Tao Rice Path Introduction
The character "糶" (tiào) in "糶米古道" means "to sell grain." "糶米" translates to "selling rice." During the Daoguang period of the Qing dynasty, farmers in the Sanjiangli area decided to create this mountain path to save time and energy instead of taking the long flat roads. This small path, consisting of a total of 500 stone steps, enabled the quick transportation of rice from Nangang, Muzha, Shenkeng, and Jingmei areas, thereby increasing trade. Due to the presence of a rice-selling temple along the ancient path, it was named "糶米古道," but it is also known as the "挑米古道" because the steep stairs were where people would often take breaks while carrying rice. To express gratitude to the Earth God for a smooth journey, they would leave a bowl of rice during their rest. Over time, the locals built a simple stone temple in honor of the Earth God, which underwent several renovations and became the current "糶米公廟." Nearby, there is a "德興煤礦坑口" (Dexing Coal Mine Entrance), which began operations around 1897 and reached its peak between the 35th to 37th years of the Republic of China. Eventually, the coal veins were depleted, and the Songshan coal became extinct, leaving the mine entrance for tourists to visit. In the 100th year of the Republic of China, the stone steps of the 糶米古道 were renovated, and arched bridges, wooden walkways, and interpretive signs for the ancient path were established, resulting in the present appearance that everyone sees today.
