Ergeshan Range - Xianjiyan Hiking Trail Introduction
Xianjiyan, located in the Jingmei area and also known as Xizikou Mountain, offers excellent scenic views. According to legend, Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals, left his footprints here, which has made Xianjiyan famous and attracts curious visitors hoping to witness divine signs. It is also a prime location for local residents to engage in hiking activities. Like Qixing Mountain, Xianjiyan boasts a first-order satellite control point. Starting from the archway at Lane 243, Jingxing Road, visitors must ascend 78 steps of the Longevity Ladder and then climb 100 steps of the Ascending Fairy Slope, leading to a lush green trail. Along the way, the diverse greenery and the large rock at the summit, along with the health trail and Xianyan Temple, offer stunning views of the Taipei Basin's streets, creating a tranquil and pleasant atmosphere. Although Xianjiyan has an altitude of just 144 meters, it offers an expansive view. Its proximity to transportation makes it accessible, and there are triangulation points for topographic mapping nearby, including a second-order triangulation point benchmark. Xianjiyan is a welcoming "back garden" for local residents, making it perfect for family hikes. While the initial climb of the 78 steps of the Longevity Ladder requires effort, the cool mountain breeze from the dense forest quickly alleviates fatigue. The trail ahead is flat and easy to walk, with numerous pavilions for resting or enjoying the view along the way. Following the newly installed little bird-shaped indicators allows visitors to stroll leisurely through the entire route. An ecological interpretation board designed by the Housewives' Alliance accompanies visitors, enhancing the journey's educational value. With guidance provided by the map, travelers can explore the local ecology and natural environment, gaining insights into the geology of Xianjiyan and the severity of land reclamation on nearby slopes. This area serves as the best natural ecological outdoor observation classroom, offering fascinating opportunities to appreciate the local flora and fauna across the four seasons. In February, visitors can witness the white blooms of the Datura and the red blossoms of the mountain cherry. The Datura, drooping gracefully, is toxic and classified as a "do not touch" flower, while the mountain cherry blooms in winter and produces delicate leaves and fruit in spring, attracting birds and insects during the transition from winter to spring. After spring, various insects such as the flat-headed borer, weevil, and starry sky beetle become active, while the common Formosan rock lizard can also be seen along the trail. In April and May, the season of "May Snow" brings the beautiful oil tree flowers, where one can easily spot the vibrant Red-shouldered Flamboyant Butterfly among the blossoms. Starting from May, the Bitter Vine flowers bloom in pink, draping trees with a pastel hue, and the golden flowers of the Acacia trees adorn the hills with colors. In June, the white flowers of the wax flower bloom, with fruit-bearing trees such as longan and kauri also dotting the landscape. The wild oil tree flowers attract numerous butterflies, beetles, and other insects, making this an ideal time to observe various insects up close. The area in front of Xianyan Temple features cultivated green hedges, such as Balsam and Hibiscus, which attract many butterflies. The number of butterfly species seen at Xianjiyan often reaches thirty or more, creating a lively scene of fluttering wings. The singing of the multicolored bird and the green see-through eye, along with occasional sightings of white-headed birds, thrushes, and red-headed mountain birds enrich the soundscape of the area. As the breeding season peaks, the red-bellied squirrels hastily search for partners, adding to the natural symphony. In November, when the leaves turn red, Xianjiyan's abundant vitality may retreat for rest, yet the breathtaking views continue to draw crowds. Many say that the best time to visit Xianjiyan is at dusk when the colorful sunset transforms into the glittering night scene of Taipei City. This small mountain by the Jingmei River is truly remarkable—a classic example of "though small, it encompasses all essentials," and it’s no wonder its charm draws countless visitors, especially on weekends.
