Guanyin Mountain in New Taipei

　　Taipei’s Guanyin Mountain is situated at the border between Wugu and Bali townships in Taipei County, Taiwan, China. Its shape resembles a reclining statue of Guanyin, standing solemnly on the southern bank of the Tamsui River in the Bali area, facing the Tamsui town and the Datun Volcano Group on the northern bank. It is a famous landmark at the mouth of the Tamsui River.

　　Although not high in elevation, Taipei’s Guanyin Mountain connects to 18 smaller peaks, with the highest, Hard Guy Ridge, reaching only 612 meters. The mountain area is crisscrossed with numerous hiking trails, making it one of the most popular hiking destinations in the western suburbs of Taipei. The mountain is home to many notable temples and ancient shrines. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as stream tracing, waterfall viewing, eagle watching, bird spotting, and panoramic views of half of Taipei and the majestic Datun Mountain Range. The mountain paths and valleys are interconnected, offering a variety of hiking routes with different levels of difficulty. Hikers can choose trails that suit their physical abilities. One of the most popular routes starts from the Guanyin Mountain bus stop in Wugu, ascending via stone steps to Lingyun Zen Temple. From there, hikers can proceed through the archway behind the temple and climb for about an hour to reach Hard Guy Ridge. The view from the top is expansive — the urban landscape of Taipei, from Xinguang Building northward, unfolds before your eyes, while the Datun Mountain Range across the river and the stunning mountain-sea vista at the Tamsui River estuary create a truly magnificent scene.