Majestic views of Yushan (玉山)

The journey to Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain, is a breathtaking adventure through Taiwan’s rugged central highlands. Standing at 3,952 meters above sea level, Yushan is not only the tallest peak in Taiwan but also the highest point in the western Pacific outside the Kamchatka Peninsula as well as giving Taiwan the 4th-highest maximum elevation of any island in the world. The mountain’s prominence and stunning vistas make it a coveted destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.

The ascent begins at the Tataka Trailhead, which sits at an elevation of around 2,600 meters. The trail gradually winds through dense forests of pine and cypress, where the crisp mountain air carries the scent of ancient trees.

As the trail climbs higher, the landscape transitions from lush forests to alpine meadows, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks of the Yushan Range. These mountains were once submerged beneath the ocean, only to be thrust skyward by the collision of the Eurasian and Philippine Sea Plates. This dramatic geological history is evident in the jagged rock formations and exposed cliffs that dominate the upper reaches of the trail.

Upon reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with an awe-inspiring panorama. Rolling mountains stretching to the horizon, clouds drifting below, and, on clear days, glimpses of the distant sea. The golden hues of dawn illuminate the rugged terrain, casting a glow over the “Jade Mountain,” a name inspired by the way the peak glistens under winter snowfall.

The hike to Yushan is an unforgettable experience, a journey through Taiwan’s highest and most majestic natural wonder.

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