Nangang Mountain Trail Taipei
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline, especially stunning at sunset and night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Nangang Mountain Trail Taipei
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline, especially stunning at sunset and night.
"A beautiful view from the opposition side of Taipei 101 but the place where the rock is placed could use a little clearing."
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes are a must for navigating the trails and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Refill stations are limited. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Taipei 101 Skyline View
Observation Deck
The iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper framed by the city skyline. A must-see for any visitor.
Sunset Over Taipei
Various viewpoints
Witness the city transform as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Cityscape at Night
Observation Deck
Experience the dazzling spectacle of Taipei's illuminated skyline after dark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Trail Etiquette and Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes are a must for navigating the trails and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Refill stations are limited. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
The photo opportunities are endless, especially during golden hour and at night. :camerawithflash:
⚠️ Avoid Risky Climbs
Stick to marked paths; avoid climbing rocks or using ropes. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy walking shoes are a must for navigating the trails and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Refill stations are limited. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
The photo opportunities are endless, especially during golden hour and at night. :camerawithflash:
⚠️ Avoid Risky Climbs
Stick to marked paths; avoid climbing rocks or using ropes. :warning:
🚇 Easy Public Transport
Accessible via MRT to Xiangshan Station. :subway:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nangang Mountain Trail for its breathtaking views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline, especially at sunset and night. It's considered a must-do for its accessibility and photo opportunities. However, some caution against venturing onto unmarked or risky paths, emphasizing the importance of sticking to designated trails for safety.
"A beautiful view from the opposition side of Taipei 101 but the place where the rock is placed could use a little clearing because you can't see the full view with all those broken fallen branches.."
Sarra Hannachi
"Beautiful spot for views of Taipei
Recommend if you like a walk and a view, this is a must!"
Max Jung
"Great hike, but we ended up inadvertently going up the climbing ropes and a very sketchy ladder. I would not recommend this route, as the ladder felt like it might collapse at any moment. However, there is a paved path that goes to the peak, which would be a better path to take."
Rachael Nicholls
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Nangang Mountain Trail is by taking the MRT Red Line to Xiangshan Station (象山站). From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead. Many visitors also use ride-sharing apps or taxis.
Limited parking is available near the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's generally recommended to use public transportation.
While the MRT is the most direct route, some bus lines may stop near the general area. However, the MRT to Xiangshan Station is the most frequently recommended option.
For runners, the Keelung River path offers a scenic 10-15k route starting near Nangang Exhibition Center. It's car-free and popular with other runners.
Yes, it's very accessible. The MRT system makes it easy to reach from anywhere in Taipei for a perfect day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to hike Nangang Mountain Trail. It's a public park and trail system.
The trail is generally accessible 24/7, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views. Visiting at night offers a stunning cityscape.
For sunset views, aim to arrive about 1-1.5 hours before sunset. For fewer crowds, early mornings are ideal.
No booking is required. It's a free-access public trail.
Yes, you can visit during holidays, but expect larger crowds, especially during popular viewing times like sunset.
📸 📸 Photography
The main observation decks offer the most iconic shots of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The higher you go, the more expansive the views.
Golden hour just before sunset provides beautiful warm light, while nighttime offers a spectacular illuminated cityscape.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for great shots, but a camera with good low-light capabilities will excel at night. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive views.
There are no specific photo restrictions, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and parks in Taipei. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike to the main viewpoints can take anywhere from 20-40 minutes, depending on your pace and the specific route you take.
Yes, the main trail to the observation decks is generally considered beginner-friendly, with paved paths and stairs. However, some unofficial routes can be challenging.
Comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Layers are a good idea as the weather can change.
Restroom facilities are available near the trailhead and at some points along the main path.
The primary attraction is the panoramic view of Taipei, including Taipei 101, the city skyline, and surrounding mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as options on the trail are limited. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the largest crowds and the midday heat. Make it a game to count the stairs or spot landmarks from the top. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely, especially near any steeper sections.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Running tips: Start early to avoid crowds and heat. Wear moisture-wicking clothing and bring water. The stairs can be demanding, so pace yourself. If you're looking for a more extensive trail running experience, explore the interconnected trails within the Nangang Mountain system.
📸 Photography Buffs
Photography tips: Arrive well before sunset to secure a good spot on the observation decks. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light shots at night, but be mindful of space in crowded areas. Consider capturing the journey up the stairs as well as the final panorama.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails: Routes and Difficulty
However, some visitors have reported encountering more challenging, unofficial routes that involve climbing rocks or using ropes and ladders. These paths are not recommended for beginners or those without hiking experience, as they can be dangerous. It's crucial to stick to the clearly marked trails to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
For those seeking a more strenuous workout, the trail system extends beyond the main viewpoints, offering longer loops and connections to other peaks in the Nangang Mountain range. These extended routes can provide a more immersive nature experience and a good trail running opportunity.
Capturing the Perfect Taipei 101 Shot
As dusk settles, the trail transforms into a prime location for capturing the vibrant night view of Taipei. The city lights twinkle and create a mesmerizing panorama, offering a completely different, yet equally stunning, perspective. Many visitors recommend staying until after dark to witness this magical transformation.
While smartphones can capture excellent photos, a camera with good low-light performance will enhance your night shots. Consider a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the city. Remember to be patient, as popular viewpoints can get crowded, and wait for your moment to capture that perfect shot.
Beyond the View: Nature and Running
For runners, the area presents excellent opportunities. The Keelung River path, accessible from the Nangang Exhibition Center, is a popular choice for a 10-15k run, offering a scenic, car-free experience.
Even if you're not an avid hiker or runner, the accessible nature of the main trail makes it a great option for a light outdoor activity. It's a chance to combine a bit of exercise with breathtaking scenery, making it a well-rounded experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit