Shaoxing · Ancient Chinese Torreya Trail Hike

This is the third installment in the Ancient Trails + Ancient Trees series. The previous two covered the ancient cypress trees of the Ancient Shu Road in Guangyuan and the ancient Cryptomeria trees of West Tianmu Mountain. The entire route starts from Shioa Village and ends at Zhan'ao Village, covering a total distance of approximately 12 km and a cumulative climb of over 700 m. It's more strenuous than the previous two hikes, but the ancient Chinese torreya forest is larger and the scenery is stunning, making it well worth the effort. Stage 1: Doukeng Trail, from Shioa Village to Tang'ao Village Starting from an ancient bridge dating back to the Qianlong era, the trail unfolds with reservoirs, streams, tea gardens, bamboo forests, and waterfalls. Numerous Chinese torreya trees, some over a century old, line the path with their gnarled branches and lush foliage. Stage 2: From Tang'ao Village to Yuehua Mountain Heart Nourishing Valley The cherry and sassafras trees in the mountains are already in bloom. The Chinese torreya trees here are more numerous and taller. After a steep climb of over 300 m, you'll encounter a 500-year-old ancient tree. Turning past it, the view opens up dramatically. This section, with its rapid and significant ascent, can be quite tiring. Stage 3: From Heart Nourishing Valley to Zhan'ao Village This section is mainly downhill, making it much easier. The trail primarily consists of stone paths and dirt roads. You'll see many ribbons left on the branches by hiking groups, which you can follow. Here, you can find an 800-year-old ancient tree.