Hi hiking friends,
Mt. Qixing is a popular trail at Yangmingshan in Taipei, and almost everyone will do it at least once. If you have only one day to hike in Taipei, I recommend Mt. Qixing.
(I took this photo from Mt. Datun.)
In this post, you will see different routes to do it and some secret spots even unknown to local Taiwanese.
3 trailheads to do Mt. Qixing: Lengshuikeng, Xiaoyoukeng and Miaopu
Secret spots: the South and North Peak, Mt. Ketagalan, and Dinosaurs Kissing Rocks
Different routes to enjoy Mt. Qixing
(View of Mt. Qixing East Peak from the main peak)
Although I've been to Mt. Qixing several times, I still can find something new on the trail. For example, I still have to find Mt. Qixing North Peak and the second mountain god shrine,
(There's another mountain god shrine in the woods.)
see the clouds and Mt. Guanyin from Mt. Qixing Main Peak,
(A scarce moment without many people around)
and last but not least, try to get a full photo of Mt. Qixing Main Peak without people. This one might be the most challenging unless I go there when it's raining.
(This is normal at Mt. Qixing on the weekends.)
I've tried all the trailheads to Mt. Qixing, but my favorite one is from Xiaoyoukeng. It's less steep from Xiaoyoukeng, and I can also enjoy the phenomenal views of Xiaoyoukeng.
(My favorite trailhead to start the hike)
There are some benefits to starting from Miaopu. First, most of the trail is covered with tree shade before reaching the peak. So, it's much cooler to hike from Miaopu in the summer.
(From Miaopu trailhead)
Also, expect sore thighs after doing Mt. Qixing. Most of the trails are stone steps, and they can be slippery.
(Lengshuikeng trailhead: enjoy the steps)
If you start from Xiaoyoukeng, you can finish your hike at Lengshuikeng. There are some public hot spring pools, and you can soak your feet in there. Plus, the bus, S15, will take you to MRT stations without transferring via bus 108 and then another one.
(Lengshuikeng hot spring)
I hope you enjoy Mt. Qixing as much as I do. Please click here to check out more details about Mt. Qixing. Talk to you later.
Anusha