Zhangshan Temple Introduction
Built in 1931, Zhangshan Temple has a simple and solemn appearance, housing a statue of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Legend has it that in the early years of the Republic of China, a resident living near Zhanghu accidentally discovered a stone statue resembling Guanyin. Out of sincerity, they began to venerate it, and as miracles occurred from their prayers, the number of devotees grew. Consequently, they invested in building a temple, which underwent multiple renovations to achieve its current form. The temple is situated at a high elevation, and the spacious plaza in front offers an excellent vantage point overlooking the Greater Taipei area. There are three hiking trails nearby, making it a popular spot for hikers and worshippers, and it is the most famous temple in the Muzha tea district. Apart from Zhinan Temple, Zhangshan Temple is renowned within the Erge Mountain Range, with exceptional views of the Taipei Basin that frequently attract hikers to pause and enjoy the scenery. The area is dotted with tea plantations, making it a significant recreation hub for tea-tasting visitors. Zhangshan Temple serves as the focal point from which three trails radiate, leading to other recreational spots: the Feilong Mountain Trail (towards National Chengchi University), the Zhinan Elementary School section of Zhangshan Temple, and the Jiuchian Temple Trail. Each of these trails starts and ends at the Zhangshan Temple plaza. The Feilong Trail is characterized by a continuous series of stones throughout the path that, from a distance, resemble the spine of a dinosaur, hence the name. The trail system connecting Zhinan Elementary School (No. 9-2, Alley 34, Section 3, Zhinan Road) runs through Tieguanyin tea gardens, and after completing the trail, one is enveloped in the fragrance of tea. The Jiuchian Temple Trail is steeper, but along the way, there is an ancient banyan tree in front of Fude Temple, with gnarled roots forming unique tree tumors, creating a striking sight.
