Ruifang--See Limitless Green Scenery

水圳橋

Aqueduct Bridges

When mining operations were underway in the Shuinandong, Jinguashi and Jiufen areas, creeks channeled the water used for ore processing into holding towers at mining facilities. Today the bridges that were built over these creeks have become tourist attractions. Among the most interesting of these bridges is one built during the Japanese colonial period and found on the Shanjian Road path. Two other bridges were built on the same site forming an unusual scene where three bridges of different heights all cross over the same stretch of ground. The babbling brook and lush greenery top off this special landscape.

Jinguashi Geological Park, Teapot Mountain

Above the Shinto Shrine is the Jinguashi Geological Park. Previously an outdoor excavation area known as the Benshan mines, today it has been turned into a geological tourism park that is a model of preservation. Trails passing through the park use former excavation roads, with stone steps to aid the way and guideposts to introduce minerals found in the area. In the distance the Banping Mountain peaks provide beautiful scenery, so does Teapot Mountain, another popular hiking area. Walking along its inter-peak trail, major landmarks are visible in the distance. Chief among them is the densely packed village of Jiufen and the vast Keelung Harbor.

Chintzupei Historic Trail

The Sandiaoling section of Danlan Trail is also known as Chintzupei (Jinzibei), which means golden plaque. The history of this name dates back to 1867 when Taiwan Garrison Commander Liu Ming-Deng inspected Sandiaoling and remarked at how difficult the trail was to travel, inscribing his thoughts in stone and adding a gold leaf. Liu's words, in particular his praise of the lively atmosphere and arduous terrain, struck a chord. Today the plaque still remains on the mountain and can be reached by entering from Houtong Elementary School. A long section of stone stairs must be climbed, making the journey feel like a short pilgrimage. Although time and weathering have taken a toll on the plaque, even partially damaging the bottom, the elegance of the artifact stills shines through. It arouses a deep feeling of nostalgia.