Yangmingshan National Park
Hike volcanic peaks, wander through flower fields, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy panoramic views over Taipei from the city's backyard mountain park.
Why Visit Yangmingshan
Yangmingshan (陽明山) is the only national park in Taiwan located within a major city. Just 30 minutes from downtown Taipei, it is a volcanic landscape of fumaroles, crater lakes, sulfur deposits, and lush forests. The park is famous for its seasonal flowers — cherry blossoms in spring, calla lilies in summer, silver grass in autumn, and plum blossoms in winter. With dozens of hiking trails, hot springs, and picnic spots, it is a year-round nature escape.
Volcanic Landscapes
Yangmingshan is an active volcanic field. Fumaroles, sulfur vents, and hot springs remind visitors that the earth is alive beneath their feet.
Seasonal Flowers
From cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring to silver grass in autumn, the park is a constantly changing canvas of color.
City Views
On clear days, the summit of Mount Qixing offers 360-degree views of Taipei, the Tamsui River, and the distant Pacific Ocean.
How to Get to Yangmingshan
| Method | From | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus 260 | Taipei Main Station to Yangmingshan | ~60 min | ~NT$30 |
| Bus 红5 | Jiantan MRT to Yangmingshan | ~40 min | ~NT$30 |
| Park Shuttle Bus | Yangmingshan main station to attractions | ~10-20 min per stop | ~NT$15 |
| Private Car / Scooter | Direct from Taipei | ~30-40 min | Variable |
Tip: The park shuttle bus (108) connects the main attractions. It is the easiest way to get around once you arrive at the Yangmingshan bus terminal.
Top Things to Do in Yangmingshan
Hike Mount Qixing
The highest peak in the park at 1,120 meters. The main trail is a 4-5 hour round trip with steep sections and rewarding summit views.
Xiaoyoukeng Fumaroles
A dramatic landscape of steaming vents, sulfur crystals, and barren earth. The boardwalk is short and accessible, with a strong sulfur smell.
Qingtiangang Grasslands
A vast alpine meadow where water buffalo graze freely. The gentle loop trail is perfect for families and picnics.
Lengshuikeng Hot Springs
A free, natural hot spring pool in a forest setting. The water is warm rather than hot, making it pleasant even in summer.
Trail & Season Guide
Best Trails by Difficulty
- ✓ Easy: Qingtiangang Grassland Loop (2 km, flat).
- ✓ Moderate: Xiaoyoukeng to Lengshuikeng (3 km, some elevation).
- ✓ Challenging: Mount Qixing Main Peak (5.7 km, steep).
- ✓ Family: Flower Clock to Visitor Center (1 km, paved).
Seasonal Highlights
- ✓ Spring (Feb-Apr): Cherry blossoms, azaleas, and calla lilies.
- ✓ Summer (Jun-Aug): Cool escape from the city heat. Hydrangeas bloom.
- ✓ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Silver grass waves across the mountain slopes.
- ✓ Winter (Dec-Jan): Plum blossoms and misty, atmospheric landscapes.
Yangmingshan Quick Facts
1,120 m
Highest peak (Qixing)
Free
Park entry (no gate)
Spring
Best for flower viewing
Volcanic
Active geothermal field
Nearby Attractions
Beitou Hot Springs
A historic hot spring district with public baths, thermal valleys, and Japanese-era architecture. The perfect post-hike relaxation.
Learn more →Maokong Tea Hills
Ride the glass gondola over tea plantations and enjoy high-mountain oolong in hilltop tea houses with panoramic city views.
Learn more →Tamsui Riverside
A historic port town with colonial forts, a bustling old street, and legendary sunsets over the Taiwan Strait.
Learn more →A Natural Playground in the City
Yangmingshan is unique among the world's national parks for its proximity to a major capital. You can have breakfast in a Taipei cafe, hike a volcanic peak by midday, and soak in a hot spring by evening — all without leaving the city limits. The park's ever-changing seasonal landscapes mean no two visits are alike, and its accessibility makes it a favorite for both first-time visitors and lifelong Taipei residents.
Continue Your Adventure
After a day of hiking, relax in the Beitou hot springs or ride the Maokong Gondola for tea with a view of the mountains you just conquered.