Canguangliao Ancient Trail Introduction
Canguangliao Mountain is adjacent to the famous Jin Gua Shi Scenic Area, standing at an elevation of 739 meters, making it the highest peak in the Keelung volcanic group. The lush miscanthus grass is a characteristic feature of the mountainous region, and every autumn, the mountains are covered in silver miscanthus flowers that shine brilliantly in the sunlight. It is said that this is the origin of the name "Canguangliao." The summit of Canguangliao Mountain is unobstructed and there are no taller mountains surrounding it, allowing for a wide viewing radius of nearly 100 kilometers. The 360-degree panorama offers a view of Taipei City on one side and the Sandiao Cape Lighthouse along the Northeast Coast on the other. After Yilan was incorporated into the jurisdiction of Taiwan Prefecture in 1812, the Canguangliao Ancient Trail became an important official road to facilitate the increasing correspondence between Taipei and Yilan. The government also established military bases along the ancient road, indirectly promoting the development of the Canguangliao area. The tea trade of the late Qing Dynasty and gold mining during the Japanese colonial period further enhanced its prosperity. Today, despite the changes in people and the decline of its former glory, remnants of the ancient road still testify to its past splendor.
