Matcha Mountain, situated in Yilan County in northeastern Taiwan, is officially named Mt. Sanjiaolun (1,029 meters), originally an obscure peak.
The mountain gained popularity when a Japanese photographer captured and shared a photo on Instagram, dubbing it the "Taiwanese matcha ice cream mountain." Resembling the vibrant color of Japanese matcha tea, the mountain is now widely recognized as Matcha Mountain in Taiwan.
What sets this trail and hiking destination apart is its unique religious significance. Legend has it that the Virgin Mary appeared here in the early 20th century. At the trail's outset, a distinctive Catholic church stands, and a Christian hut lies below the mountain's peak.
This is no easy hike; it's a challenging ascent. Covering 5 kilometers to reach the trailhead, hikers then face a 1.6-kilometer stretch of stairs and slopes, a test even for the seasoned. The Yilan region's frequent rainfall makes the trail slippery. However, the breathtaking panoramic views from the observation platform make the effort worthwhile, offering glimpses of the surrounding area and, on clear days, even the distant Pacific Ocean.
