Dazzling fireworks light up the night sky — 22 vantage points to capture the Taipei 101 New Year’s Eve fireworks show

▲ The Elephant Mountain Viewing Platform offers an easy and breathtaking view of Taipei’s night scenery, with Taipei 101 appearing so close it feels within reach. (Photo provided by Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems)

Reported by Cai Wenjun / Comprehensive Coverage

Just two days left before 2014 comes to a close. Taipei, recently voted by global travelers as one of the “Most Desired Cities to Ring in the New Year,” will once again present its iconic 218-second Taipei 101 fireworks display. The Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems has specially recommended 22 locations where people can enjoy the spectacular night sky fireworks from open, unobstructed spots and welcome the new year with a unique perspective.

The top spots to watch the Taipei 101 fireworks are Elephant Mountain and Tiger Mountain trails. According to the Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems, these locations are right next to Taipei 101, and this year, Elephant Mountain has added three new viewing platforms including a photography deck, bringing the total number of optimal viewing spots along both trails to 14. Visitors can avoid the crowded city center or concerns about being too close to see the full fireworks display — from these elevated vantage points, they can enjoy the beauty of fireworks blooming right before their eyes.

%A panoramic view of the city can be enjoyed from the designated observation areas (Photo provided by Taipei City Department of Rapid Transit Systems)

If you want to kill time while waiting for the fireworks, Maokong in Wenshan District is another great choice. Take the Hello Kitty-themed Maokong Gondola to the mountaintop and sip tea while admiring the night scenery with family and friends. In addition to the three walking paths near Zhushan Temple and Huangjiao Pavilion, the Department of Rapid Transit Systems has added a brand-new hiking trail at the Telescope Pavilion this year. A 30-minute walk from the Maokong Gondola Station through a cherry blossom tree-lined path leads to this elevated spot, offering sweeping views of the beautiful night landscape and the mesmerizing fireworks.

If these spots no longer feel new to you, the three major scenic areas — Yuanshan, Zhinan, and Xianji Rock — along with Jianan Butterfly Garden near the Miramar Ferris Wheel, are all excellent places to take in the full view of the Taipei Basin. They offer varied perspectives to enjoy the fun of ringing in the New Year in the city.

For details on the 22 trails and scenic spots, you can pick up a free “Hiking Trail Route Map” at the Department of Rapid Transit Systems, or visitthe Hiking Trail Theme Websiteto download it.