Northeast Corner Caoling Historic Trail. Two-Day Tour of Zhujiao Shuangxi | Green Dining and Light Travel

The Caoling Historic Trail is the most popular and iconic hiking trail in the Northeast China National Scenic Area. The section runs from Yuanwangkeng in Gongliao District, New Taipei City, to the Dali Mountain area in Yilan County. It's named after its location on Caoling Mountain.

The owners of Pinglin Leisure Farm avoid using pesticides and herbicides, allowing nature to thrive undisturbed within the park. The rich flora and fauna create a breathtaking seasonal change, especially in summer when the fireflies appear in large numbers, creating a truly spectacular spectacle.

- Introduction to Hiking Spots on the Caoling Historic Trail -

▲ Danlan Centennial Trail
The "Dan" in Danlan refers to the Tamsui Hall during the Qing Dynasty, and the "Lan" refers to the Helan Hall. The Danlan Historic Trail was a key transportation route for ancient travelers traveling to and from the rainy lands, and it also holds a fascinating chapter in the history of northern Taiwan's land reclamation. It can be divided into the northern route, the "Official Road," the middle route, the "Minority Road," and the southern route, the "Tea Road." Although the ancient trail gradually declined due to the development of railways in northern Taiwan, many traces of the ancient people's lives can still be seen along the trail.

▲ Caoling Ancient Trail
The Caoling Ancient Trail is approximately 6.6 kilometers one way. During the Qing Dynasty, Liu Mingdeng, the Taiwan General, left two inscriptions along the trail. One is the "Heroic Suppressing Barbarian Smoke" Stele. Legend has it that he wrote this inscription to suppress the heavy fog he encountered while passing through this area. The other is the "Tiger Character Stele," a must-photograph landmark for tourists. Liu Mingdeng encountered a storm while passing through this area, and he wrote this inscription in cursive script, drawing on the meaning of "clouds follow the dragon, wind follows the tiger" from the Book of Changes. The two steles are approximately 1.5 kilometers apart and are both Class III national historical sites, making them extremely valuable.

From the viewing pavilion at the highest point of the ancient trail, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Northeast Coast and Guishan Island. At the pass, there's also a Fude Temple, dedicated to both the Earth God and Earth Goddess. After your hike, visit the Dali Tiangong Temple, built in 1836 and still thriving today, for a prayer.

▲ Shuangxi Street District
Shuangxi was once a hub for the Tamsui Trail and ancient river transport. From the Qing Dynasty to the early Republican era, Dingshuangxi served as a crucial gateway along the Tamsui Trail. Thanks to the Shuangxi River's convenient water and land transportation, bulk cargo, such as mined coal, could be transported downstream to Jiushe by small boats. From there, large sailboats could be used to ship goods to various locations, returning home with daily necessities. When in Shuangxi, a must-see is Chang'an Old Street. From century-old Chinese medicine shops, ferry boats, and bamboo poems, the blend of old shops and new offerings evokes a sense of the glory of the past.

▲ Footnote: Shuangxi Studio

Jian Shuhui's plans for the Tamlane Historic Trail, promoting local customs and Shuangxi Green Tourism, have gained widespread acclaim. She is actively implementing two initiatives to promote agricultural development. "The centuries-old wisdom of self-sufficiency in the Shuangxi mountain villages must not be forgotten." She supports dedicated local farmers and small shops, showcasing and selling high-quality Shuangxi yams, shiitake mushrooms, non-toxic enzymes, dried lemons, honey, and other agricultural specialties.

▲ Old Caoling Tunnel

The 2,167-meter-long "Old Caoling Tunnel" once ran from Fulong to Shicheng. The slightly tarnished red brick arch tells a story of history. Above the north entrance of the tunnel stands a plaque inscribed with the words "Control the Dangers of Nature," signifying the treacherous terrain. The plaque at the south entrance, inscribed with the words "White Clouds Flying Place," has weathered the ravages of time, yet the blackened stone still bears the vibrant handwriting of its time.

Shuangxi Pinglin Leisure Farm

Shuangxi Pinglin Leisure Farm is located in Shuangxi District, New Taipei City, in the northeastern corner of Taiwan. It's close to famous attractions like Pingxi, Fulong, and Jiufen. Summer is especially spectacular with the sheer number of fireflies! Through hands-on activities and up-close observation, visitors can appreciate the beauty of the countryside and nature, cultivating a love for nature and a care for the earth.