Forest Song Introduction
"The Song of the Forest" is located at the intersection of Cultural Road and the Taiwan Railway in Chiayi City. It is designed with towering sacred trees and the Alishan railway tracks as its main imagery, creating a tranquil spiritual tower. Vertically arranged wooden beams surround the theme, resembling the sacred trees of Alishan, embracing the skies. The curved pathways mimic the winding Alishan railway tracks, meandering through the mountains and occasionally passing through caverns. The rattan-woven corridors present a natural play of light and shadows, similar to a forest train, showcasing the shifting scenery of Alishan. The stacked stones at the base of the main structure resemble the majestic stance of Alishan, embodying a lofty and grand image. The inspiration comes from the shape of the Tsou people's "Kubba" in Alishan and the indigenous peoples' bamboo and rattan weaving. Utilizing materials provided by the Forestry Bureau of the Council of Agriculture, such as wood, railway tracks, and stones, it offers visitors an experience of nature. The copper-gilded dome allows sunlight to pour in golden rays, with changes in moonlight and starlight; the interior features a beech and cypress wooden floor, filled with the scent of phytoncides. The permeable surrounding structure reveals more natural viewing interest. Through the open dome, it showcases the changing canopy of the day and night, as nature in Alishan continually amazes! Upon entering, visitors feel as if they are walking on clouds, experiencing the five senses of Alishan. Created by artist Wang Wen-Chih, who was born in the Greater Alishan area, this contemporary piece "Song of the Forest" reflects the flavors of his hometown combined with his expertise in bamboo and rattan weaving and the use of natural materials. It recreates the former glory of Chiayi as the "City of Timber," shaping an international landmark of forestry art, allowing tourists from both domestic and abroad to experience the natural spirituality of the Alishan forest area even in the plains.
