Shih Chiao Leisure Agricultural Area Introduction
The "Shih-er Liao Leisure Farm" in Emei Township, Hsinchu County is located within the Shitoushan National Scenic Area. Surrounding the farm are the Maple Forest Trail, parking facilities, a lakeside bike path, and a health trail rich in phytoncides. The farm's owner, Mr. Huang, initially worked in manufacturing before transitioning to leisure agriculture six years ago, following his father's footsteps in the agricultural production and marketing class. Since the end of 2001, he has shifted the farm's focus from mass production to refined agriculture, cultivating a diverse range of crops in small quantities to meet visitors’ desires for seasonal fruit and vegetable picking. This unique agricultural tourism offers a fresh experience for urban dwellers and serves as an excellent destination for group leisure activities. The name "Shih-er Liao" comes from the 12th camphor oil distillation plant during the Japanese colonial period. The area boasts around 40 businesses and about ten bike rental shops, with a total of approximately 800 to 900 bicycles available. Cyclists can navigate through ponds, reservoirs, suspension bridges, and paths, making it an excellent choice for biking enthusiasts. The scenic routes along the Emei Lakeside provide endless vistas of mountains and lakes, alongside well-planned bike paths. Travelers visiting Shih-er Liao are advised to first explore the Shih-er Liao Hiking Trail, which in the morning offers a chance to see various insects, butterflies, and birds, embarking on an ecological journey. This gentle and well-maintained leisure trail is suitable for travelers of all ages.
