Bafen Canal Green Corridor Introduction
Babang Canal is one of Taiwan's early significant irrigation projects, diverting water from the Zhuoshui River to irrigate the Changhua Plain. As a result, Babang Canal is also known as Zhuoshui Canal. The "Babang Canal Green Corridor" is nestled in this tranquil landscape, flanked by the canal and surrounded by fields. A hidden spot for cycling and walking, the Babang Canal Green Corridor has long been a favorite among locals for biking and strolling. Alongside the Babang Canal, the small leaf fig trees on both sides of the road create a dense shaded area, and during harvest season, one can gaze at the golden rice waves swaying in the wind, reflecting the classic Taiwanese rural charm. This stretch of road has also served as a route for the Tianzhong Marathon, making it easy to imagine the comfort and serenity of runners racing alongside the winding canal. The "Shifang Temple," a significant stop influenced by folk beliefs stemming from water conservancy, is located at the confluence of Babang Canal No. 1 and No. 2. The main deity, Lady Lin, is regarded as the guardian of irrigation. Interestingly, the temple's offerings predominantly consist of guavas, which were once considered taboo fruits for worshipping, but have transformed into a unique feature of Shifang Temple over time. Similarly, the "Mr. Lin Temple" in the Babang Canal No. 2 area enshrines a Lin surname figure who assisted in constructing the Babang Canal. Legend has it that he taught the water diversion methods and then vanished, leading later generations to build a temple in his honor. Another story suggests that Mr. Lin is an incarnation of Lady Lin, showcasing the bond between local development and common society, generating a strong belief system. After visiting the temples, one should not miss the tour of historical residences. The "Tianzhong Xiaoyunzhang Residence" located next to Babang Canal No. 2 and Dasha Road was built during the Japanese colonial period. Mr. Xiaoyunzhang once served as a village head and secretary of the Tianzhong Office and was an important leader in the Tianzhong area. This residence features a unique architectural style that blends Japanese official residences, Min-style architecture, and elements of Western classicism characterized by symmetry and geometry, making it a rare and distinctive site.
