Bantianyan Blessing Trail Introduction
The original recreational area of Bantian Rock was limited to the vicinity of Ziyun Temple and Shenglong Guanyin Square. In 2009, the Alishan National Scenic Area Administration connected the nearby farm roads and built pavilions and other facilities, turning 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 嘉124 on the east side. Starting from Shitou Gong Park, the first stop is at "Cai Cuo," a settlement formed by the Cai family. The rustic rural atmosphere feels like a return to the past. As you head deeper into the mountains along the farm road, persimmon and citrus trees display the beauty of the countryside. The rich and diverse low-elevation secondary forest along the way, including broad-leaved trees, sweetgum, and cedar from later afforestation, along with plants like iris and canna, showcase vibrant vitality, while the chirping of insects and singing of birds among the treetops and grass are full of energy. After navigating a few gentle turns, you arrive at "Luohan Square," where the eighteen arhats each portray their own unique postures and expressions, elaborating on their backgrounds and legends. Continuing forward, you can take a rest at a pavilion and viewing platform with a distant view of the plain, then descend via a wooden staircase to reach the other entrance, completing this hiking trail journey. Trail Length: Approximately 1,880 meters Walking Time: Approximately 120 minutes one way Challenge Level: Level 2 (Moderate) 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
