Hey everyone, Mark here! I'm back with another adventure, this time exploring the captivating city of Taichung, Taiwan. This trip took me on a fascinating journey through history, uncovering hidden gems and experiencing the unique blend of old and new that defines Taiwan. My exploration began with a visit to a truly remarkable structure.
The Dragon God Bridge: A testament to resilience
My first stop was the Longshen Bridge (龍神橋) in the Shijiao area. This isn't just any bridge; it's a stunning example of a glutinous rice mortar bridge, a traditional construction method. The original bridge, completed in 1957, sadly suffered damage from the devastating 1958 flood, and while repaired, it eventually succumbed to years of flooding. A new bridge was constructed downstream, leaving the original structure as a pedestrian-only walkway.
I spent some time examining the old bridge, noticing the faded inscriptions of donors' names on a nearby stone. Local legend says the bridge was built by the Liu family, who settled at the foot of Dragon Mountain. The then-mayor suggested the name "Dragon God Bridge" due to the connection with the mountain and a former Japanese-era shrine, which will later come into play on this trip. The new bridge, completed in 1997, stands as a testament to the perseverance of the community.
| Bridge | Completion Year | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Longshen Bridge | 1957 | Pedestrian walkway | Damaged by multiple floods |
| New Longshen Bridge | 1997 | Vehicular and pedestrian | Constructed downstream to replace the old bridge |
Uncovering the Echoes of the Past: Dongshi Shrine
Next, I ventured to the site of the former Dongshi Shrine (東勢神社), a Japanese-era Shinto shrine. The shrine's original location, however, was a mystery. The area is now part of the old campus of Dongshi Senior High School, which suffered significant damage during the 921 earthquake and was subsequently relocated.
My search for the shrine's remains led me through the abandoned grounds of the old school, encountering overgrown vegetation, a decaying swimming pool, and an old tree. While I couldn't pinpoint the exact location, conversations with locals revealed that some remnants might remain near the former principal's residence and library. I was able to discover some information.
A Unique Temple and a Glimpse of History
I did discover a rather unique temple - Fuxing Palace (福興宮), referred to locally as “Liu-wu Tian Tou Bo Gong,” dedicated to the land deity. This temple boasts a striking architectural feature – a roofline reminiscent of Japanese-era shophouses with Baroque-style gable decorations. It was renovated in 2000, preserving the older temple within the new structure, making for a fascinating blend of old and new.
During my search, I encountered a local resident, who confirmed some portions of what I'd been looking for: that the shrine's ruins may lie near the school's former principal's residence and library, but unfortunately, access was restricted due to the area being closed off. Later, another local led me to a bell tower erected by the Dongshi High School alumni association, revealing a stone inscription that was originally marked as the Dongshi Shrine. This discovery, along with some additional local history, helped paint a picture of the past.
Reflections on History and the Passage of Time
The search for the Dongshi Shrine’s remnants was a journey in itself, not just about finding physical structures, but understanding the layers of history embedded within the landscape. It's important to acknowledge and respect all aspects of Taiwan's past, regardless of the political context. To me, every historical site, regardless of origin, is a part of Taiwan's rich tapestry. The old high school, the temple, and even the faded remnants of the shrine are all pieces of this grand story.
The story that the track at the old high school told was equally compelling and symbolic. Each lane of the track was named after different ruling powers throughout Taiwanese history, highlighting the various influences that have shaped the nation. It is a powerful reminder that all the layers of history have contributed to the Taiwan we know today.
My trip to Taichung was a rewarding experience, filled with unexpected discoveries and profound reflections on history. I hope this account inspires you to explore this beautiful city and uncover its own hidden gems. Until next time, happy travels!
