Taichung Tourism

I. Activity Schedule:

The certification program follows a inter year system, meaning there is no deadline—participants may begin the challenge at any time and continue accumulating completed climbs. However, please note that completion rewards may vary annually based on that year’s event planning.

Shortcut Catalog

III.    Important Reminders:

• Friendly reminder: Please ensure your safety while climbing the trail before using your phone to collect badges.
• If the Fun in Taichung app does not show the Hiking Promotion Zone, please update the app.  iPhone version download link and Android version download link
• The Guguan Seven Heroes certification is currently limited to a maximum of 10 ascents per participant. For hikers who have already completed all tenth ascent and wish to continue tracking their ascents, please use the GPS check-in method to earn badges. Do not use the Photo Review option beyond the tenth ascent.
• Any attempt to cheat or manipulate badge collection will result in account suspension and disqualification after review by the Certification Committee.
• Before your hike, please make sure to download and learn how to use offline maps to ensure accurate navigation and avoid getting lost. The Fun in Taichung app includes built-in maps for both the Guguan Seven Heroes and Hiking Trail Missions. When checking maps, always be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking while looking at your phone.

IV. Discover the Beauty of Taichung – Visitor Incentive Program

With its diverse natural and urban landscapes—mountains, coastlines, tun foothills, and vibrant city life—Taichung captivates travelers from around the world. To encourage visitors to stay overnight and experience the city in depth, the Taichung City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau offers incentives to licensed domestic travel agencies that design “2-day, 1-night itineraries focused on Heping District”. We warmly welcome travelers to experience the unique charm of Taichung!

※This program is open only to travel agencies officially approved by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications.

※A subsidy of NT$1,000 per person will be granted based on group headcount. Limited to 200 participants total; the program will close once the quota is reached.

Fun in Taichung Event Page：Click for Program Details

V. Mountaineering course

📣 Limited spots available, register online until fully booked

▍Mountaineering Safety lecture：https://reurl.cc/yAgNAy

▍One-Day Mountaineering Practice Course：https://reurl.cc/Nx6dYm

VI. Hiking Market

Information：https://reurl.cc/mYD3KG

VII. Industry Alliance Offers:

sNug 給足呵護

Store information：https://www.facebook.com/supersocks.supersocks

📣The main branch in Taichung has moved! The new address is "B1, No. 760, Zhongming South Road, South District, Taichung City".

Guguan Hot spring discount

神木谷假期大飯店 Utopia Holiday Hotel

Store information：http://www.utopia-holiday.com.tw/

谷關溫泉飯店 KU KUAN HOT-SPRING HOTEL

Store information：https://www.kukuan.com.tw/index.aspx

桃源戶外 Polarstar

Store information：https://www.facebook.com/polarstar.tw

PokéPoké · 波奇波奇

Store information：https://www.facebook.com/pokepoketw/?locale=zh_TW

屋馬燒肉 Umai Yakiniku

Store information：https://www.facebook.com/umai.tw/?locale=zh_TW

VIII.     Hiking Advisory Information

1. Pre-trip:

• "Guguan Seven Heroes" - The difficulty of climbing varies, with the shortest round trip taking about 4 hours and the longest requiring 9 to 10 hours. The terrain and landscape of the hiking trail are highly diverse. Before attempting the climb, individuals should assess their physical fitness and consider weather conditions, avoiding any forced climbs.
  Prior to the climb, it is crucial to be well-prepared with adequate equipment. It is recommended to prioritize lightweight and practical gear. Suggestions include bringing warm clothing, rain gear, water, snacks, maps, lighting devices, whistles, positioning and communication equipment (e.g., GPS, radio, mobile phone, satellite phone), and personal medication.
  Climbers are advised to start early to avoid reaching the summit late when visibility may be poor and the trail may be difficult to discern, leading to potential disorientation.
  Under no circumstances should climbers enter the mountain during an approaching typhoon or in the event of heavy rain or any other foreseeable weather changes.
• The “Huanshan Hunters’ Hiking Trail” is located in the Qalang Sqoyaw (Huanshan Tribe) of Heping District. As it is in a remote area, access requires passing through traffic control checkpoints at Wuling or Lishan. Hikers are strongly recommended to check road conditions in advance, allow ample travel time, and stay updated on seasonal traffic restrictions or weather changes to ensure a smooth and safe hiking experience.

2. During climbing:

The climbing group should not be too spread out and should maintain a responsive formation. Avoid climbing unmarked trails or creating new paths. Exercise caution when traversing dangerous and steep sections. Pay special attention while walking on crumbling walls and scree slopes to prevent falls. Plan the descent time carefully, especially as darkness falls quickly in the mountains.

3. Emergency Response Measures in the Event of a Mountain Accident:

In the event of an unexpected accident, it is important to remain calm and avoid panic. Immediately dial 119 or 112 on your mobile phone to request assistance, or use a satellite phone to seek help. You can also utilize the emergency rescue channel 145.00 on a two-way radio for distress signals. Provide the rescue team with your precise location coordinates by using your mobile phone or referencing your map.

If someone is injured or becomes ill, administer basic first aid such as simple bandaging, immobilization, and applying pressure to stop bleeding. In the case of altitude sickness, ly descend to a lower altitude and prioritize keeping the affected individual warm to prevent hypothermia.

In the event of becoming lost during the climbing activity or encountering sudden adverse weather conditions, seek a secure shelter to protect yourself. Establish appropriate markers or signs to help rescue teams locate your stranded position ly.

4. To mitigate the risks associated with mountain climbing, the Maritimen and Port Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), encourages individuals engaging in mountain activities to equip themselves with satellite communication devices to facilitate search and rescue operations in case of emergencies:

To further reduce the risks of mountain climbing, the Maritime and Port Bureau, MOTC, has established the "Radio Beacon Management Information System," which supports the use of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). Individuals involved in mountain activities are encouraged to utilize this system to send distress signals, notifying search and rescue units to initiate rescue operations.For more details, please visit the Maritime and Port Bureau, MOTC's official website.

IX.    Trail Introduction 

Baxian Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 6 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 1,337 meters
• Trail Type: Linear, Uni-directional
• Character Traits: Ranked first among the Guguan Seven Heroes, Baxian Mountain is symbolized by the coniferous forest atop its summit.

Originally planned to be named "8000 Mountain" due to its altitude of approximately 8,000 Japanese feet (2,366 meters), it was later given the more elegant name of "Baxian Mountain." It is the foremost peak among the Guguan Seven Heroes. The round trip hike takes about 8 hours, with the first half of the trail being steeper, followed by a gentler slope along the ridge. The entire trail is shaded by the forest, transitioning from evergreen broad-leaved forest to a mixed coniferous forest with distinct seasonal changes in scenery.

Malun Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 7 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 1,254 meters
• Trail Type: Linear, Uni-directional
• Character Traits: The Malun Mountain trail offers a wide and relaxing walk, providing a sense of ease.

Malun Mountain is an extension of BaiGu Mountain in the Snow Mountain Range. It is the second tallest peak among the Guguan Seven Heroes and a renowned intermediate-level mountain in central Taiwan. The section of the trail from 0K to 1.8K, as well as the branch leading to the Eight Mighty Warriors' sacred woods, used to be collectively known as the "Sihkeba Trail." It was once a hunting ground for the Atayal indigenous people and served as the wooden horse trail for the former Shinshan Forest. The path leading to Malun Mountain was initially constructed by the staff of the former Shinshan Branch to transport daily necessities. The Malun Mountain trail is adorned with Taiwan Red Pines, creating a soft and flexible pathway covered in pine needles and maple leaves. During autumn, the vibrant red leaves resemble a beautiful red carpet. When passing by the century-old Taiwan White Pine, one can enjoy the sound of pine waves crashing, accompanied by the refreshing scent of pine in the air. The trail features an observation platform that offers a splendid view of the Guguan area, showcasing the graceful curves of the surrounding mountains. It is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque trails in the Guguan region.

Wuwowei Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 6.7 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 119 meters
• Trail Type: Linear, Bi-directional
• Character Traits: Do you prefer the thrilling and exciting Liyang Route? Or the comfortable and charming Great Snowy Mountains Route? It's an angel, but also a little devil!

Wuwowei Mountain is situated on the north bank of Dajia Creek, ranking third among the Guguan Seven Heroes. The trail showcases a variety of environments, including rhododendron forests, dense windbreaks along the ridge, fir plantations, mixed needle and broadleaf forests, and heath oak forests. The forest floor is adorned with clusters of mushrooms on the moist fallen branches and leaf litter. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the trail's vantage points.

Pojinjia Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 3.2 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 958 meters
• Trail Type: Linear, Uni-directional
• Character Traits: Pojinjia Mountain is a must-visit for those who want to experience the best of Guguan Hot Spring.

The Pojinjia Trail is located on the north bank of Dajia Creek and is ranked fourth among the Guguan Seven Heroes. It was formerly used as a maintenance road for the Taipower transmission line, and you can still see old wooden poles and steel cables lying alongside the forest path. The name "Pojinjia" is said to have originated from the steepness of the trail, with many hikers describing it as "truly steep" (a pun in the Southern Min dialect). With a height difference of about 1,000 meters, the entire trail is predominantly uphill, and the round trip takes approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Dongmao Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 6.7 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 899 meters
• Trail Type: Linear, Uni-directional
• Character Traits: Zigzagging gently uphill, the longest and most beautiful footpath is on Dongmao Mountain.

Dongmao Mountain, with an elevation of 1,692 meters, ranks fifth among the Guguan Seven Heroes. It was originally a maintenance trail for Taipower. The route offers stunning scenery and diverse ecological resources. The trail ascends gradually in a zigzag pattern, providing a wide and easily navigable path, making it a mountain that is easily approachable. At the summit, there is a spacious area with large microwave reflectors. The panoramic view is breathtaking, offering a 360-degree view of the landscape. On a clear day, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Songhe tribe, as well as the mountain ranges of Yuanzui, Shaolai, Malun Mountain, Baxian Mountain Ridge, and Donmadang Mountain.

Baimao Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 2.3 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 609 meters
• Trail Type: Linear, Uni-directional
• Character Traits: A stunningly expansive overlook, the popular Bailu Suspension Bridge is located on Baimao Mountain.

Baimao Mountain is situated on the southern shore of Dajia Creek and is the sixth among the Guguan Seven Heroes. With a trig point height of approximately 1,522 meters, it offers a rare panoramic view among the Guguan Seven Heroes. Baimao Mountain is primarily covered by broad-leaved secondary forests, along with extensive areas of planted willow trees. The dense vegetation attracts a variety of large mammals and birds in search of food. The trail features several steep terrains. From the crumbling ground near the trig point, you can overlook Dajia Creek, Guguan Monastery, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Dongmao Mountain and Tonmadang Mountain. At the summit, there is a wooden pavilion where you can rest and relax.

Tonmadang Mountain

• Total Length of Trail: 5.4 kilometers
• Elevation Difference: 655 meters
• Trail Type: Circular Loop
• Character Traits: The only trail with a waterfall view, where friendly butterfly fairies welcome you!

The Tonmadang Mountain trail is located on the south bank of Dajia Creek and is the last of the Guguan Seven Heroes. Although it has the lowest elevation among the Guguan Seven Heroes, with a height difference of over 650 meters from the trailhead to the summit, it still offers a challenging route. The trailhead for Tonmadang Mountain is at the entrance of the Lilang tribe, and from the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Guguan Seven Heroes.
To the east, you can see Baxian Mountain and Malun Mountain, while to the west, there are Baimao Mountain and A-leng Mountain. Looking north, you can admire the distant views of Dongmao Mountain and Wuwowei Mountain. Along the way to the summit, there is a side trail that leads to the Butterfly Valley waterfall. Depending on your physical condition and available time, you can choose whether or not to visit this scenic spot. The Tonmadang Mountain trail is the only trail among the Guguan Seven Heroes that offers a waterfall view.

Xueshankeng Loop Trail

• Total Length: Approx. 2.4 km Phase I: About 400 meters (accessible); Phase II: About 1.2 kilometers (currently under construction)
• Elevation Difference: 89 meters
• Estimated Hiking Time: Around 1 hour
• Location: Heping District
• Trail Type: Loop trail
• Trail Highlight: Nestled deep in the mountains, the “Hands of Colossus” adds a touch of mystery to the forest journey.

Located in the Taoshan Indigenous Community, this trail winds through pristine natural forest and follows traditional Atayal tribal hunting paths. Constructed using eco-friendly methods like wooden boardwalks and log staircases, the trail connects rich ecological spots such as fern forests, beech woods, and Taiwan incense cedar groves.🌲 The trailhead is next to the popular photo spot “Hands of Colossus”, accompanied by an eye-catching and adorable leopard cat sculpture.

📢 Trail Tip: The second phase of the Xueshankeng Loop Trail is scheduled to be completed and opened to the public by the end of 2025. The first phase of the trail remains passable for hiking.🚧 Please do not enter any construction fence  areas for your safety!

Huanshan Hunters’ Hiking Trail

• Total Length: Approx. 2.5 km
• Elevation  Difference: 227 meters
• Estimated Hiking Time: Around 2.5 hours
• Location: Heping District
• Trail Type: Loop trail
• Trail Highlights: This trail follows the traditional hunting paths of the Atayal people, offering hikers a meaningful cultural experience as they walk.

Located in a mountainous area at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters, the trail is not only a favorite getaway for visitors, but also carries the rich heritage of the local Atayal tribe and plays an important role in their hopes for sustainable tourism development. Along the way, you’ll find recreation nodes inspired by Atayal traditions—such as semi-subterranean dwelling sites and a hunter’s archery arena—inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of the indigenous Atayal people. The Short Loop is 1.2 km long, making it ideal for all ages and perfect for a leisurely walk in nature. For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Long Loop spans 1.3 km with steeper inclines, ideal for experienced hikers.

IX.    Q&A

1. What are the Guguan Seven Heroes?

The Guguan Seven Heroes consist of Baxian Mountain, Malun Mountain, Wuwowei Mountain, Pojinjia Mountain, Dongmao Mountain, Baimao Mountain, and Tonmadang Mountain

2. Q:  What are the two newly added hiking trail missions this year?

A: The “Xueshankeng Loop Trail” and the “Huanshan Hunters’ Hiking Trail”, both designed as leisure-level trails, encouraging hikers of all ages to enjoy the forest.

3. Q: How can I participate in the “Let’s Hike! Taichung!” campaign?

A: Follow these steps:

(1) Download the Fun in Taichung app and log in via the “Hiking Promotion” section.

(2) Go to the “Climb the Guguan Seven Heroes” or “Hiking Trail Mission” pages and tap “Claim Badge” using GPS or the Photo Review feature to collect your virtual badges.

(3) After collecting all seven mountain badges, go to the “Achievement Badges” section, tap “Certificate Application,” and complete the required form and questionnaire. Once submitted, the system will automatically issue your digital Certificate of Completion.  By completing any one of the hiking trails, you may fill out the certificate application form and questionnaire, after which the system will automatically issue your digital Certificate of Completion.

(4) Complete any single mountain or any trail, or finish all Guguan Seven Heroes, and you can present your digital badge in the app to enjoy exclusive discounts from participating partner stores! For details, see Section 7: “Let’s Hike! Taichung!” Industry Alliance Offers, subject to each merchant’s official announcements.

4. Q: What is the duration of the event?

The certification program follows a inter year system, meaning there is no deadline—participants may begin the challenge at any time and continue accumulating completed climbs. However, please note that completion rewards may vary annually based on that year’s event planning.

5. Q: When can I receive the Certificate of Completion and commemorative badge?

Starting from 2024, only digital Certificates of Completion will be issued. After applying through the app, the system will proactively send the certificate to your registered email address. Be sure to provide an accurate and valid email to ensure successful delivery.
The commemorative badge will be mailed after your application is submitted, and processing may take up to one month.

6. If I have completed the Guguan Seven Heroes, but I don't have a smartphone, how can I participate in this event?

Please visit the Guguan Seven Heroes activity page on the Taichung Tourism website and download the Guguan Seven Heroes results record form provided at the bottom of the page (see attachment). Paste your photos onto this form as instructed. The photo requirements state that climbers should either GPS the date function on their mobile phone/camera or hold a handwritten time board while taking a photo with the stake at the summit elevation. After pasting the photo on the results sheet, please mail it to the following address: Rm. B, 2F., No.302, Wenxin S. 3rd Rd., Nantun Dist., Taichung City 408, Attention: Hiking Promotion Team(04-3707-7218). Once the staff have ed that the information is correct, your application for certificate will be considered complete.

7. If I want to climb specific mountains, can I apply partially online and partially on paper?

Please submit a single application. Online applications are recommended as a priority.

8. If I want to climb specific mountains, can I upload photos for some parts of my application and use GPS for other parts?

Yes, as long as you are within the range of the trig point setting, the badge will be automatically obtained through GPS application. If you are unable to obtain the badge automatically due to personal reasons, you can upload photos to apply for completing the Guguan Seven Heroes when you have internet access. All applications are done online through the app.

9. If I don't have internet access, can I still use GPS to complete the task?

Yes, GPS is a satellite positioning system, so you can collect virtual badges from the mountains even without internet access.

Note！ Please make sure to download the Fun in Taichung APP and complete the member login before you go, as you will need internet access to do so.

10. What should I do if I have turned on my GPS but still cannot collect the virtual badge for the mountain?

Please follow the steps displayed on the system and upload a photo of yourself with the stake at the summit to the designated area of the app. Once the photo is approved, the virtual badge for that mountain will be sent to you, ing your completion of the climb.

Photo requirements: Climbers should ensure that the date function on their mobile phone/camera is activated or hold a handwritten time board while taking a photo with the stake at the summit. Individual photos are preferred, but if a group photo is submitted, please indicate the individual who has completed the climb for easier review by the system. (Please refer to point 1, item 2 of these instructions for more details.)

11. Can climbs recorded in 2023 be carried over to the next year for climbers to continue completing the activities of Guguan Seven Heroes?

Yes, as long as the same account is used to log into the Fun in Taichung App, the results will be automatically carried over across the years.

12.  Q: I completed the Guguan Seven Heroes once before and applied for certification. If I complete it again in 2025, can I apply for a “first ascent” badge again?

A: No. Since the inter year system was adopted in 2022, if you completed first ascent by 2024 and continue in 2025, it will be automatically counted as your second ascent. First ascent badges will not be reissued.

13. Q: I didn’t apply for certification in 2021. Can I still apply this year?

A: No. Only participants who used the Fun in Taichung app in 2021 and logged an incomplete record are eligible for retroactive certification. If you did not use the app in 2021, any climbing photos from that year will not be accepted.

14. Q: Can I continue accumulating ascent if I’ve already completed more than 10 ascents “Guguan Seven Heroes” challenges?

The Guguan Seven Heroes certification is currently limited to a maximum of ten ascents per participant. For hikers who have already completed all tenth ascent and wish to continue tracking their ascents, please use the GPS check-in method to earn badges. Do not use the Photo Review option beyond the tenth ascent.

15. Q: Can I accumulate multiple ascent for the Hiking Trail Missions?

A: No. The new “Xueshankeng Loop Trail” and “Huanshan Hunters’  Hiking Trail” are one-time certification challenges. Completing each trail once is sufficient to earn a certificate—multiple ascents are not available. Currently, only the “Guguan Seven Heroes” offers multi-ascent challenges, including first, second, fifth, and tenth ascent certifications. You’re encouraged to continue taking on the challenge!