Qiang Huang
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I've lost count of how many times I've hiked up Elephant Mountain with travelers. First-timers always ask: "How do I even get there?" And every time, I see the same confusion — Google Maps says one thing, their hotel concierge says another, and the taxi driver looks at them like they're crazy.
Let me cut through the noise. I've personally tested every route dozens of times, timing each one during peak hours and rainy days. The truth is, the best way depends on where you're staying and what time you go. Here's what actually works.
MRT: The Easiest Way (But Not the Only One)
The Taipei Metro is my default recommendation for most visitors. It's cheap, air-conditioned, and runs like clockwork. But there's a catch — the closest station isn't directly at the trailhead.
Which MRT Stop for Elephant Mountain?
The station you want is Xiangshan (象山) on the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line). Exit 2 is your target. Once you're out, it's about a 10-minute walk to the official trail entrance on Liuhe Road (六合路).
Pro tip: Don't follow the crowds exiting at Taipei 101/World Trade Center station if your goal is Elephant Mountain. That adds 15 extra minutes of walking through the busy 101 mall. Xiangshan station is closer.
Step-by-Step Walk from Xiangshan Station
- Take Exit 2. You'll see a small park right outside.
- Walk straight on Songren Road (松仁路) for about 2 minutes.
- Turn left onto Liuhe Road (六合路) — look for a small lane between buildings.
- Follow the lane until you see a stone staircase going up. That's it.
The entire walk takes 8–12 minutes, depending on your pace. The path is well-paved but slightly uphill. I always tell my guests: if you're bringing a stroller or have mobility issues, skip this route and grab a taxi.
Heads up: The MRT entrance at Xiangshan station has no elevator for Exit 2. If you're carrying heavy luggage, use the elevator at Exit 1 and walk around — it adds 3 minutes but saves your back.
Bus: When MRT Is Too Far
Sometimes your hotel is nowhere near the Red Line. On those days, the bus can be a better option. I've taken bus route 33 and 288 from the Daan area — both drop you right at the trailhead.
Best Bus Routes Direct to Elephant Mountain
| Bus Number | Stop Name | Frequency | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33 | 象山公園 (Xiangshan Park) | Every 15–20 min | Stops right at the park entrance. Walk 2 min to trail. |
| 288 | 信義松仁路口 | Every 20 min | Drop-off on Songren Road. Walk 5 min to Liuhe Road. |
| 815 | 松仁路 | Every 30 min | Less frequent but drops you closer to the staircase. |
Buses use the EasyCard (悠遊卡) — tap on and off. Google Maps transit directions are usually accurate for these routes, but don't rely on the real-time tracker 100%; I've seen buses disappear from the app.
My take: Unless you're already near a direct bus line, stick to the MRT. Buses get stuck in traffic on Xinyi Road, especially between 5pm and 7pm. You don't want to miss sunset because of a traffic jam.
Taxi / Uber: Door-to-Door for Groups
For groups of 3 or more, or if you're short on time, a taxi is my favorite. It's not expensive — from Taipei Main Station, the fare is around NT$200–250 (US$6–8). Uber works too, but taxis are easier to flag down.
Where to Tell the Driver to Drop You
The magic words: 象山步道口 (Xiàngshān bùdào kǒu), or show them this address: 六合路110巷 (Lane 110, Liuhe Road). That's the exact starting point of the stairs. Any driver knows it.
Don't make this mistake: Drivers sometimes think you want to go to the "Elephant Mountain" radio tower or the big temple at the top. Confirm with them: "Xiàngshān bùdào kǒu, xièxiè." I've had guests taken to the wrong side of the mountain.
If you're coming from Taipei 101 or the W Hotel, the ride is literally 3 minutes — you can walk faster, but if it's raining, taxi is a blessing. From Ximending, expect 10–15 minutes fare around NT$150.
Walking from Taipei 101: A Secret Shortcut
Most people don't realize there's a direct pedestrian path from Taipei 101 to Elephant Mountain. It's not on any official map, but locals use it all the time.
Here's how: From the Taipei 101 mall, exit through the south side (near B1 food court, go towards the bus station). Cross the street at the crosswalk, walk through the park (Xiangshan Park), and you'll hit the trail entrance in about 8 minutes. This path is flat and shaded — great for hot afternoons.
When I use this route: If I'm grabbing bubble tea at 101 and the line for the MRT is insane, I just walk. It's actually faster than waiting for the train and walking from Xiangshan station.
Which Route Should You Pick?
Here's my cheat sheet based on your situation:
| Your Situation | Best Route | Time to Trailhead | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo traveler, near Red Line MRT | MRT to Xiangshan | 10 min walk | NT$20–30 |
| Group of 3+, from Ximending or Main Station | Taxi | Door to door | NT$150–250 |
| Already at Taipei 101 | Walk through park | 8 min | Free |
| Late at night (after 11pm MRT ends) | Taxi or Uber | Depends | NT$200–350 |
| Heavy rain or extreme heat | Taxi | Door to door | NT$150–250 |
| Budget traveler, near bus line | Bus 33 or 288 | 5 min walk | NT$15 |
My final verdict: Take the MRT. It's the most reliable and gives you flexibility. But if you can split a taxi with friends, that's the most comfortable start to what will be a sweaty hike!
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Verified and fact-checked by the editorial team. This content has been fact-checked to ensure informational precision. Prices and MRT schedules are based on personal verification as of the last update. Always check Taipei MRT official website for real-time changes.
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