Hsinchu Xiakaluo Historic Trail (Yangyang Section) Autumn Maple Viewing 1-Day Tour

December to January is the peak season for golden maple foliage viewing, and the Hsinchu Xiakaluo Historic Trail is a prime destination for this spectacular experience. Many areas are bathed in a dreamy sea of fiery red and orange maple leaves, complemented by picturesque suspension bridges and mountain streams lined with bamboo forests. A stroll through these trails allows you to return to the beautiful and pristine embrace of nature, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of life. Along the trail, you'll also see the remains of Japanese settlements built during the Japanese colonial era to subjugate the tribes of Jianshi and Wufeng, as well as utility poles, rocky forts, monuments, earthen walls, and artillery batteries, offering a glimpse into the history and culture.

- Attraction Introduction | Hsinchu Xiakaluo Historic Trail (Yangyang Section) Autumn Autumn Autumn Viewing One-Day Tour -

▲ Xiakaluo Historic Trail (Yangyang Section)
The Xiakaluo Historic Trail's "Yangyang Section" runs from the Yangyang trailhead to the ruins of the Ma'an settlement. The trail offers a gentle slope and scenic views, including breathtaking suspension bridges and mountain streams. Notable sights include the Mengzong Bamboo Forest and the Liquidambar Forest. The hiking route runs from the Yanglao trailhead to the Ma'an Station and then back to the Yanglao trailhead, passing the Suyuan Station along the way. The total round trip is approximately 11 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours.

▲ Hexing Station
Hexing Station was originally used to transport limestone to the Taiwan Cement Zhudong Plant. After it ceased operations in 2000, the Taiwan Railways withdrew its staff and switched to a "board first, buy later" fare-collecting system. This station is also the only "return station" in Taiwan. However, the station was overgrown with weeds and desolate. When the Taiwan Railways planned to demolish the station, a couple resolutely appeared and signed over the station. It turned out that the couple had met on a train, fell in love, and married. Unable to bear the thought of seeing the station, which was filled with so many memories, demolished, they decided to adopt and preserve it. This is why Hexing Station has earned the nickname "Love Train Station."

Yulao Observation Deck

The Yulao Observation Deck, located approximately 1,450 meters above sea level, is nestled between the front and back mountains of Jianshi Township. From the deck, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains. To the east, they can gaze upon the majestic Yufeng Village, with lush green mountains in the distance. To the west, the vast Naluo Valley stretches across the horizon. On clear days, views of Zhudong and Hengshan are also visible.