Elephant Mountain Xiangshan Taipei
Iconic hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline, especially stunning at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour magic
Elephant Mountain Xiangshan Taipei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline, especially stunning at sunset.
"The view of Taipei 101 from the top is truly breathtaking, a perfect spot to admire the beauty of the city."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of steep stairs! Rubber shoes are best for grip and comfort.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated during the climb, especially in humid weather.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Taipei 101 Skyline View
Main Viewing Platforms
The ultimate panoramic vista of Taipei 101 and the city, especially magical at sunset.
Sunset Spectacle
Upper Viewpoints
Watch the sky transform as the city lights twinkle on below. A truly unforgettable sight.
Sunrise Serenity
Upper Viewpoints
Experience a quieter side of Taipei with a peaceful sunrise over the urban landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Gear Up for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of steep stairs! Rubber shoes are best for grip and comfort.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated during the climb, especially in humid weather.
⏰ Go on a Weekday
Avoid weekend crowds for a better photo experience.
📸 Queue for Photos
Popular viewpoints can have lines, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of steep stairs! Rubber shoes are best for grip and comfort.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated during the climb, especially in humid weather.
⏰ Go on a Weekday
Avoid weekend crowds for a better photo experience.
📸 Queue for Photos
Popular viewpoints can have lines, especially at sunset.
📍 MRT to Xiangshan
Take the Red Line to Xiangshan Station, then follow signs to the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, iconic views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline, especially at sunset. The hike is described as a rewarding workout with well-maintained stairs, though it can be steep and crowded. Some find the climb challenging, but universally agree the panoramic vistas are worth every step.
"I visited Elephant Mountain on 10/10, and the place was absolutely packed with people! If you’re planning to go and take photos, I recommend visiting on a weekday when it’s less crowded. The view of Taipei 101 from the top is truly breathtaking a perfect spot to admire the beauty of the city. I went there to watch the fireworks, and it was an unforgettable experience. 🎆✨
To get there, just take the MRT to Xiangshan Station and exit toward Xiangshan Park. From there, simply follow Google Maps and you’ll soon find yourself facing countless stairs hahaha! 😄 Be prepared before you start the climb; it’s not too hard, but not exactly easy either. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and keep going until you reach the peak the view waiting for you at the top is totally worth it. 🌃⛰️❤️"
Upendra Kumar
"Definitely recommended, but be prepared—it will take some physical strength to climb up. The hike can take around 1 hour, depending on your pace. Make sure you’re dressed properly and wear comfortable shoes (rubber shoes are best) since the steps can get steep.
Once you reach the top, the scenic view of Taipei city is always amazing, especially the sight of Taipei 101 towering above the skyline. Seeing the city from above gives a unique and memorable perspective. A great spot for photos and to enjoy a bit of nature while still close to the city."
G A
"Climbed up Xiangshan just in time for sunset, and it was worth every step. The city stretched out below, Taipei 101 catching the last light of the day. The view kept changing as the sky turned from gold to deep blue, and the lights slowly came on one by one. It’s a bit of a hike, but the calm at the top makes you forget how tired you were. Definitely one of those moments that stay with you."
Jamaica Parambita
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the MRT Red Line to Xiangshan Station (Exit 2). From there, walk through Xiangshan Park and follow the signs to the trailhead. It's a short walk from the station. +1
Yes, the MRT is the most convenient public transport option. Xiangshan Station is the closest stop to the trailhead.
Yes, Elephant Mountain is very close to Taipei 101. It's about a 20-minute walk from the Taipei 101 area to the start of the trail.
Once you reach Xiangshan Park, you can use Google Maps to guide you to the Xiangshan Hiking Trailhead.
While there might be parking garages in the vicinity, public transport via MRT is highly recommended due to potential traffic and parking availability issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) is a public park and hiking trail, so there is no admission fee. It's free to visit.
The trail is generally accessible at all times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views. Many people visit for sunrise and sunset.
Sunset is incredibly popular for the city views and Taipei 101. Sunrise offers a more tranquil experience. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
No booking is required. You can simply show up and start your hike.
No, the viewing platforms are part of the free hiking trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewing platforms offer the most iconic and unobstructed views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. Be prepared to queue for these spots, especially during peak times.
Sunset provides a dramatic backdrop with the city lights beginning to glow. Sunrise offers softer light and fewer crowds. 
Yes, daytime offers clear views of the city and Taipei 101, though it can be brighter and harsher for photography compared to golden hour.
There are several viewing platforms as you ascend. The higher ones generally offer more expansive views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city skyline. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions at sunset or sunrise, but be mindful of space and other visitors.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike to the main viewpoints typically takes 20-30 minutes, but can take up to an hour or more depending on your pace and how long you stop.
The trail is primarily composed of steep stairs, with some paved walking paths. It's well-maintained and safe, but can be challenging.
It's considered moderately challenging due to the steep stairs. While not extremely long, it requires some physical exertion.
Comfortable athletic shoes are essential. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the humidity and exertion.
Restrooms are typically available near the trailhead or at the base of the mountain. It's advisable to use facilities before starting your climb.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food vendors directly on the hiking trail. It's best to eat before or after your hike.
The area around Xiangshan MRT station and near Taipei 101 offers numerous dining options, from local eateries to international cuisine.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and water to enjoy during your hike.
While Elephant Mountain itself doesn't have dining facilities, many restaurants and cafes in the Xinyi district, particularly around Taipei 101, offer city views.
You can find a wide variety of Taiwanese street food, bubble tea, and international dining options in the Xinyi district.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the stairs are the main feature, the panoramic city views can be fascinating for children, offering a bird's-eye perspective of Taipei. It's a great way to combine a bit of exercise with sightseeing. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear, and keep a close eye on them, especially near the viewing areas.
🚶 Solo Travelers
It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy your own pace, take your time at the viewpoints, and capture stunning photos without feeling rushed. Taking the MRT to Xiangshan Station is straightforward, making it easy to navigate independently. The hike itself is a great way to clear your head and enjoy some nature within the city. Many solo travelers find the experience empowering and the views incredibly satisfying.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Be prepared for crowds at the prime viewing spots during golden hours, and consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive cityscape. While the main platforms are popular, exploring slightly different angles might offer unique compositions. Remember to pack a tripod if you plan on shooting in low light, but be mindful of space. The changing light throughout the day offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the bright daytime panorama to the dramatic twilight glow.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Xiangshan Hiking Trail Experience
As you climb, you'll encounter several viewing platforms offering progressively better vistas of the Taipei cityscape. The most popular spots are the higher platforms, which provide unobstructed, panoramic views of the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper and the surrounding urban sprawl. Many visitors aim to reach the summit for sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical atmosphere.
+1It's crucial to be prepared for the climb. Wearing comfortable athletic shoes is paramount, as the stairs can be steep and potentially slippery if wet. Bringing water is also essential, especially during warmer months, as the humidity can be intense and lead to significant perspiration.
Capturing the Iconic Taipei 101
+1To get the most iconic shots, aim for the main viewing platforms. These areas are specifically designed to offer the best perspectives. However, be prepared for crowds, especially during sunset on weekends. Visitors often queue for their turn to capture the perfect photo.
Beyond the main platforms, exploring slightly further can sometimes yield unique perspectives, though be aware that trees can obstruct views. The key is to find a composition that highlights Taipei 101 while also showcasing the dynamic urban landscape surrounding it.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit