Jiantan Trail Taipei
An accessible urban hike in Taipei offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, especially Taipei 101.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Jiantan Trail Taipei
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An accessible urban hike in Taipei offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, especially Taipei 101.
"The panoramic view of Taipei city at the summit was simply spectacular. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of paved stairs! Your legs will thank you. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunset views of Taipei 101 are spectacular. Arrive early to secure a good spot! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Breeze Platform Viewpoint
Summit
Panoramic cityscapes of Taipei, especially stunning at sunset with Taipei 101 illuminated.
The Stairway to Heaven
Ascent
A challenging yet rewarding climb through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the city below.
Hidden Temples
Along the trail
Discover serene, lesser-known temples tucked away amidst the forest, adding a cultural layer to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Accessibility and Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of paved stairs! Your legs will thank you. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunset views of Taipei 101 are spectacular. Arrive early to secure a good spot! :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for warmer days. There are rest stops along the way. :water_wave:
💡 Night Hiking Caution
Some parts can be dark at night; be mindful of lighting. :flashlight:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of paved stairs! Your legs will thank you. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunset views of Taipei 101 are spectacular. Arrive early to secure a good spot! :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially for warmer days. There are rest stops along the way. :water_wave:
💡 Night Hiking Caution
Some parts can be dark at night; be mindful of lighting. :flashlight:
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Deck
More trails lead to other viewpoints and areas like Neihu. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Jiantan Trail for its accessibility, stunning city views, and manageable hike, making it a popular choice for families and photographers. Some note the steepness of the stairs and occasional crowds, while others mention ongoing renovations. Overall, it's a highly recommended urban escape.
"A popular trail that is relatively easy and with several scenic views of Taipei. Can be a good family hike."
Ward Niou
"Prepare your legs! The stairs quite steep. Unfortunately the wooden deck was under contraction when I visited yesterday. Great view though 👍"
endah asriani
"Lots of paved stairs and although a very nice trail there is nothing too exciting or challenging (still pretty good)"
ian canales
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the MRT Red Line to Jiantan Station. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead. Some visitors also mention it's accessible from Taipei City Hall station, offering a different perspective.
Yes, it's very accessible! Jiantan MRT station is just minutes away, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Parking is available at the 'Jiufen Old Street Parking Lot' if you're coming from that direction, or near Jiantan MRT station. However, public transport is often recommended due to potential parking limitations.
The main trail leads to the Breeze Platform viewpoint. It involves a significant number of stairs but is well-maintained.
Yes, the trail is close to Shilin Night Market and offers access to other hiking routes in the area, including those leading to Neihu.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jiantan Trail is a public hiking path and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to access!
The trail is generally open 24/7, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and better views. Visiting at sunrise or sunset is highly recommended.
The Breeze Platform is part of the Jiantan Trail and is free to access. Enjoy the stunning views without any cost.
No booking is required. You can simply show up and start your hike.
Occasionally, parts of the trail or viewpoints might be under renovation. Check local updates or be prepared for detours.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail is considered relatively easy to moderate, with many paved stairs. It's a good option for most fitness levels, though it can be a good workout!
The hike to the main viewpoint typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the scenery.
It can get crowded, especially during sunset and on weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more peaceful experience.
Rest stops are available along the trail, and while dedicated restrooms might be limited, facilities are usually found near the MRT station.
Yes, it's often described as a good family hike due to its accessibility and manageable length, though the stairs can be challenging for very young children.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The Breeze Platform offers iconic shots of Taipei 101. Look for unique angles along the staircases and hidden temple spots for more varied photography. +1
Sunset is magical as the city lights up, creating a stunning backdrop. Sunrise also offers beautiful, softer light and fewer crowds.
Yes, but be cautious as some sections may not be well-lit. The city lights provide a beautiful ambiance for night photography.
Generally, no specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the cityscape. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunset or night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day to avoid any potential darkness issues at night. While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural environment and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the viewpoint can be very engaging for children. Pack plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone energized.
🚶 Budget Travelers
This trail offers a high-value experience without any admission fees, providing stunning city views that rival those from paid observation decks. It's a perfect way to enjoy Taipei's beauty and get some exercise without spending a lot of money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Plan your visit for the golden hours to capture the best light. A wide-angle lens is recommended for sweeping cityscapes, and a tripod can be useful for low-light photography. Don't forget to explore the smaller paths for unique temple shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jiantan Trail Experience: More Than Just a Hike
What sets Jiantan Trail apart is its ability to provide breathtaking vistas of the Taipei skyline, with the iconic Taipei 101 being a prominent feature. The Breeze Platform at the summit is the prime spot for panoramic photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Beyond the main viewpoint, the trail network extends, offering opportunities to discover hidden temples and community spaces, adding a layer of cultural richness to the natural beauty.
While the trail is generally well-maintained, visitors should be aware of potential renovations that might temporarily alter access. The presence of temple dogs is also a notable aspect of the trail environment. Despite these considerations, the Jiantan Trail remains a highly recommended activity for anyone looking to experience Taipei's natural beauty and urban charm in a single, accessible outing.
Capturing Taipei's Skyline: Photography at Jiantan Trail
Beyond the main viewpoint, the trail itself offers numerous photographic opportunities. The winding staircases, framed by lush greenery, create dynamic leading lines. Keep an eye out for the small, often ornate temples nestled along the path; these provide a cultural contrast to the modern cityscape. Even during the day, the views are impressive, offering a different perspective on Taipei's urban sprawl.
When planning your photo session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the city. For those interested in capturing the city lights after dark, a tripod will be essential for stable, long-exposure shots. While the trail is generally safe, be mindful of lighting conditions if you plan to stay after dusk, as some sections can become quite dark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit