Shoushan Monkey Mountain Kaohsiung Taiwan
Hike through lush trails to encounter wild monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kaohsiung city and harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset views & cooler temps
Shoushan Monkey Mountain Kaohsiung Taiwan
Best Time
Sunset views & cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through lush trails to encounter wild monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kaohsiung city and harbor.
"A lung burner but worth it, with lots of monkeys and great views!"
🎒 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Formosan Rock Macaques
Encounter Taiwan's endemic macaques in their natural habitat. Observe their behavior from a safe distance.
Panoramic Kaohsiung Views
Ascend for breathtaking vistas of Kaohsiung city, harbor, and the ocean, especially captivating at sunset.
Monkey Rock
Onsite lookout point
A popular spot for monkey sightings and impressive ocean panoramas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Monkey Encounters & Safety
Timing Your Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 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.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential.
🔦 Bring a Headlamp
If staying for sunset, a light source is needed for the descent.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 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.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven; good footwear is essential.
🔦 Bring a Headlamp
If staying for sunset, a light source is needed for the descent.
🗺️ Check Bus Schedules
The last bus down departs early; plan your exit strategy.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The main trailhead is often accessed via the entrance near the Kaohsiung Zoo. Follow signs for Shoushan National Nature Park.
Yes, there are parking areas available near the main entrance and along the access roads, though they can fill up on weekends.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shoushan National Nature Park is generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for hiking the trails.
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.
Monkeys can be seen throughout the day, but they are often more active in the morning and late afternoon.
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.
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.
🎫 🚶 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.
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.
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.
Besides the Formosan rock macaques, you might spot Formosan barking deer and various bird species.
Restroom facilities are limited, especially on the trails. It's advisable to use facilities at the base before starting your hike.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, but maintain a safe distance and avoid using flash, which can disturb the animals. Focus on capturing their natural behavior.
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.
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.
Yes, you might find remnants of historical structures like German bunkers, adding an interesting element to your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. Remember to bring a headlamp if you plan to stay until dusk, as the descent can be challenging in the dark.
🚶 Budget Travelers
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. The incredible views and wildlife encounters offer significant value without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
When photographing the Formosan rock macaques, a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing their behavior from a safe distance. 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. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions if you plan to stay for night photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Shoushan
Many visitors recommend bringing a headlamp if you plan to stay for the sunset, as the descent can be in low light conditions. 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. Stick to marked paths and avoid feeding the animals to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike for everyone.
Beyond the hiking, Shoushan is also known for its biodiversity. Keep an eye out for Formosan barking deer and a variety of bird species. The park's location also provides unique opportunities for spotting marine life or enjoying the coastal scenery from higher vantage points.
The Iconic Formosan Rock Macaque
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. Visitors are advised to secure all food items and avoid direct eye contact, which can be perceived as a challenge by the macaques. Following these guidelines ensures the safety of both visitors and the monkeys, allowing for a more authentic and responsible wildlife encounter.
These macaques are an integral part of Shoushan's ecosystem, and their presence contributes significantly to the park's appeal. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in this urban-adjacent natural park, making them a constant source of fascination for locals and tourists alike.
Capturing Kaohsiung's Charm from Above
The sunset is a prime time for photography, painting the sky with vibrant colors that complement the city lights beginning to twinkle below. 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. 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.
Beyond the sweeping cityscapes, Shoushan also offers opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the park itself, from lush greenery to the diverse wildlife. Remember to pack a versatile lens that can handle both wide-angle landscape shots and closer wildlife photography.
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