Record-breaking number of autumn grass viewing visitors, shuttle service extended on Sunday

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, reported and compiled by Li Xinyi

The “2012 Caoling Historic Trail Grass Bloom Season” saw a surge in visitors during its third and fourth days (November 3 and 4), which coincided with a weekend holiday. The fine weather attracted numerous hiking enthusiasts, with the number of visitors hitting a record high for a holiday period. Many families were seen exploring the historic trail together, and shuttle buses from Fulong Visitor Center to Yuwangkeng Entrance operated one after another starting from 8:00 a.m., while all levels of Taiwan Railways trains between Fulong and Taipei were fully booked.

The “Recalling Autumn Grass – 2012 Caoling Historic Trail Grass Bloom Season,” the most popular and highly attended autumn event along the Northeast Coast, will run for 11 days until November 11. To alleviate crowding, the event organizer, the Northeast Coast & Yilan National Scenic Area Administration, will extend the shuttle bus service between “Fulong Visitor Center” and “Yuwangkeng Water Park” on November 10 and 11, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Additionally, as it gets dark around 5:00 p.m. along the Caoling Historic Trail, visitors are advised not to enter the trail after 2:00 p.m. Moreover, due to concentrated returning passenger traffic, visitors are encouraged to purchase return tickets in advance to save time. If physically able, it is recommended to walk directly to Yuwangkeng Entrance, which takes about 40 minutes from Gongliao or Fulong.

This year’s “2012 Caoling Historic Trail Grass Bloom Season” specially incorporates a “retro” theme. Visitors departing from Fulong Visitor Center are guided up the mountain by an emperor clad in yellow robes, while installations made from local bamboo embellish the trail. Puzzle collection spots along the way feature depictions of ancient trail bandits, evoking a rustic atmosphere. The remains of the old inn also continue the “tea-serving service by the inn clerk,” where staff dressed as traditional servers offer guests freshly brewed ginger tea. The white blossoms of the grass blooms create a serene autumn scene that captivates many visitors. Photography enthusiasts even arrive early in the morning to capture the grass under varying light conditions. Other activities include “rubbing and dough figurine DIY workshops,” “enjoying peace porridge at Dali Tian Gong Temple,” “free shuttle rides up the mountain with Lingjiushan special buses to enjoy the grass blooms and receive gifts,” “Northeast Coast goodwill benefits,” and “Huashan Foundation’s second-hand charity market.” For more details, please visit the official website: events.necoast-nsa.gov.tw/flower12.

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