Bantianyan Blessing Trail Introduction
Bantian Rock originally had a recreational area limited to the surroundings of Ziyun Temple and Shenglong Guanyin Square. In 2009, the Alishan National Scenic Area Administration connected nearby farm roads and built pavilions and other facilities, transforming it into a hiking trail. The trail’s endpoints are at "Shitou Gong Park" on the west side and the intersection of County Road 159甲 and Township Road 嘉124 on the east side. Starting from Shitou Gong Park, you will first arrive at "Cai Cuo," a settlement formed by the Cai family. The simple rural atmosphere feels like a return to the past. Walking into the farm road that extends deep into the mountains, persimmon and citrus trees present beautiful rural scenery. The rich and diverse low-elevation secondary forest along the way, with broadleaf trees and later planted sweet gum, cedar, as well as flowering plants like the hairy flag iris and dragon boat flower, displays vibrant life, with the chirping of insects and birds in the treetops and grass bringing energy. After passing several gently rising bends, the eighteen arhats at "Luohan Square" each showcase different postures and expressions, illustrating their respective origins and legends. Continuing forward, take a short rest at a pavilion and observation platform with panoramic views of the plains, then follow the wooden steps down to reach the other entrance, completing this trail journey. Trail Length: approximately 1,880 meters Walking Time: about 120 minutes one way Challenge Level: Level 2 (Mild) Entrance A: Next to Shitou Gong Park GPS: 23°27'46.6"N 120°35'52.6"E Entrance B: Intersection of "159甲" and "嘉124" GPS: 23°27'35.9"N 120°36'15.2"E
