Zi 字媒體

The scenic pond in the north of the city has been a popular destination since the Qing dynasty and is well known for the 20 or so temples dotting the shoreline and nearby alleys. The majority of these structures are garishly kitsch, which can be fun for some. At night they’re illuminated, creating multicoloured reflections in the water. Resource: Lonely Planet Starting from the southern end and heading clockwise around the lake, you’ll first encounter sections of the Old Wall of Fengshan (Fèngshān Jiùcháng), built in 1826. The intact north gate wall runs along Shengli Rd.Extending out onto the pond itself are the Dragon & Tiger Pagodas, built in the ’60s as an extension of the Ciji Temple opposite. Enter the dragon and exit the tiger for good luck. Next along are the Spring & Autumn Pavilions, dedicated to Guandi, the God of War, and featuring Guanyin riding a dragon.Standing right across the road, the Temple of Enlightenment is the largest temple in the area. It’s guarded by two giant temple lions hugging equally giant stone balls. Resource: Tourism Bureau, Republic of China (Taiwan) Most structures around the lake are modern and gaudy, with the exception of the City God Temple. In the entrance hall, look up to admire the detailed plafond (decorative ceiling); the traditional woodcarvings are filled with symbolism, such as the fish representing Yin and Yang, and the crabs representing official promotion. The roof has some fine examples of dragons and phoenixes in jiǎnniàn (mosaic-like temple decoration). Resource: Tourism Bureau, Republic of China (Taiwan) Back at the pond, follow the pier to the walkway out to the imposing 24m statue of Xuantian Shang-di, the Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven, and guardian of the north.The final temple of note is the Confucius Temple on the lake’s northern end. Completed in 1976, it’s the largest Confucius temple in Taiwan.To get to the lake, take bus R51 or 301 from Zuoying MRT station (exit 2). Travel Info Lotus Pond [蓮池湖/Liánchí hú] -Located in:Southern Taiwan -County:Kaohsiung -Features:Monument -Highly recommend to:History Enthusiasts -Contacts:07-799-5678 -Address: Liantan Rd., Zuoying Dist., Kaohsiung City 813, Taiwan Editor : baibai@ReadyGo Thanks to for Lonely Planet for the content sharing.