Taipei Elephant Mountain: A Short Hike with the Best View in the City

If you’re looking for one of the best views in Taipei without spending hours hiking, Elephant Mountain should be at the top of your list. Known locally as Xiangshan (象山), this small but mighty hill offers an unforgettable view of Taipei 101 rising above the city skyline. It’s the kind of place that proves you don’t have to leave the city far behind to experience nature.

Whether you’re in Taipei for a quick stopover or a longer trip, Elephant Mountain is an easy win.

Why Elephant Mountain Is a Must-Visit in Taipei

What makes Elephant Mountain so special is how accessible and rewarding it is. In less than half an hour, you can go from MRT station to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking one of Asia’s most iconic skyscrapers.

From the top, you’ll see:

• Taipei 101 framed by lush green hills
• The city stretching out in every direction
• A beautiful contrast between urban life and nature

It’s no surprise that Elephant Mountain is popular with both travelers and locals, especially photographers.

How to Get to Elephant Mountain

Getting to Elephant Mountain is incredibly simple.

• Take the Taipei MRT Red Line
• Get off at Xiangshan Station
• Exit at Exit 2
• Walk about 10 minutes to the trail entrance

Clear signs make it easy to find, even if it’s your first time in Taipei.

Hiking Elephant Mountain: What to Expect

The hike up Elephant Mountain is short but involves a lot of stone steps. While it can feel steep at times, it’s manageable for most people with a reasonable fitness level.

Quick trail facts:

• Hiking time: Around 20–30 minutes to the main viewpoint
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Trail type: Stone staircases with handrails

There are benches along the way, so feel free to take breaks and enjoy the views as you go.

The Best Viewpoints on Elephant Mountain

One of the highlights of Elephant Mountain is the Six Boulders Observation Deck (六巨石觀景台). This famous spot offers a postcard-worthy view of Taipei 101 and is one of the most photographed locations in the city.

Arrive here and you’ll likely see:

• Travelers posing for skyline photos
• Locals relaxing after work
• Photographers waiting for the perfect light

Best Time to Visit Elephant Mountain

Timing your visit can make a big difference.

• Early morning: Peaceful and cooler, with fewer people
• Late afternoon: Perfect for sunset and golden hour
• Night: Stunning city lights and an illuminated Taipei 101

If possible, avoid weekends and public holidays, as the trail can get crowded.

Helpful Tips Before You Go

A little preparation goes a long way when hiking Elephant Mountain.

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip
• Bring water, especially in warmer months
• Use mosquito repellent during summer
• Be cautious after rain, as steps can be slippery

Despite the crowds, the trail is well maintained and safe.

Is Elephant Mountain Worth It?

Without a doubt. Elephant Mountain offers one of the best views in Taipei for minimal effort. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience the outdoors without committing to a long hike.

If you only have time for one hike in Taipei, this is the one to choose.

Final Thoughts

Elephant Mountain is a perfect example of why Taipei is such a great travel destination. In less than an hour, you can escape the busy streets, climb a forested hill, and stand face-to-face with one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Simple, scenic, and unforgettable — Elephant Mountain deserves a spot on every Taipei itinerary.

The night view that you can get for the elephant mountain.