Taoyuan Valley Introduction
The picturesque Taoyuan Valley, with its expansive grasslands stretching for several kilometers, resembles a serene paradise amidst the densely populated areas of Taiwan. Formerly known as Kuan Niou Tsai Mountain, this area was once a place for children to graze and play during agricultural off-seasons. In autumn and winter, the mountains are adorned with silver grass swaying in the mountain and sea breezes, creating a refreshing and beautiful pastoral scene. The valley, which is named after the legendary Peach Blossom Spring from Wuling, embodies tranquility and peace, allowing visitors to forget the hustle and bustle of city life, especially with a few households scattered around, where the smoke from cooking rises and the sounds of chickens and dogs can be heard. Taoyuan Valley is located at the junction of New Taipei and Yilan, forming the tail ridge of the Snow Mountain Range. Looking north towards New Taipei, the lush green grass and overlapping hills create a stunning landscape, while gazing east towards Yilan reveals the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Guishan Island, where mountains and sea intertwine in a poetic scene. There are three main hiking trails leading to Taoyuan Valley: the Neiliao Trail, which starts from Gongliao Terraced Fields and is the shortest and most accessible; the Daxi Trail, which begins on the Yilan coast and features a steeper ascent; and the Caoling Trail, which connects with the Caoling Ancient Trail. Each of these routes offers different scenic views, and upon reaching Taoyuan Valley, the wide-open fields inspire instant clarity and a sense of timelessness.
