Jingqi Ancient Canal Introduction
Located in the Shilin District of Taipei City, the Quexi Stream (菁礐溪) is approximately 2.1 kilometers long, with a drainage area of 450 hectares. The stream has abundant water flow, clear water quality, and diverse ecology, and it runs through four villages in the Shilin District: Jingshan, Pingding, Gongguan, and Xishan, serving as the water source for the area. The section of Quexi Stream from Quexi Bridge to Zhugaoling Bridge features pleasant riverside scenery and rich ecological diversity, making it a favored destination for stream hiking enthusiasts. The Quexi Stream's steep flow path and rapid current often lead to soil erosion during heavy rains. To ensure both safety and ecological conservation in the watershed, the Taipei City Government's Public Works Department has implemented a comprehensive management plan for the catchment area, allocating funds for phased improvements. Huang Tianjin, the chief of the Landslide Prevention Division, stated that the Quexi Stream adopts a porous masonry construction method, with hydrophilic facilities established along the banks to maintain natural ecological balance. This area has become quite popular among stream hikers seeking to experience the environment firsthand. The Public Works Department emphasized that the principle of the Quexi Stream improvement is to follow the natural stream topography, installing waterside platforms, trails, and bed stabilization works conducive to habitat for wildlife. Large rocks have been placed in high drop areas of the stream to dissipate energy. Additionally, settling ponds have been set up in flatter sections of the stream, serving both flood prevention and hydrophilic functions. It was noted that the improvement extends in four sections from the upstream area near the Happy Farm to downstream tributaries. Near the Happy Farm, natural methods were used to create fish ladders to facilitate fish migration and rehabilitation. Along the creek by the Futian Garden Farm, hydrophilic platforms and trails have been constructed in conjunction with local ecology, while using near-natural stabilization and bank protection techniques allows for an aesthetically pleasing environment and clear water quality. In recent years, this has increasingly attracted stream hikers. Moving downstream near Qingqi Bridge, there are hydrophilic trails where visitors can sit on the ground and dip their feet in the cool stream, listening to the soothing sounds of flowing water—a truly peaceful experience. The Public Works Department highlighted that the tributary of the Quexi Stream downstream has been improved over approximately 280 meters, with cherry blossom trees planted along the route to create a recreational space. Each winter, the cherry blossoms bloom magnificently, providing a poetic atmosphere for those walking beside the stream. The Public Works Department recommends that the diverse scenery of Quexi Stream, surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and lush greenery, is perfect for stream hiking on sunny days. Ascending along the Quexi Stream not only allows one to enjoy the clear water and beautiful riverside landscape but also places you in an environment rich in birds and native plants, where dragonflies and damselflies can be seen, and schools of fish such as groupers, guppies, and bitterlings can be admired. Notably, the stretch between Quexi Bridge and Zhugaoling Bridge has become a hidden gem for group stream hiker activities. Source: Taipei City Government Public Works Department
