Xiucai Mountain Trail Introduction
For travelers who are not accustomed to hiking, the gentle slopes and the easy experience of enjoying the view at Xiucai Mountain Trail make it a must-visit destination. The trail, at an elevation of less than 400 meters, offers a variety of scenery along the way, including tea plantations, bald cypress forests, agricultural landscapes, and the opportunity to observe up to 50 species of birds. You may even encounter conservation-listed birds like the greater eagle-owl and the crested serpent eagle, enriching the journey with abundant natural ecology and adding much enjoyment. To reach the trail, turn left at the entrance of the China Motors plant on Xiucai Road in Yangmei and follow the signs toward Tiande Hall. You can connect to the "Ferns Shadow Trail," also known as the "Yangmei Ladder," and ascend the 495 stone steps to reach the "Green Energy Platform," which leads to the summit of Daping Mountain! With the gentle mountain breeze, you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire Yangmei and Xinpu districts, as well as the Chungshan Freeway. On clear days, you might even catch a distant glimpse of Guanyin Sea, providing a refreshing experience that banishes fatigue from the climb. From there, continue west to Xiucai Pavilion, where you can see an introduction to the local history known as "Xiucai Nest." The "Story Corridor" beside the pavilion features multiple "Xiucai Short Stories," adding a cultural flavor to your hiking adventure. The two-story Xiucai Pavilion is another prime observation spot, especially when the silver grass blooms across the fields, creating a heavenly atmosphere. After that, you will pass through the Woodland Platform, the Woodland Station, and the Shady Platform, before returning to Xiucai Road. The route extending east from the Green Energy Platform consists of sections through tea gardens, agricultural fields, and along the water. Each section showcases local features like teapots, scholar cakes, and Xiucai dolls, making for great photo opportunities to mark your visit! Along the way, you can see lush tea trees, bald cypresses turning red in winter, and ducks leisurely swimming in the ponds, showcasing the rural scenery nearby. The cherry blossom grove near Yangmei Zhaomen Road also adds a delightful view for springtime walks.
