Ecotourism is gaining popularity, and Taipei City’s Department of Civil Affairs has streamlined its hiking trail system, planning a route spanning approximately 92 kilometers that offers panoramic views of scenic spots such as Guizikeng, Qixing Mountain, and Datun Mountain. To encourage the public to experience this Taipei Trail Adventure, from now until September 16, 2019, participants can collect and take photos with stamped pillars featuring the characters “台、北、东、西、南、北、大、纵、走、壮、游、趣” along the Northern Ridge Line and Southern Tea Countryside Long-Distance Hiking Routes, and redeem a free sports towel.
Taipei City has up to 135 hiking trails with a comprehensive trail system. In recent years, the municipal government has been actively building handcrafted trails and assessing overall resources. It has planned the 92-kilometer Taipei Trail Adventure with an elevation change of 1,120 meters, covering mountain ridgelines, ancient paths, hiking trails, and urban roads. This route showcases diverse landscapes from flatlands to high mountains and can be completed over 7 to 8 days.
On the 17th, the Department of Civil Affairs held the launch event for the Taipei Trail Autumn Long-Distance Hike and a trail achievement exhibition. Mayor Ko Wen-je stated that as hiking and trekking grow more popular, the goal is to systematize the trail network through organization efforts. The city will also install additional facilities along the routes such as signage, water fountains, and apps. Notably, the Four Beasts Mountains offer one of the best vantage points for viewing Taipei 101, attracting many international visitors. The mayor hopes these hiking trails will not only serve as recreational spaces for residents but also become key tourism assets.
To let the public experience the new hiking trail facilities early, the city government has set up a VR panoramic simulation in the Taipei City Hall lobby from now until the 20th. Visitors can stand virtually at the edge of the Jinmian Mountain Scissors Stone and gaze at the magnificent urban scenery. By scanning a QR code with their phones, users can view a 3D rotating panorama of Taipei’s mountain ranges.
(China Times)