Teapot Mountain Taiwan Hike Guide

Located the hills of Jiufen, Teapot Mountain Taiwan Hike is one of Taiwan’s most dramatic and rewarding hikes. The trail showcase rugged ridge lines, coastal panoramas, rolling silver grass, and the iconic rock formation that resembles an “earless teapot”. Visitors and hikers who are looking different blend of adventure, scenery, will get the memorable trip. From the moment you step onto the trail, you’re greeted with sweeping vistas of the Yin Yang Sea, ancient mining relics, and the wild beauty of Taiwan’s northeastern coast. With its close proximity to Taipei and convenient bus connections makes it an excellent day trip adventure without needing a car. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to conquer Teapot Mountain: how to get there, what to expect on the trail, points of interest and tips to make the most of your journey.

Ying Yang Sea View From Teapot Mountain Taiwan

Where is Teapot Mountain

Teapot Mountain is located in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan. It sits near the historic towns of Jiufen and Jinguashi, along Taiwan’s scenic northeastern coast. The mountain overlooks the beautiful Yin Yang Sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers visiting the Taipei area.

How to go Elephant Mountain

Bus Stop At Ximen To Teapot Mountain

Getting to Teapot Mountain from Taipei is pretty straightforward. The travel time is about 1 to 1.5-hour trip by bus or train to reach the trailheads located near Quanji Temple or at the Jinguashi (Gold Ecological Park). Here are the main ways to get there:

  1. By Bus (Direct public transport)
    Take Bus 965 (Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Jiufen Jinguashi Line) from Ximen MRT Station (Exit 2) or Fuzhong MRT Station (Exit 1). The bus goes directly toward Jiufen and Jinguashi. Alight at Jinguashi (Gold Ecological Park/Gold Museum) bus stop. The bus ride takes about 1 hour depending on the traffic conditions.
  2. By Train + Local Bus
    Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station (about 40 minutes). From Ruifang, transfer to a local bus 788, 965, or 856 toward Jinguashi or Jiufen. Alight at Jinguashi (Gold Ecological Park/Gold Museum) bus stop
  3. By Car (Taxi)
    Taking taxi or driving to Jinguashi or Jiufen will usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour from central Taipei. Parking are available near the Gold Ecological Park and Quanji Temple.
Bus Stop At Jinguashi Gold Museum To Teapot Mountain

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

Trailhead of Teapot Moutain Taiwan Hike

Trailhead Teapot Mountain via Quanji Temple

Via Quanji Temple Trailhead
This is the most popular and direct route to the Teapot Mountain. The trail starts near the Quanji Temple in Jinguashi where it well-marked. It is the shortest route to the teapot rock formation.

Teapot Mountain Trailhead via Gold Ecological Park

via Gold Ecological Park Trailhead
The trailhead is located near the Jinguashi Gold Museum. It offers longer but more scenic passing historical mining sites and interpretive signs. The trails connect to the main Teapot Mountain trail.

Trail Overview

Hiking The Trails Of Teapot Mountain Taiwan

From Quanji Temple to the summit the total distance is about 1.4km. This can typically be completed within 1.5 – 2 hrs (depending on own pace and break). The trail has steep sections, made of stone steps and rock scrambling which make it a little moderate type of hike.

Points Of Interest

Yinyang Sea View Teapot Mountain Taiwan
Yingyang Sea

From Quanji Temple to the summit the total distance is about 1.4km. This can typically be completed within 1.5 – 2 hrs (depending on own pace and break). The trail has steep sections, made of stone steps and rock scrambling which make it a little moderate type of hike.

#1 The Rainbow Staircase

Rainbow Staircase Teapot Mountain Taiwan

The Rainbow Staircase is a colorful, vibrant set of stairs that has become a popular photo spot near the Quanji Temple Trailhead. The staircase are painted in rainbow color or different color which resembles a rainbow.

#2 Chaobao Pavilion

Chaobao Pavilion Teapot Mountain Taiwan

Chaobao Pavilion is the first of several small red pavilions along the trail of Teapot Mountain. This serve as a rest point and a helpful trail marker that you are in the right track. This is located within the first 15–20 minutes of the hike from the Quanji Temple trailhead.

#3 Observation Deck

Observation Deck Teapot Mountain Taiwan

The viewing platform offer good resting stop on the way to teapot mountain. It is made with wooden planks and broad space for vision and beautiful scenery.

#4 Baoshi Pavilion

Baoshi Pavilion Teapot Mountain Taiwan

Baoshi Pavilion is one of the red pagoda situated along the trail of Teapot Mountain Taiwan, offering a great rest spot and scenic views. This considered as the highest rest point before reaching the Teapot rock formation. From here hikers can view the Yin Yang Sea, Jinguashi, Keelung Mountain, and the broader northeastern coastline of Taiwan.

Summit View Of Teapot Mountain

Summit View Teapot Mountain Taiwan

Heading to the summit of Teapot Mountain is quite rugged, narrow with rocky ridge which make it challenging. The summit has an elevation of 588 meters above sea level. This offers the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Ruifang District of New Taipei City.

Quick Tips for Elephant Mountain Taipei Hike

  • Wear proper hiking shoes and bring water/snacks.
  • Start early to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid crowds.
  • Stay on marked trails and take time to rest at the pavilion
  • Check weather conditions before you go; the ridge can be slippery when wet.

Final Thoughts

Hike Elevation of Teapot Mountain Taiwan

Teapot Mountain Taiwan Hike is a gem for adventurous hikers wanting coastal vistas and a dash of challenge near Taipei. The trail blends well-maintained paths and rugged climbs, culminating in poetic sea and mountain panoramas. If you love a good mix of adventure, nature, and culture, Teapot Mountain is a must-visit spot in northern Taiwan. It’s a rewarding hike that leaves many visitors with a lasting impression of Taiwan’s rugged beauty and unique coastal landscape.

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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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