Exploring Zhishanyan: Discovering the Ancient and Tranquil Side of Taipei

In the bustling city of Taipei, there are always places where one can temporarily escape the noise and feel the charm of ancient tranquility. Zhishanyan is such a place filled with historical ambiance. As an ancient temple hidden in the urban area of Taipei, it attracts countless visitors with its long history, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural scenery. On a leisurely afternoon, I visited this peaceful corner and began my journey to Zhishanyan. 1. Hiking Trail: Welcoming the First Breeze Unlike other popular attractions in Taipei, Zhishanyan offers a rare tranquility. As I walked from the MRT station towards Zhishanyan, the green trees and birdsong along the way made me feel incredibly relaxed. There is a winding trail around Zhishanyan that gently ascends along the hillside. Although the mountain is not high, this trail is perfect for a stroll, surrounded by dense forests, fresh air, and occasional streams, giving a sense of close contact with nature. Many residents come here for morning runs, and some tourists, like me, enjoy the scenery along the way. As the scenery gradually changes, the air becomes fresher, and my steps feel lighter. After about 20 minutes, I reached the entrance of Zhishanyan. 2. Zhishanyan Temple: A Blend of History and Faith What attracts me most about Zhishanyan is its historical background and cultural heritage. The Zhishanyan Temple here has a history of hundreds of years and is one of the famous temples in the Taipei area. The temple is situated on a rock, with an ancient architectural style. Although it is not as grand as other large temples, its serene atmosphere gives a special sense of solemnity. Upon entering the temple, the first thing that caught my eye was the statue of Mazu. The temple is filled with incense smoke, creating a devout atmosphere. Many believers come to worship, and the temple's atmosphere, though solemn, is also warm and inclusive. I stood quietly in the temple for a moment, feeling the peace and tranquility brought by this land with a long history and deep faith. The temple not only houses Mazu but also other deities' statues. The stone and wood carvings in the temple are exquisite, showcasing the unique charm of traditional Taiwanese temple art. I wandered around the temple, carefully appreciating every detail, deeply attracted by the culture and art here. 3. The Natural Scenery of Zhishanyan: A Green Paradise Away from the Hustle and Bustle Besides the temple, the natural scenery of Zhishanyan is equally enchanting. Standing on the top of the mountain, the beautiful scenery of Taipei City is in full view. The distant city skyline and the nearby green trees create a harmonious and beautiful picture. I particularly enjoyed stopping at the small platform on the mountain top, looking out at the busy city, as if all the noise contrasted sharply with the tranquility here. Here, I took a deep breath, and my mood lightened with the mountain breeze. The natural scenery of Zhishanyan is not luxurious, but it has a pure and simple charm that is intoxicating. 4. Strolling Along the Paths: Discovering Another Side of Taipei When I came down from the Zhishanyan Temple, I decided to take another walk along the other paths. This place is not just a religious site; its surrounding natural scenery is also poetic. The winding paths are flanked by lush trees and occasional rocks. From time to time, I met some strolling tourists who, like me, were enjoying this peaceful space. At the end of the path, there is an open lawn where a few people were sunbathing, reading, or chatting. The pace of life here seems disconnected from the outside world, and time seems to slow down and stretch out in this place. 5. Conclusion Zhishanyan is not only a historical and cultural attraction in Taipei but also a great place to relax and unwind. Its natural scenery complements the ancient temple, making it a perfect spot for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers to find their moments of tranquility. For me, Zhishanyan is a place to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a moment of peace. Tips: 1. The Zhishanyan trail is suitable for morning runs and walks; it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for the visit. 2. The Zhishanyan Temple is bustling with incense; if interested, you can participate in the temple's blessing activities. 3. The scenery here is very photogenic, especially on clear days, the distant view from the mountain top is spectacular. 4. Zhishanyan is located in the urban area, with convenient transportation, yet it offers a peaceful environment, making it a great choice for a leisurely city tour. If you are looking for a tranquil place in Taipei, Zhishanyan is undoubtedly a place not to be missed.