Mingfeng Ancient Trail Introduction
The Mingfeng Ancient Trail, spanning between Touhu and Shitan, was originally a mountain path used by the Saisiyat people for hunting. Later, following Huang Nanqiu's leadership in cultivating Miaoli with migrants from Guangdong, the Saisiyat migrated deeper into the mountains, making the ancient trail a key route for the residents of Mingfeng Village in Touhu Township and Xindian Village in Shitan Township. It became overgrown with weeds due to the opening of County Road 22, but after efforts from local residents to maintain it, it has become a popular hiking destination today. Visitors can access the Mingfeng Ancient Trail on foot from either the Yimin Temple in Shitan Township or the Yundong Palace in Touhu Township. The descent from Yundong Palace has more inclined sections compared to Yimin Temple. If starting from Yimin Temple, it is recommended to visit the temple first, which not only honors the ancestors who sacrificed during the Qing Dynasty but also venerates "Huang Mantou," preserving historical materials related to the cultivation of the area. From the back of Yimin Temple, after crossing the Xin Dian River suspension bridge via the red rope, the Mingfeng Ancient Trail sign can be seen. Following the stone steps, one ascends gradually under the dense canopy, with camphor trees, bamboo groves, and acacia trees mixed with tung trees. During the months of April and May, the tung blossoms bring romantic scenes as their white petals fall to the ground, accompanied by fluttering butterflies and the sounds of birds, making the heat dissipate. As the trail becomes steeper, visitors walk through grapefruit and orange orchards, stepping on old stone steps along the stream. After two wooden bridges, the serene Lover's Valley appears, surrounded by lush trees and giant rocks on the west side, creating a picturesque view. Continuing along the Mingfeng Ancient Trail, the stone path with a slope of 30 to 40 degrees comes into view, shaded by large trees with birds singing. At a bend in the path, an elegant wooden pavilion offers a resting place for travelers. Beyond the pavilion, one passes through a vast grove of camphor trees and acacia forests, where century-old acacia trees stand quietly. Shortly after passing the century-old acacia trees, you reach the peak of the Mingfeng Ancient Trail, which provides a great viewpoint for gazing out at the layered mountains. A pavilion is available for resting. Descending along the steps leads to another entrance of the ancient trail, Yundong Palace, which is thriving with incense offerings. Its intricately crafted architecture is worth appreciating in detail. Yundong Palace also offers accommodations, meals, and allows for park exploration, developing into a recreational area for Mingfeng Mountain and providing an excellent vantage point to overlook Miaoli.
