Wannian River Introduction
Wannian River, formerly known as Fanzi Pu River and also called Ahou River, is joined upstream by Haifeng Canal, Chonglan Old Canal, and Guilai Public House Canal. It flows from the suburban Ruiguang Road and Dalian Road into Pingtung City, passing through Millennium Park, adjacent to Ziyou Road and Zili Road, with a total length of about 5.5 kilometers. The lower reaches merge with Shashe River and flow into Niuchao River, ultimately draining into Gaoping River. During the Japanese colonial period, the water of Wannian River was an important water source for the Taiwan Sugar Corporation's Akou Sugar Plant, and the five-minute train transporting raw materials moved through the railway over Wannian River to the factory, creating a unique landscape at that time. However, Wannian River once lost its original charm but has since been revitalized after restoration efforts. Ecological stone cages have been installed along both sides of the river in the middle and lower reaches, and from the Mingui 2nd Street Bridge to the Victory Bridge, masonry has been used to create ecological spaces, with willow branches swaying in the breeze along the riverbank, offering a poetic scenery. The area around the riverbank has seen the addition of wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms, providing spaces for the public to walk and relax. Four pedestrian bridges named "Bridge of Hope," "Bridge of History," "Minhe Bridge," and "Bridge of Happiness" feature beautiful river scenery, historical photos of the riverside, and student works embedded in the railings for added interest. Near the Wanfuku Temple by the riverside, a monument for a small train has been set up along the old railway, and a monument has also been placed at the original site of the "Black Walk Golden Bridge" (Dongxing Bridge), opposite Pingtung Hospital along Zili Road, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere of Wannian River. Occasionally, water birds can be seen flying over the riverbank, and aside from a few willows interspersed, both sides are mostly filled with Taiwan stallions. Especially in autumn, the intermingling of red, yellow, and green adds much color to Wannian River. Every great city has a beautiful river; the lovely Wannian River nurtures the rich cultural landscape and natural ecology of Pingtung. You are welcome to come and savor it!
