Galaxy Cave Hiking Trail Introduction
In New Taipei City's Xindian, the Galaxy Cave has become a popular Instagram hotspot, with its most unique feature being a small temple dedicated to Guanyin, embedded in the mountain wall. Alongside a waterfall cascading down from above and surrounded by lush greenery, it creates an ethereal, fairy-tale scene, making it a dream destination for travelers. Exploring the Galaxy Cave, located upstream of the Meiziliao River, features a cavern formed by recessed mountain walls. Visitors can enjoy the view of the waterfall and ferns from the observation deck of the Guanyin temple, or take a moment to rest on the stone tables and benches, savoring the tranquil forest atmosphere. Additionally, travelers are encouraged to pass through the small temple to reach the Lu Dongbin Temple located behind it, where they can get up close to the waterfall and feel the refreshing mist. The origin of this Lu Dongbin Temple is said to be connected to the footprint of Lu Dongbin on a rock above the waterfall, paired with a footprint on the nearby Jingmei Fairy Trail, which inspired the construction of the temple, adding a mystical legendary touch to the forest paradise. Transportation Tip: Visitors can take a bus to "Galaxy Cave Station" or "Zhongsheng Bridge Station" and then walk 10 minutes to reach the trailhead of the Galaxy Cave Ridge Trail. Hiking up the trail will take about 30 minutes to reach the Galaxy Cave wonderland. If fitness permits, one can also hike from the Galaxy Cave Ridge Trail to the Maokong Gondola Station to enrich the day's itinerary!
