Taichung Park
Central to Taichung life, the park has been around since before most of central Taichung was built. The high-arched gate of Taichung Park gives welcome peace and quiet from the noise of the city next door. The park was first laid out in 1903 as one of the founding pillars of a new city. There’s a pretty lake, Chinese garden as well as well-labeled tropical plants throughout. In the middle of the lake is the famous Lake Heart pavilion built in 1908 to commemorate the final opening of the cross island railway. Today this is a key city landmark seen on many signs and placards across the city. Taichung’s old Qing dynasty North gate has also been relocated here. Adjacent to the park is a little-known jade market worth checking out – busiest on Saturdays with hundreds of sellers. In the very early morning many older residents congregate here to participate in group activities such as Tai Chi or dancing.
What to Do
Row a boat around the lake for $300NT, enjoy an icecream, have a picnic, or just take a relaxing stroll. Particularly hot in summer, best to visit early morning or late afternoon. Yizhong Street nightmarket next door is convenient for grabbing a bite to eat.
Events
Every year Taichung City holds a well-received lantern festival around the park during Chinese New Year.
Photo By Yoxem (Own work) [GFDL or CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
