Xianjiyan: Rock of the Deity’s Footprint

Xianjiyan, or the Rock of Deity’s Footprint, is a a wooded mountain that offers impressive views, lush trails, rich biodiversity, and numerous legends.

Officially known as Mt. Jingmei (or Mt. Xizikou), the hill is named after a peculiar rock resting on a wooden platform near its summit. The rock features a dent said to be the footprint of Lü Dongbin—one of the Eight Immortals in Taoist mythology. Numerous legends surround this footprint. One story recounts that Lü Dongbin descended to subdue a toad monster terrorizing locals in the nearby Gongguan area. In his battle, Lü’s strength left an imprint on the rock, while the subdued monster became what is now known as Toad Mountain. Another tale suggests that Lü Dongbin, pursuing the immortal He Xiangu, was pushed back to the human realm and landed first on Toad Mountain before stepping over to Xianjiyan, leaving his divine footprint behind.

Just below the rock sits Xianjiyan Temple, dedicated to Lü Dongbin and featuring a host of other deities from Taiwan’s folk religion. The temple provides water, restrooms, and a shaded respite with a panoramic view of the south side of Taipei City. In certain areas of the trail, the iconic Taipei 101 is visible through the forest canopy.