Erjen River Eco Park Introduction
The Erhjin River, originating from Shanzhu Lake in the Neimen District of Kaohsiung City, serves as the boundary river between Kaohsiung and Tainan. From the 1970s to 2000, the midstream of the Erhjin River was a gathering place for factories that specialized in processing and recycling scrap metals. Additionally, upstream there were pig farms and livestock breeding facilities, leading to highly polluted water that was both foul-smelling and dark, with pollution levels reaching the highest in Taiwan. Since a significant cleanup effort began in 2001, the Erhjin River has slowly begun to revive in recent years. The district office has established two viewing platforms, Walu and Changlu, along with a waterfront park in the Alian District, which features areas for observing wild plants, camping, and an artificial lake. Most of the riverbank retains its natural state aside from wooden paths, while aquatic plants provide habitat for various birds and other wildlife. The park offers a panoramic view of the Erhjin River, encapsulating lush greenery and tranquil scenery, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy birdwatching and a prime testament to ecological restoration.
