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Taoyuan's Green Miracle – A Light Journey to Houte Mountain Park
When mentioning popular recreational spots in Taoyuan, \"Houte Mountain Park\" is definitely on the list. Adjacent to urban areas yet offering forest-like vistas, it is hailed as \"Taoyuan's Back Garden.\" Covering 15 hectares, Houte Mountain Park is part of the Houte Mountain Scenic Designated Area, connecting landmarks like Sanfeng Hill, Martyrs' Shrine, and the Ecological Park. Its lush green landscapes and well-designed trails enable travelers to effortlessly enjoy the joy of hill climbing. The nine colored trails in the park showcase diverse features, such as香菇亭步道 (Shiitake Mushroom Pavilion Trail), 櫻花步道 (Cherry Blossom Trail), 生態解說步道 (Ecological Interpretive Trail), and 賞景健康步道 (Scenic Health Trail). Each route features a unique style, suitable for all age groups. The park employs low-impact development methods to preserve natural terrain, making hill climbing accessible and transforming it into a relaxing urban mini-trip.
Orchard Forest Academy: A Children's Paradise of Joy
Orchard Forest Academy provides special facilities such as mini tree houses and sky walkways, where children can joyfully explore and play without tiring. Elevated wooden walkways weave through tree canopies, protecting the environment while adding fun. Scenic spots within the park like the “Gugu House” (Gugugu House) and “Read Tree Room” have become popular photo backgrounds for families.
Ecological Interpretive Trail: Intellectual Walk in the Bamboo Garden
After passing the Ching-Kuo Plum Garden, travelers enter the tranquil bamboo forest area. Walking along the trail, rows of bamboo with various species and postures line both sides of the mountain path. Interpretive signboards along the way introduce plants and ecological environments. This trail is ideal for understanding Nature's ecology, as the shady forest remains cool and comfortable even under high temperatures.
Sanfeng Hill Observation Deck: A Sweeping View of the City
Starting from the Ching-Kuo Plum Garden, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Sanfeng Hill Observation Deck. Gazing down at the entire Taoyuan cityscape opens a vast, peaceful, and heart-soothing view. The platform features morning exercise slogans and fun illustrations, adding a retro charm to remember the rewarding climb.
Scenic Health Trail: Leisurely Downhill Exploration
The Scenic Health Trail from the observation deck downward has benches and shaded pavilions. Toilet facilities are available at the Sun Pavilion, and water dispensers are located at the slope. It offers the perfect spot to pause, rest, and enjoy scenery. Further down leads to Sancheng Road, ascending which connects to \"Minglun Sancheng Temple.\"
Situated at the foot of Houte Mountain, Taoyuan Minglun Sancheng Temple overlooks Houte Mountain Park, Nan坎 Creek, and the Martyrs' Shrine. Originally called Minglun Drying Institute, it enshrines the three holy lords – Lord Guan Sheng, Lord Lu Chunyang, and Lord Jiutian Siming. Later, in 1975, the temple moved to Houte Mountain and celebrated its establishment as Minglun Sancheng Temple with enshrined statues of the Three Holy Lords, Guanyin Bodhisattva, and the Celestial Mother. It was officially completed in 1979 (1979), maintaining traditional temple architectural essence while showcasing vibrant artistic styles. On the second floor, deities include Lord Guan Sheng to the center, Lord Fu You Di Jun to the right, Lord Jiutian Siming to the left, Guanyin Bodhisattva, Celestial Mother, Southern Star Deity, and Northern Star Deity. On the first floor enshrined are Lords Li, Chi, Zhu, Fan (five thousand-year rulers), the Bodhisattva Dharmadhatu (Earth Treasure King), the Value Star Deity of the Year, and the Deity of Land and Wealth. The temple courtyard features a large nine-dragon wall carving and a mounted General Guan statue, both meticulously carved with grandeur.
Triple-tiered Water Pools & Cherry Blossom Trail: Surprises Await at Every Turn
Above the barbecue area, the three-tiered pond hosts turtles and carp swimming amidst it. The adjacent cherry blossom trail remains lush even outside blooming season, with bright red Canna lilies bordering the path like dancing flames against the green canopy. Inside the trail, a bird's nest-inspired pavilion attached high to the trees is an unmissable photogenic spot. Within this harmonious blend of ecology, leisure, and child-friendly landscapes, travelers can enjoy a relaxed, nature-close urban green journey – Houte Mountain, just perfectly sized.