Taipei, Taiwan - Qingtiangang

On the outskirts of bustling Taipei lies a serene escape into nature: the Qingtiangang Grassland, located within Yangmingshan National Park. This picturesque spot is not only a popular weekend getaway and dating destination for locals but also one of the most therapeutic hiking trails for travelers. Perched at an altitude of about 770 meters, Qingtiangang offers sweeping grassland views, grazing cattle 🐃, misty mountain scenery, and distinct seasonal landscapes, painting a tranquil and poetic picture of northern Taiwan's wilderness.

🔸 Natural Grasslands with Grazing Cattle
Qingtiangang was originally formed by volcanic activity, creating a lava plateau that, over time, transformed into the highland grasslands we see today through natural weathering and human cultivation. During the Japanese colonial period, it was designated as a grazing area, with grass planted for cattle. Today, visitors are often delighted by the sight of black or water buffalo leisurely roaming and grazing on the lush green fields, undisturbed by the crowds. These cattle have become an integral part of Qingtiangang's charm, adding a pastoral and idyllic vibe to the landscape.

🔸 Family-Friendly Trails for All Ages 🌳
The trails at Qingtiangang are designed to be accessible for everyone. Starting from the visitor center, you can take the circular wooden boardwalk, which is about 1.8 kilometers long and takes approximately 40 minutes to complete. The path is flat and easy to navigate, making it ideal for families, seniors, and beginners. Along the way, there are several viewing platforms and informational signs, allowing visitors to learn about volcanic terrain, native plants, and local ecology as they walk.
For those seeking more adventurous routes, Qingtiangang connects to trails like Lengshuikeng, Yulu Ancient Trail, or the main and west peaks of Datun Mountain for medium to long-distance hikes. While some of these routes involve uphill climbs, the stunning scenery along the way—such as rolling clouds and overlapping mountain ridges—makes the effort worthwhile. In spring, the grasslands turn vibrant green with blooming wildflowers, while autumn and winter bring golden swaying silvergrass, offering unique beauty in every season.

🔸 Misty Landscapes Like a Fairyland ☁️
Qingtiangang's weather is highly variable, especially in the afternoons when mist often rises from the valleys, quickly enveloping the grasslands. This ethereal scene makes visitors feel as though they've stepped into a dreamlike fairyland. As a result, Qingtiangang has become a favorite spot for photographers, particularly during sunrise or sunset when light filters through the clouds, casting a magical glow over the slopes and grazing cattle.

🔸 A Blend of Ecology and History
Beyond its natural beauty, Qingtiangang is rich in cultural and historical significance. The Yulu Ancient Trail, once a vital route for fishermen and porters transporting goods into the Taipei Basin, is now a popular historical hiking path. Along the trail, you'll find remnants like original stone-paved roads, ancient wells, and pavilions, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's early transportation and trade history.
The surrounding grasslands are home to diverse ecosystems, including various insects, butterflies, wild birds, and native plants, each showcasing different characteristics across the seasons. As part of a national park, visitors are reminded to follow regulations, such as refraining from feeding the cattle, crossing fences, or picking plants, to help preserve this precious natural treasure.

🔸 Convenient Access
Getting to Qingtiangang from Taipei City is quite easy. From MRT Jiantan or Shilin Station, take a bus to Yangmingshan Terminal, then transfer to the 108 shuttle bus and alight at Qingtiangang Station. On weekends, it’s best to start early or avoid peak hours to minimize waiting times. Alternatively, you can drive, but be mindful of the winding mountain roads and limited parking spaces.

🌟 Tips:
Be sure to bring sun protection and avoid visiting during midday in summer.

⏰ Hours: Open 24 hours
🎫 Admission: Free
📍 Address: Jingshan Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
🚃 Transportation: Take the MRT to Jiantan Station (Red Line) and transfer to Bus S15 to the final stop.