Dazhukeng Ancient Trail Introduction
The Dazukeng Historic Trail was an early communication route from Houtong to Dazukeng and Jiufen. Dazukeng is a mining settlement with nearly a century of gold mining history. In the past, Jiufen was known as "Little Shanghai," while Dazukeng was referred to as "Little America." At its peak, there were about 3,000 residents living here, and a branch of Houtong Elementary School was established to facilitate the education of children in Dazukeng. However, now that the prosperity has faded, both the school and the settlement have become ruins. The Dazukeng Historic Trail, after several renovations, mainly features granite stone steps. It can be accessed from Houtong Station via Houtong Shrine, the Old Houtong Elementary School, the entrance of the Jinzibai Trail, and the Shengfu Mine. Alternatively, one can enter from the Jiufen side at Ching Hsien Junior High School. It is also convenient to drive to the entrance at the 19K mark on Provincial Highway 102 and take a footbridge directly to the settlement ruins. Visitors can explore the hometown of renowned writer and director Wu Nien-jen and filming locations for movies like "Duo Sang" and "Dust of Angel." The trail offers stunning mountain and sea views of mining towns like Houtong, Jiufen, and Jinguashi. For those wanting more adventure, options include continuing along the Jinzibai Trail, taking the Little Dazukeng Trail, and returning via the Dazukeng Mid-Mountain Trail, or accessing the Diaoshang Trail from the Shumei Viewing Platform to Muzha Station. This provides a variety of hiking combinations, allowing for an enriching experience whether one seeks mountain trekking, nostalgic mining town vibes, enjoying the scenery, or exploring historic paths.
