Not just hot springs and viewing miscanthus grasslands — A "light one-day trip" proposal for Yangmingshan in late autumn

▲Take a light trip to Yangmingshan in autumn and winter. (Photo / netizenyuki.lin.18provided, please do not reproduce without permission.)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

As the weather gradually turns cooler and the season shifts into late autumn, it’s the perfect time to head up the mountain to admire the silvergrass blooms and soak in hot springs. Take advantage of the crisp autumn air and plan a one-day light trip to Yangmingshan. In addition to hiking, there are many attractions within the park worth visiting. 《ETtoday News Cloud》 has compiled a list of 8 spots on Yangmingshan that offer relaxation and enjoyment from day to night.

Dream Lake

Located at the southeastern foot of Qixing Mountain, Dream Lake is often dry in autumn and winter due to little rainfall, while it fills up during the rainy seasons of spring and summer. After heavy rain, the lake overflows, presenting different natural scenes throughout the year. When shrouded in mountain mist, the lake, mountains, and clouds create a dreamy, fairy-tale-like landscape.

▲Dream Lake takes on a different charm in both sunny and rainy weather. (Photo / netizenhxl.asamprovided, please do not reproduce without permission.)

Yangmingshan Black Forest

Dense with tall, straight cedar trees, sunlight filters through the gaps to create richly layered shadows. Photos taken here are incredibly aesthetic, and the tranquility of the Black Forest is enhanced by a large heart-shaped art installation, making the romantic scene burst with youthful charm and adding a touch of sweetness to this hidden gem.

▲The Black Forest features fantastical art installations. (Photo / netizenmisoyoyoprovided, please do not reproduce without permission.)

Yangmingshan Sweetgum Forest Area

Within the sweetgum forest area of Yangmingshan Park, century-old sweetgum trees line both sides of the trail, forming a grand tunnel of maple trees. Here, you can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage that complements the surrounding silvergrass, and even the bare branches and yellow leaves can capture the unique desolate atmosphere of autumn and winter. It’s one of the most popular maple-viewing spots in northern Taiwan.

▲Autumn is the perfect time to go maple viewing in the mountains. (Photo / from the Taipei City Parks website)

Qianshan Park

In a bustling urban environment filled with traffic and fast-paced life, a park that helps relax the mind and senses is especially valuable. Qianshan Park in Yangmingshan offers just that, with its expansive lake, small bridges over flowing water, abundant greenery, and even sulfur hot spring pools for soaking your feet—making it an ideal spot to visit in autumn and winter.

▲Qianshan Park offers free sulfur hot springs. (Photo / provided by the Taipei City Government Public Works Bureau, Parks and Street Lights Engineering Office)

Flower Trial Center

The “Flower Trial Center,” which grows different flowers throughout the seasons, boasts vast grounds. Walking along its paths, you’ll find tree-lined tunnels, golden maple leaves and pink camellias that form a romantic floral carpet in late autumn. Whether you’re here for a hot spring or a hike in autumn or winter, it’s worth a visit.

▲The Flower Trial Center features various flowers. (Photo / provided by netizen yijuliao, please do not reproduce without permission. Below photo / provided by Taipei City Government)

Caoshan Yuxi

Hidden on Yangmingshan is an artistic space full of literary charm, “Caoshan Yuxi.” Its unique architectural design is eye-catching, featuring a spacious garden and a broad, serene, and elegant atmosphere. It’s not only great for overlooking the cityscape from the mountainside but also a perfect spot to unwind.

▲Yangmingshan’s Caoshan Yuxi. (Photo / IG@lin.d.c_provided, please do not reproduce without permission.)

▲A hidden gem nestled in the mountains. (Photo / IG@hallo_alyssaprovided, please do not reproduce without permission.)

VVG Hideaway

Located on Jingshan Road, VVG Hideaway’s pure white building perfectly complements the lush forest. The interior preserves the glasshouse design of the former Secret Garden, with a color scheme that matches the exterior—mostly white—to create a relaxing and comfortable vibe.

▲The dreamy white VVG Hideaway. (Photo / reference image)

The Top on the Roof

“The Top on the Roof” is located in the back of Yangmingshan. With its prime location and terraced design, it offers stunning night views of greater Taipei. The ambiance is delightful, and the restaurant’s architecture follows a European-style cottage design. It’s a great place for both day and night experiences.

▲The Top on the Roof is a famous night view restaurant on Yangmingshan. (Photo / provided by Xiao Hu’s Dream Food Net)