Mingfeng Historic Trail Introduction
The Mingfeng Ancient Path, which spans across Touhu and Shitan, was originally a trail used by the Seediq people for hunting. Later, due to Huang Nanqiu leading the Cantonese immigrants to cultivate Miaoli, the Seediq people migrated deeper into the mountains, and the ancient path became a vital route for residents of Mingfeng Village in Touhu and Xindian Village in Shitan to transport goods. It once became overgrown due to the opening of County Road 22, but after efforts from the residents to maintain it, it has become a popular hiking destination today. Visitors can access the Mingfeng Ancient Path by hiking from either the Yimin Temple in Shitan or the Yundong Palace in Touhu. Starting from Yundong Palace, the downhill sections are more numerous compared to Yimin Temple. If you choose to start from the Yimin Temple, it’s recommended to visit the temple first, as it not only honors the ancestors who sacrificed during the Qing Tongzhi period but also houses historical materials related to the cultivation efforts, including a tribute to "Huang Mantoujia" from Huang Nanqiu. From behind the Yimin Temple, crossing the Xindian River Suspension Bridge along the Honggang Trail, you will find the sign for the Mingfeng Ancient Path. Treading on the stone steps, slowly ascending under the dense foliage, you will encounter camphor trees, bamboo groves, acacia trees, and mixed forests of Paulownia. During the 4th and 5th lunar months, the oilseed flowers bloom, and the white petals falling to the ground add a touch of romance, while butterflies flutter about and birds chirp, alleviating the summer heat. As the slope becomes steeper, passing through grapefruit and citrus orchards and stepping onto old stone steps while walking along the creek, you will find the serene Lover's Valley ahead, with lush trees and magnificent stones scattered on the west side, creating a beautiful scenery. Continuing along the Mingfeng Ancient Path, you will see a stone path with slopes of 30-40 degrees, shaded by large trees and filled with bird songs. At a bend in the path, an elegant wooden pavilion appears, providing a resting spot for travelers. After passing the pavilion, you will walk through vast areas of camphor and acacia trees, with centennial acacia trees standing silently. Soon after passing the centennial acacia trees, you will reach the summit of the Mingfeng Ancient Path, which offers a great viewpoint for gazing at the layered mountains and features a pavilion for resting. Descending the steps, you will arrive at another entrance of the ancient path, Yundong Palace. Yundong Palace is bustling with activity and its exquisitely carved architecture is worth careful admiration. It provides accommodations and meals for worshippers and has developed into a recreational area for Mingfeng Mountain, which is also an excellent spot for overlooking Miaoli.
