Taipei’s Hidden Summer Retreat: The “Shibawaxian Trail” Features Terraced Fields and Views of Shamao Mountain

▲Surrounding Attractions Map. (Photo / Provided by Taipei City Department of Urban Development)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

During the scorching summer months, Taipei City offers a lesser-known but excellent retreat from the heat — the “Shibawaxian Trail” in Quanyuan, Beitou District. This tranquil area boasts abundant water flow, accompanied by the soothing sound of flowing streams along the path. The shaded forest is filled with phytoncides, offering physical and mental relaxation. Visitors can also admire terraced fields and take in panoramic views of the Greater Taipei Basin as well as Shamao Mountain, which resembles an upside-down bell.

The Quanyuan community in Beitou was once known as “Shuitou Huoshui Shiba Fen,” meaning “the perennial flowing water of eighteen portions.” Blessed with an exceptional natural environment, early settlers rented land from the Pingpu indigenous people to farm. They diverted water from the Huangxi Stream to build the “Shibawaxian Irrigation Channel” and the “Shiba Fen Irrigation Channel” to irrigate terraced fields — practices that have continued for over a century.

The Taipei City Government Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Urban Development states that the irrigation channel trail offers a serene environment, ample water flow, and the calming sounds of flowing streams. The shaded woods are rich in phytoncides, promoting relaxation for both body and mind.

▲Walking through the Shibawaxian forested hills, listening to birdsong. (Photo / Provided by Taipei City Department of Urban Development)

The Bureau of Urban Development noted that the Quanyuan community in Beitou lies within the Yangmingshan National Park area, featuring rich and diverse natural ecology. Recently, new viewing platforms named “Mountain Joy” and “Water Joy” were added, and maintenance work on the “Shibawaxian Irrigation Channel” is underway. Stone retaining walls will be built to make the trail safer.

Along the Shibawaxian Trail, visitors can admire terraced fields and take in sweeping views of the Greater Taipei Basin as well as Shamao Mountain, which looks like an upside-down bell. There is also a sweet gum tree viewing platform where visitors can rest.

%Relay text here. (Image / Provided by Taipei City Urban Development Section)