Tjuvecekadan & Jinshuiying National Trail — 2 Days

Indigenous slate village and Taiwan's oldest cross-mountain trail, 16km hike through three nature reserves

This two-day journey reaches two sites rarely seen by outside visitors. The first day centers on Tjuvecekadan, a settlement of over 50 slate stone houses recognized by Taiwan's Bureau of Cultural Heritage as a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site. Local guides lead you through the village, share a meal prepared in the community, and teach a traditional craft. The second day follows the Jinshuiying National Trail, Taiwan's oldest cross-mountain route, a 16-kilometer trek that descends from the western trailhead through three ecological reserves toward the east coast. The trail passes through habitat for endemic and endangered species—deer, monkeys, pangolins, and rare orchids—and crosses suspension bridges. Both days combine cultural access and landscape traversal in a region that remains largely unvisited by organized tourism.

Highlights

Guided tour of Tjuvecekadan village with over 50 slate stone houses, led by indigenous community members
Community-prepared aboriginal meal overlooking mountain vista and settlement landscape
16-kilometer traverse of Jinshuiying National Trail, Taiwan's oldest cross-mountain route, crossing three nature reserves
Habitat viewing for endemic and endangered species including deer, monkeys, pangolins, and orchids
Suspension bridge crossings along the mountain trail descent to Taiwan's east coast

Day by day

1Tjuvecekadan Village & Local Artisan WorkshopTjuvecekadan · Zuoying High Speed Rail Station · local market

Pickup begins at Zuoying High Speed Rail Station. From there, transfer proceeds to Tjuvecekadan, a settlement of slate-built houses that remains one of Taiwan's most significant cultural sites. Indigenous hosts guide visitors through the village, explaining the construction, history, and contemporary life of the community. A locally prepared aboriginal meal is served with views over the surrounding mountains and settlement. Following the community visit, a DIY workshop led by local hosts introduces traditional craft practices. The day concludes with transfer to accommodation and time to visit the local market for evening meals.

2Jinshuiying National Trail: 16km Mountain DescentJinshuiying National Trail · western trailhead of Jinshuiying National Trail

The day begins with transfer to the western trailhead of Jinshuiying National Trail, Taiwan's oldest cross-mountain route. The 16-kilometer hike descends through three consecutive nature reserves, traversing habitat for endemic and endangered species—including deer, monkeys, and pangolins—along with rare endemic orchids. The route includes suspension bridge crossings as the trail moves toward Taiwan's east coast. A licensed, bilingual mountain guide accompanies the group throughout. Upon reaching the eastern end, private transportation returns guests to Zuoying High Speed Rail Station for onward travel.

Included

Private return transportation from/to Zuoying High Speed Rail
2 meals, guided community tour and DIY activities
One nights accommodation 3-star hotel with infinity pool
Mountain and Police Permits
Licensed, bilingual mountain guide
Taxes, gratuities and Daily Liability Insurance