Tiao Tan Historical Trail Introduction
In the mountainous area at the border of Sanyi Township and Tongxiao Township in Miaoli, there is an ancient trail surrounded by dense forests and greenery. The broad pebble-paved pathway exudes a hint of antiquity, evoking nostalgia and an abundance of nature. Walking along it, one can feel the cool breeze, hear the rustle of leaves, and listen to the symphony of cicadas and birds, lifting the mood as the views become more expansive and pleasant. In the season of Tung blossom from April to May, this place transforms into a beautiful world covered in white snow, with delicate white Tung flowers blooming on the treetops, dancing in the wind, and carpeting the ground. Don't doubt it, this is the charm of the "Tiau-tan Ancient Trail" throughout the seasons. Now, let us explore this enchanting green tunnel together! The Tiau-tan Ancient Trail is located in Shuanghu Village of Sanyi Township, which is also known as the "Santong Ridge Ancient Trail" today. It served as an important route connecting Tongxiao Township and Sanyi Township in the past. The trail spans 5 kilometers, starting from Fuxing Mountain in Tongxiao, reaching Santong Ridge, and then passing through Dakeng and Shikeng to Sanyi Railway Station. Along the way, you will find well-preserved Acacia forests, camphor trees, nanzhu trees, Tung trees, and local native species, creating beautiful forest landscapes with fresh air. Walking this winding ancient trail in the mountains is like indulging in a forest bath filled with phytoncides. Upon reaching Santong Ridge along the ancient trail, visitors will encounter a spacious platform with excellent views. Here, the scenery is clear and visible—Taiwan Strait, Tongxiao Power Plant, Ti-drill Mountain, and more are right before your eyes. Taking a moment to rest, stretching against the wind, and taking a few deep breaths, the vast beauty combined with a relaxed mood is truly enjoyable! Since the Tiau-tan Ancient Trail is also one of the areas with the most Tung trees in Sanyi, every April and May when the Tung flowers are in full bloom, the ancient trail adorns itself in a new beautiful spring attire. Walking step by step on the rustic pebble steps while admiring the waves of white Tung flowers in the green sea offers a distinctly different experience. We recommend everyone to come walk and hike on the ancient trail, as it not only benefits physical and mental health but also allows you to enjoy the different beautiful sceneries of the Tiau-tan Ancient Trail throughout the seasons! Those who have visited the "Tiau-tan Ancient Trail" will undoubtedly have an impression of the "Carriers' Sculpture" located at the entrance of the Dakeng Ancient Trail of Miaoli County, depicting a smiling carrier wearing a hat, shorts, and carrying charcoal. This artistic piece conveys the origin and spirit of the Tiau-tan Ancient Trail. About 150 years ago, residents of the Fuxing area in Tongxiao opened a stone step path through the rugged mountains to trade for daily necessities and agricultural products in Sanyi. During the Japanese occupation period, the charcoal industry thrived in the mountains of Tongxiao and Sanyi, leading to many charcoal kilns. The charcoal produced was carried along this path to Sanyi Railway Station for transportation, and countless carriers trod this "Tiau-tan Ancient Trail," witnessing the prosperous history of the charcoal industry in Miaoli while leaving behind a legacy of hard work and perseverance from the ancestors.
