Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) - Image 1
1 / 10

Shoushan Monkey Mountain Kaohsiung Taiwan

4.4
·318 reviews·, Taiwan

Hike through lush trails to encounter wild monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kaohsiung city and harbor.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Sunset views & cooler temps

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) - Image 1

Shoushan Monkey Mountain Kaohsiung Taiwan

Best Time

Late afternoon

Sunset views & cooler temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike through lush trails to encounter wild monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kaohsiung city and harbor.

4.4
(318 reviews)

"A lung burner but worth it, with lots of monkeys and great views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎒 Pack Plenty of Water

The hike can be strenuous; staying hydrated is crucial.

🍎 Secure Your Snacks

Monkeys are attracted to food. Keep it hidden to avoid unwanted attention.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Formosan Rock Macaques

Formosan Rock Macaques

Encounter Taiwan's endemic macaques in their natural habitat. Observe their behavior from a safe distance.

Instagram+1
Panoramic Kaohsiung Views

Panoramic Kaohsiung Views

Ascend for breathtaking vistas of Kaohsiung city, harbor, and the ocean, especially captivating at sunset.

TikTokInstagram
Monkey Rock

Monkey Rock

Onsite lookout point

A popular spot for monkey sightings and impressive ocean panoramas.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Monkey Encounters & Safety

Formosan rock macaques are abundant and can be curious. Keep food secured and avoid direct eye contact. While generally not aggressive, they may approach if they sense food. Stay on marked trails for your safety and theirs. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Views

For stunning Kaohsiung skyline and sunset views, plan your hike accordingly. Be aware that the last bus down departs early, so consider walking down or arranging transport if staying late. TikTok

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Sunset views & cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

高雄最頂夜景在這裡 - 🚩高雄。柴山青春站 Kaohsiung , Qingchun Station at Shoushan
-
獨享絕美百萬夜景 還在擔心擁擠人潮 這裡完全沒人跟你搶 從南壽山登山口(動物園) 沿著階梯走20分鐘抵達 全程漆黑一片記得帶頭燈 距離:1.3k 路線:登山口- 歡樂亭- 相思亭- 良友亭- 青春站 - ▫️地址:高南壽山登山口 ▫️座標:J7PH+32 鼓山區 高雄市 - #台灣景點 #高雄 #鹽埕區 #柴山 #青春站 #高雄夜景 #kaohsiung #travel #taiwan
@alex_a.ni
4.2K likes • 64.2K views

🎒 Pack Plenty of Water

The hike can be strenuous; staying hydrated is crucial. Reddit

🍎 Secure Your Snacks

Monkeys are attracted to food. Keep it hidden to avoid unwanted attention. Reddit

Who would ever believe that this is a random street in Kaohsiung not a Zoo⁉️🙈🙊🙉 💡Shoushan (commonly known in English as Monkey Mountain) is a mountain in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, north of the main entrance to Kaohsiung Harbor. Formosan rock monkey or Taiwanese macaque, is a macaque endemic to the island of Taiwan, which has also been introduced to Japan. Besides humans, Formosan rock...
taipeitravels
705 likes • 12.4K views
Day 7 at Monkey Mountain, Kaohsiung (Shoushan) 🐒🌿 Hiked the improved main trail, now perfect for a scenic stroll! Guaranteed to encounter monkeys and is a nice break from City life on this short but rewarding walk🌳✨ #taiwantravel #taiwan #taiwantrip #roadtrip #shoushan #hike #monkey #nature #monkeymountain #kaohsiung #naturehike
taiwantraveldiary
23 likes • 788 views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential. Reddit

🔦 Bring a Headlamp

If staying for sunset, a light source is needed for the descent. TikTok

🐵📍Monkey Mountain (Shoushan) - Shoushan, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804 My heart goes out to the people in Taiwan that got hit by the recent 7.4 magnitude earthquake. Usually I would make my posts more light-hearted, but I really hope everyone is okay. I could’ve been there at that earthquake too, so I’m just wishing for their safety right now. Otherwise, here is one of the amazing ...
jacq_ofalltreats
45 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎒 Pack Plenty of Water

The hike can be strenuous; staying hydrated is crucial. Reddit

🍎 Secure Your Snacks

Monkeys are attracted to food. Keep it hidden to avoid unwanted attention. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential. Reddit

🔦 Bring a Headlamp

If staying for sunset, a light source is needed for the descent. TikTok

🗺️ Check Bus Schedules

The last bus down departs early; plan your exit strategy. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(318 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Shoushan Monkey Mountain for its abundant wildlife, particularly the Formosan rock macaques, and the breathtaking panoramic views of Kaohsiung, especially at sunset. The well-maintained trails are appreciated, though some find the hike strenuous. Limited restroom facilities and the early last bus are noted drawbacks.

"It was raining when I went here, so I didn't really expect to see any monkeys. But when I was about to finish my hike, there I saw plenty of them, a community of monkeys just strolling and eating leaves. The trail is pretty easy to follow since there are maps and wooden platforms to walk on. Spent around 2-4 hours roaming around the different trails. If it wasn't raining, you could see the Kaohsiung skyline from here. No washrooms available in any of the stops so take that in mind."

Marc Jimenez

"Popular with the locals waiting for the sunset and night views. Not easy to reach, either take a bus up (but the last bus down leaves at 5.40pm so it is not possible to descent by public transport if you want to wait for the sunset and night view. The other way down is to walk along the roads down (approximately 30-45 mins walk)"

Leong Kwok Hing

"Monkey mountain was very interesting. I had never seen monkeys in the wild before and they were very relaxed and cool. The walk was tough so bring lots of water! But had a great time"

Harry Pinches

What People Like

Abundant monkeys
Stunning city views
Well-maintained trails

What People Dislike

Limited restrooms
Early last bus

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take a bus, such as the No. 31 or No. 215, which will take you to the base of the mountain or near the entrance. Taxis are also readily available. Some visitors opt to drive and park near the entrance. TikTok

While buses go to the base, the last bus down from the mountain departs around 5:40 PM. If you plan to stay for sunset or night views, you'll need to walk down or arrange alternative transport. Reddit

The main trailhead is often accessed via the entrance near the Kaohsiung Zoo. Follow signs for Shoushan National Nature Park. TikTok

Yes, there are parking areas available near the main entrance and along the access roads, though they can fill up on weekends. TikTok

Yes, ride-sharing apps are a convenient option to get to the base of the mountain, especially if you're coming from further afield in Kaohsiung. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Shoushan National Nature Park is generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for hiking the trails. Reddit

The park is typically open year-round, but it's best to check for any specific seasonal or temporary closures. Trails are accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

Monkeys can be seen throughout the day, but they are often more active in the morning and late afternoon. Reddit

While official guided tours might be limited, many visitors explore independently. Local guides may be available for hire, especially for those interested in specific flora and fauna. Reddit

While some visitors hike down after sunset, it's generally recommended to complete your hike before dark for safety reasons, especially if you are unfamiliar with the trails. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The time can vary depending on the trail and your fitness level. Some trails to the peak can take 20-45 minutes, while exploring various paths might take 2-4 hours. TikTokReddit

The main trails are well-maintained, with some featuring boardwalks, making them relatively easy. However, there are steeper sections and some trails can be challenging. InstagramReddit

Formosan rock macaques can be curious and may approach if they sense food. It's advised to keep food secured and avoid direct eye contact to minimize potential aggression. Reddit

Besides the Formosan rock macaques, you might spot Formosan barking deer and various bird species. Instagram+1

Restroom facilities are limited, especially on the trails. It's advisable to use facilities at the base before starting your hike. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints offering panoramic views of Kaohsiung city and the harbor are prime photography locations, especially during sunset. Monkey Rock also provides unique photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, but maintain a safe distance and avoid using flash, which can disturb the animals. Focus on capturing their natural behavior. Instagram

A standard zoom lens is versatile for landscapes and wildlife. If you're interested in detailed shots of flora and fauna, a telephoto lens can be useful. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in national nature parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check local regulations before flying. Instagram

Yes, you might find remnants of historical structures like German bunkers, adding an interesting element to your photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shoushan Monkey Mountain offers an exciting adventure for families. The main trails are generally manageable for children, and the chance to see monkeys in the wild is a huge draw. Instagram Ensure children understand the importance of not feeding the monkeys and keeping a safe distance. Reddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be aware that restroom facilities are limited on the trails. Reddit The panoramic views from the top can also be a great reward after the hike. TikTok

Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. If your children are younger, focus on the more accessible trails near the base. The Monkey Rock area is a good spot to observe monkeys without venturing too deep into the mountain. Reddit Remember to bring a headlamp if you plan to stay until dusk, as the descent can be challenging in the dark. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

Shoushan Monkey Mountain is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as entry to the park is free. Reddit The primary costs will be transportation to the mountain and any food or water you purchase. Taking public buses is the most economical way to reach the park. TikTok Pack your own water and snacks to save money during your hike. Reddit

While the hike itself is free, be aware of the potential cost of taxis if you miss the last bus down. Planning your descent to align with bus schedules or being prepared for a walk down the road can help keep costs low. Reddit The incredible views and wildlife encounters offer significant value without a hefty price tag. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Shoushan Monkey Mountain presents a dual opportunity: stunning urban landscapes and fascinating wildlife. TikTok The viewpoints overlooking Kaohsiung offer incredible shots, especially during the golden hour before sunset. Reddit Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive city and harbor panoramas. Instagram

When photographing the Formosan rock macaques, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing their behavior from a safe distance. Instagram Remember to be patient and respectful of the animals. The park also offers opportunities to photograph unique flora and fauna, as well as historical remnants like old bunkers. Instagram Consider a tripod for low-light conditions if you plan to stay for night photography. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails of Shoushan

Shoushan, or Monkey Mountain, offers a network of trails catering to various fitness levels. The main trail is often cited as being well-maintained, with some sections featuring wooden platforms that make the ascent more manageable. InstagramReddit For those seeking a more challenging experience, numerous offshoot paths wind through the dense foliage, offering a more rugged adventure. Reddit It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear as some inclines can be steep and the terrain uneven. Reddit

Many visitors recommend bringing a headlamp if you plan to stay for the sunset, as the descent can be in low light conditions. TikTok While the park is a natural haven, be aware of the Formosan rock macaques that inhabit the area. They are accustomed to humans but can be bold, especially if food is visible. Reddit Stick to marked paths and avoid feeding the animals to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike for everyone. Reddit

Beyond the hiking, Shoushan is also known for its biodiversity. Keep an eye out for Formosan barking deer and a variety of bird species. Instagram+1 The park's location also provides unique opportunities for spotting marine life or enjoying the coastal scenery from higher vantage points. Instagram

The Iconic Formosan Rock Macaque

Shoushan National Nature Park is famously known as 'Monkey Mountain' due to its thriving population of Formosan rock macaques (Macaca cyclopis). Instagram These endemic primates are a highlight for many visitors, offering a chance to observe them in their natural habitat. Instagram They are often seen congregating at popular spots like Monkey Rock, where they interact and forage. Reddit

While observing these macaques is a unique experience, it's essential to maintain a respectful distance. Do not feed the monkeys, as this can lead to aggressive behavior and disrupt their natural diet and social structure. Reddit Visitors are advised to secure all food items and avoid direct eye contact, which can be perceived as a challenge by the macaques. Reddit Following these guidelines ensures the safety of both visitors and the monkeys, allowing for a more authentic and responsible wildlife encounter. Instagram

These macaques are an integral part of Shoushan's ecosystem, and their presence contributes significantly to the park's appeal. Instagram Their adaptability allows them to thrive in this urban-adjacent natural park, making them a constant source of fascination for locals and tourists alike. Instagram

Capturing Kaohsiung's Charm from Above

One of the most rewarding aspects of visiting Shoushan Monkey Mountain is the spectacular panoramic views it offers of Kaohsiung city and its surrounding harbor. TikTok As you ascend, the urban landscape gradually unfolds, providing increasingly impressive vistas. The Qingchun Station viewpoint is particularly noted for its expansive night scenery. TikTok

The sunset is a prime time for photography, painting the sky with vibrant colors that complement the city lights beginning to twinkle below. Reddit However, be mindful of the park's closing times and the early departure of the last bus if you plan to stay for the full sunset experience. Reddit The Monkey Rock area also provides a unique vantage point, combining the natural beauty of the rock formations with the urban sprawl in the distance. Reddit

Beyond the sweeping cityscapes, Shoushan also offers opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the park itself, from lush greenery to the diverse wildlife. Instagram Remember to pack a versatile lens that can handle both wide-angle landscape shots and closer wildlife photography. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2