Jingzi Ancient Aqueduct Introduction
The Jingshi (ㄑㄩㄝˋ) River, located upstream of the Shuangxi River in the Shilin District of Taipei City, is approximately 2.1 kilometers long with a catchment area of 450 hectares. The river flows abundantly with clear water and diverse ecological systems, passing through four neighborhoods: Jingshan, Pingding, Gongguan, and Xishan, making it the water source of the Shilin District. From Jingshi Bridge to Zhuge Mountain Bridge, the riverside scenery is picturesque, and the ecology of the stream is diverse, traditionally attracting stream tracing enthusiasts. The Jingshi River has a steep flow path and swift current, and in the past, heavy rains frequently washed away soil and rocks along the banks. To ensure basin safety and ecological conservation, the Taipei City Government's Public Works Department has implemented a comprehensive watershed management plan, allocating funds for a phased remediation process. Huang Tianjin, head of the Landslide Prevention Section, stated that Jingshi River utilizes the porous stone masonry method, installing waterfront facilities along the route while maintaining natural ecological balance, making it a popular spot for stream tracing enthusiasts. The department indicated that the remediation principle for Jingshi River follows the stream's topography, installing waterfront platforms, trails, and stable beds to enhance habitats for organisms. Large stones were installed at areas with high vertical drops to dissipate energy. Additionally, sedimentation tanks were set up in flat areas of the river, serving the functions of flood control and recreation. According to the department, the Jingshi River remediation spans four sections from upstream (near the Happy Farm) to downstream tributaries. For the stream near the Happy Farm, a near-natural technique was adopted to establish fish ladders to facilitate fish migration and recovery, reflecting its vitality. The department mentioned that the stream flowing beside Futian Garden Farm, with waterfront platforms and trails in harmony with the local ecology, combined with near-natural stable bed construction and bank protection, creates a beautiful environment with clear water. In recent years, it has gradually become a popular destination for stream tracing enthusiasts. Continuing downstream near Qingkuo Bridge, there is a waterfront trail where visitors can sit on the ground, soak their feet in the cool river water, and listen to the soothing sound of the flowing water, creating a peaceful ambiance. The department emphasizes that the tributary of the Jingshi River downstream is approximately 280 meters long, with cherry blossom trees planted along the route, creating a recreational space with waterfront facilities. Every winter, the cherry blossoms bloom, allowing visitors to stroll alongside the blossoming stream, offering a unique poetic experience. The department recommends that the scenery of the Jingshi River is diverse, surrounded by beautiful mountain views, making it very suitable for stream tracing on sunny days to stretch the body, and it is great to bring a companion. As one ascends the Jingshi River, not only can they enjoy the clear water and the beautiful riverside forest scenery, but they can also immerse themselves in an environment rich in birds and native plants, with dragonflies and damselflies fluttering around, and below, schools of fish such as grouper, platyfish, and bitterling can be seen swimming. Among these, the area between Jingshi Bridge and Zhuge Mountain Bridge has become a new secret spot for group stream tracing. Source: Taipei City Government Public Works Department.
