Hushan Reservoir Environmental Education Park

Overview

Hushan Clean Water, an ecological reservoir! Built in 2015, it is Taiwan’s newest reservoir. Its quiet reservoir trails create the image of an ecological green corridor, introducing local cultural and water-management history as well as the reservoir’s construction process. On a clear day, visitors can take in views of the Douliu Plain from Qianshan Park and the observation deck, and even see the distant coastline.

Highlights

Located on the border of Douliu City and Gukeng Township in Yunlin County, Hushan Reservoir Environmental Education Park follows the theme of “Hushan Clean Water, an Ecological Reservoir.” It is Taiwan’s newest environmental education site for an off-stream reservoir and the country’s first reservoir built under environmental impact assessment supervision, combining stable water supply with ecological conservation. The park is known for its peaceful reservoir trails and lush ecological corridor, where visitors can learn about local cultural and water-management history and the reservoir construction process while strolling. Qianshan Park and the observation deck also offer distant views of the Douliu Plain and, on clear days, the coastline. With a quiet setting and broad views, the park is regarded as a good destination near Yunlin for family outings, group outdoor learning, environmental education, and light hiking.

What to See

1. Reservoir lakeside trail: The trail around the reservoir is flat and easy to walk, bordered by forest and grassy slopes that form a lush ecological corridor. It is suitable for walking, jogging, and leisurely wandering, with views of reflections on the water and the surrounding hill landscape along the way. 2. Ecological green corridor and habitat environment: The Douliu hill area where Hushan Reservoir is located is rich in species resources and is one of the important migration and breeding grounds for the rare summer bird known as the blue-and-white flycatcher. During development, plants and animals were specially relocated for conservation and habitats were restored. Along the park trails, visitors can observe diverse forest layers, insects, and bird activity, making it an outdoor classroom for learning how engineering and ecology coexist. 3. Environmental education interpretation facilities: The park includes interpretive signs and exhibits that explain the background of Hushan Reservoir’s construction, how an off-stream reservoir operates, the use of water resources from the Zhuoshui River and Qingshui River, and the process of environmental impact assessment and ecological conservation. It is well suited for schools and groups conducting environmental education programs and themed visits. 4. Cultural and water-management history corridor: Through illustrated explanations and planned walking routes, the park presents local residents’ lives, Yunlin’s water-use history, and how Hushan Reservoir became an important source of domestic water for greater Yunlin and nearby areas, helping visitors understand the connection between local development and water-resource management. 5. Qianshan Park: Located at a high point around the reservoir, Qianshan Park is an important viewing and resting area in the park. It has shaded greenery, trails, and rest spaces, making it suitable for families to stop for photos, picnics, and sightseeing. On clear days, the views are excellent. 6. Observation deck viewpoints: The observation deck in the park overlooks the full view of Hushan Reservoir and the surrounding hill terrain. In the distance, visitors can see the Douliu Plain, and when visibility is clear, even the coastline. It is a popular spot for photography and for enjoying changes in daylight, clouds, and sunsets. 7. Appearance of nearby Hushan water-supply facilities: The nearby Hushan Water Supply Environmental Education Park and water treatment facilities are important places to learn how raw reservoir water is treated before being supplied for daily use. Although managed by different agencies, the area as a whole forms a cluster of water-resource education sites with multiple learning points.

Hours & Admission

Opening hours: 08:00-17:00. Closed on weekends and national holidays.

Address

No. 53, Xingdong, Qipan Village, Gukeng Township, Douliu City, Yunlin County 640 Tel: (05)5261977

Travel Tips

1. Suggested visit duration: Most visitors can reserve about 2–3 hours to walk the main trails, Qianshan Park, and the observation deck. If joining an environmental education program or group guided tour, a half-day to full-day itinerary is recommended. 2. Visiting and opening information: The park is generally open to the public during official working hours on weekdays, and some facilities and environmental education programs require advance booking or coordination with official arrangements. Before departure, check the latest announcements, such as maintenance work, construction, or event changes. Weekend opening status and whether reservations are limited to groups should follow official information. 3. Best seasons and times to visit: Spring and autumn are cooler and drier, making them suitable for hiking and outdoor learning. In summer, the afternoon sun can be strong, so morning or evening visits are recommended, along with sun protection and hydration. In winter, northeastern monsoon weather and rain may reduce visibility, so choose a day with more stable weather if you want long-distance views. 4. Clothing and equipment recommendations: Although the park routes are mainly gentle trails, comfortable clothing, athletic shoes or other easy-walking closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and rain gear. Visitors who enjoy photography and scenery may want to bring binoculars or a camera. Mosquito repellent is useful in summer. 5. Ecological and environmental rules: Hushan Reservoir combines water-supply functions with ecological conservation, so please follow park regulations: do not cross barriers, feed wild animals, pick or damage plants, and carry out your trash or dispose of it in designated bins to reduce impact on the water source and ecosystem. 6. Suitable visitors and activity suggestions: The park’s gentle trails make it suitable for families with children, older visitors, and school groups. It can be combined with coffee farms, old streets, markets, or other attractions in Gukeng and Douliu City for a one-day or two-day trip. 7. Transportation and parking: The park has parking facilities and is suitable for self-driving visits. Public transportation options are limited, so it is recommended to take a train or coach to Douliu City and then transfer by taxi or chartered vehicle up the mountain. The mountain roads are relatively narrow and have many curves, so drive slowly and pay attention to weather conditions. 8. Group and course reservation advice: For school, government, or company groups, it is recommended to contact the park management unit in advance to reserve environmental education courses or guided interpretation services, and confirm the day’s route and meeting point so that interpreters and parking space can be arranged.

Nearby Dining

The park itself focuses on education and scenic trails, so dining options are limited and usually consist of simple snacks or food brought by visitors. It is recommended to buy meals and drinking water in advance in Douliu City or Gukeng Township, where there are traditional snack shops, casual dining restaurants, and cafés. Depending on your schedule, you can eat before going up or after coming down the mountain. If you plan to stay longer, you may bring a picnic mat and light food to enjoy at Qianshan Park or a scenic rest area, but please do not leave trash behind or disturb the environment and other visitors.

FAQ

Q：Is Hushan Reservoir Environmental Education Park suitable for visiting with children or older family members? A：Yes. The park’s trails are mostly flat, with gentle slopes and a quiet environment. Visitors can walk slowly while reading the interpretive signs to learn about the reservoir and ecology, making it very suitable for families and older visitors. Just pay attention to weather changes and bring sun protection and water. Q：Do I need to make a reservation before visiting Hushan Reservoir Environmental Education Park? A：The general outdoor areas are usually open for free visits during opening hours, but environmental education courses, group guided tours, or entry to specific facilities usually require prior application and reservation with the park or related units. Since rules differ slightly by managing agency, it is recommended to check official announcements or call ahead before departure. Q：What can I mainly do at Hushan Reservoir Environmental Education Park? A：Visitors can walk and hike along the reservoir trails, enjoy views of the reservoir and hill landscape, look out over the Douliu Plain and, on clear days, the coastline from Qianshan Park and the observation deck, and learn about local culture, water-management history, reservoir construction, and environmental impact assessment through the interpretive facilities. It is an itinerary that combines sightseeing and learning. Q：What rules should I pay attention to when visiting Hushan Reservoir Environmental Education Park? A：Because the reservoir serves an important water-source and ecological conservation function, please follow basic rules such as not littering, not feeding wild animals, not crossing barriers, not swimming or fishing in restricted areas, and not engaging in loud or disruptive behavior that affects the ecosystem. Also, follow the park’s announced open areas and hours, and obey on-site instructions if there is construction or controlled access.

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