Wannian Creek Introduction
Wannian Creek, formerly known as "Banzai Pu Creek" and also called "Ahou Creek," is fed by the Haifeng Canal, the Old Chonglan Canal, and the Guilai Gongguan Canal from its upstream. It flows from the suburban Ruiguang Road and Dalian Road into Pingtung City, passing through Millennium Park and neighboring Ziyou Road and Zili Road. The creek is approximately 5.5 kilometers long and merges with Shashe Creek to flow into Niuchao Creek, eventually emptying into the Gaoping River. During the Japanese occupation, the water of Wannian Creek was an important resource for the Taiwan Sugar Corporation's Aktau Sugar Factory, with Five-Pint trucks transporting materials along the railway on the creek, creating a unique landscape at that time. However, Wannian Creek once lost its original charm, but after renovation, it has regained its vitality. Ecological stone cages have been placed along both sides of the creek in the middle and lower reaches, and in the area from Mingui Second Street Bridge to Victory Bridge, stone constructions have created ecological spaces, where willow branches sway in the wind, adding a poetic touch. Wooden walkways and observation decks have been built around the creek, providing spaces for the public to walk and rest. The four pedestrian bridges - "Bridge of Hope," "Bridge of History," "Minhe Bridge," and "Bridge of Happiness" - feature famous river views, historical photographs of the creek, and student artworks embedded in the railings, adding to the interest. Near the Wanfuku Temple by the creek, a monument for the small train has been established beside the old railway, and another monument marks the old site of "U Zuo Jin Bridge" (Dongxing Bridge), across from Pingtung Hospital on Zili Road, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere of Wannian Creek. Birds often fly over the creek, and with the occasional willow trees interspersed, it is mostly lined with Taiwan Ficus trees. Especially in autumn, the interplay of red, yellow, and green adds much color to Wannian Creek. Every great city has a beautiful river, and the lovely Wannian Creek nurtures the rich cultural landscapes and natural ecology of Pingtung. You are welcome to come and savor it!
