Shih-liu Liao Leisure Agricultural Zone Introduction
The "Shih Chien Leisure Farm" in Emei Township, Hsinchu County is located within the Lion's Head Mountain National Scenic Area. Surrounding it are the Maple Forest Trail, parking lots, a bicycle road around the lake, and a forest bath health trail. The owner, Mr. Huang, initially engaged in manufacturing, has been managing the leisure farm following his father's work in agricultural marketing groups. After returning home for six years and gaining experience, he shifted the operation towards leisure agriculture by the end of 2001, transitioning from mass production to now focusing on refined agriculture, cultivating a diverse range of crops in smaller quantities. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy various fruit and vegetable picking experiences, making it a unique leisure activity that serves as an excellent retreat for urban dwellers. Shih Chien is named after the twelfth camphor oil distillation site during the Japanese colonial period. The area has about 40 businesses and around 10 bicycle rental shops, with a total of around 800 to 900 bicycles available. Cyclists can navigate through ponds, reservoirs, suspension bridges, and trails, making it a prime choice for cycling enthusiasts due to its rich geography and landscape. Along the banks of Emei Lake, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the mountains and lake, along with well-planned bike routes. Travelers to Shih Chien are advised to visit the Shih Chien Mountain Trail first, where they can encounter various insects, butterflies, and birds in the morning, offering a chance for an ecological journey; this gently sloping and well-maintained leisure trail is suitable for travelers of all ages.
