Dajiaojiao Ancient Trail Introduction
Walking on the wooden steps of the Dajiao Qiong Ancient Trail, you see old stone steps covered in moss nearby. Can you imagine this place was once a bustling trade route? Before the Northern Cross-Island Highway was opened, the ancestors of the Bajie and Amuping regions had to take this mountain path to transport agricultural products to Daxi for sale. With the passage of time, the prosperous scenes of the past have faded into yellowed history. Today, the Dajiao Qiong Ancient Trail, rich in ecology, showcases different charms in every season, becoming the best leisure destination to enjoy phytoncides and appreciate the tung blossoms. Traveling from Taiwan Highway 7 to Dajiao Qiong Ancient Trail, you will pass through the Zhugao Cuo industrial road, where the uninhabited red brick old house quietly stands. Without much effort, you can continue straight, turn left at the Zhugao Cuo bus stop, and see the tranquil Head Liao Dap with its reflection of blue sky, white clouds, and green trees—a beautiful view inviting for visitors. The pond, divided in two, is also called New Fuzhun, with a prominent "floating island" that is the only water-based land deity temple in Taiwan. The land deity in the temple was relocated to Fuchang Temple during the construction of the pond, creating a remarkable sight. Continuing on, you will reach Dajiao Palace, and the ancient trail journey officially begins. Occasionally, you will come across stone walls covered in moss with inscriptions, conveying a sense of subtle Zen. Walking to the saddle, you can go right to Xizhou Mountain or left to Toudiao Mountain, Nanzi Stream Ancient Trail, Governor's Office Trail, and Bajie Lin Yin Trail. After a short rest at Xishi Pavilion, you can walk down the slope to Taiwan Route 51, which leads to the exit of the ancient trail. The Dajiao Qiong Ancient Trail is famous locally for its tung blossom path, with the May snow flowering and floating on the creek, each displaying romantic charm. As you walk deeper into the mountains, you can also enjoy seeing various butterflies like the purple butterfly and purple tiger butterfly dancing among the trees, their wings shimmering in the sunlight, captivating your attention and making you feel as though you are in a fairy tale—a beautiful memory of your journey on the Dajiao Qiong.
