Zhangshan Temple Introduction
Zhangshan Temple, built in 1931, has a simple and stable appearance, dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva. According to legend, in the early years of the Republic of China, a resident living near Zhanghu accidentally discovered a stone statue resembling Guanyin. He devotedly worshipped it, and as his prayers proved effective, the number of believers increased. Consequently, the believers invested in building the temple, which underwent several renovations to attain its current appearance. The temple is situated on a high point, and the spacious square in front offers an excellent vantage point to overlook the greater Taipei area. There are three hiking trails nearby, making it the most famous temple in the Muzha tea district, often bustling with hikers and worshippers on weekends. Aside from Zhinan Temple, Zhangshan Temple is the most well-known temple in the Erge Mountain range, featuring outstanding views of the Taipei Basin that frequently attract hiking enthusiasts. The nearby tea plantations enrich the experience for tea-tasting visitors, establishing it as an important recreational site. From Zhangshan Temple, three trails radiate outward to other recreational spots: the Feilong Mountain Trail (leading to National Chengchi University's Huanshan Road), the Zhangshan Temple to Zhinan Elementary School section, and the Jiuchian Temple Trail. The endpoints of all three trails are located at the Zhangshan Temple square. Feilong Trail is characterized by a continuous stretch of rocks along the path, resembling a dinosaur’s spine from a distance, hence its name. The trail system connecting to Zhinan Elementary School (No. 2, Lane 34, Section 3, Zhinan Road) passes through Tieguanyin tea gardens, leaving visitors enveloped in the aroma of tea upon completing the trail. The Jiuchian Temple Trail is steeper, but there is a centuries-old banyan tree in front of Fude Temple along the way, with intricate roots forming peculiar tree tumors, creating a unique sight.
