Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Mount Qixing National Forest Park, located in the Yangmingshan National Park area in northern Taiwan, encompasses the iconic Mount Qixing, the highest peak in the Taipei basin standing at 1,120 meters (3,675 feet). The park is situated roughly 15 kilometers from downtown Taipei, offering visitors a lush volcanic landscape characterized by hot springs, fumaroles, and dormant volcanic cones. The geology of Mount Qixing includes a range of volcanic rock formations, reflecting its volcanic origin. Ecologically, the park is home to subtropical broadleaf forests that provide habitat for a variety of native flora and fauna, including Taipei tree frogs, diverse bird species, and native plant communities. The park’s history is tied to both indigenous Taiwanese cultural significance and more recent developments as a recreational and conservation area within Yangmingshan National Park, established during the Japanese colonial period. Popular recreation opportunities include hiking, bird watching, photography, and nature study. Notable landmarks within the park include the Seven Star Mountain (Mount Qixing) summit which offers panoramic views of Taipei and the surrounding basin, the fumaroles area rich in geothermal activity, and scenic trails such as the Qixing Main Peak trail and the Lengshuikeng volcanic valley. Visitor appeal centers on the easy access from Taipei combined with diverse outdoor experiences ranging from active volcano observation to peaceful forest walks.
