Agongdian Reservoir Introduction
Kaohsiung, an established scenic area, attracts tourists on weekends due to its serene environment and has maintained its popularity over the years. The Agongdian Reservoir is located in the upstream section of the Agongdian River in Yanchao and Tienliao Districts of Kaohsiung City. Construction began during the Japanese occupation and it is the first multi-objective reservoir in Taiwan to be completed after the longest construction period. Its natural lake scenery and tranquil environment endow this functional reservoir with enchanting tourist appeal. The Agongdian Reservoir features the first circular bike path around a reservoir in Taiwan, which spans ten kilometers and connects two suspension bridges and ten scenic spots: Sunrise at Penglai, Breeze over the Lotus Pond, Reflection of Gangshan, Sunset at the Long Pier, Dragon Mouth Spring, Moonlit Fishing, Rainbow Bridge in Mist, Bamboo Forest Ride, Fruity Shade, Morning Bell and Evening Drum. Whether cycling joyfully or strolling along the lakeside, visitors can appreciate the exquisite views. The Agongdian bike path is located at the junction of Yanchao, Gangshan, and Tienliao Districts, presenting picturesque scenery akin to a paradise. Established in 2010, it is the first lakeside bike path in Taiwan, with a well-maintained track lined with native Taiwanese species and flowering trees and shrubs resembling a shaded boulevard. There are several viewing platforms and bike rental stations, linking the reservoir area with the top ten scenic spots including Rainbow Bridge in Mist, Moonlit Fishing, and Dragon Mouth Spring, making cycling here an exceptionally enjoyable experience. Especially notable is the 2.38-kilometer-long straight and wide Long Pier bike path, perfect for watching the sunset and as a venue for sprint training. Nearby, there are ancient houses for nostalgic visitors, making it an ideal destination for families to enjoy an intellectual cycling trip. The Agongdian Forest Park, located near the spillway at the dam of the Agongdian Reservoir, covers approximately 9.3 hectares and includes forest trails, ecological ponds, parking areas, and children's play facilities. It channels water from the dam to an ecological pond beneath rain tree canopies, and both sides of the water channel are planted with hydrophilic plants like cattails and wild gingers, successfully creating a complete wild stream ecological chain that attracts frogs, dragonflies, and waterfowl. Additionally, it employs the undergrowth space of ironwood trees to cultivate nectar-producing plants like the red flower tree, creating a butterfly garden and using ecological restoration methods for firefly cultivation. Recreation at the forest park allows visitors to relax and enjoy the phytoncides of nature, while gaining a deep appreciation of the rich biodiversity, an experience unattainable in urban parks.
