The 9 Best Outdoor Activities in Neihu, Taipei

SHAWA CANYONING offers the best canyoning and river tracing tours you can find in Taiwan. Also rock climbing in Long-dong. We use only world standard equipment. We are all well-trained guides, and enthusiastic of these activities. If you like to see real beauty of Taiwan (Formosa), and looking for some exciting things to do. Book now! Pick-up and drop-off at one of Taipei MRT stations available.

Originating from an altitude of 450 meters in Kengtou Mountain, Neihu District, the Neigou River flows southeastward and empties into Keelung River at approximately 500 meters upstream from Nanhu Bridge. This 6,817-meter long river occupies an area of 422 hectares with a 41% average slope in the catchment area; it is known for numerous interesting spots on the forested hillside of Taipei City. In addition to the stones piled up to form gaps that provide habitats for aquatic animals, Neigou River gives the general public greater access to some waterfront fun.

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.

Following a 2014 alliance with the farming community of Baishihu area (in Bishan Village), Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO), Taipei City’s Public Works Department built the Lakeside Cherry Blossom Trail near No. 49, Bishan Road, only a 15-minute drive from MRT Neihu Station. Not only did the new trail add visual appeal to Bihu Industrial Road, it also transformed an pristine hillside lake into a scenic wonderland that provides visitors an unobstructed view of Mt. Longchuanyan, Mt. Liyu, Mt. Bailusi, Dahu Park and downtown Neihu. Organic produce is also available to visitors. This is a perfect day-trip destination for those seeking to unwind in a pick-your-own fruit orchard. Feel free to take a stroll in the mountains, or sign up for an eco-tour to take a break from the hectic city life. The trail is lined with  numerous Yoshino cherry trees that come into bloom during the Chinese New Year, creating a phenomenon you don't want to miss. In a pioneering, eco-friendly move , this cherry blossom-adorned trail is fortified with water-permeable sawdust to eliminate soil erosion and other forms of environmental impact. It also protects the knees of faithful hikers, so you can enjoy Mother Nature without worrying about tripping on those outdoor walkways, which can get physically challenging sometimes. Another highlight of the trail project is an s-shaped elevated boardwalk that, at every turn on its zigzag course, promises spectacular vistas and draws gasps of amazement from visitors.Need a quick escape from the urban bustle and fatigue? Follow the trail to an amazing lake that is rather different from the cherry grove, yet equally breath-taking!