“Taiwan’s Mt. Fuji” is added to your New Year challenge — hike up Miaoli’s Jiali Mountain to witness breathtaking sea of clouds

▲ “Jiali Mountain,” known as “Taiwan’s Mt. Fuji” (Photo / netizen)mark_02_27Provided; please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Located in Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County, “Jiali Mountain” is known as “Taiwan’s Mt. Fuji” due to its resemblance to the famous Japanese peak. Standing at 2,220 meters, it is the highest mountain in Miaoli County and is classified as a moderately difficult climb, being one of Taiwan’s Little Hundred Peaks. Climbing Taiwan’s version of Mt. Fuji isn’t too tough for seasoned hikers, but it requires strong willpower for those who exercise less frequently. Though the trail is only 3.2 km long, the round trip takes about six hours.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to a sweeping view of the surrounding landscape — layers of undulating mountains full of texture, enhanced by the dreamy scenery of drifting clouds, like an ethereal ink painting, making the climb feel absolutely worth it.

▲ The sea of clouds swirling over “Jiali Mountain” (Photo / netizen)yu_jin_chenProvided; please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

The mountain area is rich in flora and fauna. As you walk along the wooden boardwalk, you’ll pass several wooden bridges and encounter diverse scenery along the way. Towering stands of Taiwan red cypress immerse you in a forest bath filled with negative ions, offering an intimate encounter with nature. Along the path, you’ll also find unique sights such as the “water pipeline” and remnants of the old “tram railway.”

There are nine rescue posts along the way, and even some small cabins where you can rest. Some sections have rough terrain and require extra caution. Notably, after the second half of the trail past Fengmei Stream, you’ll face continuous uphill sections that require both hands and feet, using ropes to climb — this is the most thrilling and physically demanding part of the journey.

▲ % of the thrilling moments on the way up, where adventurers grip ropes to ascend (Photo / netizen)outdoor_cafeProvided; the following photo / netizentiya921Provided; please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.