Hushan Rock Introduction
The Hushan Rock Recreation Area, located in Huatan Township, Changhua County, boasts exceptional natural scenery, and the highly popular "Hushan Rock Temple" is a prominent attraction. Established in the 12th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1747 AD), the temple is dedicated to Guanyin (the Bodhisattva of Compassion) and is designated as a historical site by the county. It was once known as one of the "Three Rocks and Two Temples" of central Taiwan. Two ancient banyan trees in front of the temple are over 200 years old, providing a lush and shady spot suitable for relaxation. Adjacent to the temple, a cave houses the spirit of the tiger, known as Tiger Ye, which differs from typical temples that usually have only one. Here, there is a whole family of Tiger Ye figures, both big and small. Visitors can exchange coins with the Tiger Ye before worshipping, trading ten or fifty-dollar bills for two to eight one-dollar coins, which is said to enhance wealth. In addition to being a significant place for the public's religious beliefs, the area behind the temple features serene hiking trails, making it an excellent place for walking and exercise. The hillside next to the temple is planted with over 30,000 daylilies, which bloom into a golden flower sea each year from April to May, resembling a fairy tale world, and attracts thousands of visitors for flower viewing. Hushan Rock gets its name from the mountain's shape, which resembles a reclining tiger, with the tiger's head facing east and its face inclined to the north. Hushan Rock is located at the tiger's jaw, exuding a majestic presence akin to a fierce tiger. Moreover, it is one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Changhua, praised for its beauty in "Listening to Bamboo at Huyuan." The Changhua County Chronicle describes: "The rocks are embraced by the mountains on both sides, with lush forests and towering bamboos, and the green cliffs against the red rocks offer scenic views comparable to those of Biji Mountain. At the transition of spring and summer, the sounds of birds echo above, bamboo shadows dance, and a gentle breeze comes, filling the area with green shade, creating a seemingly otherworldly experience." The Hushan Rock Exhibition Hall, located next to Hushan Rock Temple, not only provides tourism-related information but also introduces religious customs and rituals. The interior decor is elegantly vintage and well worth a visit. Behind the exhibition hall, the hillside is covered with pear trees that bloom joyfully around the Lunar New Year, with the white flowers beautifully contrasting the red-brick facade of the Minnan-style building, creating a visually pleasing sight.
