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Situated along Yangmingshan National Park’s (陽明山國家公園) farming communities is the agricultural paths of the Special Road Landscape Area (道路特別景觀區) of northern Taiwan. Out of five named mountains, Mount Hu (湖山) is the most prominent at 368 meters (1,207 ft).
The Special Road Landscape Area lies in the southern belt of Yangmingshan National Park in the Beitou District (北投區) of Taipei City (臺北市), consisting of a scattered mass of farmland hills. The paths of this bucolic zone are not only farmland walkways, but some are ancient roads that local farmers traversed to trade their produce.
Neighboring the Special Road Landscape Area, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, grassy meadows, historic sites, and post-volcanic relics in the form of fumaroles and hot springs. You’ll also find some of these natural wonders in designated farming area, such as Manger and Beitou hot springs.
Yangmingshan National Park and the smaller Special Road Landscape Area are most known for the Datun Volcano Group (大屯火山群), a strip of volcanoes that erupted over thousands of years,. Thus, geothermal activity is still ever present in the area. Besides Xinbeitou Shan (新北投山), two of the five named peaks, Direkou (地熱口) and Wen Quan Lou Tou (溫泉露頭), are volcanoes.
Other notable features surrounding the Special Road Landscape Area are Qixingshan’s smoky fumarole, Xiaoyoukeng (小油坑), in the northeast, Qingtiangang’s (擎天崗) plains to the east, Datunshan (大屯山) in the north, Taipei City basin in the south, and Tamsui River (淡水河) in the west.
The Special Road Landscape Area’s hills belong to the Datun Volcano Group, a collective of 20 peaks that exploded between 200,000 to 1 million years ago. Mount Hu, and the three other hills comprise an intermingling of sedimentary and igneous rock of the Pleistocene epoch.
The surrounding farming communities grow potatoes, calla lilies, and cherry blossoms, while Qingtianang’s cattle fields border the Special Road Landscape Area. Along the trails, you’ll also find dense groves of camphor and acacia broadleaf trees and ground cover plants like ferns and giant taro. Arrow bamboo also dominates the pathways in the western region in the foothills. Flowering plants also thrive in this environment, such as rhododendron, cherry blossoms, and wild peony, that decorate the emerald landscape with showers of color.
In terms of wildlife, you’ll mostly find birds and butterflies along the verdant trails. The most common bird species are the five-colored bird, the red-billed black bulbul, and the crown-feathered thrush, while the swallowtail butterfly glides through the forest.
While the earliest inhabitants of Yangmingshan National Park were the Yuanshan tribe some 2,000 to 3,000 years ago, it was Han Chinese settlers who established farming communities on this land in the 1700s.
They brought their skills to the area with them, such as indigo dying, stone masonry, and charcoal production, together with rice farming and tea plantations. The highly acidic soil nurtured plant growth of agricultural produce, and farmers successfully grew large amounts of crops.
During this time, sulfur mining arose in the Special Road Landscape Area due to the abundance of rich mineral deposits. Although to detract thieves from stealing sulfur, park officials set fire to the area.
These are the best hiking trails and areas to explore in and around the Special Road Landscape Area:
An area of smoky fumaroles and green sulfur hot springs, visit the Sulfur Valley Recreation Area (硫磺谷遊憩區) for a sight of stirring beauty. The ethereal steam hovering above the aquamarine pools with sulfur-streaked stones and swathes of billowing miscanthus set the scene of an enchanting place.
Stroll along the paved pathways and admire the fascinating nature from several observation decks. Although the strong odor permeates the air, so be prepared for that, but don’t let that put you off exploring the picturesque beauty of this trail. While at some rest stops, you’ll find hot spring foot baths, which are a wonderful way to relax in the quiet of nature.
One of the best spots to view cherry blossoms in Taipei is at Taipo Farm (大埔農場) in Yangmingshan National Park. You’ll enter the grounds of this private residence for a fee, but you’ll be rewarded with pink showers of sakura blossoming along the meandering trails against a stunning backdrop of Datunshan and Xiao Guanyinshan (小觀音山).
For the best cherry blossom viewing experience, visit between late winter and early spring. The farmer hangs multicolored Japanese lanterns along the cherry blossom trails, adding charm to the scenic paths. During autumn and winter months, camellia flowers bloom, so you can still appreciate the floral farm outside of spring.
Unwind and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of Beitou, located southwest of Xinbeitou Shan. Nestled amidst verdant hills and surrounded by scenic views, Beitou Hot Springs (北投温泉) is the ultimate destination for relaxation and tranquility. Indulge in a soothing soak in the warm sulfuric waters, known for their healing properties, and let the stresses of daily life melt away.
With a range of hot spring options, from private baths to public pool facilities, there's something for everyone in Beitou. Once you feel refreshed after your steaming bath, you can explore the area’s old Japanese history at the Beitou Hot Springs Museum.
Situated in Shamao Shan’s southwest saddle is Tianmu Ancient Road (天母古道親山步道), a road developed by the Japanese to supply water to Tianmu residents from Yangmingshan National Park’s springs. You’ll notice large pipelines lining the sides of the stone step path along the 2.6 km (1.6 mi) route.
Enveloped by a thriving primitive forest, the gurgling water sounds carried down the pipes create a calming presence. Due to the area’s special climate of differing temperatures in shaded and sun-facing areas, there’s a rare mix of tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate plants, which is fascinating and abundant.
One of the trail’s highlights is Tianmu Golden Waterfall (翠峰瀑布), named after the crimson-coated sulfur rocks from the water’s mineral content. A two-tiered cascade, the upper waterfall features a long silver ribbon falling between emerald growth flowing towards the lower milky falls with a short and wide drop. The melodic gushing of water with the shaded greenery and cool, damp environment sets the scene for a moment of stillness with nature.
Bathe in thermal waters at the opposite end of the Special Road Landscape Area at Manger Hot Springs (馬槽温泉). Feel the tension melt away as you lower your body in the 140 to 194°F (60 to 90°C) bubbling liquid with a sulfate ion concentration of 350ppm. You’ll not only feel rejuvenated, but the mineral contents also improve blood circulation.
Once you’ve finished bathing, extend your relaxation with a tranquil walk to Qingtainang’s grasslands, where you’ll observe grazing cattle on these old farmlands. A simple and easy stroll, enjoy Qingtiangang’s rolling fields of meadows and the nearby grassy peaks that surround you in this remote region of Taipei.
Experience a challenging yet rewarding climb up the peak of Shamao Shan (纱帽山), offering breathtaking panoramic views from its summit. As you make your way up the 2.2 km (1.3 mi) path, you'll ascend a dense forest of mountain cherry, cedar, and sweetgum.
During the Japanese Occupation Era, afforestation efforts were carried out on Shamao Shan, Qixingshan (七星山), and Datunshan, resulting in a thriving forest that provides a welcome respite from the summer heat.
You’ll also encounter a circular stone tablet and two columns that remain of the Prince Pavilion. Constructed for Prince Hirohito's visit to Yangmingshan National Park, the pavilion was meant to showcase the park's beauty, but he skipped it to head straight to Beitou after visiting Grass Mountain House.
At the summit, you'll find colossal andesite rocks and stunning views of Qixingshan, Datunshan, Miantian Shan (面天山), Xiaoguanyin Shan, and Zhuzi Shan (竹子山). You'll also be able to spot the Yangmingshan Visitor Centre at the park's entrance and the glittering Zhuzi Lake.
Two destinations to stay when visiting the Special Road Landscape Area are Taipei and Keelung City (基隆市). Both cities have something to offer for everyone. While Taipei is a mega metropolis boasting world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and cultural landmarks, Keelung City is a charming coastal town known for its seafood, temples, and stunning ocean views.
Taiwan’s vibrant capital is a bustling metropolis and a hub of culture, cuisine, and innovation. Beyond the city limits, nature lovers can take a short trip to the beautiful nature reserves, national parks, and scenic areas. With so much to see and do, Taipei City is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
One of Taipei’s grandest buildings and the island’s oldest museum is somewhere you have to visit. The National Taiwan Museum (台灣博物館) was established in 1908, initially to showcase Taiwan’s railway system but has since expanded its collection to include fascinating exhibits on the geology, ecology, botany, and anthropology of the island. Make sure to allocate some time to explore the various displays and gain a deeper appreciation of Taiwan's rich cultural heritage.
If you're looking for a vibrant and trendy neighborhood to explore while visiting Taipei, head to Ximending (西門町). This lively area is a feast for the senses, with neon lights and dazzling billboards illuminating the streets. Often referred to as the "Harajuku of Taiwan," Ximending boasts a lively and effervescent atmosphere where creativity and eccentricity thrive. Whether you're in the mood for shopping, people-watching, or simply immersing yourself in the buzzing energy of the city, Ximending is a must-visit destination.
Then, prepare to be amazed by the majestic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (國立中正紀念堂). This stunning white marble octagonal structure stands at an impressive 76 meters (249 ft) tall and serves as a commemorative tribute to Taiwan's former president. As you approach the monument, you'll be greeted by an imposing 5-arched gate, and the surrounding 250,000 sq meter (2,690,977 sq ft) park is home to impeccably manicured gardens that add grandeur to the landmark.
Nestled on the northeast coast of Taiwan, Keelung City is a bustling port town that offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history, culture, and culinary delights. With a population of over 370,000, Keelung is a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling night markets, seafood delicacies, and iconic landmarks.
First on the menu is a must-visit destination in Keelung, the scenic Zhongzheng Park (中正公園) on the coast. Perched on a hillside, the park offers unparalleled views of the port city. Head up to the fourth floor of Zhuptan Temple for stunning panoramic vistas of Keelung's harbor, the picturesque Keelung Islet (基隆島), and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Additionally, you can marvel at the largest statue of Guanyin in Southeast Asia, measuring 25 meters (82 ft), located within the park's grounds.
Next, for those seeking adventure, embark on a day tour to Keelung Islet. Spend a day hiking on this volcanic island, surrounded by an abundance of native plants. Take in the breathtaking scenery and catch sight of whales and dolphins from the island's beaches.
Finally, to experience the culinary delights of Taiwan, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Miaokou Keelung Night Market (基隆廟口夜市), renowned for its mouth-watering seafood dishes. Indulge in a variety of delectable dishes, including Shenji Paopao shaved ice, Keelung crab soup, grilled squid, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea. A trip to Miaokou Keelung Night Market is a must-try for foodies visiting Keelung.
Start your journey at Taipei Main Station, and take the red MRT line to Xinbeitou MRT Station. From there, you can take a taxi for an 8 minute drive to the Special Road Landscape Area.
Alternatively, you can catch the 260 shuttle bus or the R5 bus from Jiantan MRT Station to Yangmingshan National Park. Then, take the Yangmingshan 108 bus to Yangmingshan Visitor Centre, where you’ll walk to the Special Road Landscape Area.
Explore Special Road Landscape Area with the PeakVisor 3D Map and identify its summits.
