Dashu Old Railway Bridge Wetland Park – The Historical Background of this Bridge is so Fascinating!

When I visited Kaohsiung for the first time, I never intended to drop by the Dashu District but a local driver brought me there. This district used to boast the longest bridge in Asia – the Dashu Old Railway Bridge. However, the area underwent major renovations in 2002 by the Kaohsiung City Government and turned into an ecological park. 

The Dashu Old Railway Bridge, also known as the Xiadanshui River Steel Bridge, has a total length of 1,526 metres. This railway was first used for the sugar-making industry. Subsequently, during the Japanese occupation, it was used to transport supplies for military purposes. Nowadays, the old railway is no longer used for transportation purposes. It is designated as a class two national historical monument and acts as a “playground” for photographers. There is a new railway track built right beside the old one which allows trains to pass through. 

The railway is part of the spacious ecological park which is rich in flora and fauna. With a total area of 120 hectares, the park includes the outdoor plaza, constructed wetlands, the aqua space, green landscape, bike lanes and all kinds of facilities, providing leisure activities along the Gaoping River. Due to the large land area, locals are able to enjoy outdoor recreational activities without feeling as though the place is too crowded.

The Dashu Old Railway Bridge Wetland Park is located near Fo Guang Shan, a major tourist attraction. If you time your visit well, you’ll be able to explore both places and watch the glorious sunset at the park.

Dashu Old Railway Bridge Wetland Park
Address: No. 109 Zhuliao Road, Zhuliao Village, Dashu District, Kaohsiung 840, Taiwan
Contact: (07)6522292
Website: http://www.oldbridge.org.tw/