Tiger Mountain Rock Introduction
The Hushan Rock Recreation Area located in Huatan Township, Changhua County, not only boasts unique natural scenery, but the popular "Hushan Rock Temple" is also a key attraction. "Hushan Rock Temple" was established in the 12th year of the Qianlong reign in the Qing Dynasty (1747 AD) and is dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. It is designated as a county historic site and is one of the two temples referred to as "the Three Rocks" in central Taiwan. The two ancient banyan trees in front of the temple are over 200 years old, lush and suitable for resting in the shade. The nearby cave houses the Tiger Deity, and unlike typical temples that have only one Tiger Deity, here there is a family of Tiger Deities, both large and small. Before making an offering, visitors can exchange coins with the Tiger Deity, swapping ten or fifty-dollar bills for two to eight one-dollar coins, which is said to help turn small money into big money! "Hushan Rock Temple" serves not only as a center of religious faith for the public but also features a tranquil mountain hiking trail behind the temple, making it an excellent spot for walking and fitness. Furthermore, over 30,000 daylilies are planted on the hill next to the temple, creating a golden sea of flowers each year in April and May, resembling a fairy-tale world that draws thousands of visitors for flower viewing. Hushan Rock gets its name from the mountain's shape, resembling a reclining tiger, with the tiger's head facing east and its face towards the north; Hushan Rock itself is located beneath the tiger's jaw, solemn like a fierce tiger. Additionally, Hushan Rock is one of the eight scenic spots of Changhua, praised for its beauty as "Tigeryan Listening to Bamboo." The Changhua County Gazetteer records: "The rocks embrace the mountains on both sides, lush forest and bamboo, green cliffs and red cliffs, the scenic spots here compare with Biyanshan. Each time at the transition between spring and summer, the sounds of birds rise and fall, bamboo shadows are varied, and the gentle breeze brings a rich green shade to the ground, making one feel as if they are in the realm of immortals." The "Hushan Rock Exhibition Hall," situated next to Hushan Rock Temple, not only provides travel-related information but also introduces religious rituals and customs. With its antique decor, it is definitely worth a visit. Behind the exhibition hall, the hillside is covered with pear trees, blooming magnificently before and after the lunar new year, with the white flowers contrasting beautifully with the red brick façade of the Minnan-style building, creating a picturesque scene.
