Hiking Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan): Best Views of Taipei 101
The Elephant Mountain hike, known locally as Xiangshan in Taipei is one of the best viewpoints within the city limits to see Taipei 101 and the surrounding area.
The hike is relatively easy and short with a few steep points along the trail but it delivers one of the most iconic skyline views of Taipei.
Just minutes away from the city center, the Elephant Mountain hike is one of the most popular and accessible hikes in Taipei. In 30-minutes or less you can climb to the observation deck for incredible views of Taipei 101.
Whether you are looking for the perfect Instagram shot or looking for free things to do in Taipei, the Elephant Mountain hike is a must and well worth the effort.
In this guide, I’ll go over what the Elephant Mountain hike is like, how to get there, and share tips and recommendations to help you prepare.
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I was curious why Xiangshan was called Elephant Mountain. Doing research, it’s pretty literal. The name comes from the shape of the mountain itself. From certain angles, the ridge resembles the shape of an elephant.
In Chinese, xiàng means Elephant and Shān means Mountain.
Elephant Mountain is part of a group of mountains here known as the “Four Beasts Mountain.” Each mountain is named after an animal because of its appearance. Elephant Mountain is the most famous of the mountains.
While you might think there is a story behind the name, it’s really just classic local naming, someone back in the day looked at the mountain, thought it looked like an elephant, and boom! The name Elephant Mountain stuck!
Getting to Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain is located on the southeastern edge of Taipei in the Xinyi District.
Despite feeling like a nature escape, it’s surprisingly close to some of Taipei’s busiest areas. It’s within walking distance of Taipei 101.
Getting to Elephant Mountain is quick and easy if relying on the Taipei Metro. Take the Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Xiangshan Station (R02). It’s one stop passed the Taipei World Trade Center Station (R03).
From here, you walk 10-15 minutes through Xiangshan Park. There is a map right outside the station exit here and markers on the ground leading you to the trailhead.
Once you are at the trail head, you’ll notice stairs leading up and sings pointing to the Xiangshan Station. Plus, there is a giant elephant sign at the trail head that says Si-Shou Xiang Shan.
Hiking Elephant Mountain
The Elephant Mountain hike is one of the easiest and most rewarding hikes in Taipei. The main trail that leads to the popular view points is only about 600-800 meters long and can take around 30 minutes to complete.
The path up Elephant Mountain and the connecting trails are well maintained with clear sign posts both in the native language and in English.
The Elephant Mountain hike is famous for its views of Taipei 101 and the skyline. This area is especially popular at sunset, so keep in mind it might get busy around sunset hours.
When I hiked Elephant Mountain, I did the SihShou Shan Circular Hiking Trail (highlighted in the map). This trail took roughly an hour with obvious stops at the lookouts and beaks.
The circular trail stops at the Photographer’s Lookout, Liu Ju Shi, Mt. Xiangshan, the Yongchungang Lookout, before making a full circle back to the trail head.
If you have time, I highly recommend completing this loop as it offers multiple Taipei 101 viewing opportunities.
Once you enter the trailhead, the climb begins almost immediately up sets of stairs. It’s a consistent uphill staircase to the view points. Just take your time, take breaks, and enjoy the views along the way. There are quite a few rest areas along the path.
After about 10-15 minutes, we reached the first viewing platform with magnificent views of Taipei 101. There is a platform here and it was not overcrowded when I was there, I was able to really take in the views.
A bit further from the viewing platform we passed the “Six Giant Rocks” viewpoint. I didn’t feel the need to climb the rocks or anything here, but it did offer great views of Taipei 101.
Once we passed the main observation deck and “Six Giant Rocks” are, the trail became quieter with far fewer people. Most hikers seemed to just go to the observation deck for a few photos before climbing back down the mountain.
Near the top of Elephant Mountain there was a rest station with a small gym there, as if the hike wasn’t enough of a workout.
After hiking to the summit, we continued along the Yongchungang Trail to another lookout before making our way back down the mountain.
The whole trail was paved and well maintained. Along the path, there were several other trails that connected to the main trail. You could literally spend an entire day here hiking.
What to Bring
If you are hiking Elephant Mountain just to visit the first couple of observation decks, you don’t have to prepare to much for a short 30 minute hike. But bring essentials: Water, Snacks, and appropriate clothing.
In general it is always good to come prepared. Here are a few items that I recommend brining along with you as you conquer Elephant Mountain.
✅ Water: I like to ring my reusable bottle, but keep in mine there are vending machines nearby. The day I was there, at the base of the trail there was a free water refill station attached to a building (Pictured Above).
✅ Appropriate Clothing: Remember, you are hiking in nature. Taiwan can get incredibly hot and humid, so keep that in mind.
✅ Comfortable Shoes: I recommend hiking shoes or a good pair of sneakers. I saw some people in flip flops, which is never recommended. The trail is not hard, but it’s best to be prepared and comfortable to avoid injury.
✅ Camera: You are hiking Elephant Mountain for the views of Taipei 101. Don’t forget your camera or phone to take pictures.
✅ Sweat Towel: I always carry a sweat towel with me when traveling in Taiwan. Because of the humidity, you sweat a lot.
✅ Bug Spray: There are mosquitoes and other bugs along the trail.
Tips for Hiking Elephant Mountain
Hiking Elephant Mountain is pretty straightforward, but a few simple and smart tips can make really go a long way!
✅ Time Your Hike: Are you going to catch the sunset? Sunrise? Or just want to avoid crowds? Aim for starting 40-60 minutes before sunset to give yourself time, cool down, and find a decent viewing spot.
✅ Expect a Steep Climb: Although it’s not a hard hike, the beginning of the trail is all up hill. Take your time and use the rest areas if needed.
✅ Go Beyond the Main Viewpoints: There are so many viewpoints along the circular route where you see Taipei 101. Most hikers turn around after the first or second viewing platforms. Keep Going!
✅Water Station and Food: There was a water station at the trail head. There was also a small outside store after the first set of stairs that sold water and food.
✅ Use the MRT – Easiest Option: I figure most travelers will get here by using the Taipei Metro. Keep in mind it’s easy, efficient, and the metro exit is right at the park before the trailhead. Don’t try and drive or park nearby.
Conclusion
Hiking Elephant Mountain in Taipei is easily one of the best ways to view Taipei 101 from afar and one of the most rewarding things to do in Taipei. With a relatively short hike, you are treated with amazing views of Taipei 101 and Taipei’s skyline.
What makes Elephant Mountain so special, is its accessibility. You don’t need to plan to much for the hike besides the basics and it’s doable for all hiking levels. Whether you visit for sunrise, sunset, or during the day, the views never dissapoint.
If you are planning a Taipei itinerary, add Elephant Mountain to the list. I can’t believe it took me 8 visits to Taiwan to finally hike Elephant Mountain.
If you are planning a hike to Elephant Mountain or have done it and have other recommendations or tips, please leave a comment for us to read. Safe Travels!
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