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Jade Mountain (Yushan)
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Mountain
Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain, is the highest peak in Taiwan and Northeast Asia, standing at 3,952 meters. It forms the centerpiece of Yushan National Park, which covers four counties in the heart of the island. Geologically, the massif was created by the collision between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, resulting in steep and rugged topography. The mountain is a national symbol of Taiwan and is featured on the country's 1000-dollar banknote. Its ecological diversity is immense, ranging from subtropical forests at its base to alpine tundra at the summit, providing habitats for rare species like the Formosan black bear. For many Taiwanese, climbing Yushan is considered a significant life achievement, with conservation of its fragile high-altitude environment being a top priority.
- Location: Taiwan
- Top sights: Dongpushan · Tataka · Linzhishan
- Nearby: Wushe (37 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 15 | 17 | 20 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 20 | 18 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 64 | 58 | 79 | 97 | 229 | 269 | 236 | 337 | 266 | 105 | 83 | 53 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The main trailhead is at Tataqa, reachable by car or shuttle bus from Alishan or via the New Central Cross-Island Highway; permits are mandatory for all hikers.
Best season
Autumn and spring offer the most stable weather conditions; winter can bring snow and ice, requiring specialized alpine equipment and significant mountaineering experience.
Terrain & paths
This is a challenging high-altitude climb with substantial elevation gain, involving many rocky switchbacks, steep sections, and narrow ridges near the mountain's peak.
What to bring
Professional hiking gear, including multiple thermal layers, sturdy mountain boots, and headlamps is required; sleeping bags are needed for overnight stays in lodges.
Parking
Very limited parking is available at the Tataqa visitor center and the Paiyun Mountaineering Center; it is best to arrive early or use authorized shuttle services.
Safety
Altitude sickness is a significant risk; allow ample time to acclimatize and always check the local weather forecast for sudden and dangerous changes before heading out.
Time needed
Most hikers complete the ascent over a two-day period, staying overnight at the Paiyun Lodge before attempting the final summit push during the early morning hours.
Geography
Facts
- Yushan is the highest peak between the Himalayas and the Sierra Nevada at 3,952 meters.
- Yushan National Park was established in 1985 and is the largest in Taiwan.
- The first recorded European ascent was made in 1898 by missionary William Campbell.
- In winter, the summit is often covered in thick ice, resembling jade, hence its name.
- The mountain serves as a critical habitat for the endangered Formosan black bear.
- A meteorological station operates near the summit at an elevation of 3,858 meters.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Jade Mountain (Yushan) (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Jade Mountain the highest peak?
Yes, it is the highest mountain in Taiwan at nearly 4000 meters.
When is the best time for climbing?
Between October and December, the weather is most stable.
Do I need training for this altitude?
Regular endurance training is highly recommended as the air is thin at the top.
Can I do the trek alone?
It is safer and more advisable to go in a group or with a guide.
What is the situation with the huts?
There are huts, but they are in high demand and require early booking.
Jade Mountain (Yushan): where is it located?
Jade Mountain (Yushan) is located in Taiwan.
Jade Mountain (Yushan): what is there to see?
Highlights include Dongpushan, Tataka, Linzhishan.
Jade Mountain (Yushan): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Jade Mountain (Yushan): why is it worth visiting?
Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain, is the highest peak in Taiwan and Northeast Asia, standing at 3,952 meters.
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