Shulin District in New Taipei City sees many hikers visiting Datongshan, but the hike to Qingyunling Peak takes at least one hour along the mountain trail — and there isn’t a single public toilet along the way, which is quite inconvenient. The Shulin District Office and New Taipei City’s Civil Affairs Bureau spent NT$2 million to build an “FRP container-style landscape toilet.” It not only eases the restroom needs of hikers, but also attracts attention with its trendy design.
Datongshan is a well-known spot in New Taipei City for viewing miscanthus grass and sunrises. Especially in early spring, when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, forming a “cherry blossom forest,” it draws many visitors from outside the area. With its not-too-strenuous hiking trail, it is also a top choice for locals to exercise and go hiking. But the journey to Qingyunling takes at least an hour, and there are no toilets along the way — only a concrete toilet at the end of the trail, which is quite inconvenient for hikers.
In September this year, the Shulin District Office installed an “FRP landscape toilet” at the entrance of the trail. It took two months to complete. The exterior walls are covered with ceramic panels that are 45.5 cm wide. Considering the high humidity in the mountains, the roof is made of calcium silicate board, which has better moisture resistance. The lighting above the sink features long-lasting illumination, while motion-sensor LED lights are used inside the toilet. This helps reduce electricity waste and ensures the safety of female hikers at night. Most uniquely, the container-style toilet has a distinctive design, paved with red and blue mosaic tiles in vibrant colors. Many hikers stop to take photos, making it an alternative spot for checking in.
“This toilet is so pretty and clean!” said hiker Liao Huijuan. She noted that Shulin District has beautiful mountains and water, and she hikes at Datongshan almost every week. It’s perfect for watching sunrises, enjoying night views, or admiring flowers. The district office has added this brand-new FRP container-style landscape toilet at the trailhead, solving the restroom issue and making things much more convenient.
(China Times)