Banshan Rock Prayer Trail Introduction
The original recreational area of Bantian Rock was 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 starts at "Shitou Gong Park" on the west side and ends at the intersection of County Road 159甲 and Township Road 124 on the east side. Starting from Shitou Gong Park, the first stop is "Cai Tsuo," a settlement formed by the Cai family. The simple rural atmosphere feels like a trip back in time. Entering the farm road that extends into the mountains, persimmon and citrus trees present a beautiful rural scene. The diverse low-elevation secondary forest along the way, including broadleaf trees and later afforestation of sweet gum and cedar, as well as interspersed plants like Iris confusa and Bougainvillea, display vibrant life. The lively sounds of insects and birds fill the treetops and grasslands. After a few gentle turns, "Luohan Square" showcases the Eighteen Arhats, each expressing different postures and stories. Continuing forward, there is a resting pavilion with a panoramic view of the plain, where one can take a break before descending the wooden stairs to reach the other entrance, completing this hiking journey. Trail Length: Approximately 1,880 meters Walking Time: About 120 minutes one way Difficulty Level: Level 2 (Intermediate) 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
