Jianshan Trail

Jianshan (Jian Mountain) is known as "Tamsui Fuji Mountain" due to its striking resemblance to Japan's Mount Fuji. The trail is approximately 1,620 meters long. The entrance is located on the back mountain behind the main hall of Lingyun Temple and connects to the end of the Fulongshan Trail. The entire path winds through lush green forests, accompanied by the sounds of birds and cicadas, creating a deeply pleasant and content experience. The first section, approximately 370 meters long, ascends in a zigzag pattern to a fork in the path. Taking the right-hand trail leads to "Yingzai Jianshan" (Eagle's Peak), where an elegant circular pavilion offers a place to rest at the highest point. After continuing along a flat section of the main Jianshan Trail from the fork, there's a side path that connects to the Yinghanling Trail. Continuing straight will lead to Jianshan's most challenging "ridge traverse." The Jianshan ridge traverse ascends from lower, gentler slopes, with each peak higher than the last. The section from 500 meters upwards is the steepest part of the traverse. Fortunately, before reaching the summit, there's a flatter saddle with a pavilion where visitors can take a break and rest their feet, preparing for the final 320-meter sprint to the goal. The final section of the trail spirals up a steep, vertical rock face. Many visitors are exhausted and drenched in sweat here, but by staying focused, slowing down, and climbing step by step, the reward of the summit is almost within reach. After reaching the summit, breathtaking views await. Resting in the pavilion and admiring the scenery quickly makes one forget all fatigue. The most spectacular view is approximately 50 meters below the peak, where the trail emerges from dense forest into an expansive panorama. Looking around, one can see the distant azure coastline, the Datun mountain range, Yinghanling (Hard Man's Ridge) stretching before you, the red Guandu Bridge spanning the Tamsui River below the platform, and the high-rise buildings of the bustling city – truly a perfectly composed Taipei landscape painting. As the saying goes, "It's easier to go up the mountain than to come down." After enjoying the magnificent scenery, the winding descent often requires the aid of ropes or holding onto trail railings, necessitating careful and slow steps. Before descending, don't forget to take a deep breath and proudly "give yourself a thumbs up!" This is the reward reaped from the combination of physical strength and willpower.