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Xiangshan Hill is named for its resemblance to an elephant's head and is located in the Xinyi District to the southeast of the Taipei Basin. It shares similar geological features with Tiger Hill, primarily composed of sandstone. Steep rock walls and massive boulders formed by tectonic activity along the hiking trails, combined with the region's rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, transform the entire hill into a natural ecological paradise, making it an ideal destination for locals to approach low-lying mountains and enjoy leisurely moments in green forests. The hiking trail is lined with interpretive boards to guide visitors. The area's diverse landforms—ridgelines, rock walls, and hillslopes—foster a wide variety of fern species, with the Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia Struthiopteris) and the Tree Fern (Cyathea spp.) being the most prominent ancient fern communities, the largest in quantity within Taipei City. In the bygone era of underdeveloped medical practices, the Ostrich Fern was a highly effective folk remedy for stopping bleeding. The Tree Fern grove represents Taipei City's most precious ecological treasure. From Xiangshan's summit, the entire landscape of the Taipei Basin is virtually visible at a glance. Its tail ridge extends into the Jianqiang Park in Xinyi District, becoming a favorite daytime exercise spot for locals and a green oasis for nearby residents to unwind during weekends and holidays. Six Giant Stones The peculiar sight of countless giant boulders on Xiangshan Hill is also known as Lao Lai Xia. Climb upon these boulders to enjoy a panoramic view of the bustling Xinyi commercial district. This is a popular photo spot: ascending at dawn reveals the Taipei 101 Tower awakening in the morning light, while at dusk, you can admire the skyline of Xinyi skyscrapers bathed in twilight and illuminated by bright urban lights. Heyian Pavilion (Summit of Xiangshan Hill) Located at the trail's terminus on a platform near a hexagonal pavilion on Xiangshan Hill's summit, this vantage point offers an excellent view of the entire hill. The hill's "elephant head" and "elephant trunk" formations are particularly lifelike. The hill's nasal area is Yongchun Senior High School, and its elongated trunk forms a ridge line extending into a plateau between Songshou Road and the Sonthung Hospital complex. One Sky Line Near the Sonthung Hospital complex's trail, there is a viewpoint named "One Sky Line." The narrow mountain spines almost meet, with towering rock outcroppings creating a dramatic cliff. From the trail, hikers look upward through a narrow sky gap formed by the rock walls, giving birth to its name. Panoramic Views Overhanging the City As the highest peak in the Sishou Mountain Trail System, Xiangshan Hill is the closest green space to the Songshan and Xinyi Districts of Taipei. With an unimpeded view from the summit, the entire Xinyi Business District is visible—landmarks like Taipei 101, the World Trade Center, Warner Village, and Sogo Nanjing Fuxing are clearly visible. The broader scenery of the Taipei Basin is also entirely on display. Natural Biodiversity Awaits Giant Rock Park Although Xiangshan Hill is relatively small in size, it offers numerous scenic highlights. The "Six Giant Stones" dominating the hilltop are a defining landmark. Their uniquely clustered formation is a must-see for any visitor; the experience of climbing atop them and enjoying views from a different vantage point is unforgettable. For a bird's-eye view of the Taipei Basin, head to the "Chaoran Pavilion" perched along the ridgeline. Known for its unparalleled view among Xiangshan's pavilions, this location provides a broad vantage point: it overlooks the hillside's Xinyi Development Area and, in the distance, the iconic Yuan Shang Hill in the north, the Neptis Incineration Plant in Beitou, and the Da-Tun Volcanic Group. Near the staircase to Giant Rock Park, there is a colossal boulder engraved with man-made steps allowing hikers to ascend and enjoy a panoramic view of the Taipei Basin. As you walk, the perspective shifts along the trail's left mountain slopes, ridgelines, and then the right mountain slopes. Each vantage captures the breathtaking beauty of Taipei's landscape. Interpretive signs installed along the hiking trail guide nature enthusiasts in understanding the mountain's characteristics, making the area one of Taipei's most popular natural classrooms. Interpretive resources are never a problem here—by following the signs, you're essentially your own nature guide. Xiangshan Hill features diverse microhabitats including ridgelines, rock walls, hillslopes, and valleys, resulting in over 70 fern species. Ferns can be found throughout the area—some attach to tree trunks, others grow on rocks and slopes, and some densely blanket the forest floor. The Ostrich Fern community is particularly large, with the highest quantity in Taipei City, once serving as an effective folk remedy for bloodstanching in pre-modern times. In moist, sunlit hillside groves, another ancient fern species from the Jurassic era, the Tree Fern (Cyathea sp.), grows in clusters. These Tree Fern groves represent Taipei's most unique ecological feature, with dense occurrences found exclusively in the northern parts of Taiwan. The damp environments also host thriving snail populations—including Suttschi’s Giant Snail and Chimney Snail—that are easily observed across the hill. Originally a low-altitude subtropical broadleaf forest, the area exudes rich biodiversity and lush greenery, offering countless natural delights waiting to be explored. Fitness and Recreation for All Xiangshan Hill Entrance Though Xiangshan Hill is only 181 meters tall, its modest height makes it an ideal challenge for those seeking to "conquer a peak." After reaching the summit, visitors can take advantage of physical fitness installations along the trail. It's not uncommon to see people resting and exercising at Heyan Pavilion, while energetic children dart about. Combining physical activity with fun, it's perfect for family outings.