aeeble

Pingding is the old name for Shilin Pingtung Village (Pingtung Village, Shilin District). Located within the village are two ancient canals named Pingding: the Pingding Old Canal and the Pingding New Canal. Both ancient canals are over 150 years old and serve the functions of irrigation, drinking water supply, and water transportation. To this day, these canals remain major water sources relied upon by residents of Pingtung Village.

**Pingding Old Canal Nature Trail**
This trail begins at Lane 95, Pingjing Street, Pingtung Village. Ascending and descending slopes along the path are covered with moss. The first stop is Qingfeng Pavilion (Qingfeng Pavilion), which features an engraved tablet. Close by lies the entrance to the canal entrance marked with bold red calligraphy "Pingding Old Canal," accompanied by a brief historical introduction about the canal.
The trail runs alongside the canal and eventually reaches the canal's terminal section at the stone channel cave. The surrounding aquatic ecology and water environment create a mesmerizing natural landscape, showcasing the canal's charming and captivating scenery.

**Ecological landscapes along Pingding Old Canal trail**
Pingedding Old Canal trail lies within an elevation range of 300 to 500 meters, specifically within Pingtung Village, Shilin District. The terrain is higher to the north and lower to the south, with Nei-Shuangxi Stream and Nei-Liao Stream flowing across the area. Hill and valley ecosystems, together with stream water, nurture a rich diversity of plant life. Notable species include Alocasia cucullate, Machilus omiiana, Sapindus mukurossi, Ficus hirta, and bamboo. The aquatic environment hosts a variety of insects and reptiles. Hikers can experience surprising discoveries in every step through this vibrant natural path.

**Ewewei Mountains**
EweWei Mountain, standing at 523 meters, is situated between the connecting ridges of the Qigu Mountain and Zhuanggao Mountain. Commonly known as "Tailless Mountain," its gentle terrain and summit covered with tall grass and trees offer a serene atmosphere. When viewed from Pingtung Village, the peak resembles a heap of small hills. The flat, circular summit presents an elegant, foggy scene when mountain mist gathers.
The hike starts by boarding the No. 18 bus to reach stations such as Jiaokeng or Jiaokeng Bridge Station. From there, follow the route through Section 3 of Zhenshan Road, entering a hiking trail at Lane 181. Turn northward through lanes 371-20-15 to reach the trailhead.

**Beneath a Hundred-Year Water History**
Have you ever enjoyed the water and nature walk at Nei-Shuangxi Stream? Today, follow the stream upstream to explore Nei-Shuangxi Stream. The water is said to be crystal clear, and paired with a centuries-old canal, one might wonder if it’s another hidden paradise worth a visit.
Walking along the narrow path flanked by bamboo groves reveals steps covered with lush moss and old trees lining the way. Occasionally, vintage-style green lamps are scattered along the trail. This quiet green tunnel feels like a time warp, possibly guiding us back to the "Pingding" of over one hundred years ago.

The former name of Pingtung Village is "Pingding," which is why two canals bear the name "Pingding Canal." The "Pingding Old Canal" and "Pingding New Canal" are both over 150 years old. They historically supported transportation, irrigation, and water supply, remaining essential to the villagers' daily water needs.

Turn left at the fork and descend along the path to the mossy, ancient-looking Taizi Foot Bridge. The canal lies nearby. Feeling adventurous, hikers can choose to wade down the stream and play in the creek first, considering the following trail is flat and easy. After a fun dip, rest for a moment at a nearby pavilion before continuing.

The first prominent sight is Dening Canal, boasting the most abundant water volume. Although established later, it draws water not only from Nei-Shuangxi Stream but also incorporates springs from mountain rivulets and adjacent mine sites, ensuring a never-ending supply. Next, the slightly more "senior" new canal awaits—follow the path along the canal to the terminal stone channel cave, where bold red calligraphy "Pingding Old Canal" marks the end.

**Astonishing Waterscape & Biodiversity**

Exploring the canal trail leads to a variety of captivating ecological wonders. Dense forests and abundant water resources host diverse lifeforms. Water creatures such as freshwater shrimp, river crabs, minnows, and clusters of tadpoles thrive in this environment. The thick forest also nurtures colorfully varied insects and reptiles.

Notably, the largest dragonfly in Taiwan, the "Taiwan Giant Darner," is rarely spotted at lower elevations but frequently appears near canals. Other species like the Prionoceratidae dragonfly, Ghostface Skimmer dragonfly, and damsel bugs actively inhabit the area. Butterflies also flutter around, with snakes preferring shaded corners and birds like monarch butterflies favoring sunny spots. Walk carefully along the path and take a glance at your feet—you might spot a jewel beetle, staphylinid beetle, or even a rhinoceros beetle.

On a clear day, look up to perhaps catch a glimpse of soaring Taiwan Magpies or a Black Eagle flying overhead. Other protected species, such as the Black-crowned Night Heron, Taipei Tree Frog, Brown Tree Frog, Green Snake, over ten species of dragonflies, and fireflies, also choose this region as their home. While nocturnal animals might not be visible during the day, observing closely can still lead to interesting discoveries. For instance, dark-brown feces mixed with beetle, mantis, and cicada remains spotted on stone tables near Taizi Foot Bridge are rare sights—products of the Formosan Leaf-nosed Bat, which roosts upside down under the roof during nights. So, don’t forget to open your eyes wide when visiting Pingding Canal trail—every corner of the canal promises delightful surprises!