Yilan Jiaoxi・Matcha Mountain (San Jiaolun Mountain)

Matcha Mountain is actually one of Taiwan's "100 Small Peaks" in the Xueshan Mountain Range, officially known as San Jiaolun Mountain. Its slopes are covered with layers of lush green dwarf bamboo, resembling the soft hues of matcha, which has made it a viral hiking destination. 🌿

The hiking route starts from the Wufengqi Parking Lot. From there, you walk about 3.7–4 kilometers along a flat and easy-to-navigate industrial road to reach the "Holy Mother Pilgrimage Site" and the "Tongtian Bridge" trailhead. This section also passes through the Wufengqi Waterfall area. 🌊 Next, you transition to the Holy Mother Hiking Trail, which is about 1.6 kilometers long with an elevation gain of approximately 500 meters. This part consists mostly of steep stair climbs and is the most physically demanding section of the hike. 🥾

The round trip is about 11 kilometers and takes approximately 5–6 hours. Beginners are advised to allocate 6–7 hours to allow time for breaks and photos. 📸

The viewing platform at the summit is a must-visit photo spot: the rolling green ridges of dwarf bamboo are breathtaking, and the sea of clouds, if present, adds a mystical touch. On clear days, you can even see the Lanyang Plain and Turtle Island in the distance. 🌄

✨ Personal Tip: Start your hike before 6 AM to avoid crowds and afternoon fog, ensuring the best views of the matcha-green landscape. Unfortunately, the weather wasn't great on the day I visited, but at least it didn't rain heavily. ☁️ Although the final stretch is steep, with perseverance, you can enjoy this dreamy mountain scenery.

📋 Helpful Pre-Hike Tips:
• Parking: Wufengqi Parking Lot
• Gear: Hiking shoes, anti-slip trekking poles, water and snacks, a light jacket, and a sun hat
• Timing: Start between 6:00–10:00 AM and aim to descend by 12:00–2:00 PM

Post by Yo‘‘ | Jul 28, 2025