Liudu Perilous Canal Trail

The Baxihou River scenic trail, spanning Liudu and Tai'an villages, includes a section known as the Liudu Perilous Canal Scenic Trail. This perilous canal is situated at the border of Tai'an Village and Liudu Village in Qidu District and is approximately 350 meters long. The two ends of the scenic trail are the Baxihou River entrance in Tai'an Village and the area next to Cifeng Temple in Liudu Village. It is said that during the Qing Dynasty's rule, when fighting the Dutch, militiamen gathered above the perilous canal. Their elevated position gave them a clear advantage, causing great suffering and countless casualties among the Dutch soldiers. Later, in the 22nd year of Emperor Jiaqing's reign (1817 AD), the Yu family from Anxi settled in Liudu. To irrigate their farmlands, they constructed two irrigation canals, the "Upper Canal" (Dingzhun) and the "Lower Canal" (Xiazun). These canals passed through treacherous cliffs. To commemorate these events, the early settlers brainstormed and named it "Xianzhun" (Perilous Canal), a name that has been passed down to this day. The Perilous Canal is a natural wonder. The Keelung River winds through its multi-curved course, much like the Nine-Bend Stream of Wuyi Mountain in Fujian, China, and is thus similar to continental Wuyi Mountain. It is also known as "Little Wuyi Mountain." Visitors are greatly surprised and full of praise for this perilous canal. Furthermore, the Keelung River waters below are known as "Turtle Pond," where many freshwater turtles can be seen, indicating a highly diverse ecosystem. The trail, constructed with railway sleepers, boasts excellent facilities. This trail is not only suitable for leisurely strolls but also for cycling to enjoy the scenery. Along the way, visitors can see the Dingzhun Fude Temple, famous for its "temple within a temple" structure, hundred-year-old "Husband and Wife Trees," and enjoy the Keelung River scenery, all of which evoke a strong local Qidu charm. Midway, on the cliff at the border of the two villages, the four large characters "Liudu Xianzhun" are carved. These four red characters are powerfully carved, exuding an extraordinary presence. Not far from the rock face, a small platform has been set up, offering a full view of the "Liudu Xianzhun" inscription on the cliff. This trail not only offers views of the Keelung River scenery but also provides an opportunity to learn about the local history, culture, and past river development. Furthermore, it's a place for leisure, exercise, and fitness, making it suitable for the whole family to enjoy.