Qingtiangang

The best seasons to visit Qingtiangang are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November), when temperatures are mild and rainfall is low. November is especially popular for viewing the swaying silvergrass that covers the hills, creating beautiful scenery. Visitors can expect sunny skies, open grasslands, and comfortable hiking conditions during these months.

Must-see attractions at Qingtiangang include the expansive grassy plateau with panoramic views of the Datun Mountain Range, the Qingtiangang Circular Trail, and the grazing water buffalo that roam freely. Nearby, Juansi Waterfall offers a scenic hiking extension, and adventurous visitors can hike up Qinxingshan, the highest peak in Yangmingshan National Park.

Most visitors start from Taipei City, easily reaching Qingtiangang by taking public transportation to Yangmingshan National Park. Options include buses from Taipei Main Station or Jiantan MRT Station. From the park entrance, short hikes lead to Qingtiangang. Taiwan High Speed Rail and inter-city buses connect to Taipei, making it accessible for day trips.

Qingtiangang’s uniqueness lies in its history as a lava-formed plateau once used by the Ketagalan indigenous people for hunting and later as a cattle ranch during Japanese rule. It is also known as 'Sun Valley' for its frequent sunny weather, contrasting with the typically foggy Yangmingshan. The presence of wild water buffalo grazing freely adds to its pastoral charm.

Nearby attractions that can be combined with a Qingtiangang visit include Juansi Waterfall for a refreshing hike, Qinxingshan Peak for panoramic mountain views, and the Shichian Waterfall trail. Yangmingshan National Park itself offers hot springs, flower gardens, and cultural sites, making for a well-rounded day trip from Taipei.