Yangmingshan's Miscanthus Grass Adventure — Cold Water Pit and Former US Military Quarters

The hills are covered with silvery miscanthus grass, a breathtaking sight. The hiking trails are lined with miscanthus grass, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairyland.

Best Spots for Viewing Miscanthus Grass

One of the premier locations to admire this grass is near Cold Water Pit ( 冷水坑 ). You can take the "Little 15" bus from Jiantan MRT Station , but be aware that weekday service is infrequent, so check the schedule in advance to avoid long waits.

Cold Water Pit is located at the foot of Qixing Mountain , the highest peak in Taipei. One of the hiking trail entrances is here, where you can ascend the steps along a winding path flanked by swaying miscanthus grass. The entire mountain seems draped in a feather-like coat, immersing visitors in a romantic sea of grass, perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos. Continuing up the trail will lead you to the East Peak and the main peak of Qixing Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Taipei City.

A Relaxed Journey: Milk Lake and Suspension Bridge

For those preferring an easier trek, consider the Cold Ching Trail ( 冷擎步道 ), which also showcases beautiful miscanthus grass along the way. Your first stop will be the Milk Lake , a mystical and dreamy pool of milky-white water resembling pure milk. Originally a mining pit, rainwater collected over time, and minerals formed a white sediment that creates this rare natural spectacle under sunlight.

The water of Milk Lake appears milky white, resembling pure milk.

The next highlight is the Jingshan Suspension Bridge , a 50-meter-long bridge with reddish-brown pillars and black cables, making it a striking sight against the green mountains. From the bridge, you can gaze down at the picturesque Cold Water Pit Valley and admire the surrounding lush scenery. This spot is also popular for wedding photos!

After crossing the bridge, a short walk will take you to the Cold Water Pit Ecological Pond, home to various aquatic species and rich biodiversity. The reflection of Qixing Mountain on the pond's surface adds to the serene beauty. Continuing along the trail leads to Qingtiangang( 擎天崗 ), an expansive grassland where you can stroll, relax, and even spot water buffalo up close—truly a rejuvenating experience.

Many couples choose the Jingshan Suspension Bridge and nearby spots for their wedding photos.

Yangmingshan National Park

Website: https://www.ymsnp.gov.tw/en/

A Taste of the American South

After soaking in Yangmingshan's stunning views, it's time to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea or a delicious dinner. The former US military quarters near Cultural University have been transformed into a vibrant dining destination. These quarters, once housing American troops and their families, now feature several unique restaurants and cafes, evoking the charm of a small American town.

The former US military quarters have transformed into a vibrant tourist dining area with various unique restaurants. These quarters, once housing American troops and their families, now feature several unique restaurants and cafes, evoking the charm of a small American town.

You’ll find a variety of dining options here, including French cuisine crafted by Le Cordon Bleu-trained chefs and family-friendly restaurants where you can dine with adorable alpacas . One of the largest establishments is the BRICKYARD 33 1/3 restaurant, formerly known as the Grass Mountain Youth Club for military personnel. The restaurant retains its red brick structure and rustic American country decor, with a beautiful outdoor garden and pond, making it a great spot for photos. The menu features a wide range of American dishes at reasonable prices, and there are times when free tours are available—definitely worth a visit!

The "US Military Club" restaurant features a charming red brick exterior. The restaurant embodies a rustic American country style, with spacious and comfortable dining areas. The restaurant offers a variety of American dishes at reasonable prices. The beautiful garden and pond are perfect for capturing memorable photos.

BRICKYARD 33 1/3 restaurant

Address:No. 49, Kaixuan Rd., Shilin Dist., Taipei City 111095, Taiwan

Opening Hours:11:00—20:00,10:30-20:30(Holidays)

Website: http://www.by33.com.tw/