Zengcheng Cultural Park (Suantou Sugar Factory) Introduction
The Garlic Sugar Factory was established in 1906 and was once the third largest sugar factory in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. Due to flooding caused by Typhoon Nari in 2001, the factory's sugar production equipment was severely damaged, leading to the cessation of its sugar production operations and a gradual shift towards leisure and tourism—transforming into a tourist attraction known as the "Cane Culture Park." The park incorporates the unique Alishan Forest Railway, developed into the Cane Cultural Park. The century-old sugar factory within the park is its biggest feature. Although the machinery has stopped operating, a designated tour route has been planned, showcasing items such as sugarcane boards and molasses. With explanations from tour guides, visitors can gain a clear understanding of the sugar production process. The Garlic Sugar Factory features rustic wooden architecture, where visitors can take a ride on the small Alishan train. The train departs from the station heading towards Taibao and Nanjing, with tour guides providing commentary on the scenic countryside along the way, including the gradually diminishing fields of white sugarcane. The park also features charming traditional buildings for visitors to admire, allowing one to deeply feel the progress of life. At the end of 2004, a new ecological park was completed within the area, which also serves an outdoor educational purpose. The factory offers many unique and authentic treats worth trying, such as garlic sugar red bean popsicles, Cane Cultural red bean ice, barley, and sour plum popsicles, providing a delightful experience!
