Zhaiming Temple Ancient Trail Introduction
Zhai Ming Temple, now one of the twelve designated historic sites in Taoyuan, is located adjacent to an ancient path built around 1923, which serves as a crucial route for worshippers visiting the temple. This path is one of the three major ancient roads in the Hexi area (the other two being Yucheng Road Ancient Path and Panlongqi Ancient Path). The stone materials used for the flagstone path were sourced from the Dahan River, and it was constructed by craftsmen hired by Mr. Jiang Lian-Zhi (Buddhist name Puhai), the fourth-generation grandson of the temple's founder, Mr. Li A-Jia. Walking up the densely packed stone steps allows one to imagine the pilgrimage scene of worshippers once having to cross the river by boat before kneeling and making their way to Zhai Ming Temple, providing a profound sense of cultural immersion. Where the ancient path meets Taoyuan County Route 64, a silent archway stands with the inscription: "By day and night, the stream's sound seeks the shore; the traces of the black robes embrace the virtuous gate," as if a hundred years of history has paused in this spot. The tranquil forest path, with towering ancient trees and murmuring streams, refresh the heart. From a high vantage point, while the historical sight known as "Kanjin Returning Sails," one of the Eight Sights of Daxi, is no longer visible, the nostalgia remains strong. Walking along this century-old ancient path offers a unique perspective to reminisce about Daxi's splendor, making the journey quite engaging in the exploration of history.
