10 Things to Do in Elephant Mountain, Taipei, Taiwan
Elephant Mountain, also known as Xiangshan, is a popular tourist destination in Taipei, Taiwan. Located in the heart of the city, the mountain offers stunning views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding cityscape. With its lush vegetation and easy access, Elephant Mountain is a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Here are 10 things to do in Elephant Mountain, Taipei, Taiwan.
1. Hike the Trails: Elephant Mountain is a great place for hiking. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. The easiest trail is the Xiangshan Trail, which is a 1.5 kilometer loop. For a more challenging hike, try the Shamao Mountain Trail, which is a 4 kilometer loop.
2. Enjoy the View: The best way to enjoy the views of Taipei 101 and the cityscape is to hike to the top of Elephant Mountain. From the summit, you can see the entire city stretching out before you.
3. Visit the Temple: Elephant Mountain is home to the Xiangshan Temple, which is one of the most important temples in Taiwan. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Matsu and is a popular pilgrimage destination.
4. Take a Cable Car: If you don’t feel like hiking, you can take a cable car to the top of the mountain. The cable car takes about 10 minutes and offers spectacular views of the city.
5. Explore the Forest: Elephant Mountain is home to a lush forest filled with native plants and wildlife. You can take a leisurely walk through the forest and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the area.
6. Visit the Night Market: The nearby Raohe Night Market is a great place to explore and enjoy some of Taipei’s best street food. The market is open from 5 pm to midnight and offers a variety of delicious snacks and dishes.
7. Go Birdwatching: Elephant Mountain is a great place to go birdwatching. The mountain is home to a variety of native birds, including the Taiwan Blue Magpie, the Grey-faced Buzzard, and the Grey-headed Woodpecker.
8. Have a Picnic: Elephant Mountain is a great place to have a picnic. There are several spots with stunning views of the city. Pack a lunch and enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family.
9. Go Biking: Elephant Mountain is a great place for biking. There are several trails that range from easy to challenging. The mountain is also home to several bike rental shops, so you can rent a bike and explore the area.
10. Take a Tour: If you want to learn more about Elephant Mountain, you can take a guided tour. The tours are offered in both English and Chinese and will give you an in-depth look at the mountain’s history, culture, and wildlife.
Elephant Mountain is a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike or an adventurous bike ride, there is something for everyone at Elephant Mountain. So, what are you waiting for? Get out and explore this beautiful mountain in Taipei, Taiwan.