Shihsan Sand Water Park (Sandiao Water Park) Introduction
The Shihsan Cheng Eco-Park, also known as San Diao Waterside Park, is located on the high terrace of the middle reaches of the Mudding River in the Shuangxi District. Established by the local government in 2005, the park is surrounded by lush mountains and greenery, providing a refreshing atmosphere with clear blue skies, white clouds, and a gentle breeze. Inside the waterside park, the flowing creek and green grass coalesce with terraced farmland and scattered homes, creating a simple and elegant environment that's perfect for enjoying tranquility. The rich aquatic ecology of the park is complemented by nearby cold springs that maintain a constant temperature throughout the year, making it a popular spot for visitors looking to cool off during hot summer days. Under the policy of safeguarding fish and banning fishing, the Mudding River has nurtured a diverse range of aquatic plants and animals, including various fish species like Bitterling and Loach, as well as numerous damselflies resting on the rocks in the creek. The New Taipei City Tourism Department has improved the existing cobblestone paths with permeable pavement to provide an accessible environment, creating a recreational space that caters to both ecological preservation and all-age usage. Located 500 meters north of the Shihsan Cheng Eco-Park along the Dahan Ancient Road, visitors can reach the trailheads for the Diao Mountain Ancient Trail and the Can Guang Liao Ancient Trail. The Diao Mountain Ancient Trail is a vital route that early settlers used to travel between Jiufen and the Jinguashi area. Gold mines were discovered here in 1898, leading to a population surge of miners and making Mudding a bustling mining town for a time. Walking 600 meters south from the waterside park will lead you to the Jin Zi Bei Ancient Trail trailhead, where you can visit the monument left by General Liu Ming Deng, which leads all the way to the Houtong Railway Station.
