Ergeshan Mountain Range_Xianjiyan Nature Trail Introduction
Xianji Rock is located in the Jingmei area, also known as Xizikou Mountain. The surrounding scenery is excellent, and it is said that Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals, once left his footprints here, making Xianji Rock famous and often attracting curious visitors hoping to witness divine traces. This place is also the best location for local residents to engage in hiking. Like Qixing Mountain, Xianji Rock has a first-class satellite control point. Starting from the archway at Lane 243, Jingxing Road, one ascends 78 steps of the Longevity Ladder and then climbs 100 steps up the Immortal Slope. After reaching the lush green trail, a variety of green vegetation can be observed along the way, and from the large stone at the top of Xianji Rock, the health trail and Xianyan Temple provide a distant view of the Taipei Basin's street scenery, creating a peaceful and pleasant atmosphere. The mountain is not high; its charm lies in its beauty. Xianji Rock, located in the Jingmei area, is informally named "Jingmei Mountain" and also has a nickname "Xizikou Mountain" because it is situated near the mouth of the Jingmei River where it flows into the Xindian River. Although its elevation is only 144 meters, the views are excellent, and despite its small size, it has a first-class satellite control point just like Qixing Mountain. With a broad perspective and convenient nearby transportation, one can also find triangulation points used for mapping the terrain near the mountain's summit, including a second-class triangulation point benchmark. Xianji Rock is not only a friendly "back garden" for the local residents; it is ideal for a family hike. Though the initial climb of the 78-step Longevity Ladder requires some effort, the cool mountain breeze from the dense surrounding forest quickly alleviates the fatigue of the ascent. The following path is easy to travel, with several pavilions along the way to rest or enjoy the view. Following the new small bird-shaped signs, one can leisurely complete the entire trail. The ecological signs designed by the Homemakers' Association accompany one throughout the journey, adding to the experience. By following the signs, you can explore the local ecological features and natural environment during the trip. The geology of Xianji Rock and the serious degradation of nearby sloped land can also be glimpsed along the way, enriching the enjoyable trail journey with a touch of knowledge. Unbeknownst to them, common ecological educational knowledge deeply imprints on the minds of visiting children, becoming a rich treasure of childhood memories. Spring, summer, autumn, and winter offer various fun and enjoyment, making this the best outdoor observation classroom for natural ecology. With the changing seasons, the fascinating flora and fauna will surely make your visit worthwhile. The ecological environment of Xianji Rock is complete and independent. In February, the snow-white mandala flowers and crimson mountain cherry blossoms can be seen. The unique downward-facing mandala flowers contain toxins and are typical "do not touch" flowers; the mountain cherry blossoms bloom in winter and produce tender leaves and fruit in spring, often attracting birds and insects during late winter and early spring. After spring, creatures like the flat-headed beetle, weevil, and spotted longhorn beetle frequently emerge; the common Taiwanese Scincid lizard can also be seen alongside the trail. In April and May, the "May snow," or oil tree flowers, dance in the wind, making it easy to spot the vibrant red-shouldered butterfly among the clusters of blossoms. From May onward, the sour vine, which loves basking in the sun atop tree crowns, blooms with pink flowers, giving the trees a pastel exterior; the sea of golden wattle flowers also adds a splash of color to early summer hills. In June, the white-flowered waxy flower blooms, and the fruit-bearing trees are the mountain longan and celtis; the wild oil tree flowers along the trail attract many butterflies, longhorn beetles, and gold beetles, creating an excellent opportunity to observe numerous insects at close range for a year. The artificially cultivated hedges in front of the Xianyan Temple, filled with plants like balsam and hibiscus, always attract a considerable number of butterflies. Up to thirty different species of butterflies are commonly seen at Xianji Rock, creating a lively atmosphere; the singing green-backed tit and white-eyed warbler join in, along with occasional sightings of white-crowned forktail and mountain redhead birds in the woods. The red-bellied squirrel, at its reproductive peak, also adds to nature's symphony. In November, the maple leaves turn red, signaling the arrival of late autumn. Perhaps the rich vitality of Xianji Rock begins to recuperate, but the stunning view continues to draw considerable crowds. Some say the best time to visit Xianji Rock is at dusk; after watching the colorful sunset, the brilliant Taipei city nightscape unfolds before your eyes. This small mountain by the Jingmei River is truly remarkable, embodying the perfect notion of "small but complete," and it is no wonder it attracts so many visitors on weekends.
