a popular getaway for hikers and nature lovers. The cable car here takes you halfway up the mountain, where you can explore temples, forests, and even wild monkey parks. It’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season in spring or when the leaves change in autumn.

👉 Tip: Pair the ride with a hike to the summit and enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji on a clear day.

Tianmen Mountain Cable Car – Zhangjiajie, China

The Longest Cable Car Ride in the World

This is not just a cable car ride—it’s an adventure! Tianmen Mountain’s cable car is the world’s longest, covering 7.5 kilometers from Zhangjiajie city up to Tianmen Mountain. Along the way, you’ll glide over cliffs, winding roads, and lush valleys. Once you’re there, don’t miss the glass skywalk and the natural rock arch known as Heaven’s Gate.

👉 Tip: Bring your camera—the views are otherworldly!

Genting Skyway – Genting Highlands, Malaysia

Gateway to Entertainment Above the Clouds

Heading to Genting Highlands? The Genting Skyway is one of Southeast Asia’s fastest and longest cable car rides. It takes visitors up to Resorts World Genting, known for its casinos, theme parks, and cool mountain air. As you ascend, you’ll pass over dense rainforests and enjoy cooler temperatures at the top.

👉 Tip: Upgrade to the Glass Floor Gondola for an even more thrilling experience!

Maokong Gondola – Taipei, Taiwan

Tea Plantations and Peaceful Mountain Views

This relaxing cable car ride takes you from the Taipei Zoo up to Maokong, a famous area for tea plantations. As you ride above lush green hills, you’ll be treated to views of Taipei City in the distance. At the top, sip on freshly brewed Taiwanese tea at a teahouse with a view.

👉 Tip: Go in the evening for a romantic sunset ride and city lights!

Ropeway to Gulmarg – Jammu & Kashmir, India

The Highest in Asia

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the world’s highest cable cars, taking you up to almost 4,000 meters in the Himalayas. It’s a must-do for skiers in winter and trekkers in summer. The views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and distant valleys are absolutely breathtaking.

👉 Tip: Dress warmly, even in summer—it gets chilly up there!

From tropical islands to snowy peaks, Asia’s cable car rides offer an unforgettable way to see the region’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re chasing adventure or looking for a peaceful ride with a view, these destinations are sure to give you a whole new perspective—literally!

Let me know if you want to focus on one country or add more off-the-beaten-path cable car spots!