Zhangshan Temple Introduction
Zhangshan Temple, built in 1931, has a simple and sturdy exterior. Inside the temple, Guanyin Bodhisattva is enshrined. According to legend, in the early years of the Republic of China, a resident living near Zhanghu accidentally discovered a stone statue resembling Guanyin. They sincerely offered it and, due to the efficacy of their prayers, the number of devotees increased significantly, leading to the construction of the temple funded by the believers. After several renovations, it has taken on its current appearance. The temple is situated in a high location, and the spacious square in front offers a great viewpoint of the Greater Taipei area. There are three hiking trails nearby, and on holidays, the trails are bustling with hikers and worshippers, making it the most famous temple in the Muzha tea area. Apart from Zhinan Temple, Zhangshan Temple is the most renowned temple in the Erge Mountain range. The temple site provides excellent views, with the entire Taipei basin in sight, frequently attracting hiking enthusiasts who stop to gaze at the scenery. The surrounding tea gardens are plentiful, and tea tasting tourists are continuous, establishing it as an important recreational site for the public. From Zhangshan Temple as a central point, three trails radiate out to other recreational spots, including the Feilongshan Trail (leading to National Chengchi University’s Huanshan Road), the Zhangshan Temple to Zhinan Elementary School segment, and the Jiuchian Temple Trail, all starting and ending at Zhangshan Temple Square. The Feilong Trail is characterized by its continuous stretch of stones along the middle of the path, resembling a dinosaur’s spine from a distance, hence the name. The trail system connecting to Zhinan Elementary School (No. 2, Lane 34, Section 3, Zhinan Road) is lined with Tieguanyin tea plantations, and after walking the trail, one is enveloped in the fragrance of tea. The Jiuchian Temple Trail is steeper; however, there is a centuries-old banyan tree in front of Fude Temple along the way, with intertwining roots forming peculiar tree knots.
