🚴‍♂️20260307 Chiayi–Tainan Scenic & Gourmet Cycling Tour – 5 Days | Day 2

Описание: The day began promptly at 8:20 AM as the group set off along the Northern Main Canal of the Chianan Irrigation System. This recently completed cycling path runs straight and open along the levee. On both sides stretch the vast fields of the Chianan Plain, where farmland extends toward the horizon and the sky seems to merge seamlessly with the earth. Although trees are sparse, the cool weather made for comfortable riding. From the levee, the wide-open view created a refreshing and relaxing start to the day.

The first stop was the Ping Huang Coffee Tourism Factory. Even before 9:00 AM, the place was already bustling with visitors. As one of Taiwan’s few coffee-themed tourism factories, it introduces visitors to the culture, production, and tasting of coffee through exhibitions and sampling experiences. The cyclists from Singapore were especially enthusiastic—joking that they should “spend more money to bring honor to their country,” turning the visit into a lively shopping moment.

The ride continued to the Tropic of Cancer Park in Shuishang. The very first Tropic of Cancer marker here was built by the Japanese in 1908 (Meiji 41) to commemorate the completion of Taiwan’s north–south railway. After several reconstructions, the current monument is now the sixth-generation landmark. Standing in front of the Solar Pavilion and recalling the Tropic of Cancer monument visited yesterday in Dongshi, the riders reflected on the geographic and historical significance carried by these markers.

Next came a visit to the White Person Toothpaste Tourism Factory. The most eye-catching feature within the park is a pair of historic buildings—the General’s Residence and Dai Residence—which were dismantled piece by piece in Jiangxi, China, transported to Taiwan, and reconstructed here. Originally built during the Qing Dynasty (Daoguang and Guangxu periods), these traditional residences now stand unexpectedly in the Chianan Plain. The Singaporean riders, well-versed in Chinese history, shared stories about Qing emperors and historical anecdotes with impressive detail.

The team then cycled into Jingliao Old Street, famous as the filming location of the documentary “Let the Rice Grow” (Wu Mi Le). Often called the “Dowry Street,” the area preserves the charm of a traditional farming village. By good fortune, the group arrived just in time to witness the “Dowry Cart Wedding Experience” event. With a lively procession, exaggerated gestures from the matchmaker, and a cart full of wedding gifts parading through the street, it felt like stepping back into a traditional rural wedding scene.

Leaving the old street, the group stopped briefly for photos at Houbi Railway Station. Built in 1943, this Japanese-style station building marks the northernmost railway station in Tainan. In front of the station stands a sculpture honoring the farmers featured in the “Wu Mi Le” story.

Lunch was served in Baihe, featuring local specialties such as Donggang tuna rice soup and giant grouper rice soup. The clear broth, tender fish, and modest portions created a simple yet flavorful seafood dish.

In the afternoon, the riders visited the Dongshan Donghe Honey Cultural Park, where they learned about bee ecology and enjoyed refreshing honey popsicles. Responding to the group’s curiosity, the tour also added an extra visit to “Old Cow’s Home” at Deyuanpi. This sanctuary provides retirement care for working oxen. Among them is a 29-year-old water buffalo named Xiu Hui, as well as Mou Nan, a rescued ox that once suffered abuse. Watching these animals peacefully grazing and soaking in the water reminded everyone of the deep bond between farmers and their working cattle. Ada commented with emotion, “This is a place with meaningful stories—more cyclists should come and see it.”

After a short photo stop at Liujia Elementary School, the group arrived at one of today’s highlights: Wushantou Reservoir. At the Yoichi Hatta Memorial Hall, volunteers explained the history behind the construction of the Chianan Irrigation System and the reservoir itself. Yoichi Hatta’s remarkable achievements in civil engineering—and the touching story of his wife’s devotion—left a strong impression on everyone.

The group then strolled to nearby landmarks including the Temple of Heaven Pavilion, Coral Suspension Bridge, and the dam-top walkway. Standing on the dam, shimmering waters stretched to one side while the sky glowed red with the setting sun. Looking east toward Mount Wu and west toward the descending sun, the reservoir landscape appeared calm and picturesque.

After cycling about 58 kilometers, the group safely arrived at Hujing Resort Hotel at 5:15 PM. With cool evening air and peaceful surroundings, another day on the Chianan Plain came to a gentle close.

Detailed itinerary:
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