Shoushan (Kaohsiung)
Mountain and nature park in Gushan, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Shoushan (Chinese: 壽山), also known as Chaishan (柴山) and in English as Monkey Mountain, is a coastal limestone hill in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Rising to 356 m above sea level, it forms the western skyline of the city beside Kaohsiung Harbor and the Taiwan Strait. The mountain is noted for its population of endemic Formosan rock macaques and for its extensive trail network, making it one of Kaohsiung’s principal urban natural areas.
| Shoushan | |
|---|---|
| Chaishan; Monkey Mountain | |
Shoushan rising above Sizihwan and National Sun Yat-sen University | |
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 356 m (1,168 ft) |
| Coordinates | 22°38′19″N 120°15′54″E |
| Geography | |
 | |
| Location | Gushan District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan |
| Geology | |
| Rock age | Pleistocene (coral reef deposits) |
| Mountain type | Uplifted coral limestone hill |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hiking trails |
Historically known by several names, including “Ape Hill” (a 17th-century Dutch description) and “Snake Hill” (蛇山) for its northern sector, the southern ridge was renamed Shoushan (“Longevity Mountain”) during the Japanese period (1911–1915) in honour of Crown Prince Hirohito. Today, the area is protected within Shoushan National Nature Park, a designated nature reserve established to conserve its ecology and cultural landscape.[1]
History
Archaeological finds indicate human activity in the Shoushan area dating back approximately 4,000–5,000 years.[2] During the periods of Qing rule and subsequent Japanese rule (1895–1945), the mountain’s strategic position overlooking the harbour led to the construction of coastal defences and military facilities.
Following the post-war period, Shoushan was gradually opened for recreation. It was later incorporated into Shoushan National Nature Park, reflecting increased emphasis on conservation and public access.[1]
Historical landmarks
- The Former British Consulate at Takao (1865) served as a diplomatic and trading outpost during the treaty port era and is now preserved as a cultural heritage site.[3]
- Sizihwan, at the southern base of the mountain, is a scenic coastal area known for beaches and sunset views.
- National Sun Yat-sen University was re-established at Sizihwan in 1980 and occupies part of the mountain’s foothills.
Geography
Shoushan extends approximately 5.5 km north–south and 2.5 km east–west, covering about 485 hectares.[4] It forms a continuous ridge between Zuoying District in the north and Sizihwan in the south, acting as a natural barrier between the urban area and the coast.
Climate
The mountain has a tropical climate, with a mean annual temperature of about 25 °C. Average temperatures range from approximately 19 °C in winter to 29 °C in summer, and annual precipitation is around 1,700–1,800 mm, with a wet season typically from June to August.
Geology
Shoushan is composed primarily of uplifted limestone derived from ancient coral reef formations. The rock mass consists of consolidated coral, shells, and marine algae. Subsequent tectonic uplift and coastal erosion have produced cliffs, fissures, and karst features, including caves with stalactite formations.[5]
Caves
Numerous caves occur within the mountain and its foothills. Several are seasonally open to visitors (typically November to April), although entry requires a permit issued by park authorities due to conservation concerns.[6]
Ecology
Shoushan supports a high level of biodiversity despite its proximity to a major city and its classification as largely secondary forest. More than 800 plant species have been recorded.[7]
Flora
Common plant species include:
- Dendrocnide meyeniana, known for causing skin irritation
- Paper mulberry
- Banyan
Fauna
Recorded fauna include 5 species of amphibians, 24 reptile species, 106 bird species, and 8 species of mammal.[8]
Notable species include:
- Formosan rock macaque (endemic)
- Masked palm civet
- Black-throated laughingthrush
- Troides aeacus (golden birdwing)
Recreation
Shoushan is a major recreational area for Kaohsiung residents, with an extensive network of hiking trails and boardwalks. Popular viewpoints offer views of the Taiwan Strait and the city skyline. Informal tea stations along certain trails provide rest points for hikers.
The macaque population is a key attraction, though visitors are advised not to feed the animals due to safety and conservation concerns.
Access
Primary access points include entrances near the Shou Shan Zoo and National Sun Yat-sen University. Additional trailheads are located along Gushan Road, including near Yuanheng Temple, Kaohsiung Municipal Gushan Senior High School, and Longquan Temple.
