Zhongshan Park Introduction
Established in the 4th year of the Republic of China (1915), Zhongshan Park is located at the intersection of Zhonghua Road and Gongyuan Road in Pingtung City, covering a total area of 23,715 ping (approximately 78,672 square meters). The park is home to a diverse range of tree species, particularly the ancient tree groups, which are impressive in terms of species variety, quantity, and growth extent, earning it the title of "Home of Ancient Trees." In addition to this, the park features a children's playground, a plant shading area, a palm tree avenue, and a commemorative monument, while also preserving remnants from the Japanese colonial period, such as a pond, an arched bridge, pavilions, and air raid shelters, making it a place that combines both tourism and historical-cultural significance. Zhongshan Park boasts extensive green space, with lush trees being the most captivating sight. Here, species like banyan trees, camphor trees, olive trees, Araucaria heterophylla (Norfolk Island pine), and frangipani trees display their most charming forms. The banyan tree's aerial roots are long and dense, resembling a bearded elder, exuding a sense of warmth; the camphor tree's bark has a creased appearance, reminiscent of text etched onto its surface, imparting an aura of scholarly grace; while the olive tree stands tall, with sprawling branches and a dark brown trunk, giving it a rugged appearance. For those who love being close to trees, Zhongshan Park provides ample opportunities for appreciation. During the Japanese colonial period, shrines were commonly built, and Zhongshan Park had a "Suehiro Inari Shrine." However, after the restoration of Taiwan, the shrine was demolished, and the original site was transformed into a hexagonal pavilion, with its base repurposed as an air raid shelter. The pond and arched bridge have been preserved in their original state and are landmarks of historical value. The arched bridge, in particular, has a semicircular surface, and the railings are also arched, while the other sections are designed with square short pillars, creating an elegant and beautiful appearance, making it a distinctive architectural feature within the park.
