The Mingfeng Ancient Trail, which spans across Touwu and Shitan, was originally a mountain path used by the Saisiyat people for hunting. Later, as Huang Nanyiu led the Guangdong settlers to expand and cultivate Miaoli, the Saisiyat people moved deeper into the mountains, and the ancient trail became a major route for the exchange of goods between the residents of Touwu's Mingfeng Village and Shitan's Xindian Village. The trail had fallen into disrepair and was overgrown with weeds after the construction of County Road 22, but after the efforts of the residents to restore it, it has become a popular hiking spot today.
Regardless of whether you start from Shitan's Yi Min Temple or Touwu's Yun Dong Gong, you can hike into the Mingfeng Ancient Trail. If you start from Yun Dong Gong, the downhill section will be longer. If you choose Shitan's Yi Min Temple as the starting point, it is recommended that you visit the temple first, which not only enshrines the pioneers who sacrificed their lives during the development of the area in the Tongzhi period but also preserves historical materials from that time.
From the back of Yi Min Temple, cross the new store stream suspension bridge made of red steel cables, and you can see the signpost of the Mingfeng Ancient Trail. Walking up the stone steps, under the dense foliage, you will pass through a mix of camphor trees, bamboo forests, Chinese parasol trees, and Tung trees. During the 4th or 5th month, the tung flowers bloom, and the white flowers that fall to the ground add a romantic touch to the scenery. As you walk, butterflies flutter around, and the sounds of birdsong fill the air, making you feel cooler.
As the slope becomes steeper, you will pass through a yuzi garden and a citrus garden. Walking on the old stone steps and following the stream, you will cross two wooden bridges and arrive at the quiet Lover's Valley. The valley is lined with green trees, and large rocks are scattered on the west side, making the scenery beautiful.
Continuing on the Mingfeng Ancient Trail, a stone-paved path with a slope of 30-40 degrees comes into view. Along the way, large trees block the sun, and birds chirp. As you walk around a bend, you will see an elegant wooden pavilion where travelers can rest. After passing the pavilion, you will see a large group of camphor trees and Chinese parasol trees. A century-old Chinese parasol tree stands quietly.
Not long after passing the century-old Chinese parasol tree, you will reach the highest point of the Mingfeng Ancient Trail. From this vantage point, you can look out over the layered mountains. There is also a pavilion for rest. Following the stairs down, you will arrive at the other entrance to the ancient trail, Yun Dong Gong. Yun Dong Gong is a popular tourist destination with incense and exquisitely carved architecture. It provides lodging, meals, and park areas for tourists and has developed into the Mingfeng Mountain Recreational Area, which is also an excellent spot to observe Miaoli.