Zhuxi Riverside Park Introduction
One of the famous scenic parks in Chiayi County is the first waterfront park along the banks of the Puzi River. The Puzi Riverside Park is located next to the Zhuxi Bridge along Provincial Highway 3 and adjacent to the Puzi River, covering an area of nearly 4 hectares. The park features diverse ecology, landscapes, and recreational facilities. The bamboo area boasts over 80 species of precious bamboo from both domestic and international origins, making it unique in the country. The Puzi Riverside Park is planned with several areas, including an art square, waterfront activity area, multifunctional lawn, riverside trails, pebble play area, stepped plaza, and shaded walking paths. Vehicles are prohibited inside the park to ensure that visitors can enjoy their recreation without disturbance from noise. This multifunctional waterfront park not only allows visitors to get close to the Puzi River but also offers activities such as water observation, fishing, bird watching, enjoying the scenery, playing frisbee, flying kites, and playing croquet. Additionally, a static display area showcases an old steam locomotive (number 32) from the forest railway for public appreciation, making it suitable for family outings. At the park's entrance, there are more than ten 毛風鈴 (Mao Wind Bell) trees, a tropical plant native to Central and South America, also known as the Yellow Flamboyant Tree. When they bloom, the flowers shine like sunlight, hence the name radiant tree. Each March, as spring arrives, the tree sheds its leaves and bursts into beautiful yellow flowers, often attracting the attention of passersby and serving as an indicator of the arrival of spring. When the 毛風鈴 are in full bloom, it coincides with the cherry blossom season in Alishan. From mid-March to mid-April each year, the Yoshino cherry, Yaezakura, Peony cherry, and Guanzhong cherry blossom beautifully in Alishan, creating a dreamlike scene. Additionally, flowers such as the Formosan azalea, camellia, foxglove, and one-leaf orchid accompany this display. Visitors can plan one or more day trips to fully experience the beauty of spring in Chiayi and the charm of Alishan.
