Dacun Valley Old Trail Introduction
The Dacukeng Historic Trail was an early communication route connecting Houtong to Dacukeng and Jiufen. Dacukeng is a mining settlement with nearly a century of gold mining history. In the past, Jiufen was nicknamed "Little Shanghai," while Dacukeng was known as "Little America." At its peak, it had a population of three thousand people and established Houtong Elementary School Daxian Branch to facilitate the education of Dacukeng residents' children. Today, after the decline of its prosperity, the school buildings and settlement have become historical remains. The Dacukeng Historic Trail, having undergone multiple renovations, mainly features granite stone steps. It can be accessed from Houtong Station via Houtong Shrine, Old Houtong Elementary School, the entrance of the Jinzibei Historic Trail, and the Shengfukeng Mine. It can also be entered from the end of Qinxian Junior High School in Jiufen. Furthermore, visitors can drive to the entrance at 19K on Highway 102, reaching the settlement ruins via the bridge ladder, making transportation quite convenient. Not only can one explore the hometown of famous writer and director Wu Nien-jen and filming locations for movies like "Mister Donkey" and "Courage," but one can also enjoy the mountain and sea scenery of mining towns such as Houtong, Jiufen, and Jinguashi. For those wanting more, there are various walking routes to combine, including the Jinzibei Historic Trail, the Xiaocukeng Historic Trail, the Dacukeng Mid-slope Historic Trail back to the starting point, or from the Shumei Viewing Platform connecting to the Diaoshan Historic Trail to Mudan Station. Whether it's hiking, reminiscing about mining towns, enjoying the mountain landscapes, or seeking the charm of old trails, there are infinite feelings and satisfactions to be gained from the experience.
