Tiao Tan Old Trail Introduction
In the mountainous area at the boundary between Sanyi Township and Tongxiao Township in Miaoli, there is an ancient path flanked by dense trees that shade the sky. The trail, paved with large cobblestones, emanates a sense of antiquity and nostalgia, deeply immersed in nature. Walking along it, one feels a cool breeze and hears the rustle of leaves, blending with the harmonious chorus of cicadas and birds, lifting the spirits as the landscape opens up before one's eyes. During the season of Tung flower blooming in April and May, this area transforms into a picturesque world covered in white snow, with delicate and pure white Tung flowers blossoming atop trees, dancing in the wind, and blanketing the ground, creating a dreamlike scene. Indeed, this is the changing beauty of the "Tiao Tan Ancient Path." Now, let us explore this enchanting green tunnel together! The Tiao Tan Ancient Path is located in Shuanghu Village of Sanyi Township, also known as the current "Santongling Ancient Path." It served as an important communication route between Tongxiao Township and Sanyi Township in earlier times. The ancient path spans 5 kilometers, connecting the Fuxing mountainous area of Tongxiao to Santongling, then proceeding from Sanyi Dakeng and Shikeng to Sanyi Railway Station. Along the way, one can observe well-preserved acacia forests, camphor trees, cedar trees, Tung trees, and native tree species, creating a beautiful forest environment with fresh air that provides a refreshing forest bath along the winding ancient trail. Upon reaching Santongling along the ancient path, visitors will find an expansive platform with excellent views. The scenery around is vividly visible, including the Taiwan Strait, Tongxiao Power Plant, and Tiezhu Mountain. Here, one can take a short break, stretch in the breeze and take a few deep breaths, enjoying the vast landscape coupled with a leisurely mood—there’s nothing more enjoyable than this! Due to the fact that the Tiao Tan Ancient Path is one of the areas with the most Tung trees in Sanyi, every April and May when the Tung flowers are in full bloom, the path dons another elegant spring attire. Stepping carefully on the simple cobblestone steps while admiring the waves of white Tung flowers amidst the sea of green creates a completely different experience. It is highly recommended that everyone take time to walk and hike along the ancient path, which not only benefits physical and mental health but also allows one to appreciate the different beautiful scenery of the Tiao Tan Ancient Path throughout the seasons! Visitors who have already explored the "Tiao Tan Ancient Path" will surely be impressed by the sculpture of a "Tiao Fu," a charcoal carrier wearing a bamboo hat, short pants, and bearing a smile, located at the entrance of the Dakeng Ancient Path on Miaoli County Road 48. Those preparing to explore the ancient path should take the time to appreciate this artwork, as it conveys the origin and spirit of the Tiao Tan Ancient Path. About 150 years ago, residents of the Fuxing area in Tongxiao opened up stone step paths through the rugged mountains to buy daily necessities and agricultural products in Sanyi. During the Japanese colonial period, the acacia tree charcoal industry thrived in the mountainous areas of Tongxiao and Sanyi, leading to the establishment of many charcoal kilns in the hills. The resulting charcoal was carried along this path to Sanyi Railway Station for transport, with countless carriers treading this "Tiao Tan Ancient Path," witnessing the prosperous history of Miaoli's charcoal industry and leaving behind the indelible imprint of the hard work and determination of their predecessors.
