Top 5 Hidden Gems in Beitou Hushan: Embark on a Relaxing Mountain Getaway

▲ The Sunset Platform offers a breathtaking view of the valley bathed in the afterglow of the setting sun. (Photo / Courtesy ofTaipei City Government Department of Urban Development, the same below)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? This poetic autumn is the perfect time to experience a relaxing mountain light trip.The Taipei City Government’s Department of Urban Development provides a half-day itinerary for visitors to explore the Beitou Hushan community, discover serene old houses, and enjoy the moving sight of the sunset sinking behind the mountains.

Chen Jianfan, head of the Slope Land Management Section at the department, pointed out that the Hushan community completed facilities such as the “40 Artillery Site” and the “Sunset Platform” by the end of 2015. These were built on the foundation of slope safety while providing additional leisure and recreational functions, creating a friendly space for connecting with nature. Visitors are welcome to bring their families into the mountains and experience these hidden, stunning spots in the nearby hills.

Five Hidden Gems

1. 40 Artillery Site
As one of the hidden gems in the Hushan community, this site is built on a foundation ensuring slope safety. Aside from viewing the historically significant 40 Artillery, visitors can also see a 3D replica of the artillery bed—this place is rich in historical and cultural significance.

▲ Entrance to the 40 Artillery Site.

2. Soapberry Ancient Tree Platform
Huang Liyuan, head of the Department of Urban Development, noted that the Soapberry Ancient Tree Platform in the Hushan community is a popular spot for locals to gather and chat after meals, and also a great resting place for tourists. Adjacent to the platform is a soapberry tree with a history of over 300 years.

▲ Soapberry Ancient Tree Platform.

3. Sunset Platform
From the Sunset Platform, you can clearly gaze at the continuous mountain ranges of Datun and the surrounding settlements. On the left, you can also admire the view of Guanyin Mountain. In the evening, the setting sun paints the entire valley, like blushing cheeks on a maiden’s face, making you want to get closer.

▲ Sunset Platform.

4. Wind-Rocking Stone Platform
The “Wind-Rocking Stone” is a famous feature of the Jianmao Gorge. Due to local topography and climate, during spring and winter seasons when clouds and mist are common, strong northeastern monsoon winds blow through, producing sounds like “whoosh whoosh” and “rumble rumble.” In the past, there was a rest platform here, and at the entrance was a large rock. Legend says, “The wind blows, and the stone moves,” giving rise to the name “Wind-Rocking Stone.”

▲ Wind-Rocking Stone Platform.

5. Hudi Settlement Trail
The recently completed “Hudi Settlement Trail” showcases the footprints of native animals along the path, which is paved with ceramic tiles. Not only is it fun, but it also connects various spots including the Soapberry Ancient Tree Storytelling Platform, the century-old Xu Family Ancestral House, and an old pigsty, eventually leading to the Beitou Hushan Elementary School trail. If visitors get tired, they can even take a break in the campus foot-soaking pool (open only on holidays).

▲ Hudi Settlement Trail.

▲ Various animal footprint stone carvings on the “Hudi Settlement Trail.”

▲ Foot-soaking pool at Beitou Hushan Elementary School.

Lee Chiu-hsia, the head of Hushan Li in Beitou District, said that after experiencing the settlement scenery, visitors can go to nearby hot spring spots to relax and relieve fatigue. Additionally, to avoid parking issues,those planning to visit the Hushan community are advised to take the MRT to Xinbeitou Station, then transfer to bus Xiaoline 25 to Wucuo Station; or take the MRT to Shihpai Station and transfer to bus 535 to Wucuo Station.

▲ Hudi Settlement Trail – Ceramic sculpture of a century-old pigsty.