Background Info on Smangus:
There are many legends that try to explain the origins of the Atayal People of Taiwan. Most believe they originally came from Nantou or even the Bajian Mountains of Hsinchu.
One particular tribe of the Atayal People is known as the Smangus Tribe. According to the elders of this tribe, the Smangus People came from Ren'ai Township of Nantou County, which is located in the center of Taiwan. As they made their way away from Nantou and traveled north to the Bajian Mountains in Hsinchu, they slowly split up upon arriving in Hsinchu and they slowly occupied different areas in northern Taiwan.
The name Smangus is derived from an ancestor by the name of Mangus. The "S" sound added to the beginning of his name indicates an honorific title. Hence, the name Smangus reflects the importance of family and the respect for elders.
During the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, there were numerous clashes between the Japanese and the aboriginals which forced the aboriginals to be refugees and seek out new lands.
After the Japanese left Taiwan, the aboriginals slowly returned to their homeland—the land of their forefathers—and started to farm the land and live one with Mother Nature as She is the sole owner of this Land and we are just temporary guests upon this majestic Beauty. As such, the aboriginal people show great respect and admiration for Mother Nature.
Smangus is located high in the mountains of Jianshi Township, Hsinchu County, at an elevation of 1,500 meters. It is said to be the most remote aboriginal village in all of Taiwan.
This aboriginal village was first connected with electricity in 1979 and it wasn’t until 1995 that a road was constructed to make the village more accessible. Before this, in order to replenish daily supplies, the villagers would make a four to five-hour hike down through the valley and up the mountains to get to the neighbouring village of Xinguang.
After Smangus became more accessible, more and more visitors have made the journey to this area of Hsinchu to get a little glimpse into heaven that comes from the hospitality of the aboriginal people as well as from Mother Nature.
Cache Series Intro:
This little cache series is designed to introduce a piece of heaven to visitors and show hidden gems deep within the mountains of Taiwan.
We are guests here upon Mother Nature's Land and as such it is of utmost importance to respect the land as well as those who have inhabited it.
Can you be one with Mother Nature too?
Can you also find Serendipity in Smangus and understand why it is 蓬萊仙境?
Remember to take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints and keep nothing but memories.
About This Cache Location—The Road to Smangus:
After getting the mountain permit at the local police station in Xiuluan (秀巒), you will continue on for another 7 to 8 more kilometers on 竹60 before arriving at the access road to Smangus.
So what better way to celebrate your safe arrival onto the access road than with a little extra treasure to bless your trip! But where o where to find the treasure? Do you know the gradient of the descent? Maybe you should go and take a look.
Note the Terrain Level for this cache. You'll spot the hinted object easily but you'll need to climb up just a little to access it.
Caches in This Series:
Important Information:
The closest gas station (which is two hours away from Smangus) is located in Neiwan (內灣) here. Please note that business hours for this particular gas station are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. I have filled up my gas tank for my 155 cc scooter here and friends of mine have filled up their 125 cc scooters here as well and we have all gotten to Smangus and back no problem. That said, we have also taken extra gas with us just in case. Also, there is a convenience store near the gas station as well (called "HiLife"). There are small restaurants and cafés after this point but are few and far between. There are also places to eat in Smangus but business hours vary and may only be open during certain times and have a limited selection of food and drinks so please plan accordingly.
As this area is an aboriginal area, you will need to apply for a permit to enter here. The permit is free of charge and you can apply on the spot at the Xiuluan (秀巒) Police Station here. Business hours may vary so please call beforehand.
The majority of the caches were placed along the main trail that leads to the Giant Cypress Trees. This trail is a relatively easy 5-kilometer hike (one-way) that begins here. Most of the hike is pretty flat with a few minor ascents and descents here and there and can be done in around 4 hours (round-trip) at a moderate pace. However, please plan for a full day if you plan to complete the entire series at a leisurely pace. You can find ample parking (paid) at Jianan Cabins (迦南小木屋) here.
As I wanted to ensure the longevity of these caches, I tried to hide them in places away from muggles so some caches are hidden off the main trail just a little and may require minor climbing to reach. Please note the terrain ratings in each listing and be careful when searching and as always, remain stealth.
This cache (Serendipity in Smangus — The Road to Smangus) is a bison-sized container with just a logsheet. Please bring your own pen.