Nanjing Sugar Factory Leisure Plaza Introduction
In the early post-World War II period, sugar was one of Taiwan's major industries and a key export product. Due to the climate and soil conditions of the Chiayi region being very suitable for sugarcane cultivation, one of the three major sugar factories at that time, the Nanjing Sugar Factory, was established in Shuishang Township, Chiayi County. Founded in the 41st year of the Meiji era by the Toyo Sugar Manufacturing Co., Ltd., it featured a sugar processing factory capable of crushing 3,200 tons of sugarcane daily, producing 20,000 tons of high-grade sugar annually. With the booming sugar industry, Shuishang once thrived, but unfortunately, as the sugar industry declined, its glory faded. As sugar processing lost its market competitiveness, the Nanjing Sugar Factory actively transformed, now developing in a diversified direction. In addition to its original sugarcane processing and pig farming operations, which are now mechanized and managed by specialists, it has developed several transformation businesses, among which the butterfly orchid industry has established an excellent reputation internationally. The factory area has planned a modern leisure marketplace selling Taiwan Sugar products. The variety of flavors of the ice products produced by the sugar factory is not only delicious but also affordable, attracting many tourists, making the marketplace always bustling with visitors. Next to the marketplace, there is also a floral exhibition area and a children’s recreational area, providing a variety of choices for visitors. The sugar factory's leisure plaza features displays of old-style locomotives, retired military vehicles, aircraft, and anti-aircraft guns, along with a barbecue area for public recreation, as well as a childhood tunnel for children's adventures. Located across from Nanjing Railway Station and easily accessible, Nanjing Sugar Factory not only offers delicious ice treats but also allows visitors to experience its historical transformation, with large trees, old buildings, and sugarcane carts adding to the nostalgic charm.
