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Nangang Mountains_Huo Mountain Nature Trail
Hushan is one of the gentle hills within the Sishou Mountain Citizen Forest. Connecting to the Houban and Nangang mountain ranges, it forms a natural barrier on the southeastern side of Taipei City. Located at an altitude of 140 meters, the geological composition is a steep-slope monoplanar hill under the marine geological strata, with high elevations to the west and low to the east. The panoramic view opens to the surrounding area. A gnomon stands on the summit for solar observation and timekeeping. The hiking trail is composed of interlayered sandstone and shale. Flowing through the Hushan Creek forms a mountain brook ecosystem, providing an ideal habitat for fireflies, green tree frogs, ferns, and other diverse ecological communities. After streambank stabilization and soil conservation improvements, Hushan Creek has become a prime destination for wetland ecological observation. Interpretive signs and directional markers along the trail further enhance the hiking experience for those who enjoy mountain exploration and ecological appreciation.
Four Beasts Citizen Forest
Sishoushan Hiking Trail, after restoration, is officially named the Four Beasts Citizen Forest, encompassing four suburban mountains—the tiger, leopard, lion, and elephant. The area boasts diverse flora and fauna, becoming a natural sanctuary for urban dwellers to enjoy leisure activities amid lush greenery.
Hushan Creek Ecological Experience
The local municipal government's Industry Development Bureau has specially treated the upper and lower sections of Hushan Creek, transforming it into a vibrant ecological garden with abundant aquatic life. Visitors can marvel at fireflies, tree frogs, and various aquatic flora and fauna from the trees or the streambed, adding new dimensions of enjoyment to mountain excursions.
Hushan 120-Meter Overlook
With panoramic views and the historic old military factory as landmarks, the 120-Meter Overlook is named after its elevation. The park is well-kept with orderly flower beds, shaded pavilions for respite from the weather, and is a popular checkpoint for hikers to rest, socialize, and take in the scenery.
Sishou Square and Sculpted Four Beasts Monument
A section of the Hushan Mountain Trail features a path constructed with environmentally-friendly materials. Partway through, it includes a recreational plaza with a shade pavilion.
The square is marked by four prominent stone pillars featuring carvings of the four beasts—tiger, leopard, lion, and elephant—standing out prominently. The tranquil and elegant setting is ideal for leisurely walks, group activities, or relaxation.
Spend a Pleasurable Afternoon at the Citizen Forest
Take a bus from the MRT station to "Fo De Elementary School," then enter Fo De Street, No. 251. Shortly after, the trailhead marker for the "Mountain-Walking Corridor" will appear ahead. Turning left along the marked trail leads to an uphill route, where a bustling scenery immediately unfolds—street food, vendors, and coffee stands abound. If you’d like to grab snacks for the journey, you can find fragrant Luwei (Shandong-style) and vegetarian snacks at the side of Cihui Hall.
Reassuringly, a large sign reading "Sishou Mountain Citizen Forest" stands at the trailhead. Even if the hiking map is partially obscured by nearby vendors, you won’t be lost before entering the forest. Ascend the gentle slope along the creek, weaving through the tree-lined trail. With each step, your pace lightens, and the sound of the trickling stream clears your mind of city clutter. Come here to slow your footsteps and listen to the rare birdsong and insectsong in this urban environment.
The Hushan Trail lies along the eastern portion of Sishou Mountain. After reaching Fuxing Yuan (Recreation Garden), the view becomes even broader, offering sweeping sights from the Taipei Basin to the eastern district of Taipei and adjacent豹shan (Leopard Mountain). Looking westward from this point, the mountain ridge beyond Fengtian Temple resembles undulating waves, with tigers poised to leap into the horizon.
Panoramic Viewing Amid a Breeze
Due to its proximity to the Xinyi Special Planning District, even though Hushan is a modest height (140 meters), Taipei 101 feels almost omnipresent along the trail. With excellent visibility along the way, scenic observation areas and shaded pavilions are not uncommon. The stretch from Tiger Mountain Peak to Fengtian Temple is particularly concentrated with pavilions. Approaching the summit, a green-colored column pavilion with a white roof is first encountered, followed by the mountain summit observation platform. Standing at the platform and referring to the interpretive sign, you can clearly see the steep-sided, one-sided terrain sloping from west to east. The refreshing mountain breeze and open vistas make for a delightful experience.
Proceed forward for the final ascent—this is when you start "conquering the peak." The trail drops sharply down the mountain wall, a descent that feels slightly precarious, requiring careful attention and possibly rope assistance as you climb down. This steep trail offers a small yet exciting challenge among the climb. After descending, a pavilion ahead allows hikers a moment to catch their breath and regain their composure.
Continuing to reach the 120-Meter Overlook brings cool breezes and sweeping vistas of the Xinyi area. Taipei 101’s tall silhouette appears clearly, with Songshan and Nangang in the background and distant peaks such as Wuzishan and Qixingshan. The rare Formosan eagle soars above the skyline. Overlooking this vibrant district of Taipei from the mountain adds a signature feature to this trail.
Relax with Nature and Serenity
Designed to blend diverse natural landscapes and intriguing views, the route showcases a rich variety of plant life. Interpretive signs along the trail allow for easy, self-guided ecological exploration. The initial section of the hiking trail parallels Hushan Creek, whose mountain brook environment nurtures abundant ecological resources. The valley’s moist and shady conditions are optimal for plants like the "nephth-yu" (a type of Arisaema plant) and ferns, with over 70 fern species recorded in Hushan alone.
Originally a natural stream, Hushan Creek had unstable sections from coal mining residue and poor soil conservation, leading to severe erosion. After remediation by the City’s Construction Department, the ecological environment has been restored, ensuring better conservation and stability.
The water-based scenic area is complemented by facilities such as stone bridges, play platforms, pumping stations, and water recreation parks, all designed to harmonize with the topography. Remnants of coal mining residues are preserved as an educational resource for ecological learning. At the trailhead, interpretive signs explain how step-pool designs (zigzag waterfalls) effectively balance ecological protection and soil conservation.
Nighttime Firefly Observation and Family Fun
The trail to Hushan Creek is lined with stone steps and features delicate lattice railings along the stream, matching the serene scenery. Currently, Hushan Creek thrives with rich biodiversity, and from April to May onward, it becomes a place to witness fireflies. In addition to native land-dwelling fireflies like Pyropyga nigricans and P. rubricoxa, the released aquatic P. paralugens larvae have successfully bred through nine generations.
Nighttime firefly tours are a delightful family or group activity right within the city of Taipei. Follow the glowing fireflies searching for mates beneath small lanterns—discover the enchanting Hushan Mountain trail.
Four Beasts Citizen Forest
Sishoushan Hiking Trail, after restoration, is officially named the Four Beasts Citizen Forest, encompassing four suburban mountains—the tiger, leopard, lion, and elephant. The area boasts diverse flora and fauna, becoming a natural sanctuary for urban dwellers to enjoy leisure activities amid lush greenery.
Hushan Creek Ecological Experience
The local municipal government's Industry Development Bureau has specially treated the upper and lower sections of Hushan Creek, transforming it into a vibrant ecological garden with abundant aquatic life. Visitors can marvel at fireflies, tree frogs, and various aquatic flora and fauna from the trees or the streambed, adding new dimensions of enjoyment to mountain excursions.
Hushan 120-Meter Overlook
With panoramic views and the historic old military factory as landmarks, the 120-Meter Overlook is named after its elevation. The park is well-kept with orderly flower beds, shaded pavilions for respite from the weather, and is a popular checkpoint for hikers to rest, socialize, and take in the scenery.
Sishou Square and Sculpted Four Beasts Monument
A section of the Hushan Mountain Trail features a path constructed with environmentally-friendly materials. Partway through, it includes a recreational plaza with a shade pavilion.
The square is marked by four prominent stone pillars featuring carvings of the four beasts—tiger, leopard, lion, and elephant—standing out prominently. The tranquil and elegant setting is ideal for leisurely walks, group activities, or relaxation.
Spend a Pleasurable Afternoon at the Citizen Forest
Take a bus from the MRT station to "Fo De Elementary School," then enter Fo De Street, No. 251. Shortly after, the trailhead marker for the "Mountain-Walking Corridor" will appear ahead. Turning left along the marked trail leads to an uphill route, where a bustling scenery immediately unfolds—street food, vendors, and coffee stands abound. If you’d like to grab snacks for the journey, you can find fragrant Luwei (Shandong-style) and vegetarian snacks at the side of Cihui Hall.
Reassuringly, a large sign reading "Sishou Mountain Citizen Forest" stands at the trailhead. Even if the hiking map is partially obscured by nearby vendors, you won’t be lost before entering the forest. Ascend the gentle slope along the creek, weaving through the tree-lined trail. With each step, your pace lightens, and the sound of the trickling stream clears your mind of city clutter. Come here to slow your footsteps and listen to the rare birdsong and insectsong in this urban environment.
The Hushan Trail lies along the eastern portion of Sishou Mountain. After reaching Fuxing Yuan (Recreation Garden), the view becomes even broader, offering sweeping sights from the Taipei Basin to the eastern district of Taipei and adjacent豹shan (Leopard Mountain). Looking westward from this point, the mountain ridge beyond Fengtian Temple resembles undulating waves, with tigers poised to leap into the horizon.
Panoramic Viewing Amid a Breeze
Due to its proximity to the Xinyi Special Planning District, even though Hushan is a modest height (140 meters), Taipei 101 feels almost omnipresent along the trail. With excellent visibility along the way, scenic observation areas and shaded pavilions are not uncommon. The stretch from Tiger Mountain Peak to Fengtian Temple is particularly concentrated with pavilions. Approaching the summit, a green-colored column pavilion with a white roof is first encountered, followed by the mountain summit observation platform. Standing at the platform and referring to the interpretive sign, you can clearly see the steep-sided, one-sided terrain sloping from west to east. The refreshing mountain breeze and open vistas make for a delightful experience.
Proceed forward for the final ascent—this is when you start "conquering the peak." The trail drops sharply down the mountain wall, a descent that feels slightly precarious, requiring careful attention and possibly rope assistance as you climb down. This steep trail offers a small yet exciting challenge among the climb. After descending, a pavilion ahead allows hikers a moment to catch their breath and regain their composure.
Continuing to reach the 120-Meter Overlook brings cool breezes and sweeping vistas of the Xinyi area. Taipei 101’s tall silhouette appears clearly, with Songshan and Nangang in the background and distant peaks such as Wuzishan and Qixingshan. The rare Formosan eagle soars above the skyline. Overlooking this vibrant district of Taipei from the mountain adds a signature feature to this trail.
Relax with Nature and Serenity
Designed to blend diverse natural landscapes and intriguing views, the route showcases a rich variety of plant life. Interpretive signs along the trail allow for easy, self-guided ecological exploration. The initial section of the hiking trail parallels Hushan Creek, whose mountain brook environment nurtures abundant ecological resources. The valley’s moist and shady conditions are optimal for plants like the "nephth-yu" (a type of Arisaema plant) and ferns, with over 70 fern species recorded in Hushan alone.
Originally a natural stream, Hushan Creek had unstable sections from coal mining residue and poor soil conservation, leading to severe erosion. After remediation by the City’s Construction Department, the ecological environment has been restored, ensuring better conservation and stability.
The water-based scenic area is complemented by facilities such as stone bridges, play platforms, pumping stations, and water recreation parks, all designed to harmonize with the topography. Remnants of coal mining residues are preserved as an educational resource for ecological learning. At the trailhead, interpretive signs explain how step-pool designs (zigzag waterfalls) effectively balance ecological protection and soil conservation.
Nighttime Firefly Observation and Family Fun
The trail to Hushan Creek is lined with stone steps and features delicate lattice railings along the stream, matching the serene scenery. Currently, Hushan Creek thrives with rich biodiversity, and from April to May onward, it becomes a place to witness fireflies. In addition to native land-dwelling fireflies like Pyropyga nigricans and P. rubricoxa, the released aquatic P. paralugens larvae have successfully bred through nine generations.
Nighttime firefly tours are a delightful family or group activity right within the city of Taipei. Follow the glowing fireflies searching for mates beneath small lanterns—discover the enchanting Hushan Mountain trail.
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