Qingshui Rock Scenic Area (Qingshui Temple, Lin Yuan) Introduction
Qingshui Rock is located in the Fongshan Hills of Tanshui Village in the Lin Yuan District. The entire area is filled with unique coral reef rock formations. The continuous natural springs that often emerge from underground contribute to the name "Qingshui," which means "clear water." Since the Japanese colonial period, it has been one of the eight scenic spots of Kaohsiung. The most famous attractions include Qingshui Temple and the former Japanese military preparedness tunnel known as "Longpan Cave." Behind Qingshui Temple, there are many naturally formed caves and奇石 (strange rocks). The water springing from these奇石 was once called the Spirit Spring Pool, and it is said to have been created by a legendary figure from Lin Yuan, Lin Banzian, who split open Qingshui Rock with his sword to facilitate irrigation for farmers. In reality, the porous coral reef geology of Qingshui Rock allows for water to percolate easily. In addition to the iconic Qingshui Temple, this area features many naturally formed coral reef rock landscapes, such as Longpan Cave, Shihchuan, Shitaiwan, Taoyuan Cave, and Changshou Qie Dong, showcasing a unique scenery. Various奇景 (wonders) are marked with explanatory signs, including Frog Playing with Tiger, Grandpa Fishing, and Three-Legged Toad. The area is rich in mythical and legendary colors, attracting many visitors who come to explore and seek the unusual. Climbing to Qingshui Rock also offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, where the small island of Xiao Liuqiu can be faintly seen, presenting a naturally beautiful landscape. Continuing along the county road beside Qingshui Temple leads into the Qingshui Rock Heron Protection Area, where clusters of white egrets can be seen inhabiting during autumn and winter. Qingshui Temple in Lin Yuan is also known as Lin Yuan Qingshui Rock Temple, Qingshui Rock Qingshui Temple, or simply Qingshui Rock or Qingshui Temple. It was established in the 5th year of the Kangxi era (year 1666) and has a history of over 300 years. According to legend, it originated when a farmer, during his work, passed by the rock and suddenly saw a light several feet away. Upon closer inspection, he found a small red incense pouch hanging from a tree, with inscriptions of Shakyamuni Buddha and Guanyin Bodhisattva, prompting him to set up a shrine for worship. Later, in the 14th year of the Daoguang era, a local layman named Zhang Jianli transformed the grass hut into a temple building, which underwent renovations until the 16th year of the Republic of China (1927). Complete reconstruction commenced in the 53rd year of the Republic of China (1964). Longpan Cave, the former Japanese military preparedness tunnel in the Qingshui Rock Scenic Area, is one of the better-preserved tunnel sites, known as an underground wall, stretching 6 kilometers. Built during World War II, it was excavated by Taiwanese residents mobilized by the Japanese military to prepare for potential US invasion operations, making it one of the largest military projects in Taiwan at that time. The tunnel system extends across Lin Yuan District, Daliao District, and Xiaogang District, with the main tunnel stretching from the coast of Fengbi Head Mountain, passing through Fengguan Mountain, Qingshui Rock, Fengshan Reservoir, and Dapingding to the north, reaching the area near Huanggpu Military Academy in Daliao and Fengshan. Due to years of neglect, some parts of the tunnel have collapsed, with the most intact section located near Longpan Cave. Given the complexity of the tunnel system and the dark conditions within, it is advised that visitors do not enter without a professional guide.
