Daxi Zhongzheng Park Introduction
The children's playground at Daxi Zhongzheng Park is set to be completed by the end of June 2025. >> Please refer to the link for details (https://www.scenic.tycg.gov.tw/News_Content.aspx?n=9476&s=1432893). A visit to Daxi Zhongzheng Park allows you to appreciate the nostalgic charm of the past. In 1909, Daxi Township was an important base for the Japanese colonial administration, and it was planned as a "model city" under the standard city concept, leading to the establishment of Taiwan's first park, Dakekeng Park. Overlooking the park shaped like Taiwan, it embodies a national consciousness that resisted losing its identity during the assimilation movement. The park was renamed Zhongzheng Park in 1975 in honor of Chiang Kai-shek’s contributions in Taiwan. There are four main plazas within the park. The Sailboat Plaza, situated at "Taiwan's First," is ideal for enjoying the magnificent view of Daxi Bridge spanning the Dahan River. The local wooden culture is closely related to daily life, and the top is a common wooden toy, representing a significant cultural product of Daxi. The Statue Plaza features a statue of Chiang Kai-shek on horseback, exuding a natural spirit of the Northern Expedition and Anti-Japanese War. In the center of the park stands the Daxi Sumo Arena, with a gazebo built from logs in the Tang Dynasty style. This traditionally styled building is the work of local carpenters, with solid cypress wood beams and columns that do not show any steel nails, exemplifying the excellence of Daxi's woodcraft. The curved roof is covered in black copper tiles, evoking a nostalgic Japanese feel along with the aroma of cypress, inviting one to imagine the glorious days of sumo. The first shrine established in Taoyuan — Daxi Shrine — is hidden within Zhongzheng Park. It is easy to miss unless guided by the five stone lanterns leading to the worship path built in recent years. The shrine originally had a worship hall and main hall, which were demolished after the restoration, leaving only the foundation, which was converted into "Chao Ran Pavilion." The stone benches and tables in the park are remnants from the shrine period, inscribed with faded words like "Showa" and "Donation." In 1975, an additional floor was built as "Hanguang Building," offering a view of the beautiful scenery of Kanjin. The "Fuxing Pavilion" in the park is another remnant from the Japanese era. In 1930, many Japanese military police lost their lives while suppressing the Atayal people. At that time, Hsinchu Prefecture established a "Monument to the Loyal Souls," and after its demolition, a Chinese-style pavilion was rebuilt on the foundation. Daxi Zhongzheng Park possesses rich natural landscapes, with an ecological pond featuring Taiwan's water lettuce and wild ginger flowers, along with various tree species such as camphor, banyan, nine-cornered, sweet gum, eggplant, black pine, osmanthus, and bald cypress, making the park a recreational spot filled with historical culture and ecological beauty. Picking up a piece of leisurely time here is a story in itself. For a different perspective of the old town of Daxi, taking the 16-meter-high scenic elevator to view the Dahan River terraces is a great choice. There is no need to walk up steep stone steps; within ten seconds, you can effortlessly enjoy the open riverside views. For those who prefer to stroll and savor the scenery along the way, the cliff path should be included in your itinerary; the 450-meter friendly trail extends from Sailboat Plaza to Zhenan Temple Plaza, allowing you to feel the tranquility surrounded by greenery and enjoy the beautiful sunset and the sounds of flowing water, representing the eight scenic views of Daxi.
