How to Hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) for the Best Taipei 101 Views: Routes, Hiking Tips and Insider Advice

Elephant Mountain Taiwan Overview

Elephant Mountain Taiwan—also known as Xiangshan—is one of the most famous urban hiking trails in Asia. It stands within the Four Beasts Mountains (四獸山), a group of small peaks located in Taipei’s Xinyi District: Elephant Mountain(象山), Leopard Mountain(豹山), Lion Mountain(獅山), and Tiger Mountain(虎山). These mountains are named after their shapes, which resemble animals from certain angles. Elephant Mountain, for example, earned its name because the main ridge resembles the back of an elephant, while certain rock formations evoke the shape of an elephant’s head and body.

The Four Beasts Mountains form a connected trail network, allowing hikers to walk from one peak to another along the ridge. However, Elephant Mountain remains the most iconic due to its unbeatable viewpoint of Taipei 101 and the Xinyi skyline—making it a favorite for first-time visitors and photographers.

What Is Elephant Mountain Taiwan Known For?

Source: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

Elephant Mountain stands out for its rare combination of easy access and dramatic scenery. Unlike other city viewpoints that require expensive observatory tickets or long drives, Xiangshan is free, close to central Taipei, and reachable within minutes from Xiangshan MRT Station. Visitors love the iconic wooden platforms, the famous “six boulders” area, and the opportunity to capture both daytime and nighttime skyline views.
📍Why people love Elephant Mountain:

• Clear views of Taipei 101 and the entire Xinyi financial district
• A short, steep 15–25 minute climb accessible to most travelers
• Photo-friendly boulders and platforms
• Proximity to Taipei shopping, dining, and nightlife
• Access to extended trails like Elephant Mountain–Lion Mountain–Tiger Mountain for longer hikes

👉🏻 Whether you're a casual visitor or an enthusiastic photographer, Elephant Mountain consistently delivers one of the most impressive Taipei viewpoints.

Elephant Mountain Trail Difficulty and Length

Source: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

Although the hike is short, visitors should be prepared for steep staircases. The trail is around 650 meters to the main viewpoint and includes more than 500 steps. It’s manageable for most travelers, including families with active kids and older adults who hike slowly.

What to expect
Distance	650 meters one-way (1.3 km round-trip)
Average Hiking Time	15–25 minutes to main platform; 35–50 minutes to upper viewpoints
Difficulty	Moderate due to stair incline, not terrain
Path Condition	Well-maintained stone staircases and wooden observation platforms
Crowd Level	Heavy during weekends, sunsets, and holidays

👉🏻 Despite the stairs, the trail is safe and straightforward. Handrails are available along most sections, and the path is clearly marked. Even first-time hikers should find the trail manageable with short rest stops along the way.

📍 More information about the trail:

• The first 5 minutes are the steepest and often surprise new hikers.
• Frequent rest stops and benches are available.
• The trail has shade but can still feel humid, especially between May and September.
• Stairs can be slippery after rain, so shoes with proper grip are recommended.
• Families with children usually complete the trail comfortably with breaks.
• Elderly hikers often take the trail slowly but still manage it safely thanks to handrails.

Best Time to Visit Elephant Mountain Taiwan

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

Timing can significantly impact your Elephant Mountain experience. Sunset is the most popular time, with soft golden light behind Taipei 101. Night view is equally stunning as the city lights illuminate the skyline.
📍 Best timing tips:

• Sunrise: Quiet, peaceful, and perfect for photographers
• Golden hour: Begins roughly one hour before sunset
• Night: Taipei 101’s LED lights and traffic trails create beautiful photos
• Clear days: After rainfall or cold fronts when air pollution is low
• ⚠️ Avoid midday heat: Especially in summer from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

👉🏻 If possible, visit on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. The platforms fill quickly during weekends and national holidays, so arrive early if you want front-row photography positions.

How to Get to Elephant Mountain Taiwan（Hiking trail）

Elephant Mountain’s strength lies in its accessibility. Here we’ll cover MRT, taxi, tripool private car service, and walking routes. Most visitors begin at Xiangshan MRT Station on the Taipei Metro Red Line, located just a 7–10 minute walk from the trailhead.

Getting to Elephant Mountain by Taipei MRT

Source: Wikipedia

The Taipei MRT is the most convenient option for solo travelers and couples staying near central Taipei.
🗺️ Route:

1. Take the Red Line to Xiangshan Station (象山)
2. Exit via Exit 2
3. Follow signs toward Xiangshan Hiking Trail (10 minute walk to trailhead)

📍 Advantages of MRT:

• Affordable and reliable
• No traffic delays
• Connects easily from Taipei Main Station, Ximen, Shilin, and Tamsui

👉🏻 The MRT is especially practical during weekends when parking is limited and traffic in Xinyi District may be heavy. For those staying near Taipei 101 or the Four Four South Village area, walking directly to the trailhead is also a simple, scenic option.

Getting to Elephant Mountain by by Taxi or Tripool

Taxis are plentiful around Taipei 101, Taipei City Hall MRT, and central Taipei hotels. For groups, families, or travelers carrying heavy camera equipment, hiring a car to drop you off near the trail entrance is a smart choice.
Tripool—a reliable pre-booked transfer service—is particularly convenient because it offers predictable pricing and larger vehicles for families or groups of 3–8 people. It’s often more comfortable than squeezing into two taxis or carrying equipment on public transport.
📍 Why visitors choose tripool:

1. Door-to-door service from hotels to the trailhead
2. Good for early-morning sunrise visits before MRT trains start operating
3. Comfortable for older adults or young kids
4. Ideal for photographers carrying tripods, long lenses, and gear

👉🏻 You can also continue using tripool after your hike to visit Linjiang Street Night Market, Taipei 101, or Elephant Mountain’s nearby food streets.

Walking to the Trailhead from Xinyi District

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

If you’re already in the Xinyi area—for example, exploring Taipei 101, ATT 4 FUN, or Shin Kong Mitsukoshi—walking is pleasant and straightforward.
👣 Walking time estimates:

• From Taipei 101: 18–22 minutes
• From Four Four South Village: 12–15 minutes
• From Taipei City Hall MRT: 20–25 minutes

👉🏻 Along the way, you’ll pass residential neighborhoods, local parks, and convenience stores where you can buy water or snacks. The walk itself feels safe, well-lit at night, and friendly for travelers unfamiliar with the city.

Transportation Comparison Table:

Transportation	Travel Time	Cost	Best For	Notes
MRT (Red Line)	7–20 mins	Low	Solo travelers, couples	Most convenient during peak hours
Taxi	5–15 mins	Medium	Families, late-night visits	Easy to find in Xinyi
Tripool Private Car	5–15 mins	Medium	Groups, elderly, photographers	Comfortable, pre-booked, direct drop-off
Walking	12–25 mins	Free	Visitors already in Xinyi area	Scenic and safe

Elephant Mountain Taiwan Hiking Guide

The Elephant Mountain trail offers multiple platforms, branching paths, and photo spots. This guide section helps you navigate the area efficiently and avoid missing scenic viewpoints.

Elephant Mountain Trail Map and Main Viewpoints

The Xiangshan trail's structure is simple but has many small detours leading to unique viewpoints.
📍 Major stops include:

1. Photographer’s Platform(攝手平台): A popular spot offering a clear, wide-angle cityscape view. People gather here hours before the New Year’s fireworks just to secure the best spot.
   
   Source: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government
2. Six Boulders(六巨石): Famous rock formations perfect for both seated and standing photos. It’s the most Instagrammable spot, just be sure to stay safe while taking pictures.
   
   Source: RoundTaiwanRound
3. Chaoran Pavilion (Second platform, higher viewpoint, 超然亭): Less crowded, better for sunset photography.
   
4. A Thread of Sky(Yixiantian一線天): It is a slender passageway squeezed between rocks or a slot canyon where, when you look up, the sky appears as only a thin, shining thread.
   
5. Beixing Baogong(北星寶宮): A serene temple located on the trail that connects elephant mountain and Thumb Mountain.
   
   Source: RoundTaiwanRound

Viewpoint / Spot	Approx. Distance from Trailhead	Type of Attraction	Key Features
Photographer’s Platform (攝手平台)	~450–500 m	Scenic viewpoint	Wide-angle Taipei 101 view; popular for fireworks
Six Boulders (六巨石)	~550–600 m	Rock formation	Iconic photo spot; be mindful of safety
Chaoran Pavilion (超然亭)	~650–700 m	Elevated pavilion	Less crowded; great for sunset shots
A Thread of Sky (Yixiantian 一線天)	~750–800 m	Rock corridor	Narrow passage; sky appears as a thin line
Beixing Baogong (北星寶宮)	~1500–1550 m	Small temple / Rest point	Quiet stop with shade; good place for a short break before climbing

👉🏻 The main platform is the easiest to access and usually the most crowded. Photographers seeking clean compositions may prefer the second platform.

Photography Tips for Elephant Mountain Taiwan

Elephant Mountain is one of Taipei’s top photography hotspots, particularly during sunrise and blue hour.
📍 To capture the best images:

• Bring a wide-angle lens (14–24mm or 16–35mm) for full Taipei 101 coverage
• Arrive at least 1–1.5 hours before sunset for platform space
• Use a tripod for night shots
• Shoot during blue hour for balanced city and sky lighting
• Avoid mid-summer afternoons due to heat shimmer

Popular photo styles:

• Skyline panorama
• Taipei 101 fireworks (only during New Year’s Eve)
• Light trails from city traffic
• Portraits with dramatic city background

👉🏻 If you’re visiting solo, friendly photographers and travelers often help each other take photos—just ask politely.

Is It Hard to Hike Elephant Mountain?

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

Many travelers ask this question before committing to the climb. The short answer is: it’s challenging but absolutely manageable.

📍 Why it feels difficult:

• The incline begins immediately with steep stone stairs
• The humidity in summer intensifies the workout
• The first 100–200 steps often feel like the toughest

📍 What makes it manageable:

• Plenty of rest benches
• Safe, well-maintained steps
• Shaded trail sections
• Short distance overall
• Handrails along most of the ascent

👉🏻 Most travelers—even those not used to hiking—successfully complete the trail. With a slow, steady pace, you can reach the main platform within 20–30 minutes comfortably.

Safety Tips and What to Pack

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

Elephant Mountain is generally safe, but steep stairs and humidity can catch some visitors off guard.
🎒 Pack the following essentials:

1. Water (500–750 ml per person)
2. Comfortable walking shoes (not flip-flops)
3. Mosquito repellent during spring/summer
4. Light jacket during winter nights
5. Small towel for humidity in summer

📍 Safety tips:

1. Avoid climbing on rocks when wet
2. Keep valuables secure in crowds
3. Watch your step during night hikes
4. Stay hydrated, especially in July–September

Overall, the trail is well-paved and suitable for hikers of all experience levels.

Elephant Mountain Taiwan Nearby Attractions

Elephant Mountain is centrally located in Taipei’s modern Xinyi District, making it easy to combine the hike with shopping, sightseeing, or food experiences before or after your visit.

Taipei 101 Observatory and Shopping

Elephant Mountain offers the best exterior views of Taipei 101, but many travelers also enjoy entering the tower itself.
📍 At Taipei 101, visitors can explore:

• 89th–91st floor observatory decks
• High-end shopping mall
• Michelin-rated restaurants
• Taiwanese restaurants like Din Tai Fung

👉🏻 Combining Elephant Mountain with Taipei 101 gives you two different skyline experiences—one from the outside and one from the inside.

Four Four South Village (Si Si Nan Cun)

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

This restored military dependents’ village sits at the foot of the mountain and offers a unique cultural contrast to the modern skyscrapers nearby.
📍 Visitors can enjoy:

• Weekend artisanal markets
• Cute cafés and photo spots
• Historic architecture
• Taipei 101 views framed by low-rise buildings

👉🏻 It’s a great stop for coffee or a casual stroll before starting your hike.

Linjiang Street Night Market and Xinyi Shopping District

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

For food lovers, Linjiang Street Night Market(also know as Tonghua Street Night Market ) is one of Taipei’s best evening food streets, easily reachable by taxi or MRT after your hike.
🍢 Must-try street food :

1. Shanghai pan-fried buns (上海生煎包): Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these buns burst with savory broth in every bite.
2. Liang Ji Lu Wei (soy-sauce braised dish, 梁記滷味): A variety of ingredients slowly simmered in rich soy sauce-based broth for a deeply savory, aromatic flavor.
3. Yu Pin Yuan Iced and Hot Tangyuan (御品元冰火湯圓): Warm, chewy glutinous rice balls paired with refreshing shaved ice for a unique hot-and-cold contrast.
4. Ya Kou Tian Xiang Stinky Tofu (雅口天香臭豆腐): Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and boldly aromatic—a love-it-or-crave-it kind of stinky tofu.

👉🏻 Meanwhile, the Xinyi shopping district offers cinemas, department stores, bars, and craft beer—ideal for unwinding after a workout.

Elephant Mountain Taiwan FAQs

Q: Is Elephant Mountain Taiwan difficult to climb? 

Q: How long does it take to reach the viewpoint? 

Q: Is there an entrance fee? 

Q: What is the best time to visit? 

Q: Are there restrooms on the trail? 

Q: Is Elephant Mountain safe at night? 

Q: Can children climb Elephant Mountain? 

Q: Is the trail open on rainy days? 

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail? 

Q: Can I continue hiking to other mountains? 

RTR Exclusive Insights – Elephant Mountain Taiwan

Source: RoundTaiwanRound

Elephant Mountain Taiwan is more than a viewpoint for the Round Taiwan Round (RTR) editorial team—it’s a place we return to throughout the year for photography, guiding guests, and enjoying peaceful morning hikes. After a decade of exploring Xiangshan in every season, these are the insights we believe visitors will truly benefit from.

Many travelers think Elephant Mountain is only worth visiting at sunset, but sunrise is one of the mountain’s most underrated moments. The air is cooler, the trail is quiet, and the platforms are nearly empty. Watching the first light illuminate Taipei 101 without crowds is one of the most serene experiences Taipei offers, especially if you’re staying nearby in Xinyi District.

We also encourage hikers to go beyond the main platform. Continuing to the firebreak trail, Elephant Peak, or onward toward Tiger Mountain and Muzhi Mountain (Thumb Mountain) reveals quieter paths, better angles, and a refreshing forest atmosphere that feels surprisingly removed from the city. These extended routes are our team’s favorite spots for photography, exercise, and clearer skyline views.

Photography conditions vary by season: winter offers crisp visibility, while summer brings dramatic sunset colors. For those carrying heavy equipment, tripool makes early or late shoots easier with direct trailhead drop-off, allowing us to focus on timing rather than transportation.

When we want a quiet break, we often stop at the second platform—less crowded than the boulders and ideal for enjoying a breeze, a drink, or a simple snack. This small, elevated viewpoint is one of our personal “hidden gems.”

What makes Elephant Mountain special to RTR is the effortless blend of nature and city. Few places in the world let you hike through forest shade and reach a world-class urban skyline within minutes. This harmony is what we love most about Taipei, and Elephant Mountain captures it perfectly.

Whether it’s your first climb or a return visit, we hope our insights help you experience Xiangshan with fresh appreciation. Slow down, take in the views, and let the unique rhythm of Taipei reveal itself with each step.