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About Qingtiangang Grassland
Qingtiangang Grassland (擎天崗大草原), situated in the high-altitude heart of Yangmingshan National Park, is a picturesque alpine pasture celebrated for its sweeping rolling hills, cool mountain breezes, and resident herds of semi-wild grazing water buffaloes. Sitting roughly 770 meters above sea level, this lava terrace formed millions of years ago by eruptions from the Tatun Volcano Group, creating a flat plateau nestled among mountain peaks.
Offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Qixing and the Taipei Basin, Qingtiangang is one of the most beloved natural escapes in northern Taiwan. A wooden barrier trail winds gracefully through the open terrain, giving visitors a safe front-row seat to peaceful alpine landscapes. Whether you are looking for a gentle weekend picnic, a leisurely trail walk, or a gateway to challenging summit hikes, Qingtiangang Grassland is a must-visit destination on any Taiwan itinerary.
History and Ranch Heritage
The history of Qingtiangang is closely linked to military geography and agriculture. During the Qing Dynasty, a strategic trail known as the Jinbaoli Old Trail was carved across this plateau, allowing local fishermen and merchants to carry goods between Jinshan on the northern coast and downtown Shilin.
During the Japanese colonial era in 1934, authorities recognized the plateau's flat terrain and climate, establishing the Daiton Ranch to graze cattle. Local farmers sent their draft water buffaloes up to the high pastures during the non-farming season to graze. This tradition continued after WWII under the Taipei Farmers' Association with the establishment of the Yangmingshan Ranch. As farming in Taiwan mechanized, the commercial ranch operations wound down, but descendants of those water buffaloes remained on the pasture, roaming freely as protected living heritage of the national park.
What to See
Qingtiangang’s unique geology and pastoral heritage offer exceptional photo opportunities and natural landmarks. Here are five top sights to check out during your visit:
1. Grazing Water Buffaloes
The defining highlight of Qingtiangang is observing herds of free-roaming water buffaloes grazing along the rolling hillsides, bathing in mud pools, and walking across the open pastures.
2. Central Fenced Circular Trail
This well-maintained wooden barrier boardwalk bisects the main grassland. Designed to keep human visitors safe while allowing the buffaloes to roam freely on both sides, it provides unobstructed views of the alpine plateau.
3. Historic Defensive Military Bunker (Bunker No. 11)
Scattered across the grassy ridges are historic stone pillboxes and concrete bunkers built during WWII and the Cold War era when Qingtiangang served as a military defense point against potential coastal invasions.
4. Dalingkou Old Trail Ruins
Along the edges of the grassland, explore remnants of ancient stone paths, moss-covered archways, and historic shrines dedicated to the Earth God (Tudigong) built by early settlers.
5. Autumn Silver Miscanthus Grass Fields
If you visit between October and December, the green hillsides transform into a sea of silver and golden miscanthus grass blowing in the wind—one of Yangmingshan’s most famous seasonal sights.
What to Do
Qingtiangang offers a refreshing break from the urban energy of Taipei. Make sure to include these five activities in your trip plan:
1. Stroll the Qingtiangang Circular Trail
Take an easy, scenic 2.4-kilometer loop walk along the main trail. The gentle terrain is suitable for visitors of all fitness levels and takes about 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
2. Picnic on the Hillside Pastures
Pack snacks and hot tea to enjoy a relaxing open-air picnic on designated grassy knolls near the visitor service center while taking in mountain views and crisp air.
3. Hike the Lengshuikeng to Qingtiangang Trail
Connect two of Yangmingshan’s top spots by walking the 1.6-kilometer trail between Lengshuikeng and Qingtiangang, crossing the iconic red Jingshan Suspension Bridge along the way.
4. Trek the Historic Jinbaoli Old Trail
Step back in time by walking a portion of the historic salt-and-fish transport trail, following stone steps downhill toward the coastal district of Jinshan.
5. Capture Sunset and Mountain Photography
Stay until late afternoon as the sun dips behind Mount Qixing, casting golden light over the grassland slopes and creating stunning reflections through the shifting mountain fog.
How to Book Activities
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How to Get There
Reaching Qingtiangang Grassland via Taipei’s public transit system is fast and convenient:
- By Taipei Metro (MRT) & Direct Bus (Recommended):
- Take the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) to Jiantan Station (R15).
- Take Exit 1, head to the bus stop, and board Bus S15 (Small 15), which goes directly to the Qingtiangang Bus Stop terminal.
- By Park Shuttle Bus (108 Loop Bus):
- Take Bus R5 (Red 5) or Bus 260 from Jiantan MRT or Taipei Main Station to the main Yangmingshan Bus Terminal.
- Transfer to the 108 Park Shuttle Bus and ride it directly to the Qingtiangang stop.
- On Foot via Connecting Trails:
- If you are already exploring Lengshuikeng or Xiaoyoukeng, follow the well-marked National Park connecting footpaths directly into Qingtiangang.
- By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Uber):
- A taxi from MRT Jiantan Station or MRT Shilin Station to Qingtiangang takes roughly 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
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Where to Stay Nearby
While there are no overnight hotels directly inside the protected grassland area, staying nearby in the Yangmingshan or Beitou hot spring districts offers peaceful evenings and quick transit to the park entrance. Recommended options include:
Beimen Wow Poshtel
Combining modern industrial aesthetics with boutique hostel comfort, Beimen Wow Poshtel offers a high-end experience for budget travelers. Located near Taipei Main Station, it features sleek private rooms, dormitory options, a spacious communal lounge, and a shared kitchen. 👉 Book Beimen Wow Poshtel here! Special Offer: Book your stay through Agoda to unlock exclusive member discounts and instant confirmation.
Inn Cube
Offering a minimalist, capsule-inspired concept near major transit hubs, Inn Cube provides compact, private rooms for solo travelers and quick overnight stays. It is ideal for those who value privacy, clean air-conditioned spaces, and maximum convenience. 👉 Book Inn Cube here! Special Offer: Save on your trip by booking with Hotels.com to earn rewards nights on eligible stays.
Cavemen Hostel
Featuring unique interior styling and cozy pod-style bunk beds with privacy curtains, Cavemen Hostel offers a comfortable retreat in central Taipei. Situated within easy walking distance of CKS Memorial Hall, it provides fast Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a friendly vibe for global backpackers. 👉 Book Cavement Hostel here! Special Offer: Check rates on Trip.com to grab special mobile-only deals and flexible booking options.
Fun Inn
Positioned near Ximending and central MRT stations, Fun Inn is a bright, contemporary hostel known for high standards of cleanliness, keycard security, and comfortable privacy-screened dorms. It serves as a social, budget-friendly launchpad for exploring the city's historic landmarks. 👉 Book Fun Inn here! Special Offer: Reserve your bed via Booking.com for free cancellation flexibility on select room rates.
Meow Day Hostel
A delightful spot for pet lovers and social travelers, Meow Day Hostel is an inclusive, welcoming hostel located close to major night markets and attractions. Aside from its resident felines, guests enjoy modern common areas, shared kitchen amenities, and a warm atmosphere. 👉 Book Meow Day Hostel here! Special Offer: Plan your Taipei trip on Klook to bundle your stay with discounted travel passes and local attraction tickets.
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Local Delicacies
After walking the grasslands, warm up with rustic mountain treats sold at nearby farmhouses and visitor plazas:
- Sweet Potato Soup with Hot Ginger: A traditional mountain favorite featuring soft, locally grown sweet potatoes served in a hot ginger syrup broth.
- Stir-Fried Wild Mountain Fern (Asplenium nidus): Freshly picked mountain vegetables stir-fried crisp with garlic and small dried fish.
- Mountain-Style Poached Free-Range Chicken: Tender, farm-raised chicken served cold with soy-ginger garlic dipping sauce, popular at farmsteads in nearby Zhuzihu.
- Hot Grassland Milk Tea & Steam Buns: Available at the Qingtiangang Visitor Center kiosk, perfect for a quick warming snack on misty mornings.
Travel Tips
- Keep a Safe Distance from Buffaloes: Stay behind the wooden fence trail. Never touch, feed, startle, or use flash photography near the water buffaloes.
- Prepare for Quick Weather Changes: High-altitude mountain weather changes rapidly. Fog, wind, and rain showers are common; carry a windproof rain jacket and dress in layers.
- Use Your EasyCard: Pay for your MRT rides, public buses (Bus S15 and Bus 108), and visitor center vending purchases with your EasyCard.
- Start Early on Weekends: Parking at Qingtiangang is limited, and bus lines at MRT Jiantan Station get long on sunny weekends. Aim to arrive before 9:00 AM.
- Leave No Trace: Bring your trash back down the mountain with you; there are limited trash bins in open trail sections to keep wildlife safe.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your trek to Qingtiangang with these popular nearby destinations inside Yangmingshan National Park:
- Lengshuikeng Hot Springs & Milk Lake: Located just 1.6 km down the trail, featuring a unique sulfur milk-colored lake and free public hot spring footbaths.
- Xiaoyoukeng Geothermal Area: Famous for its roaring, sulfur-steaming post-volcanic vents located at the base of Mount Qixing.
- Mount Qixing Summit Trail: Hike up to the highest peak in Taipei (1,120m) for sweeping 360-degree views across northern Taiwan.
- Zhuzihu (Bamboo Lake): A serene mountain valley famous for blooming white calla lily fields in spring and colorful hydrangeas in summrr.
- Shilin Night Market: Located back at MRT Jiantan Station, ideal for enjoying Taiwanese street food after a day of hiking.
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