Fengshan Cao Gong Canal

Fengshan Cao Gong Canal is a historic irrigation canal located in Fengshan District, Kaohsiung City. It has had a profound impact on local agricultural development and cultural heritage. 🏞 Introduction to Cao Gong Canal • Origin and Construction: The Cao Gong Canal was first constructed during the Daoguang era of the Qing Dynasty (around 1837) under the leadership of Fengshan County Magistrate Cao Jin. At the time, the Fengshan area frequently suffered from droughts. Cao Jin personally inspected the fields and discovered that water could be diverted from the Gaoping River for irrigation. He initiated the excavation of the canal, solving irrigation issues for farmers and transforming dry fields into fertile paddies. • Structure and Scope: The canal system consists of five main irrigation networks, including the Old Cao Gong Canal (Wuli Old Canal), New Cao Gong Canal (Wuli New Canal), Fengshan Canal, Daliao Canal, and Linyuan Canal. Its irrigation coverage spans multiple districts in Kaohsiung City, such as Dashu, Daliao, Fengshan, Niaosong, Renwu, Dashe, Linyuan, Nanzi, Zuoying, Sanmin, Lingya, Xinxing, Qianjin, Xiaogang, and Qianzhen. It is one of the most significant water management facilities in the Kaohsiung area. 🏛 Culture and Commemoration • Cao Gong Shrine and Cao Gong Temple: To honor Cao Jin's contributions, local residents built the Cao Gong Shrine in Fengshan District, later renamed Cao Gong Temple. Today, places like Cao Gong Road, Cao Jin Road, and Cao Gong Elementary School in Fengshan District are named after him to commemorate his contributions to the region. • Historical Significance: The Cao Gong Canal is not only the largest water management project in southern Taiwan during the Qing Dynasty but also a rare example of a government-led initiative supported by local gentry. It has had a lasting impact on agricultural development and social stability in the area. 🌸 Nearby Attractions Around Fengshan Cao Gong Canal • Cao Gong Canal Riverside Park (Fengshan Station Section): Located in front of Fengshan Train Station, this park is bordered by Cao Gong Road, Xiehe Road, Zhongzheng Road, and Cao Jin Road. It features a waterside walkway and green spaces, ideal for strolling and relaxing. Every May, the park's golden shower trees bloom, attracting numerous visitors to admire the flowers. • Fengshan Light Canal Event: Held annually, this event combines artisanal works from the Minong community and sets up bamboo lanterns along the Cao Gong Canal, creating a romantic nighttime landscape that draws many tourists. 🚶♂️ Recommended Itinerary If you plan to visit Fengshan Cao Gong Canal, here’s a suggested itinerary: 1. Morning: Take the Kaohsiung MRT to Fengshan Station and walk to Cao Gong Canal Riverside Park. Stroll along the waterside walkway and enjoy the surrounding scenery. 2. Noon: Savor local delicacies in Fengshan District, such as Fengshan beef soup and salted chicken. 3. Afternoon: Visit Cao Gong Temple to learn about Cao Jin's history and contributions. 4. Evening: If visiting in May, head to Cao Gong Canal Riverside Park to admire the golden shower trees. If during the event period, participate in the "Fengshan Light Canal" event to experience the nighttime bamboo lantern display.