Wuzhishan Mountain Range - Jiantan Mountain Qingshan Trail Introduction
Jiantan Mountain, with an elevation of 153 meters, is located in the Yuanshan Scenic Area in the Shilin District of Taipei City. It is the northern ridge behind the Grand Hotel and is the closest small mountain to the city center of Taipei. Walking leisurely along the ridge trail, one can reach other mountains, making it an easy hike, and it has the advantage of convenient transportation. The trailhead of the Jiantan Mountain Green Trail is located next to the Jiantan bus stop on Section 4 of Zhongshan North Road. This area was once a military restricted zone and security forest, so the natural forest characteristics and ecological plants are well preserved. The trail is lined with various artificially planted vegetation and economic plants, filling the path with vibrant green charm. This trail has become a popular spot for morning exercise among locals. The "Old Place" along the ridge line is a well-known fitness spot. Along the way, visitors can enjoy views of the Grand Hotel and the Keelung River Riverside Park. The trail ends at Alley 165, Tongbei Street in Dazhi, making it an easy-going suburban mountain trail. As night falls, the scenery of Jiantan Mountain becomes even more beautiful. The popularity of the night view along the Jiantan Mountain Green Trail remains consistently high, drawing many visitors to enjoy the vibrant city lights from the viewpoint, where low-flying planes occasionally pass by the starry sky, exciting hikers. Combining the gourmet street food of Shilin Night Market with an evening hike, more people come here for nighttime walks than during the day, which adds to its allure as it becomes more beautiful and lively at night. In the heart of Taipei, climbing is truly not difficult, especially from Jiantan Mountain's entrance. Departing from Jiantan MRT Station, one can easily find the trailhead; for bus riders, the entrance is right next to the Jiantan bus station. Ascending the steps leads directly into the lush mountain forest. Along the way, there are resting areas and pavilions, allowing for leisurely stops, and before long, one can complete their first experience on the trail. Jiantan Mountain is the closest small mountain to the city center, and it will surely not be unfamiliar to you. Whether coming from the Tamsui Line towards Tamsui or entering the Taipei city area from the freeway, the majestic Grand Hotel atop the mountain is visible, nestled among the lush green hills of Jiantan Mountain. Since this area was previously a military restricted zone and security forest, the natural forest landscape has been preserved, creating a dense forest along the path. The trees are free from human interference, showcasing their most beautiful forms, allowing nearby species to thrive. Looking up, you might even spot squirrels jumping between the trees, as well as the vividly colored Taiwan barbet and the small, green oriental white-eye, which are common birds in the area. Although the original forest has changed due to human development after the military restrictions were lifted, the trail still features many artificially planted horticultural and economic plants, maintaining the trail's green charm. Today, Jiantan Mountain has become an important venue for morning exercise among Taipei citizens, with the ridge's "Old Place" being a familiar fitness hub. Various morning sports groups, hiking clubs, and badminton societies line the trail, creating a vibrant scene resembling an urban park nestled in the mountains, almost like a "living room" for the public. Senior citizens use this space as a KTV club, some sing karaoke passionately, while others play mahjong, and of course, chatting and enjoying tea is commonplace. The lively Jiantan Mountain, post-accessibility, has certainly become a bustling place. As you continue forward among the crowd enveloped in song, it is an unforgettable hiking experience. Compared to the continuous sounds of cicadas along the trail, it's hard to tell which team prevails, the East or West? Setting aside such wonders for a moment, don’t forget to look up and admire the beautiful scenery around you. One appealing aspect of climbing Jiantan Mountain is the opportunity to stand atop the mountain and watch planes take off and land. Toward the direction of Shih Chien University, there's a viewpoint known as the "Observation Deck" preferred by hikers, which offers an unobstructed, expansive view that will definitely satisfy you. If you proceed towards the boardwalk near the mountain summit, the scenery becomes even richer. The distinctive design of the Dazhi Bridge and the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper are visually striking focal points. The entire view of Dajia Riverside Park is visible, along with the green spaces created after the Keelung River was straightened, the "Fountain of Hope" that sprays every half hour on the hour, and the first cable-stayed bridge in Taipei, the Dazhi Bridge. Additionally, the command platform for the annual dragon boat races and the surrounding plaza provide a refreshing moment of relaxation as you pause to enjoy the views. Naturally, the Grand Hotel, which is the focus of attention both day and night, is also an unmissable spot for appreciating the scenery. Its nighttime popularity remains consistently high due to its unique appeal. Standing on the hillside, you can gaze out over the city of Taipei, looking left at the riverside park's fountains and green embankments, while on the right, you can vaguely see the shimmering surface of the Keelung River and, even further, Guanyin Mountain. Enjoying the bustling city lights combined with the serene night atmosphere, if a plane happens to fly over the starry sky, that creates an incomparable private viewing experience. Taking a short trip can bring you such stunning and rich scenery; how could you possibly want to stay home?
