Elephant Hill: Taipei’s Stairway to the Sky

A short climb with a big reward, Elephant Hill—also known as Xiangshan—is Taipei’s go-to spot for that postcard-perfect view of the city skyline and the iconic Taipei 101. The trail starts with a series of steep stone steps that quickly get your heart pumping, but every pause offers glimpses of the city peeking through the trees. Reaching the top, you’re greeted with a sweeping panorama—Taipei spread out below like a living map, framed by green hills and, on clear days, a blush of sunset over the horizon. Large boulders at the summit make the perfect perch for photos or simply soaking in the view, while the evening brings a magical transformation as the city lights flicker to life. The hike is short but can be intense, so bring water and wear comfortable shoes. Whether you go for sunrise’s golden calm or night’s glittering spectacle, Elephant Hill is proof that sometimes the best views are just a few hundred steps away.