Nan'ao Historic Trail is a heritage trail along the Nan'ao South River in Nan'ao Township, Yilan, officially measured at 3.8 km by the Forest and Nature Conservation Agency, running from the site of the former Xuantan police post to the confluence with Heliu Creek — the best-preserved section of the Japanese-era policing road system in the area. The trail originated as an Atayal hunting and travel path linking Nan'ao with Siji Village in Datong Township, part of the roughly 27.5-km Greater Nan'ao Historic Trail system; from 1920 the Japanese colonial government built a patrol road with police posts along the route. No mountain entry permit is required for this section, but parts of the trail are currently closed due to typhoon damage — check the latest notice before setting out.
According to the Forest and Nature Conservation Agency, the officially maintained section of Nan'ao Historic Trail is 3.8 km long (not the full 27.5-km Greater Nan'ao Historic Trail system), running from the former Xuantan police post to the confluence with Heliu Creek, and requires no mountain entry permit. Remnants along the route include a 1930 (Showa 5) stone pillar and other Japanese-era patrol-road features. Due to landslide damage from Typhoons Yang-liu and Fung-wong, the trail was officially closed from December 30, 2025 to August 31, 2026 — check the latest notice for current status.
Highlights of Nan'ao Historic Trail
The trail follows the Nan'ao River upstream; the vegetation along the way belongs to low- to mid-elevation broadleaf forest with high species diversity. Large ferns, vines, and epiphytic orchids are widely distributed. Some sections of the trail follow historic road remnants; stone-piled embankments and the foundations of former police post buildings are still identifiable — physical remnants for understanding Japanese-era mountain management policy. The Nan'ao River valley has exceptionally clear water and abundant fish; in undisturbed sections, native species such as the Taiwan barbel and grouper can be seen.
The full round trip is about 28 km; walking the entire length requires an overnight camp. Most visitors choose to turn back after 6 to 7 km for a half-day hike. The trail crosses the Nan'ao River multiple times; during high-water season, stream levels can be high, making crossings quite challenging. Check recent rainfall conditions before setting out. In the dry autumn-winter season, stream levels are lower and crossings are relatively easier, but mountain temperatures also drop — bring warm clothing.
How to make the most of your visit
Practical information
Getting there and travel time
- Drive along the Suhua Highway to Nan'ao Village, Nan'ao Township; the trailhead is beside the Nan'ao River. Confirm road conditions in Nan'ao town center before proceeding.
- The Taiwan Railways goes to Nan'ao Station, but a taxi is still needed from the station to the trailhead (about 10 to 15 minutes); there is no public transport connection.
Nearby connections
- Chaoyang National Trail is in Chaoyang Village, Nan'ao Township, about 10 to 15 minutes by car from Nan'ao town center; it can be included in the same day or same trip.
- Nan'ao town center has a small number of local dining options; it is recommended to arrange supplies before heading out as there are no commercial facilities in the mountains.
Sources: Forestry Bureau trail information; Wikipedia entry on 'Nan'ao Historic Trail.' Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Nan'ao Historic Trail?
According to the official notice, the currently maintained and open section is 3.8 km, not the often-cited 27.5-km length of the full Greater Nan'ao Historic Trail system.
Do you need a mountain entry permit for Nan'ao Historic Trail?
No — this officially open 3.8 km section requires no permit, though visitors should still watch for mountain safety and weather conditions.
Is Nan'ao Historic Trail open right now?
Due to roadbed collapse from Typhoons Yang-liu and Fung-wong, it has been officially closed from December 30, 2025 to August 31, 2026 — check the latest notice before departure to confirm whether it has reopened.
What is the historical background of the trail?
The trail was originally an Atayal hunting and travel path linking Nan'ao with Siji Village in Datong Township; from 1920 the Japanese colonial government built a patrol road with police posts along it, making this one of the best-preserved sections.
Sources
- 南澳古道 - 台灣山林悠遊網 — 官方全長3.8公里、暫停開放公告（2025/12/30-2026/08/31）、不需入山證
- 南澳古道不只是古道 也是一條長長的歷史故事 - 鏡週刊 — 大南澳古道系統27.5公里、1920年理蕃道路歷史、昭和5年石柱