Qingshuiyan Scenic Area (Qingshui Temple in Linyuan) Introduction
Qingshui Rock is located in the TanTou Village of Linyuan District, within the Fengshan Hills. The area is characterized by stunning coral reef rock formations and is known for its natural springs that frequently emerge from the ground, which is the origin of the name "Qingshui." Since the Japanese colonial period, it has been one of the eight scenic spots of Kaohsiung, with its most famous attractions being Qingshui Temple and the former Japanese military command post—the "Longpan Cave." Behind Qingshui Temple, there are numerous naturally formed caves and unique stones, from which the springs flow, historically referred to as the Spirit Spring Pool. It is said that a legendary figure from Linyuan named Lin Bansian cleaved Qingshui Rock with a sword to help local farmers irrigate, but in reality, the porous coral reef geology is responsible for the water flow. In addition to the iconic Qingshui Temple, the area features many naturally formed coral reef rock formations, such as Longpan Cave, Shichuan, Shitaiwan, Taoyuan Cave, and Changshou Tomato Winter. Each unique sight is accompanied by informative signs, including Frog Playing with a Tiger, Grandfather Fishing, and Three-legged Toad. The area is steeped in myth and legend, attracting many visitors seeking adventure and curiosity. Climbing to the top of Qingshui Rock also offers a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, with the small island of Xiaoliuqiu faintly visible—a naturally beautiful landscape. Following the county road next to Qingshui Temple leads into the Qingshui Rock Egret Protection Area, where herds of white egrets can be seen during autumn and winter. Qingshui Temple is also known as Linyuan Qingshui Rock Temple and was established in the fifth year of the Kangxi era (1666), making it over 300 years old. According to legend, a farmer encountered a sudden light at sunset while returning from work, discovering a small red incense bag hanging from a tree near the rock, with the names of Shakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin Bodhisattva written on it. This led him to build an altar for worship. Later, in the 14th year of the Daoguang era, local resident Zhang Jianli transformed the thatched hut into a temple, which underwent repairs in 1927. A full reconstruction began in 1964. Longpan Cave, a remnant of the former Japanese military command post within the Qingshui Rock scenic area, is one of the best-preserved tunnel relics from the Japanese colonial period. Spanning approximately 6 kilometers, this preparedness tunnel, known as the "Underground Great Wall," was built during World War II by the Japanese military to defend against American landings, recruited by Taiwan residents. It was one of the largest military engineering projects in Taiwan at the time. The tunnel network extends through Linyuan District, Daliao District, and Xiaogang District, with the main southern tunnel starting from the seaside of Fengbitou Mountain, passing through Fengguan Peak, Qingshui Rock, Fengshan Reservoir, and Dapingding, reaching as far north as Daliao and near the Huangpu Military Academy in Fengshan. Due to years of neglect, parts of the tunnel have collapsed, and the most intact section is near Longpan Cave. The tunnel system is quite complex and treacherous; entering without a professional guide is not recommended for tourists.
