Hu Mountain Trail, Nangang Mountain Range Introduction
Hushan is one of the shallow mountains in the Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest Area, connecting to the Nangang Mountain range on the southeast side of Taipei City. At an altitude of 140 meters, its geological structure is a one-sided mountain terrain of marine layers, with a high west and a low east, offering a broad view. At the summit, there is a sundial for timekeeping by observing the sun. The trail is made up of interleaved blocks of sandstone and shale. Due to the passage of Hushan Creek, the valley-type ecological environment is also an ideal place for the diverse ecosystem that nurtures fireflies, little green frogs, and ferns. After the reconstruction and reinforcement of the creek banks, the area along Hushan Creek has become the best place to observe wetland ecology, with explanatory signs and route indicators set up along the trail, making it a great spot for hiking and appreciating the ecology. The Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest, rebuilt and named from the Four Beasts Mountain Trail, includes the four suburban mountains: Tiger, Leopard, Lion, and Elephant. The natural environment in the mountainous area is rich in biological and bird species, making it a perfect place for the public to enjoy leisurely outdoor time in the green forest. Hushan Creek's ecological journey has been specially managed by the city’s Industrial Development Bureau, transforming the upstream and downstream areas into a small garden rich in aquatic ecological landscapes. Visitors can enjoy observing fireflies and tree frogs from the trees or streams, enhancing the hiking experience. Hushan 120 High Ground, named for its altitude, serves as a landmark park with a broad view and an old munitions factory. The park is well-kept with lush greenery and gazebos, making it a popular resting and chatting spot for hikers. The Four Beasts Square and the Four Beasts Monument are designed along a segment of the Hushan Mountain Trail, built with environmentally friendly materials. A platform along the way features a resting square and gazebo. The square, with stone-carved pillars representing the four beasts – Tiger, Leopard, Lion, and Elephant – is quite eye-catching. This tranquil and elegant environment is perfect for activities such as leisurely walks and group gatherings. To start your hike in the Citizen Forest, take the MRT and transfer to a bus to "Fude Elementary School." After entering Fude Street, the sign for the mountain trail is just ahead in Lane 251. Turn left up the sloping road according to the signs, and the sights of this tourist destination unfold instantly – snacks, vendors, and coffee stands abound. If you want to grab some snacks on the way, delicious braised snacks and vegetarian treats can also be found beside the Cihui Temple. Thankfully, the prominent letters of “Four Beasts Mountain Citizen Forest” stand tall at the trailhead, ensuring you won't lose your way before entering the forest, even if the mountain trail map beside the vendor steals some of the spotlight. As you follow the gentle slope along the creek, weaving through the green trees, your steps will naturally feel lighter. The sound of the babbling creek accompanies you, washing away the hubbub of worries. When you arrive here, please slow your pace and listen to the rare 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 view opens up even more, with a bird's-eye view of the Taipei Basin, allowing you to see the landscape of Taipei City’s eastern district and the nearby Leopard Mountain. Looking west from here, the Fengtian Temple sits at the tiger head position, with the back mountain ridge undulating like waves, as if the tiger is about to leap. Being high and overlooking the scenery is a delight due to its proximity to the Xinyi Planning Area. Thus, even though Hushan is not very high (only 140 meters above sea level), as you walk along the trail, the 101 Tower seems to be almost "shadowing" you; the views along the way are excellent, with plenty of viewpoints and resting gazebos. The trail from Hushan Peak to Fengtian Temple is abundant in gazebos, with the first being a green column with a white roof. Continuing to the mountaintop lookout platform, you can clearly see the one-sided mountain terrain from the explanatory signs. The mountain breeze blows freely, accompanied by the open scenery which is truly refreshing. Proceed forward to "summit the peak." You will see a steep slope that sharply descends along the mountain wall; looking down can seem a bit "perilous," so caution is advised as you carefully rope down. This sudden drop can be considered a small surprise and challenge on the journey to Hushan. If you're a bit shocked upon reaching the ground, a gazebo ahead offers a place to rest your feet and catch your breath. Continuing onward, you will reach the Hushan 120 High Ground, where a refreshing breeze brings your gaze toward the Xinyi Planning Area, with the 101 Tower standing tall and clear in front, to the right are Songshan and Nangang urban areas, and in the distance, the Wuzhishan and Qixingshan mountains can be seen, along with rare urban eagles soaring in the skies. Overlooking Taipei's most prosperous region from the mountains is a distinctive feature of this trail. The route is rich in diverse scenery, with a variety of plants, and informative signs are placed along the trail for a self-directed ecological journey. The initial segment of the mountain trail is where Hushan Creek flows through, where the valley-type environment nurtures abundant natural resources. The terrain and humidity of the valley are suitable for moisture-loving plants like taro, and it is also the preferred growth environment for ferns, with about 70 species of ferns found in Hushan. Hushan Creek is a pristine natural wild stream; years ago, the accumulation of coal mining slag caused potential collapses, and poor soil and water conservation led to increasing erosion and siltation. After management by the city's construction bureau, it has restored its original ecology, with improved soil and water conservation. To take advantage of the terrain, the waterfront scenic area has been developed with stone bridges, water play platforms, water pumps, and water-friendly parks. At the same time, remnants of coal mining slag have been preserved as an exemplary model for ecological education. Near the entrance, explanatory signs illustrate how trapezoidal waterfall techniques can achieve both ecological conservation and soil and water preservation benefits. Along the Hushan Creek Trail, stone steps are laid down, with intricately carved railings by the creek, complementing the stream's beauty. Now, Hushan Creek’s waters and forests are full of vitality, and from April to May, it is even possible to observe fireflies. In addition to the indigenous land fireflies (black-winged fireflies and red-breasted black-winged fireflies), the released aquatic yellow-edged firefly larvae have successfully bred to their ninth generation. Enjoying an evening of firefly watching is filled with fun for families or friends, and it doesn't require a trip out of town – just follow the small lanterns to find the charming fireflies hidden within the urban area of Taipei – the enchanting Hushan Citizen Trail.
