Elephant Mountain, Xiangshan in Mandarin, is the westernmost peak of a chain of small hills known as the Four Beasts, which rise right behind the Xinyi district. Its trail is only about 1.5 kilometres, and the summit is just 183 metres high, but the stairs are relentless, and the reward is the best-known view in the city: Taipei 101 rising straight out of the skyline, close enough to feel you could touch it. The favourite photo spot is the Six Giant Rocks, a cluster of boulders where locals queue to pose with the tower behind them. The trail starts a few minutes from Xiangshan MRT station, at the end of the red line, and it is open 24 hours, which makes it perfect for a sunset hike followed by dinner in Xinyi.
How it works: walk from Xiangshan MRT station to the trailhead beside Xiangshan Park, then climb the stone stairs. Most people reach the first viewing platforms in 20 to 30 minutes; the full loop, with the ridge towards Zhongqiang Park, takes about an hour and forty minutes. It is free and never closes.
What to expect: the stairs are steep, humid and can be slippery after rain, so bring water and wear proper shoes. The platforms are crowded at sunset, and the Six Giant Rocks have a queue for photos. The path is lit in the evening, but take a phone torch for the quieter sections. Mosquitoes are common in the warmer months.
Making the most of it: arrive about an hour before sunset to climb in daylight and claim a spot, then stay for the blue hour as the city lights come on. On New Year’s Eve this is a famous place to watch the Taipei 101 fireworks, so expect huge crowds.
What to expect
The experience
A short, steep, free hike on stone stairs to viewpoints over Taipei 101.
Best time
The hour before sunset, then the blue hour after.
How long
One to two hours, depending on how far you go.
Tips
Bring water and a torch, and wear shoes with good grip.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and anyone who wants the classic Taipei 101 shot.
- Families
- Fine for active children; the stairs are tough for toddlers.
- Couples
- Sunset on the rocks, then dinner in Xinyi.
- Pair with
- Taipei 101 Observatory and the Xinyi night scene.
- Time needed
- About ninety minutes.
Good questions
How long does it take to climb Elephant Mountain?+
About 20 to 30 minutes to the main viewpoints; the full loop takes about an hour and forty minutes.
Which MRT station is closest?+
Xiangshan station, at the end of the red line.
Is the trail open at night?+
Yes, it is open 24 hours and partly lit, but bring a torch.
Is it free?+
Yes, there is no charge.
What are the Six Giant Rocks?+
A group of boulders near the top that make the most popular photo spot with Taipei 101 behind.
