Daxi Bridge Introduction
The Daxi Bridge, which spans the Dahan River, is located beneath Zhongzheng Park and connects the left bank bicycle path of the Dahan River, providing access for pedestrians and cyclists. The overhead cable lighting design illuminates the riverside at night, enhancing the nightscape of the Dahan River. The bridge features a Baroque architectural style reminiscent of the Daxi Old Street. Its two ends connect Daxi Ruian Road Section 1 and Daxi Old Street, making it a perfect destination for a cultural and culinary day trip on weekends. Built in the 23rd year of the Republic of China, the Daxi Bridge was originally constructed as a bamboo and stone basket plank bridge, serving as an important pathway for Daxi residents to connect with the outside world and fostering strong ties between the residents of the east and west banks of the river. Later, during the Japanese occupation, it was rebuilt into a double-span steel cable-stayed bridge, measuring 280 meters in length, resembling its current form. With the opening of the Wuling Bridge and the Second Outer Ring Road, the Daxi Bridge gradually lost its importance for transportation. Moreover, it underwent two renovations due to the ravages of typhoons. Under the concept of "community construction," plans were made for beautification and reconstruction. In the 90th year of the Republic of China, construction officially began, transforming the Daxi Bridge into a 330-meter-long reinforced concrete bridge with a total of 13 piers. The rebuilt Daxi Bridge mimics the ancient Daxi suspension bridge from the Japanese colonial era; its entrance features a vintage arched design topped with a semicircular decorative canopy, exuding a castle-like grandeur. Walking through the Baroque-style carved archway, visitors can stroll along the bridge deck made of red bricks and tiles, admiring the Baroque-style bridge structure akin to the Daxi Old Street, where the grey-white carvings reflect the classical beauty of the old streets. Tired visitors can take a seat on the bridge to rest. Besides the recreational facilities on the bridge, the scenic viewpoint is also one of Daxi's signature landscapes. From here, one can enjoy magnificent views of Shimen Reservoir and Guanyin Mountain in Tamsui. To the sides of the Daxi Bridge are the Wuling Bridge and Kanjin Bridge, framing the valley, rocks, and distant bridges in a beautiful tapestry. Although the famous sight of “Kanjin Returning Sail” from a hundred years ago is no longer visible, one can still reminisce about the past glory while enjoying the gentle breeze in nature. If you visit in the evening, don't rush to leave, as it is a great place to watch the sunset; after the lights come on at night, the bridge shines even more splendidly, showcasing an exotic charm and giving the Daxi Bridge a glamorous new look, earning it the title of "Lover's Bridge," particularly attracting many photography enthusiasts. On holidays, street performers can be seen entertaining with spinning tops or musical performances. At the Daxi Bridge’s entrance, one can also enjoy the "Eternal Love" spinning top, which is said to enhance love when spun according to instructions, further witnessing the vows of couples.
