Qingtiankeng System - Pingding Ancient Aqueduct Trail Introduction
Pingding is the old name of Shilin District's Pingdeng Village, where two ancient aqueducts are named after it: the Pingding Ancient Aqueduct and the Pingding New Aqueduct. Both aqueducts are over 150 years old and serve irrigation, drinking water, and water transport functions, still relying on them as a source of livelihood for the residents of Pingdeng Village. The Pingding Ancient Aqueduct Trail begins at Lane 95, Pingjing Street in Pingdeng Village, with a trail that features slopes covered in moss. The first landmark is the Qingfeng Pavilion, where a printing station is located, after which the entrance to the ancient aqueduct is just a short distance away. At the waterway entrance, there is a striking red inscription identifying the Pingding Ancient Aqueduct, accompanied by a brief history of its excavation. The trail runs parallel to the aqueduct, ending at a stone cave at the water channel's terminus, where the water ecosystem and environment captivate mountain hikers with its charm. The ecological landscape along the Pingding Ancient Aqueduct Trail is situated at an altitude of approximately 300 to 500 meters within Shilin District's Pingdeng Village, characterized by a north-south gradient of elevation. The Neizhuang Creek and Neiliao Creek pass through the area, with mountainous hills and streams nurturing a rich diversity of plant life, primarily including Alocasia, Red Nanmu, Sapindus, Wind Vine, and various species of bamboo. The aquatic life is also diverse, featuring numerous insects and reptiles, allowing hikers to experience the surprises of nature along the trail. Ewei Mountain stands at an elevation of 523 meters, located between Qigu Mountain and Zhugao Mountain, and is also known as "Wutai Mountain." Its gentle slopes are covered with various species of miscanthus and trees, offering a serene view. From Pingdeng Village, it appears as a cluster of small earthen mounds, with a flat and rounded summit. When mountain mist rolls in, a dreamy and ethereal scene emerges. Hikers can take the small bus number 18 and disembark at the Jiaokeng or Jiaokeng Bridge stops, then head north on the road next to Lane 181, Section 3, Shanshan Road, and ascend via the trail adjacent to No. 15, Alley 20, Lane 371. Have you ever explored the water while trekking along the old aqueduct? Today, follow the stream to the upper reaches of Neizhuang Creek, where rumors of crystal-clear waters and an accompanying century-old aqueduct have everyone eagerly looking forward to discovering this picturesque paradise. Entering the uphill path lined with bamboo, vibrant green moss blankets the stone steps and the old trees alongside, while the sporadic green-covered street lamps add a charming touch. This tranquil green tunnel feels like a time warp, perhaps guiding us back to the "Pingding" of a hundred years ago. Pingdeng Village's old name is "Pingding," thus the two ancient aqueducts are named Pingding Ancient Aqueduct and Pingding New Aqueduct, both over 150 years old. The ancient aqueduct fulfills transportation, irrigation, and drinking water needs and remains a vital water source for the villagers. After turning left at the fork, follow the downhill path to the moss-covered and historically rich Taozai Bridge; the ancient aqueduct is not far away. Filled with enthusiasm, one might first meander down the creek to play in the water, as the following path is relatively flat and easy, allowing for a fun diversion before resting at the pavilion next to the bridge. The first sight that catches the eye is the flowing Denfeng Aqueduct, the newest among the aqueducts, still yielding abundant water as it channels not only the Neizhuang Creek but also the streams and water sources from nearby mines along the way, providing an inexhaustible supply of water. Next is the slightly "senior" new aqueduct, with the final section of the trail running alongside it, leading to the terminal stone cave of the water channel, where the red inscription reading “Pingding Ancient Aqueduct” awaits. As you explore the ancient aqueduct, surprises in the ecosystem abound. The thick forest and abundant water environment support various aquatic wildlife, including stream shrimp, crabs, small fish, and crowds of tadpoles. The dense forest also nurtures myriad colorful insects and reptiles, such as the largest dragonfly species in Taiwan—the Giant Hawker—rarely seen in flatlands but often found near the aqueduct. Additionally, species like the Blue Dash, Frosty White, and beautiful damselflies thrive around the ancient aqueduct. The presence of butterflies is also common, with the Snake-eyed Butterfly preferring dark areas, while Swallowtail and Monarch butterflies are often seen in sunlit spots. While walking along the trail, keep an eye on the ground, where you might encounter adorable ladybugs, walking sticks, or stag beetles. On clear days, look up, and you might catch a glimpse of the Black Eagle or Taiwan Blue Magpie soaring overhead, alongside other conservation-status animals such as the Black-crowned Night Heron, Taipei Tree Frog, Brown Tree Frog, Green Bamboo Snake, various dragonflies, and fireflies that choose to reside here. Many nocturnal creatures may be hidden during the day, but keen observation may lead to delightful discoveries, such as the pavilion near Taozai Bridge, where the stone tables are scattered with dark brown droppings, occasionally containing remains of beetles, mantises, and cicadas—truly a rare sight, evidence of the Taiwan Leaf-nosed Bat's nocturnal presence. Hence, when visiting the ancient aqueduct trail, open your eyes wide and relish the enchanting scenery that is full of surprises!
