Xiaoyoukeng Taipei
Witness Taiwan's raw geothermal power at Xiaoyoukeng, a volcanic wonderland with steaming sulfur vents and bubbling mud pools.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Xiaoyoukeng Taipei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Taiwan's raw geothermal power at Xiaoyoukeng, a volcanic wonderland with steaming sulfur vents and bubbling mud pools.
"Amazing!!!!! Less than 100meters walk from car park. The view is very beautiful and stunning with sulfir smell."
🎯 Go Early for Fewer Crowds
Visit on weekdays before 10 AM to enjoy the sulfur vents with fewer people and get great photos.
👟 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
If you plan to hike Mt. Qixing, sturdy footwear is essential for the well-maintained but steep trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steaming Sulfur Vents
Main viewing area
Witness bubbling mud pools and fumaroles emitting sulfurous steam. A truly unique geological spectacle!
Qixing Mountain Summit
Qixing Mountain Trail
Hike to the highest peak in Taipei for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Volcanic Landscape Views
Various viewpoints
Marvel at the stark, geologically active terrain, reminiscent of volcanic landscapes elsewhere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Volcanic Wonders
Hiking Prep for Qixing Mountain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Fewer Crowds
Visit on weekdays before 10 AM to enjoy the sulfur vents with fewer people and get great photos.
👟 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
If you plan to hike Mt. Qixing, sturdy footwear is essential for the well-maintained but steep trails.
💨 Be Prepared for Sulfur Smell
The distinct smell of sulfur is part of the experience; it's strong but generally not overpowering.
📸 Capture the Unique Scenery
The volcanic landscape offers dramatic photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Fewer Crowds
Visit on weekdays before 10 AM to enjoy the sulfur vents with fewer people and get great photos.
👟 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
If you plan to hike Mt. Qixing, sturdy footwear is essential for the well-maintained but steep trails.
💨 Be Prepared for Sulfur Smell
The distinct smell of sulfur is part of the experience; it's strong but generally not overpowering.
📸 Capture the Unique Scenery
The volcanic landscape offers dramatic photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by the unique volcanic landscape and steaming sulfur vents at Xiaoyoukeng, often describing it as a must-visit geological wonder. The accessibility of the main viewing area and the opportunity for hiking Mt. Qixing are highly praised. Some visitors found the sulfur smell strong and the experience less engaging on very hot days, but overall, the natural spectacle is a significant draw.
"Amazing!!!!! Less than 100meters walk from car park.
The view is very beautiful and stunning with sulfir smell. You can find the information at the visiting center.
I went there around 10 am in weekdays and not many people. So you can have a nice photos:)"
bongkoch chonglomkrod
"Our first stop of the Yangmingshan tour. It is a popular tourist destination. We did not have enough time to hike the trail. The staff at the visitor center was pretty good at delivering all the facts and information related to the live volcano and earthquakes. It was an informative session. We liked the views of the fumes and mountains."
Patrick Xu
"Quite amazing
1.6km hike with 300m vertical climb to the main peak.
Today was 30deg C and I struggled to walk. Took me 60 min to reach the peak which is exactly what the information board estimation was. If you are fit and weather is not as hot you could do faster
The whole way is well over with steps.
Several viewing platforms installed along the way.
There are information boards as well explaining the geology of the region.
Main two highlights of the hole are
- panoramic view from the top
- sulfuric vents along the way
Make sure you visit the viewing platform at the car park. You can see a boiling sulfuric bubbling puddle of liquid there also Alps have a nice overall view of the land slide geologically active area."
K Szys
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Xiaoyoukeng by taking a bus from Taipei Main Station (e.g., Bus R5 to Shilin Station, then transfer to Bus R5 or Red 5 to Yangmingshan Bus Terminal, and finally take Bus 108 to Xiaoyoukeng). Alternatively, ride-sharing services are available.
Within Yangmingshan, Bus 108 is a convenient hop-on-hop-off option connecting major attractions like Xiaoyoukeng and Qingtiangang Grasslands. Taxis or Ubers are also options.
Yes, there is a parking area available at Xiaoyoukeng. However, parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
A popular route is to visit Xiaoyoukeng first, then hike or take transport to Lengshuikeng and Qingtiangang Grasslands.
Buses can get crowded, especially on weekends. Consider ride-sharing if you prefer a more direct and comfortable journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Xiaoyoukeng is part of Yangmingshan National Park, which generally has no entrance fee for most areas. However, specific facilities or exhibitions might have separate charges.
Xiaoyoukeng is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times. The visitor center may have specific operating hours.
No advance booking is typically required for general access to Xiaoyoukeng. It's a natural park, so you can visit spontaneously.
For most trails in Yangmingshan National Park, including those around Xiaoyoukeng and Mt. Qixing, no special permit is needed.
The visitor center provides valuable information about the live volcano, local geology, and hiking trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary draw is the active volcanic landscape featuring steaming sulfur vents, bubbling mud pools, and fumaroles.
Yes, there are well-maintained trails and viewing platforms. You can also hike to the summit of Mt. Qixing from here.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to hike. Layers are advisable as the weather can change.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the main volcanic features and viewpoints. If hiking Mt. Qixing, allocate significantly more time.
The main viewing area near the parking lot is easily accessible. However, some trails can be steep and may pose challenges.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the steaming vents and bubbling mud pools offer dramatic shots. The viewing platform near the car park provides a good overview.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the unique landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain views.
Be mindful of the steam and potential for condensation on your lens. Shooting during overcast conditions can sometimes enhance the moody atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hike up Mt. Qixing might be too strenuous for very young children, families can enjoy exploring the accessible paths around the sulfur vents. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. Visiting on a weekday morning will help avoid larger crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique geological formations and the opportunity to observe post-volcanic activity. The fresh mountain air and the dramatic scenery provide a refreshing escape from the city. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry sufficient water, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Volcanic Activity
Visitors can walk along designated paths and viewing platforms to safely observe these natural phenomena. The bubbling mud pools and steaming vents create a surreal and almost otherworldly landscape. Information boards scattered throughout the area provide insights into the geology and history of this active volcanic zone, making it an educational as well as visually striking experience.
While the main attractions are easily accessible from the parking area, those seeking a more adventurous experience can embark on the hike up Mt. Qixing, Taipei's highest peak, which starts from Xiaoyoukeng. This trail offers a more strenuous but rewarding journey with panoramic views.
Hiking Mt. Qixing: A Taipei Adventure
As you ascend, you'll encounter several viewing platforms offering increasingly impressive vistas of the surrounding volcanic terrain and the distant cityscape of Taipei. The air is generally fresh, providing a welcome respite, especially on cooler days. The summit itself provides a stunning 360-degree panoramic view, making the effort well worthwhile.
It's important to be prepared for the hike. Wear appropriate hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and check the weather forecast. While no permit is required, trails can be affected by weather, so it's wise to check for any advisories.
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