HIKING MOUNT YUSHAN TAIWAN (2D1N)

Located in the heart of Yushan National Park, hiking Mount Yushan Taiwan attracts thousands of climbers every year, hoping to stand atop the “Roof of Taiwan”. Standing at 3,952 meters above sea level, Mount Yushan or Jade Mountain is the highest peak in Taiwan and East Asia. With its dramatic alpine landscapes, and ever-changing weather, Yushan is more than just a mountain — it’s a pilgrimage for hikers, nature lovers, and adventurers seeking a truly unforgettable experience. Along the way, hikers encounter diverse ecosystems, ancient forests, and a sense of peace that only high mountains can offer. In this post, we will walk through what it’s really like to hike Mount Yushan. This includes permit application, accommodation, gear, and the trail. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an ambitious traveler looking for a new high-altitude challenge, this guide will help you get there — and enjoy every step of the climb.

Monroe Pavilion Hiking Mount Yushan Taiwan
  1. Where Is Mount Yushan
  2. Best Time To Go Mount Yushan
  3. Hiking Permit and Application
  4. How To Go Mount Yushan
  5. Where to go Stay Before Hike
  6. Mount Yushan Itinerary
  7. Trail Overview
  8. Hiking To The Summit
  9. Summary

Where is Mount Yushan

Mount Yushan is located in the heart of central Taiwan, along the borders of Chiayi, Nantou, and Kaohsiung counties. The mountain sits within the vast and protected landscape of Yushan National Park, one of Taiwan’s most pristine and mountainous areas.

Best Time to go Mount Yushan

Forest Trail Hiking Mount Yushan Taiwan

The best time to visit Mount Yushan is during the autumn and spring season. Here’s a breakdown of why this is the ideal time:

  • Autumn (October to December)
    This is generally considered the best time to hike Yushan. The weather is cooler, drier, and clearer, offering great visibility and stunning views.
  • Spring (March to May)
    Also a good time with mild weather and blooming alpine flowers, but sometimes rainier than autumn.

Not Recommended:

  • Summer (June to August)
    This is the typhoon season with heavy rain and storms, making the trails slippery and dangerous.
  • Winter (January to February)
    The weather will be very cold, with snow and ice on the trails. Only recommended if you are well-prepared for winter hiking and experienced with icy conditions.

Hiking Permit and Application

To hike Mount Yushan, visitors are required to apply for hiking permits.

  1. National Park Entry Permit
    Visitors will need to apply through the Hike Taiwan Smart Service website. 
  2. Mountain Entry Permit
    Obtain the permit via the website Mountain Entry Application System.

Foreign Advance application are open to non-Taiwanese passport holders which open 4 months in advance and are allotted  24 slots per day.

How to go Mount Yushan

Tataka Police Station

Getting to Mount Yushan can be quite complicated, specially for visitors taking public transportation hence it does involve some planning. The main trail to the summit starts at Tataka Trailhead located near Alishan in central Taiwan.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
From Taipei (Train + Bus)

  1. Take a High-Speed Rail
    Taoyuan THSR to Chiayi Station which takes around 1.5–2 hours
  2. Ride Bus to Alishan
    From Chiayi HSR Station, ride bus to Alishan (Alishan Shuttle Bus)
  3. At Alishan (Stay overnight in Alishan or Dongpu Lodge)
  4. If Head Dongpu
    Ride bus from Alishan to Dongpu via Yuanlin Bus 6739 to Sun Moon Lake which departs at 1:00PM

All tourist visitors traveling to Taiwan are required to present the electronic or Taiwan Online Arrival Card to the custom officer.

Where To Stay Before Hike

  • Alishan
    A convenient and scenic place to stay the night before; hotels, hostels, and guesthouses available
  • Dongpu
    A smaller village closer to the trailhead, but less accessible and with fewer lodging options

Dongpu Lodge

Dongpu Lodge Taiwan

Dongpu lodge serves as a pre-hike accommodation for hikers taking Tataka trailhead–Paiyun route. Located at approximately 2,400 meters above sea level. The lodge offers basic dormitory-style accommodations like bunk beds, common kitchen, dining areas. To book, visitor will need to reserve one month in advance through Dongpu Lodge website. Payment can be made through local bank or on-site upon check-in.

Tataka Trailhead

Tataka Trailhead Mount Yushan Hike Application

The Tataka Trailhead s the primary starting point for hikers aiming to summit Mount Yushan. Located at an elevation of approximately 2,610 meters, which is 5–10 minute walk from Dongpu Lodge. This allows hikers to check in at the Yushan National Park office submit park entry permit and start ascent.

Hiking Mount Yushan Taiwan Itinerary

DAY 1 (Tataka Trailhead → Paiyun Lodge)

  • 0500 AM – Wake up | Breakfast
  • 07:00 AM – Head To Tataka Police
                       – Register Paiyun Mountaineering Center
  • 07:00 AM – Head Tataka Trailhead
  • 08:80 AM – Start Hike
  • 01:00 PM – Arrive Paiyun Lodge
  • 02:00 PM –  Lunch and Rest 
  • 0530 PM –  Dinner
  • 07:30 PM – Sleep

Paiyun Lodge

Paiyun Lodge At Mount Yushan

Paiyun Lodge offers accommodation and providing essential services before summitting Mount Yushan. Located approximately 8.5 km from the Tataka Trailhead, the lodge serve as essential overnight stop before the 2.4 km ascent to the summit. The lodge features shared rooms with bunk beds, meals that are served breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner.

DAY 2 (Paiyun Lodge → Yushan Main Peak → Return to Tataka)

  • 0300 AM – Wake up | Light Breakfast
  • 04:30 AM – Start Ascent Summit
  • 07:00 AM – Reach Summit
  • 07:30 AM – Descent To Paiyun Lodge
  • 09:00 AM – Arrive Paiyun Lodge
  • 10:00 AM –  Brunch
  • 11:00 AM –  Descent To Tataka Trailhead
  • 02:30 PM –  Reach Tatak Trailhead
  • 03:00 PM – Home

Trail Overview

Trail Hiking Mount Yushan Taiwan

The distance from Tataka Trailhead is 8.5km which usually takes around 4-6 hours depending on the pace. The trail leads to gradual ascent with stone steps and paths through beautiful forests. Trail markers are painted on the wooden signpost which are found along the trails, junctions, and rest points. The trail markets shows the direction and distance to and from Tataka Trailhead and Paiyun Lodge. From Paiyun Lodge to the summit, the distance is at 2.4km with estimated 3-4 hours. The terrain conditions are rocky which requires some scrambling and careful footing is a must. Nearing the summit their is the metal cage-like structure used for protective enclosure. The descending part is critical for some, extra precaution is need to avoid slipping hence trekking poles might be helpful.

Hiking To The Summit

Trail To Summit Hiking Mount Yushan

Getting up before the sun, hikers will need to embark in the dark, equipped with a headlamp and determination. The trail steepens and rocks become your steady companions. Reaching the summit just as the sun rises is nothing short of magical. As you near the top, the sky begins to blush with dawn’s first light. The panoramic views of Taiwan’s rugged mountain ranges and valleys stretch endlessly.

Tips On Hiking Mount Yushan

Summit of Mount Yushan Taiwan
  1. Take Precaution on Altitude Sickness
  2. Dress in Layers
  3. Stay Hydrated
  4. Check Weather Updates
  5. Bring Essential Gear’s (Headlamp, Trekking Poles, Gloves, Boots, Rain Jacket)

Final Thoughts

Trail Rocks Leading To Summit of Mount Yushan Taiwan

Hiking Mount Yushan Taiwan is more than just a physical challenge—it’s an unforgettable journey through Taiwan’s breathtaking natural beauty. Standing atop the island’s highest peak, hiker will be rewarded not only with stunning panoramic views but also a profound sense of accomplishment and connection to nature. Basically it is a test of endurance, and a chance to witness nature from an awe-inspiring vantage point. Whether experienced hiker or a passionate adventurer seeking new heights, Yushan offers an inspiring escape that will leave you with lasting memories and a renewed appreciation for the great outdoors. If ever get the chance, don’t hesitate—lace up boots and embark on this incredible adventure

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the gees travel

A wife and a mother of three toddlers | Previously working as customer service executive in a logistics supply chain | working at home mom. But in spite of this added responsibilities I still find time to travel and explore together with my family.

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