Qingshuiyan Scenic Area (Qingshui Temple in Linyuan) Introduction
Qingshui Rock is located in the Fongshan Hills of Tantou Village, in the Linyuan District. The entire area is dotted with coralline rock landscapes, and the name "Qingshui" (meaning "clear water") comes from the natural springs that frequently emerge from the ground. Since the Japanese colonial era, it has been known as one of the eight scenic spots in Kaohsiung, with the most famous attractions being Qingshui Temple and the former Japanese military preparedness tunnel - "Longpan Cave." Behind Qingshui Temple, there are multiple naturally formed caves and unique stones, with spring water gushing from the base of the interesting rocks, once referred to as the Lingquan Pool. According to legend, this spring was created by a local hero named Lin Buxian, who split Qingshui Rock with a sword to facilitate irrigation for farmers. However, in reality, Qingshui Rock has a coralline geological structure that is porous and water-retaining, which explains the bubbling springs. In addition to the iconic Qingshui Temple, the area features many naturally formed coral rock landscapes such as Longpan Cave, Shichuan (Stone Boat), Shitaiwan (Stone Taiwan), Taoyuan Cave, and Changshou Qiandong (Longevity Winter). The scenery is exceptionally unique, with various attractions accompanied by informative signage, including amusing formations like the Frog Playing with a Tiger, Grandfather Fishing, and the Three-Legged Toad. The area is rich in mythological tales, attracting numerous visitors to explore its wonders. Climbing up Qingshui Rock also offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, with a faint glimpse of Xiaoliuqiu Island, showcasing a naturally beautiful landscape. Continuing along the county road beside Qingshui Temple leads into the Qingshui Rock Heron Protection Area, where flocks of white egrets can be seen resting during the autumn and winter seasons. Linyuan Qingshui Temple, also known as Linyuan Qingshui Rock Temple or simply Qingshui Rock or Qingshui Temple, was established in the 5th year of the Kangxi era (1666 AD) and has a history of over 300 years. The temple's origin is said to stem from a farmer who, after finishing work for the day, passed beneath the rock and was suddenly dazzled by a bright light. Upon closer inspection, he found a small red incense bag hung from a tree near the rock, inscribed with the names of Shakyamuni Buddha and Avalokitesvara, revered figures of compassion. He subsequently constructed a hut for worship. Later, in the 14th year of the Daoguang era, a local layperson named Zhang Jianli transformed the hut into a more permanent temple structure, and it underwent renovations until the 16th year of the Republic of China (1927). It was not until the 53rd year of the Republic (1964) that comprehensive reconstruction began. Longpan Cave - the original Japanese military preparedness tunnel at Linyuan Qingshui Rock features a well-preserved tunnel site. This tunnel, known as "Longpan Cave," is a remnant of the military tunnels constructed during the Japanese colonial period, extending for 6 kilometers and dubbed the "Underground Great Wall." Built during World War II, it was excavated by Taiwanese residents requisitioned by the Japanese military to defend against American landing operations. It was one of Taiwan's largest military projects at the time. The tunnel complex extends across the Linyuan District, Daliao District, and Xiaogang District. The main tunnel runs from Fongbitou Mountain by the sea in the south, passes through Fengguanjian Mountain, Qingshui Rock, Fongshan Reservoir, and Dapingding, reaching as far north as Daliao and areas near Huangpu Military Academy in Fongshan. Due to years of disrepair, parts of the tunnel have collapsed, and the section near Longpan Cave is one of the best-preserved areas. Given the complexity of the tunnel system, which features entangled side passages, visibility inside the tunnel is minimal. Therefore, it is not recommended for visitors to venture in without the guidance of professionals.
