A Different Cat’s Back Mountain Experience: Discover a Hidden Temple Along the Fragrant Tea Trail

By MOOK Scenic Spots & Lifestyle Network Editorial Team
 

Spring is in full bloom—perfect for an outing with friends. Hiking through the lush forests of Maokong in Wenshan District offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. With its rich tea culture and unique pothole landscapes, plus this year’s new addition: Taipei City’s Department of Urban Development has integrated Maokong’s mountain scenery, pothole streambeds, and tea culture to create the “Fragrant Tea Loop Trail,” offering visitors a brand-new experience of Maokong.

The Fragrant Tea Loop Trail connects multiple themed paths, offering greater flexibility for your journey. Along the way, you can explore special spots such as century-old camphor trees, cypress tree forests, tea terraces, and pothole streambeds, as well as facilities like the Skywalk, Triangle Suspension Bridge, whimsical seating, and rural-themed walls. It also links rest areas such as the Tea Exhibition Center and Little Sky Trail, allowing you to fully enjoy Maokong’s beautiful mountains, waters, and vibrant local culture in one trip.

It’s especially recommended to take the Maokong Gondola to Maokong Station. After exiting, turn left and walk toward the “Health Trail” opposite the Tea Exhibition Center. Admire the charming squirrel wood carvings made from recycled old wooden boardwalk materials, then turn right at the fork to reach the local temple—the Land God Shrine. Follow the adjacent “Tea Exhibition Center Trail” downhill to see nature’s stunning pothole landforms that seem to touch the sky. You can also cross the distinctive Triangle Suspension Bridge to the other side for photos with cute panda and cat-shaped seats. On the way back, turn right at the intersection and stroll along the thoughtfully designed Rural Nostalgia Wall to learn more about the history of Maokong’s tea farmers’ transformation.