Qingtiangang Grassland
Popular tourist spot with various hiking trails
Yangmingshan
Yangmingshan
The national park in Taipei's backyard
Yangmingshan National Park (陽明山國家公園) is Taipei’s most popular hiking spot, and also one that is very accessible via the multiple bus routes that crisscross around the park. It’s also home to some lovely hot spring experiences, and is often combined with a trip to Beitou, which is located to the south of the Yangmingshan.
It’s the only national park in Taiwan that has volcanic activity and hot springs, and you’ll be amazed at how much of this you can see in a day or two. It’s well known now as Taipei’s ‘back garden’, with its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Hikes in Yangmingshan
Datunshan Trail
Hike up to a mountaintop lookout with stunning panoramic views
Sulfur Valley Recreation Area
Huge volcanic landscape that makes for a light hike
Mount Shamao (Shamaoshan)
Excellent hike away from the crowds
Qixing Mountain (Qixingshan)
Classic hike in Yangmingshan
Hot springs
Kawayu Spa
Experience a Japanese onsen near Taipei
Lengshuikeng Hot Springs
Lukewarm hot spring in the center of Yangmingshan
How to get there
There are no train routes into Yangmingshan National Park, and most people either take the buses or drive there themselves.
By car
Most starting points to major hiking have a car park. Make sure you bring enough cash, as there will probably be no ATM nearby, or bring an IC card such as an EasyCard to iPass as these are often accepted. For hiking trail starting points that don’t have a car park it may be best to use a car park nearby, then take a local bus.
By bus
You should be able to get to most hiking trails and other attractions via the buses. Some are a short walk from the bus stops, but the bus prices are so cheap and the scenery so amazing on the way, you probably won’t mind.
The main bus terminal in the heart of the park is called ‘MTC Bus Yangmingshan’ or ‘Yangmingshan Bus Terminal’ on bus routes. While some spots can be reached directly from Taipei, if you want to get to the terminal first take a 230 or S9 bus from Beitou(30-40 minutes, NT$15) or the 260 bus from Jiantan Station on the Taipei Metro (40-50 minutes NT$30). Bus stops and routes to each hiking trail and attraction are included on the relevant pages.
On a tour
Those that want a completely hassle-free trip to the park, as well as those who want a professional guide to show you around, should check out the tours on KKday.
Official website: ymsnp.gov.tw