Old Camphor Bridge Recreation Area Introduction
Zhangyuan, formerly known as Guazilü, is a village located at the northernmost tip of Taitung County's coastline. During the colonial period, it was an important production area for camphor. In 1937, to develop the camphor resources in eastern Taiwan, the first Zhangyuan Bridge was constructed over the Guazilü Creek. Built with cobblestones, it features three arched piers, showcasing a rustic natural beauty. Later, in conjunction with the widening of the East Coast Road, a new bridge was built over Zhangyuan Bridge in 1986. In 1998, a third bridge was constructed to straighten the eastern coastal highway (Taiwan Provincial Highway 11), resulting in three bridges standing side by side over the Guazilü Creek. This unique arrangement not only testifies to the development history of the East Coast Highway but also reflects the different aesthetic perspectives and engineering techniques from various periods of construction. The old Zhangyuan Bridge has been designated as a cultural heritage historical structure due to its significant value. Below the old Zhangyuan Bridge is the main inlet of the Changbin Irrigation System and the Jellyfish Creek watershed, where ancient camphor trees provide shade. Various large stones can be seen in the creek, along with fish ladders specifically designed for fish migration. The banks offer opportunities to observe diverse amphibian ecosystems, while towering peaks form a stunning canyon. At the end of the canyon, two majestic mountains rise dramatically, creating an enchanting vista. Waterfalls cascade down between the mountain peaks, resembling spring water, with clear and sweet-tasting water.
