Nangang Mountain Range - Hushan Trail Introduction
Hushan is one of the shallow mountains within the Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest Area, connecting to the Nangang Mountain Range to form a barrier on the southeastern side of Taipei City. With an elevation of 140 meters, its geology consists of a single-faced mountain terrain from marine strata, sloping higher on the west and lower on the east, offering expansive views. At the summit, there is a sundial for timekeeping, and the trail is made up of interlayered blocks of sandstone and shale. The ecosystem nurtured by Hushan Creek is also an ideal place for diverse flora and fauna, including fireflies, little green frogs, and ferns. After the creek banks were reinforced and improved for soil and water conservation, the area along Hushan Creek became a prime spot for enjoying wetland ecology. Informational signs and route indicators are set up along the trails, making it a great place for hiking and ecological observation. After renovations, the trail through the Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest was renamed the Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest Trail, which includes the four suburban mountains: Tiger, Leopard, Lion, and Elephant. The natural environment in the mountain area is rich in biodiversity and bird species, making it a perfect spot for the public to enjoy leisurely moments in the outdoor green spaces. The Hushan Creek Ecological Journey has been specially renovated by the Bureau of Industry Development, turning the upper and lower reaches of the creek into a rich ecological landscape garden. Visitors can admire various aquatic organisms and plants such as fireflies and tree frogs from the trees or the creek. Hushan 120 Highland, named for its elevation, is a park marked by its vistas and the old arsenal factory. The park is well-landscaped with neat greenery, and pavilions provide shade from the sun and shelter from rain, making it a common stopping point for hikers to enjoy the scenery and chat. Hushan Peak Trail features a section built with eco-friendly materials, with a platform for resting and a pavilion along the way. The square features stone pillars carved in the shapes of the four beasts, making it a striking landmark. This tranquil and elegant environment is suitable for leisurely walks, group activities, and relaxation. To enjoy the Hushan Citizen Forest, take the MRT and transfer to a bus heading to "Fude Elementary School." Walk into Alley 251 on Fude Street, and the signage for the Citizen Forest Trail will be ahead. Turn left into the uphill path where scenic spots with snacks, vendors, and cafes are abundant. If you want to grab a bite on the way, you can also buy delicious braised snacks and vegetarian treats next to the Cihui Temple. Fortunately, the prominent sign for "Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest" stands right at the trailhead, ensuring you won't get lost even with the vendors vying for your attention. As you walk along the gentle slope beside the creek, surrounded by lush trees, you’ll find your steps become lighter. The sound of the babbling creek accompanies you, sweeping away the hustle and bustle of the world. When you reach this spot, please slow down and listen to the valuable sounds of birds and insects in the city. The Hushan Trail is located on the eastern side of Four Beasts Mountain. Upon reaching the Fuxing Garden, the vista opens even more, overlooking the Taipei Basin with views of the Eastern District of Taipei City and the neighboring Leopard Mountain. Looking west from here, the Fengtian Temple is positioned at the tiger's head, with the ridge line behind it undulating like waves, creating a prominent visual representation of a crouching tiger. Despite Hushan's modest height (only 140 meters), it is adjacent to the Xinyi Planning District, making Taipei 101 appear almost as if it’s by your side as you walk the trail, which is well provided with observation spots and resting pavilions. The way from Hushan Peak to the Fengtian Temple trail is dotted with numerous pavilions. As you near the summit of Hushan, you'll first see a green pillar pavilion with a white top, then arrive at the mountain top observation platform. Standing on the platform and referring to the informational signs, you can clearly see the single-faced mountain terrain sloping high on the west and low on the east. The mountain breeze sweeps through, enhancing the open scenery greatly. Moving forward, prepare to "conquer the peak." A steep slope leads sharply down along the mountainside, and looking down can be a bit "dangerous," so take care to slowly climb down the rope. This steep descent can be considered a small surprise and challenge during your journey to Hushan. Once you reach the ground and catch your breath, a pavilion is ahead where you can rest and calm your hurried breathing. Continuing onward, you will reach Hushan 120 High ground, where the refreshing breeze takes your view toward the Xinyi Planning District, with the towering Taipei 101 clearly visible ahead. To the right is Songshan and the Nangang urban area, and in the distance, you can spot the Wuzhishan and Qixingshan mountains, where urban rare eagles soar in the sky. Overlooking Taipei City's most bustling area from the mountains is a key feature of this trail. The path is rich in diverse landscapes and interesting experiences, with a wide variety of plant species. Informational signs are posted along the trail, allowing for an easy self-guided ecological journey. The initial section of the trail runs through the Hushan Creek, where the mountain stream environment nurtures a wealth of natural resources. The valley’s terrain and humidity are suitable for the growth of moisture-loving, shade-tolerant plants such as taro, and it is the ideal growing environment for ferns, with around 70 different species found in Hushan alone. Initially a pristine natural wild creek, Hushan Creek previously faced risks of collapse due to dumped coal mine slag, coupled with poor soil and water conservation, leading to increased erosion and sedimentation. However, improvements made by the city's construction bureau have restored its original ecology, enhancing soil and water retention. The waterside scenic area has been developed with stone bridges, water play platforms, water pumps, and waterside parks, all in response to the terrain. At the same time, remnants of coal mine slag have been preserved as the best example of ecological education. Near the entrance, informational signs explain how trapezoidal waterfall structures can simultaneously facilitate ecological conservation and soil and water retention. Walking along the Hushan Creek Trail, stone steps have been laid, and intricately designed small railings line the creek, beautifully comparable to the picturesque stream scenery. Currently, the waters and forests around Hushan Creek thrive with vibrant life, and during April and May, visitors can even catch sight of fireflies. In addition to native terrestrial fireflies like black-winged fireflies and red-breasted black-winged fireflies, aquatic yellow-edged firefly larvae have successfully bred up to the ninth generation. Family outings or group excursions to observe fireflies at night are filled with pleasure without the need to go far; fireflies looking for partners can be found hiding within the charm of urban Taipei, making the Hushan Citizen Forest Trail an enchanting destination.
