Guanyin Mountain and the Guanyin Mountain Scenic Area

Guanyin Mountain is an important landmark at the west side of Taipei City. It is located next to the Tamshui (Danshui) River and covers the area of Wugu and Bali Townships.

When seen from Tamshui (Danshui), the outline of Guanyin Mountain is like the Goddess of Mercy peacefully sleeping. This is how the mountain got its name.

At the top of Guanyin Mountain, visitors can overlook Taiwan Strait to the west, while the east side lies Guandu with the Tamshui (Danshui) River around the town. A famous landmark viewable from the top of Guanyin Mountain is the Guandu Bridge. It is the first continuous welded style steel bridge in Taiwan.

The climate of the Guanyin Mountain Scenic Area is wet and mild. The area has rich wild life, and is an important midway point for birds migrating in spring. It is home to twelve species of migratory birds and raptors, as well as three species of regular birds and raptors. Naturally, the area is ideal for bird watching.

Many temples are located around the Guanyin Mountain Scenic Area. Among them, Lingyun Temple has been one of the four holy grounds for Buddhism ever since Taiwan was occupied by Japan (1895-1945).

Perhaps the most prominent cultural spot around the Guanyin Mountain Scenic Area is the Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology. It contains valuable items found among the prehistorical ruins on the western slopes of Guanyin Mountain. Among all the ruins, the Daben Pit Cultural Ruin has been designated as a first level site.

A famous mineral found around the Guanyin Mountain Scenic Area is called the "Guanyin Mountain Stone". Because of its delicate quality, it is often used for architecture, landscape and sculpture purposes. The art of stone carving is widely featured in this area. A famous piece of art, called "Offsprings of Dragon", is located in the stone-carving park of the Tourist Service Center of Guanyin Mountain.