Hikes and Viewpoints in Jiufen and Pingxi
Part of the Jiufen and Pingxi travel guide — see every topic in All Jiufen and Pingxi Guides.
Most visitors only see Jiufen from its crowded old street. Yet the hills around it hold some of the best short hikes near Taipei. Mt Keelung rises right behind the town and gives a clear view over the coast. Teapot Mountain, above the old mining village of Jinguashi, has a rocky top with views of the sea. Near Pingxi station, a group of sharp rock peaks is climbed with steel ladders and chains. All of these can fit into a day trip, if the weather is clear.
Mt Keelung
Mt Keelung is the green, cone-shaped peak right next to Jiufen. It is 588 metres high. A paved trail of steps climbs to the top from near the main Jiufen bus stop. Most people reach the summit in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on fitness. The trail is steep but not technical. From the top you can see Jiufen below, the coast, Keelung Harbour and the small Keelung Islet out at sea. There is little shade on the upper part, so bring water and a hat. On a clear evening the views at sunset are very good, but carry a torch for the walk down.
Teapot Mountain
Teapot Mountain rises above Jinguashi, the next village after Jiufen. From some angles, its rocky top looks like a teapot without a handle. The trail starts near the Gold Museum area and climbs on stone steps and paths. Near the top, the final section is a steep scramble on rock, and some people stop below it. The view from the top looks down to the coast and the Yin Yang Sea. Allow about two hours for the return hike. The trail is exposed to sun and wind. Do not attempt the top section when the rock is wet or when strong winds are blowing.
The Pingxi crags
Behind Pingxi village, a group of sharp rock peaks rises above the forest. The best known are Xiaozi Shan, Cishan and Putuo Shan. Short but very steep trails climb them, using steel ladders, rope and chains bolted into the rock. The tops are narrow, with big drops on each side, and the views over the valley are excellent. These hikes are not suitable for people who fear heights, or in rain. Some trails have closed for repairs in the past. Check local notices or ask at the station before you start, and turn back if you are unsure about any section.
Jiufen viewpoints
You do not need to hike for a good view. Jiufen is built on a steep slope facing the sea, and many lanes give open views. The Shuqi Road stairway, which crosses the old street, is the famous spot for photos of the red lanterns at dusk. Higher up, quiet lanes above the old street look over rooftops to the bay and Keelung Islet. Several teahouses have terraces with sea views. Arrive in the late afternoon, find a spot, and wait for the lanterns to come on. On clear days, sunset light falls across the coast.
Trail safety
The weather in this area changes quickly. Low cloud can cover the peaks in minutes, and rain makes rock and stone steps slippery. Start hikes early in the day and finish before dark. Wear shoes with good grip, and carry water, a rain jacket and a charged phone. Tell someone your plan if you hike alone. On ladders and chains, keep three points of contact and go one person at a time. Typhoon season runs roughly from summer to autumn; after a storm, trails may be damaged or closed. Follow posted signs and never cross barriers.
Hikes and Viewpoints at a glance
| Getting there | Mt Keelung and Teapot from Jiufen or Jinguashi; crags from Pingxi station |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daylight only; finish before dark |
| Cost | Free |
| Time | Mt Keelung 30–60 min up; Teapot ~2 hours return |
| Best time | Clear, dry days; autumn and early winter mornings |