Twin Trails of Xiang Mountain – Nature’s Charm in Taipei & Beijing

#cityplaybook Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan), Taipei, Taiwan Nestled in the heart of Taipei, Elephant Mountain offers a quick escape into nature with one of the best panoramic views of the city and the iconic Taipei 101. The well-marked trail is about 1.5 km long and takes around 30–40 minutes to reach the top. Along the way, you’ll encounter the famous Six Giant Rocks, a favorite spot for dramatic skyline photos. Whether you're chasing sunsets or the glow of city lights, this trail delivers. It’s easily accessible from Xiangshan MRT Station (Exit 2), making it a go-to for both locals and tourists. Best time to visit? Head up late afternoon for golden-hour views or after dark for stunning night photography. Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park), Beijing, China For a deeper connection with nature and history, Fragrant Hills Park in Beijing is a sprawling forested retreat packed with cultural treasures. Originally built as an imperial garden, it covers 188 hectares and is famed for its vivid autumn foliage—especially the fiery red maples. Climbing up to Incense Burner Peak offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Wander through ancient temples, pavilions, and quiet paths that tell stories from the Qing dynasty. The best time to visit is in October and November, when the entire landscape turns into a painter’s palette of reds and golds. Location: Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan), Taipei, Taiwan Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park), Haidian District, Beijing, China #xiangmountain #elephantmountain #taipeiviews #taiwantravel #fragranthills #beijingnature #autumninbeijing #hikingasia #culturaltrails #natureescape