Huo Du Bi Pond Ecological Park Introduction
The surrounding environment of Pingzhen Huo-Du Pitan Ecological Park is free from much noise, featuring only a tranquil lake and silent bamboo forests, seemingly guarding some old memories. This approximately 0.7-hectare ecologically themed lakeside space was once a pond open for fishing by the Shimen Agricultural Irrigation Association. In 2008, it was transformed into an ecological park that integrates local culture with natural landscapes, and it was recognized with the 4th Public Works Golden Quality Award by the Taoyuan City Government in 2010. The name comes from a type of pot, with "Huo-Du" being the Hakka term for the bottom of a pot, as the pond resembles a large pot. This naming connects local language with the shape of the land, leaving a unique memory of the land. From the name, the park becomes more than just a green space; it serves as a vessel intertwined with local culture. The red bricks, tiles, and stone walls within the park outline a simple Hakka architectural style, reminiscent of the traces of Hakka culture found within a modern space. Throughout the changing seasons, visitors can leisurely stroll along the lakeside trail, observing the changing colors of the bald cypress and tung blossoms. This makes one want to pause and take in the surroundings. Here, there is not only the breath of ecology but also thoughtful design—terraced landscapes create a 10-meter-high slide, multifunctional climbing equipment, and a pure white sandpit that has become a playground for children, blending play with the environment. The trail above the slide connects to the Shimen Waterway Trail, where lush greenery allows for a leisurely and relaxed pace to continue. In addition to the space for nature and recreation, the park has also collaborated with the irrigation association to establish a management center for promoting ecological education activities, guiding visitors to observe the ecological environments of stag beetles and blakiston's fish owls closely.
