10 Nature & Parks in Neihu That You Shouldn't Miss

The 1,327-meter Bihu Hiking Trail connects Alley 12, Lane 60, Sec. 3 of Neihu Rd. and Lane 131 of Dahu St. It is inhabited by various species of fauna and flora, such as the Taiwan Blue Magpie, Crested Serpent Eagle, Pallas’s squirrel and the Indian Cabbage White butterfly. The favorable weather, water and soil conditions also enable Taiwan Acacia, Large-leaved Nanmu, ferns and shade-tolerant native plants to thrive in Bihu, which was once a coal-mining boom town under the jurisdiction of the Taiwan Provincial Government. To illustrate the progress of regional history and culture, a nostalgically simulated Xinfuben Mine, complete with a mine tunnel, rails and cinder-loaded mining cart was launched (at 1k+000) on the footpath. Bihu Hiking Trail is perfect for weekend recreation as it lies close to Mt. Zhongyong, Mt. Liyu, the Yuanjue Temple Hiking Trail, Yuanjue Waterfall, Dahu Park, and other attractions popular with hikers. With street lighting available along the length, Bihu Hiking Trail is perfect for taking in Taipei’s beautiful nightscape.

The three most popular mountains in Neihu are: Zhongyong Mountain, Liyu Mountain and Yuanjuejian Mountain; they are also known as the “Three Mountains of Neihu”. Their altitudes are 325, 223 and 290 meters, respectively. Zhongyong Mountain is the largest ridge of Wuzhi Mountain, and is a typical pointed-shape mountain. Liyu Mountain is high at one end and low on the end, making it shaped like a carp. Yuanjuejian Mountain is smaller, and derives its name from the Yuanjue Temple at its hillside. Zhongyong Mountain & Liyu Mountain Trail The Zhongyong Mountain and Liyu Mountain Trail begin at the Dahu Villa Stop in Neihu. Along the trail are several famous temples. There is also the elegant Yuanjue Waterfall. At a high altitude, you will have an unobstructed and magnificent view of Taipei City. The trail is accompanied by the serene flow of Dagou Creek, and the wood-made path serves as a complement to the river and forest. As one traverses further down the trail, the forest becomes denser; flowers and the singing of colorful birds create an aura of excitement. At the end of the trail is Jinlong Temple, and with the “escort” of the Eighteen Arhats, this wonderful journey will soon end. Zhongyong Mountain There is a bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek at the peak of the mountain. Starting from Jinlong Temple, the trail is rocky and steep, similar to a Hero Slope. The journey will require more stamina and is more challenging. Liyu Mountain Liyu Mountain is located at the south-eastern side of Zhongyong Mountain and the two mountains are connected. Its name is derived from its head-high and tail-low shape, which resembles a carp. Some people also called it the Xiaokengjian Mountain. Viewed from the sides of the mountain, one can see the steep cliffs and dense forest gradually extending toward the bottom, which is a marvelous sight indeed that promises to lift your spirit right away.