Taiwan Food Atlas

Zhinan Mountain Trail (NCCU Back Hill)

A Wenshan hike from Xianjing Rock to Zhinan Temple, overlooking the Jingmei River valley
📍 Taipei · Wenshan District · Section 2, Zhinan Road🏞️ Nature🔖 Urban hiking

Zhinan Mountain Trail is a low-difficulty suburban hiking trail behind National Chengchi University in Taipei's Wenshan District, connecting Xianjiao Rock — whose summit sits about 144 meters above sea level — with Zhinan Temple, and overlooking the Jingmei River valley and the city below.

Xianjiao Rock reaches about 144 meters above sea level; according to legend, Lü Dongbin left a footprint on the summit boulder while leaping from Toad Mountain toward Zhinan Temple, giving the rock its name. The Xianjiao Rock temple was rebuilt in October 1959. Zhinan Temple was built in the 16th year of the Guangxu reign (1890) and is dedicated to Lü Dongbin, at an elevation of about 285 meters.

Highlights of the Zhinan Mountain Trail

The Xianjing Rock trail entrance is near Jingmei. The giant rock is said to bear the footprint of a deity, giving the area its name. The trail surface is mainly stone steps and hard paving at a moderate gradient, suitable for general hiking fitness. From the Xianjing Rock ridge you can look out over the Jingmei River and the settlements around Muzha; on a clear day the view extends to the mountain ranges to the south. Zhinan Temple is built mid-slope and is dedicated to Lu Dongbin. The temple is complete in layout, and the observation platform at the front offers a sweeping view of the southern Taipei Basin.

The trail system is close to the Maokong Gondola station; those with enough energy can continue to the Maokong tea area. NCCU campus is adjacent to the trail entrance and can be explored before or after the hike. The trail's overall difficulty is low, but some sections can have slippery stone steps after rain. Wear shoes with good grip and bring enough water.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit

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Morning or evening visitsMorning light is ample and temperatures are cooler on the trail; at dusk, the observation platform offers a sunset view over the southern end of the Taipei Basin. Each time of day has its own character.
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Zhinan Temple observation platformThe observation platform in front of Zhinan Temple has a wide view overlooking all of Wenshan District. After a rest, you can continue to Xianjing Rock or retrace your steps.
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Extend to the Maokong GondolaThe trail can be extended to connect with Maokong, with the gondola as a descent option. For fares and schedules, check the official information from the Taipei City Government's Transportation Bureau.
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A side visit to NCCU campusThe trail entrance is close to the NCCU campus. Strolling along the main campus road before or after the hike is pleasant; the campus has good greenery and different plants in each season.

Practical Information

Getting There & Time

  • Take the MRT Wenhu Line to Wanfang Hospital Station or Muzha Station, then transfer by bus to Section 2, Zhinan Road or the NCCU area, and walk to the trailhead.
  • The trail is open year-round. For Zhinan Temple opening hours, confirm with the temple directly. For gondola fares and schedules, check the official Maokong Gondola information.

Nearby Connections

  • The Maokong tea area offers tea and mountain dining; plan a tea break after the hike. Transport options include the gondola or bus.
  • Jingmei Night Market is about a 10-to-15-minute walk from the Xianjing Rock trailhead, a good dinner spot after the hike.

Source: Trail and temple information provided in context. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the elevation of Xianjiao Rock?

Xianjiao Rock reaches about 144 meters above sea level and is a popular local hiking spot in Wenshan District.

How did Xianjiao Rock get its name?

Legend holds that Lü Dongbin left a footprint on the summit boulder while leaping from Toad Mountain toward Zhinan Temple, giving the rock its name.

When was Zhinan Temple built?

Zhinan Temple was built in 1890 (the 16th year of the Guangxu reign) and is dedicated to Lü Dongbin at an elevation of about 285 meters.

Sources

🗺️ View on the map ← All Taipei attractions