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Jian cing Historic Trail

見晴懷古步道

Jian cing Historic Trail
Photo credit: 寶
Alternative spellings:
Jianqing Historic Trail
Jancing Historic Trail

About this trail

Follow the former Taipingshan forest railway through a moss-covered forest, where panoramic mountain views, seas of clouds, and historic railway remains create an unforgettable hiking experience.

Trail condition

Scrambling Walking only
How much hands-on movement is required?

No hands-on climbing is normally required.

Exposure Low exposure
How serious are the consequences of a fall?

No significant exposed sections or dangerous drop-offs.

Navigation Easy to follow
How easy is the route to follow?

The trail is well defined and generally easy to follow.

Getting there

By Public Transport

Trailhead:
1) Go to Yilan Bus Station or Luodong Bus Station
2) Take Kuo-Kuang Bus 1750 (weekends and holidays) or 1750A (weekdays) toward Taipingshan Station and get off at Jiancing Historic Trail

By Car

Trail Trailhead:
Navigate to Jianqing Historic Trail on Google Maps. Limited parking is available nearby.

History & culture

History & Culture
Jianqing Historic Trail follows a former logging railway in Taipingshan, once one of Taiwan’s three largest forestry centers. The trail preserves old cypress railway bridges, switches, and rail equipment, offering hikers a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich forestry heritage and the legacy of its mountain railways.

Nature
The trail passes through cool, misty forests of Taiwan cypress, red cypress, ferns, and mosses. Wildlife includes Formosan squirrels, colorful butterflies, Taiwan blue magpies, and the rare Mikado Pheasant, often called the “King of the Mist” for its graceful appearance.

Climate
At around 1,950 meters above sea level, the trail enjoys cool temperatures year-round, typically 12–15°C lower than the lowlands. Frequent rain, dense fog, and high humidity create a lush forest environment, while winter occasionally brings snowfall, adding to its unique mountain scenery.

Planning essentials

Distance
0.9 km
Duration
50min
Trail type
loop
Difficulty
Easy ⓘ
Location
Yilan
Elevation Gain
110 m
Max elevation
2000 m
Min elevation
1890 m
National Park Permit
NO
Police Permit
NO
Public Transport
YES