Mingfeng Old Trail Introduction
The Mingfeng Historic Trail, which stretches across Touhu and Shitan, was originally a mountain path used by the Saisiyat people for hunting. Later, under the leadership of Huang Nanqiu, Cantonese settlers expanded cultivation in Miaoli, prompting the Saisiyat people to migrate deeper into the mountains. Consequently, the trail became an important transportation route for goods between residents of Mingfeng Village in Touhu Township and Xindian Village in Shitan Township. The trail became overgrown following the opening of County Road 22, but thanks to the efforts of local residents, it has become a popular destination for hiking today. Visitors can access the Mingfeng Historic Trail from either the Yimin Temple in Shitan Township or the Yundong Palace in Touhu Township. The descent from Yundong Palace involves a steeper section compared to that from the Yimin Temple. If you choose to start from the Yimin Temple, it is advisable to visit the temple first. The temple honors the ancestors who sacrificed during the Qing Dynasty’s Tongzhi period and dedicates offerings to Huang Nanqiu, preserving historical records of the early settlement. From behind the Yimin Temple, crossing the Honggangsi suspension bridge over the Xindian Creek, you will see the sign for the Mingfeng Historic Trail. Following the stone steps, you will gradually ascend under the dense foliage, encountering camphor trees, bamboo groves, and Acacia trees mixed with Paulownia, especially beautiful during the flowering season of the oil trees in April and May. The white petals that fall to the ground, combined with the dancing butterflies and occasional bird songs, create a romantic atmosphere that alleviates the summer heat. As the slope steepens, you will pass through grapefruit and citrus orchards before stepping onto old stone steps, walking beside the creek. After crossing two wooden bridges, you will soon arrive at the tranquil Lover's Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and large rocks on the west side, showcasing beautiful scenery. Continuing along the Mingfeng Historic Trail, you will encounter a stone path with a slope of 30 to 40 degrees, shaded by towering trees and filled with singing birds. At a bend in the path, an elegant wooden pavilion appears, providing a resting spot for travelers. Passing the pavilion, you will continue through expansive groves of camphor and Acacia trees, with the hundred-year-old Acacia trees standing silently. Shortly after passing the century-old Acacia trees, you will reach the peak of the Mingfeng Historic Trail. Due to its higher elevation, it offers a great vantage point for overlooking the rolling mountains, and there is a pavilion for resting. Descending along the steps brings you to another entrance of the historic trail, the Yundong Palace. The Yundong Palace is bustling with worshippers, and its intricately carved architecture is worth admiring. The palace also provides accommodation and dining options for visitors, along with a park for exploration, making it a developed recreational area at Mingfeng Mountain, which also serves as an excellent vantage point for overlooking Miaoli.
