Xiziwan Scenic Area Introduction
Xiziwan is famous for its beautiful sunset views and natural reefs, and includes attractions such as Xiziwan Beach, the seaside park, and the British Consulate at Takao. Visitors can enjoy the ocean view and get a glimpse of Kaohsiung Port; the beach is rich in tropical vibes and southern charm. As night falls, the stunning evening glow bathes the scene, and fishing boats twinkle with lights, presenting a breathtaking view where the sea meets the sky. The sunset at Xiziwan is one of Kaohsiung's top eight scenic spots, and during sunset, the stone railing along the coastal breakwater becomes the best spot to admire the afterglow. Nearby, the entrance of the Shanchuantou Battery bears the inscription "Xiongzhen North Gate," with large, bold characters. Founded in the first year of the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, it is currently recognized as a municipal historic site and was built simultaneously with the Cihou Battery, acting as mutual supports. Although the cannons have long been removed, the curved gun platform remains for future generations to reflect on history. The Shanchuantou Park Visitor Center is located at the intersection of Shanchuan Street and Anshuan Street in the Gushan District, opposite the Gushan Ferry Station. The Hamasen area adjacent to the mountains and water has unique natural resources and historical sites, and planning focused on the overall development of the region. The park covers an area of 0.63 hectares, where visitors can enjoy the ferry trips between Gushan and Cijin, views of Kaohsiung Port, and the iconic 85-story building. The "Xiziwan Visitor Center" within Shanchuantou Park has a distinctive architectural design that stands out both from land and sea, especially when combined with Kaohsiung Port, the exhibition hall, and the 85 Building, becoming an essential landmark of Kaohsiung Port. In addition to its eye-catching appearance, the Xiziwan Visitor Center also offers tourist consultation services, cultural products, and local cultural performances, allowing visitors to rest and learn about local customs and culture. The Takao British Consulate Cultural Park is a well-known summer resort in Kaohsiung. Upon reaching the entrance of Xiziwan, to the right, there is a white zigzag staircase that stands out against the greenery. Ascending, one experiences a journey of mountains and seas, reminiscent of a pilgrimage. The Takao British Consulate, built in 1879, is an English-style building located by the Shanchuantou Wharf, with the consular residence situated on a hill, backed by mountains and facing the sea. It is the oldest Western modern building still existing in Taiwan and the first consulate established by the British government in Taiwan. The site has preserved both the residence and the consulate along with a connected ancient hiking trail. A gentle touch on each red brick of the consular residence allows one to feel the traces of time, with history at your fingertips and the beautiful Kaohsiung scenery beneath your feet, capturing the stunning views at this junction of mountains and seas. The best time to visit the consulate residence is from the afternoon to the evening, providing an unobstructed view of the magnificent landscape of Kaohsiung Port, including the Kaohsiung 85 Building and the Dream Mall Ferris wheel, which together form a vibrant modern painting. To the south, Cijin Fishing Port is visible with fishing boats and ferries passing by, creating a tranquil atmosphere. To the west lies the "Xizi Sunset," one of Taiwan's eight scenic spots, which can be serene and calm or grand and tumultuous at times. The park also integrates dining options, allowing the public to enjoy meals and tea, bringing a new romantic ambiance to the ancient building. The Shanchuantou Yacht Marina is located at the intersection of Shanchuan Street and Anshuan Street in the Gushan District, next to the Shanchuantou Scenic Park. Crossing the pedestrian bridge connects visitors to the bustling Gushan Ferry Terminal on the opposite shore, yet evokes a more leisurely and tranquil atmosphere. The name "Shanchuantou" translates to "patrolling boat head," and it was formerly known as Shanchuantang, which was an early harbor in Kaohsiung’s Hamasen area. Today, as fishing has transitioned to tourism, Shanchuantou has become a marina dedicated to yachts. The scenic park boasts a variety of coastal plants and waterfront facilities for visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls, savor the sea breeze, and admire various yachts and ferries coming and going. It also provides the best vantage points for views of Cihou Mountain, the lighthouse, and the grandeur of the harbor, offering limitless leisure and romantic vibes, whether under the blue sky or during the dazzling sunset. The Shanchuantou Mountain Fortress can be accessed via a trail located opposite a small park on Anshuan Street 30 Alley, connected to the scenic walkway leading to the Takao British Consulate residence, which can be reached in less than a minute on foot. The Shibei Wang Temple stands majestically on the outcrop at the entrance to Kaohsiung Port, with stunning views and a traditional Minnan-style temple architecture. The steep stairway in front of the temple is said to test the sincerity of worshippers: "Only the sincere should ascend." According to the stone tablet in the temple, during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, 18 Chinese merchants crossed the sea to Taiwan and landed at present-day Xiziwan to cultivate the land, but were collectively considered rebels and executed, leading the local residents to honor their spirit by establishing a hall for their remains. This marks the origins of the Wang Temple. During the Japanese colonial period, efforts to open Kaohsiung Port led to the excavation of caves at Xiziwan, but difficulties and numerous casualties ensued. After residents suggested the Japanese government burn incense to the 18 Wang gods for protection, the construction finally proceeded smoothly. Local fundraisers built the first Shibei Wang Temple at the site now housing the Zhongshan University sports ground, which was later relocated to its current site on the outcrop in 1984 in conjunction with the university’s establishment. As more people visit Xiziwan at night to enjoy the sea, the temple's popularity has also surged. The Xiongzhen North Gate was originally built during the Zheng period and was constructed as a Western-style fortress by hiring French engineers during the Qing Dynasty. Its walls are made of rammed earth and red bricks, in conjunction with the Weizhen Tian Nan Battery at Cijin, jointly guarding Kaohsiung Port and controlling crucial maritime points. It also served as a vital transportation hub from Cihou to the old city of Fengshan during the Qing Dynasty, and it has recently been renovated into a historic park, offering the best views of Xiziwan and the bustling harbor traffic.
