Yuan Mountain Trail Introduction
Yuan Mountain is located adjacent to the west side of the Sanxia Old Street. The mountain is named for its resemblance to a soaring bird of prey. Yuan Mountain stands in a commanding position, gazing across at Yingge Stone on the northern bank of the Dahan River. When traveling along National Freeway No. 3, the two mountain peaks flanking the road appear like gateposts into New Taipei City. According to local folklore, the army of Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong) once encountered two mysterious birds here, and Zheng Chenggong ordered his troops to attack them with a long cannon. After the two creatures were shot down, they transformed into today's Yingge Stone and Yuan Mountain. Towering above the alluvial plain south of the Dahan River, Yuan Mountain offers excellent views and is a popular hiking destination in Sanxia. The Peace Bell stands on Yuan Mountain, a copper bell erected in 1985, initiated by then Sanxia Township Mayor Chang Hsiu-feng, which gathered the community's support to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration. It was the largest copper bell in the country at that time, symbolizing humanity's lofty ideals in the pursuit of peace and has significant historical relevance. The Yuan Mountain Trail is moderately difficult, suitable for people of all ages, and features several charming spots along the way, such as the Changchun Garden Firefly Path and the Yuan Mountain Color Wall. The trails are lined with tung trees, making it an excellent place for hiking and exploration. At an elevation of 291 meters, Yuan Mountain serves as a garden for Sanxia residents to relax and exercise, featuring pavilions and lush greenery. On weekends, it attracts many visitors. Arriving at Yuan Mountain at dusk offers a panoramic view of the Dahan River alluvial plain, allowing one to admire the countless lights of Sanxia, Yingge, and Bade. After nightfall, the lights along National Freeway No. 3 twinkle like stars on the ground, creating a breathtaking scene; on clear nights, one can even see the skyline of Taipei City more than ten kilometers away, increasingly beautiful as night falls.
