Taro Rice Ancient Trail Introduction
The "Tiao Mi" (糶米) Ancient Trail derives its name from the word "糶," pronounced "tiao," which means "to sell grains." "Tiao Mi" translates to "selling rice." During the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty, farmers in the Sanjangli area, in order to save transportation time and preserve their stamina, chose not to use the far flat roads and instead opened this mountain path. The trail features a total of 500 stone steps, allowing rice and grains from Nangang, Muzha, Shenkeng, and Jingmei to be transported quickly, thus enhancing trade. The path is called the "Tiao Mi Ancient Trail" because there is a Tiao Mi Temple along the trail, and it is also referred to as the "Tiao Mi Ancient Path." Due to the steepness of the steps, it is said that people carrying rice would often take a break here during their journey. To express gratitude to the Earth God for a smooth journey, they would leave a bowl of rice while resting. Over time, local residents built a simple stone temple to show respect to the Earth God, which was renovated several times and eventually became the current "Tiao Mi Temple." Nearby is the "Dexing Coal Mine Entrance," which began operations around 1897. The peak years were during the 35th to 37th years of the Republic era, but the coal veins eventually depleted, and the Songshan coal ceased to exist, leaving only the mine entrance for tourists to visit. In the 100th year of the Republic, the stone steps of the Tiao Mi Ancient Trail were repaved, and an arch bridge, wooden paths, and explanatory signs along the trail were established, resulting in the appearance we see today.
