Yucheng Road Ancient Trail Introduction
The Yucheng Road Old Trail is one of the three major ancient paths in the western area of the Daxi River (the other two being the Zhaiming Temple Old Trail and the Panlong Cape Old Trail). The term "Yucheng" suggests that it was once visited by royalty. This ancient path, built in 1788, was originally a route for local residents to trade with Hsinchu and Longtan. In 1923, following the visit of the Crown Prince, local gentry raised funds to reconstruct it into the stone-paved road we see today. The entrance to the old trail is located at the back gate of the National Defense University at Chengjing Mountain, where a Yucheng Road monument is erected, listing the names of the donors. The Yucheng Road Old Trail is also known as the "No. 9 Cape Old Trail," originating from the ninth culvert of the Taoyuan Irrigation Canal located here. The Taoyuan Irrigation Canal was built from 1916 to 1928, designed by engineers such as Zhang Lingji and Baishi Chengfu. During the construction, which faced numerous challenges, as many as 55 workers lost their lives. The "Offering Tower" on the old trail bears the names of the deceased and details the history of the canal's excavation. Next to the tower, one can see the water diversion tunnel of the Taoyuan Irrigation Canal, and looking down, the rushing water evokes great admiration for those who worked on this largest hydraulic engineering project in northern Taiwan. In front of the tower, there is an information board about the Taoyuan Irrigation Canal, summarizing its origins, process, and engineering overview. In addition to its historical significance, the Yucheng Road Old Trail is also a well-known tung blossom trail in Taoyuan. Every year in April and May, the "May Snow" falls on the stone path, adding a touch of romance. The old trail has a gentle slope and features pavilions for visitors to rest while enjoying a hike amidst the blue sky, lush forests, and the beautiful tung blossoms.
