Xiaolin Village Memorial Park Introduction
In the early morning of August 9, 2009, the strong winds and rain from Typhoon Morakot caused landslides on Xianshan Mountain, burying Xiaolin Village in the Jiasian District, resulting in a devastating disaster that shocked the entire nation. To commemorate and memorialize the 462 villagers of Xiaolin Village who were buried, the Kaohsiung City Government established the Xiaolin Village Memorial Park on elevated land to the south of the original site of Xiaolin Village, which was completed and opened in 2012. The park covers an area of 1.7 hectares, with 80% planned as green space, reconstructing the image of the former Xiaolin Village. The names of the 462 deceased are inscribed on both sides of a path in the park, and 181 seedlings of native Taiwanese cherry blossom trees represent the 181 families that were lost. The park also features a remembrance square, the Xiaolin Public Shrine, an observation tower, and a monument. The 9-meter-high monument is built from stone blocks swept down from Xianshan Mountain during the disaster, symbolizing the power of rebirth and reconstruction for the villagers. Looking out from the memorial park toward the site fosters remembrance of the lost, evoking awe at the ruthless power of nature, leading to a greater appreciation for the present and a sense of humility.
