Mount Xiangshan - Taipei, Taiwan
Today, I went on a short hike known for its stunning views of Taipei. The weather has been humid and overcast since I arrived, and although it wasn’t raining heavily, the combination of humidity and steep climbs made the hike challenging. I brought a bottle of sports drink to stay hydrated and began my ascent.
The trail, mostly composed of well-maintained stairs, led me fairly quickly to Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain). From the summit, I caught my first glimpse of Taipei 101 in the distance and took a brief photo break to capture the view.
I then continued toward Mount Jiuwu (375 m). Sections of the trail had been damaged by a recent typhoon, requiring careful navigation over muddy rocks and exposed roots. By the time I reached the top, the fog had rolled in, and I was soaked in sweat, my hair dripping. Visibility was limited, so the panorama wasn’t quite what I had hoped for.
On the way back down, the fog lifted slightly, revealing a sweeping view of Taipei’s skyline. I’ve heard that Xiangshan is particularly popular for sunrise and sunset photography, offering panoramic vistas of the city. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate during my visit, but the hike was still rewarding for the exercise, views, and sense of adventure.
History & Background
Xiangshan (象山), also known as Elephant Mountain, is part of the Four Beasts Mountains (象山群峰) located in the Xinyi District of Taipei. The mountain has become a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike due to its short but steep trail and panoramic views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. Historically, the area was forested and sparsely populated, but with the development of Taipei’s Xinyi district, the mountain trail became a popular recreational destination. Elephant Mountain is renowned for its accessibility, making it one of the most visited urban hikes in Taiwan.
Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Xiangshan is via the Taipei Metro (MRT). Take the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) to Xiangshan Station (R02) and use Exit 2. The trailhead is a short walk from the station.
From Taipei Main Station, the MRT journey takes roughly 20–25 minutes. Taxis or rideshare services are also available, though parking near the trailhead is limited.
Route Overview
Distance: 10.21 km out & back (Xiangshan Subway Station)
Total elevation gain: 467 m
Duration: 2 hr 44 min (with breaks 2 hr 50 min)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Peaks: Mt Xiangshan 象山 183m, Mt Jiuwu 九五峰 375m
Cost Breakdown
Food: NT$39
