10 Shilin No. 203 Park (Fudeyang Branch Irrigation Channel Riverside Area)
The Fudeyang Irrigation Channel dates back to the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, around 1736, when local settlers pooled resources to dig a canal diverting water from the Waishuangxi River to irrigate farmland in Shilin and Zhoumei. The meandering stream in the park is the extant segment of that historical channel. The clear waters and the lush greenery of the banks create a tranquil environment. A riverside path allows visitors to walk alongside the channel, where they can observe a wide range of plant life and the occasional dragonfly, bringing a lively energy to the scene.
In addition to its natural charms, the park preserves remnants of the channel’s history. For instance, a cobblestoned section of the southern branch remains as a tangible reminder of the irrigation system that once served the surrounding agricultural lands. As urban development gradually transformed the Shilin area, this park became one of the few places where people can still trace the legacy of the Fudeyang Irrigation Channel.
The park offers distinctive scenery through the seasons. In spring, flowers bloom profusely along the channel, creating romantic scenes where blossoms are reflected in water. In autumn and winter, the changing colours of the baldcypress trees bring a different kind of beauty to the landscape. Nearby, the Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence Park, with its Chinese-style gardens and rose garden, offers additional cultural sites worth exploring.
For visitors interested in local history and culture, events and walking tours related to the Fudeyang Irrigation Channel are regularly held around Shilin No. 203 Park. These activities delve into the history of this centuries-old waterway, providing insight into the evolution of the old and new streets of Shilin, and offering a deeper understanding of the close relationship between the local people and their environment.
