Bapang Canal Green Corridor Introduction
The Babao Channel is one of the significant early irrigation projects in Taiwan, directing water from the Zhuoshuizi River to irrigate the Changhua Plain. Therefore, the Babao Channel is also known as the Zhuoshuizi Channel. The "Babao Channel Green Corridor" is nestled in a serene landscape surrounded by water channels and fields. This hidden gem has become a favorite spot for locals to bike and walk. The dense shade provided by the small-leaved Pithecellobium dulce along both sides of the road allows a view of the golden waves of rice swaying in the wind during harvest season, embodying the classic rural charm of Taiwan. This route has also served as the course for the Tianzhong Marathon, making it easy to envision the comfort and tranquility felt by runners winding alongside the meandering water channel. Along the way, you will encounter "Shifang Temple," located at the junction of the Babao First and Second Channels. The temple's main deity, Lin Ma Niang, is regarded as the guardian of irrigation. Interestingly, this temple’s offerings often include guavas, a fruit that was originally considered taboo for worship but has transformed into a unique characteristic of Shifang Temple over time. Similarly, the "Lin Xianshen Temple" in the Babao Second Channel area honors a Lin family member who helped construct the Babao Channel. According to legend, he disappeared after instructing the water diversion strategy, leading later generations to build a temple in his honor. Another story suggests that Lin Xianshen is the incarnation of Lin Ma Niang, reflecting the intertwined relationship between local development and community life, which has given rise to strong faith. After visiting the temples, one should not miss the old residence tour. The "Tianzhong Hsiao Yun-Chang Residence," located beside the Babao Second Channel and Dasha Road, was built during the Japanese occupation. Mr. Hsiao Yun-Chang served as a local leader and held the position of village chief and secretary of the Tianzhong Township office. This residence features a unique architectural style that combines Japanese official residence design with Fujian-style architecture, while also incorporating elements of symmetry and geometry from Western classical architecture, making it rare and distinctive.
