Exploring Bishanyan Temple
Bishanyan Temple in Neihu, Taipei, is a fantastic spot for those who love a bit of adventure and a great view. You can hike up a moderately difficult trail to reach the lookout at the temple that rewards you with a stunning panoramic view of Taipei City. You can also relax and enjoy a nice cup of coffee while taking in the scenery.
Once you reach the temple, you’ll find many water dispensers where you can hydrate or refill your bottles, as well as a restroom.
Transportation
If you want to take transportation to Bishanyan Temple, you can take the MRT to Neihu Station, then take bus S2 and get off at Bishanyan Temple station and walk for five minutes to the outlook of Bishanyan Temple.
Go Hiking From Dagou Riverside Park To Bishanyan Temple
How To Go To Dagou Riverside Park Trailhead
Take the MRT to Dahu Park Station exit 1, then walk for 11 minutes.
Trail Difficulty
Dagou Riverside Park’s trail is suitable for everyone, but if you want to climb up to Bishanyan Temple then it is a moderate challenge for hikers as there are a lot of steps. While the path are well-maintained, the humidity can make the trek more tiring. It’s a good idea to start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
The trees along the trail provide almost little sunshine, thus the trail is very calm and cool. When you are tired, you can also take a rest at the pavilion of Yuanjue Waterfall to enjoy the cold water, and then continue to climb up to Bishanyan Temple after resting.
Hiking from Dagou Riverside Park to Bishanyan Temple can be a rewarding experience, offering both physical activity and beautiful views of Taipei City.
Total Hiking Time
The hike to the Bishanyan Temple lookout usually takes around 40 minutes to 1 hour from Dagou Riverside Park, depending on your pace.
Best Times to Hike
For the best experience, plan your hike during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer mosquitoes. If you come in spring, you can also see the cherry blossom tunnels of Bishanyan Temple, where cherry blossom trees are planted on both sides of the staircase, which is a very famous attraction.
But if you come in summer, it’s easier to see a clear view of Taipei City because of the good weather. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also help you avoid the busiest times at the lookout.
Kid-Friendly Trail
Dagou Riverside Park is also a kid-friendly trail that are perfect for families. From the trailhead to Yuanjue Waterfall, it is not too steep and have plenty of spots where you can take a break and enjoy the view. The paths are well-maintained, making it easy for kids to walk and explore.
As the climb from Yuanjue Waterfall to Bishan Rock is long and steep, requiring physical strength. If your kids have no physical strength, we recommend taking them as far as Yuanjue Waterfall, and they can play in the water or enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a picnic!
Photographing Taipei 101 from the Bishanyan Temple Lookout
Best Photo Spots
For the best views of Taipei, head to the lookout near Bishanyan Temple. This spot offers a panoramic view of the city, including the iconic Taipei 101. The lookout is a favorite among photographers, especially during sunset when the city lights up beautifully.
Photography Tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Use a tripod for steady shots, especially in low light.
- Experiment with different angles to capture the skyline and Taipei 101.
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the entire cityscape.
Weather Considerations
Weather can greatly affect your photos. Clear days offer the best visibility, but cloudy days can add a dramatic effect to your shots. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Bishanyan Temple Nearby Attractions
The BaiShih Lake Suspension Bridge
The Bai Shih Lake Suspension Bridge itself is a vibrant purple, adding a splash of color to the scenic landscape. It’s a perfect spot for taking in the beauty of the city and its surroundings. The bridge is well-maintained and stable, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. When you get to the other side of the bridge, you could have a soybean pudding or lunch, and visit some small scenic spots to end your day trip in Neihu.
Bai Shih Lake Strawberry Farms
The Bai Shih Lake Strawberry farm grows a variety of fruits, including passion fruits and dragon fruits. In addition to seasonal fruits, the garden has colorful flowers and a natural vegetable garden that is pesticide-free, allowing visitors to select and eat without concern. On Saturdays and Sundays, visit Baishihu Strawberry farm to pick strawberries or eat strawberry ice cream.
The Bai Shih Lake Strawberry farm
- General Opening Hours: From Friday to Sunday 9am-5pm
- Strawberry Picking Time: Monday to Sunday (From 20 November to 31 May of the following year)
Strawberries Picking Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
If you want to pick strawberries, please call before you go!
Tel: (02)2790-2785 / 0927-115119
- Address: No. 40, Bishan Rd, Neihu District, Taipei City, 114
- How to go: walk for 5 minutes from Bishanyan Temple
Conclusion
Bishanyan Temple and its surrounding trails offer a perfect blend of nature, culture, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, this moderately challenging trail has something for everyone. The panoramic views of Taipei City, including the iconic Taipei 101, are well worth the effort. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a cup of coffee at the lookout. It’s a memorable experience that combines physical activity, relaxation, and stunning scenery.
