Shiguang Ancient Trail

A 200-year-old ancient trail, a Hakka pilgrimage route, nestled in the 'Crouching Tiger' mountain forest. Located in Guanxi Township, Hsinchu County, the 'Shiguang Ancient Trail', also known as the 'Laohu (Tiger Mountain) Trail', is an important ancient agricultural path that once connected Shiganzi in Guanxi with Longtan in Taoyuan, boasting nearly two centuries of history. The trail gets its name from the hilly terrain resembling a crouching tiger that it traverses, and it was once a vital transportation artery for Hakka villagers to transport agricultural products. With the construction of modern highways, the ancient trail fell into disuse for a period, but in recent years, it has been renovated through the combined efforts of the Shiguang Community Development Association and the local government, restoring its former glory. The trail begins at the Luo Family Ancestral House next to Shiguang Junior High School, passes through Mianpuding Mountain, and eventually leads to a tea plantation pavilion and the Catholic Sanctuary of Our Lady, forming a circular route. The ancient trail is paved with cobblestones, winding through dense forest shade. Along the way, there are plant interpretation signs and Hakka proverb slogans, adding to the trail's cultural interest. Pavilions, observation decks, and wooden benches are also provided along the way, allowing travelers to pause, enjoy the scenery, and rest. Visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady is a major highlight of this route. It is a grotto-style church built to commemorate the miraculous apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes. The main altar is carved from a massive stone, and the statue of the Virgin Mary is hidden within the cave rock, making it solemn, sacred, and unique. From here, return to the main circular route and ascend to the observation deck, where you can gaze upon the Northern Second Highway, Fengshan River, Pinglin Bridge, and the Shiganzi Valley, offering expansive and magnificent views. The Shiguang Ancient Trail retains its original mountain path character and simple natural scenery, making it a route that combines hiking enjoyment with religious and cultural features. The trail has a moderate gradient, making it suitable for all age groups to come for hiking and strolling. It is especially cool and pleasant in spring and autumn, making it an ideal choice for experiencing the charm of Guanxi's mountain forests and local religious culture. It's worth noting that the Shiguang Ancient Trail is also one of the designated trails for the '2025 Hsinchu Forest Tour – Pipi Lion Expedition'! Follow Pipi Lion's footsteps, ascend Laohu Mountain, and embark on a mountain forest adventure that blends history and faith! --- Shiguang Ancient Trail --- Type: Suburban Mountain Trail Difficulty: Low Length: Approx. 6.4 km (including circular route) Trail Conditions: Cobblestone path, original mountain trail, industrial road Trailhead: No. 44, Lane 308, Guanxi Township (next to Shiguang Junior High School)