Tiger Mountain Rock Introduction
Located in Huatan Township, Changhua County, the Hushan Rock Recreational Area boasts exceptional natural scenery, and the popular "Hushan Temple" attracts many visitors. Established in the 12th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1747 AD), Hushan Temple is dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and is a designated historic site of the county. It is also one of the two temples known as "San Yan" in central Taiwan. The two ancient banyan trees in front of the temple are over 200 years old, providing a lush canopy perfect for relaxation. Adjacent to the temple, there is a cave that enshrines a family of Tiger Gods, unlike ordinary temples that have only one. Here, visitors can exchange coins with the Tiger God before praying, making small contributions of ten or fifty dollars for two to eight one-dollar coins, which are said to enhance wealth. Hushan Temple is not only a place of religious belief; the tranquil hiking trails behind the temple make it an excellent spot for walking and exercising. On the nearby hillside, over 30,000 daylilies bloom each year from April to May, creating a golden sea of flowers that resembles a fairy tale world, attracting thousands of visitors for flower viewing. The name Hushan Rock comes from its mountain shape resembling a reclining tiger, with the tiger's head facing east and the face directed north, while Hushan Rock is located at the tiger's jaw, solemn like a fierce tiger. Additionally, Hushan Rock is one of the eight scenic spots in Changhua, known for its beauty as "Tiger Rock Listening to Bamboo." The Changhua County Gazetteer records: "The rock is surrounded by mountains, with lush forests and bamboo, green cliffs and red rocks, and the scenic views are comparable to Bixi Mountain. Every spring and summer, sounds of birds rise and fall, bamboo shadows are interlaced, and the gentle breeze fills the greenery, making one feel as if in a realm of immortals." The "Hushan Rock Exhibition Hall," located next to Hushan Temple, provides travel-related information as well as insights into religious rituals and customs. The interior is adorned with antique decor, making it worth a visit. Behind the exhibition hall, the hillside is planted with pear trees that blossom around the Lunar New Year, creating a stunning visual with white flowers contrasted against the red-brick Min Nan-style architecture of the hall.
