最後更新／Last Updated：2025-01-25
Longci, situated southeast of Tainan, is nestled in the hilly region at the southern end of the Alishan Mountain Range, with elevations ranging from 80 to 350 meters. This varied terrain has fostered a diverse array of natural landscapes. The prevalence of mudstone in the area has led to significant erosion from rainwater and streams, resulting in a distinctive badland terrain known as the barren "Moon World." As a result, many residents have moved away, leaving only around 3,000 people, making it the least populated administrative district in Tainan.
It was only during this visit that I realized this place is a secluded town. Aside from a convenience store, there were no noodle shops or restaurants open on regular weekdays during lunchtime.
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◦ The History of Longci
According to the Longci Township Annals, the establishment of the settlement in Longci can be traced back to the early Han Chinese settlers bulldozed the peak of Huxingshan in the region to create farmland. To pray for favorable weather and good fortune, these early settlers named the mountainous area "Dragon Boat," symbolizing their aspirations for luck.
During the Japanese colonial period, the government merged the names of the two largest villages in the area: "Dragon Boat Village" and "Ciding Village," taking one character from each to form the name "Longci," which has since become widely recognized.
◦ Longci Light Festival
During the period from the Lunar New Year to the Lantern Festival, various unique lantern festivals flourish across Taiwan. Among these, the Longci Light Festival, which has been held since 2019, has garnered widespread acclaim and is hailed as "the most beautiful mountain lantern festival in Taiwan."
The esteemed title was not easily earned. Longci is Tainan's least populated and most rapidly aging district. In the past, it was even proposed as a landfill site due to its remote location and sparse population. However, for those willing to explore further, Longci reveals its rare geological features, lush bamboo forests, and unique bamboo weaving craftsmanship—precious assets not found elsewhere.
The name "Kun Shan" (Empty Mountain) not only reflects the stereotype of Longci but also embodies the artists' desire to invite people to visit this "isolated mountain that hasn't seen a crowd in 50 years" and experience the profound presence of Longci.
Unlike traditional lantern festivals, the Longci Light Festival is more akin to a large-scale art exhibition. More than a dozen light installations are strategically positioned throughout Huxingshan Park, inviting exploration.
◦ Attractions in Longci
01｜Longci Wenheng Temple
Entering the temple dedicated to the Holy Emperor Guan, you will be pleasantly surprised to find the Avengers! Thanks to generous donations from devotees, the temple has legally acquired licenses for Iron Man, the Hulk, and Bumblebee from Transformers. These iconic figures now stand proudly in Wenheng Temple as the most formidable guardians of the Holy Emperor Guan. The temple's whimsical blend of Eastern tradition and Western pop culture surprised me!
The sculptures outside the temple are just as impressive as the superheroes inside. Surrounding the Wenheng Temple are several bronze sculptures created by artist Chen Zhengxiong. These works reflect the temple's deep care for ordinary people.
Longci Wenheng Temple No. 3-2, Zhongkeng, Longqi Dist., Tainan
02｜Niupu Mudstone Soil and Water Conservation Education Park
Due to the widespread mudstone in Longci, erosion caused by rainwater and streams has resulted in a rugged terrain that resembles the surface of the moon. This unique landscape, along with the vegetation restoration techniques developed in response to these conditions, is preserved within the Niupu Mudstone Soil and Water Conservation Education Park.
Initially, in an effort to manage areas affected by stream collapse and enhance rural landscapes, the Soil and Water Conservation Bureau employed ecological engineering techniques. These efforts gradually introduced greenery to the previously barren, moon-like terrain, transforming the area into a model site for soil and water conservation.
Niupu Mudstone Soil and Water Conservation Education Park Opening Hours: 0800-1700 No. 10, Niupu, Longqi Dist., Tainan
03｜Local Culture Exhibition Center
Longci is home to a vibrant bamboo forest ecosystem, which makes bamboo weaving a cherished cultural asset of the region. While I was admiring the bamboo crafts at the Local Culture Exhibition Center next to the Education Park, a man entered and began explaining the creative concepts behind these works. After a brief conversation, I discovered that he was Lin Xianhua, also known as the "Grassroots Scholar," who is well-versed in Minnan four-line verse.
The four-line verse, a form of rhymed quatrain frequently employed in Taiwanese opera, becomes as melodious as poetry when crafted with precise rhymes. As Mr. Lin spoke, he suddenly became inspired and began reciting his creations. His clever and humorous verses, accompanied by pleasing rhymes, captivated me and sparked my enthusiasm.
Local Culture Exhibition Center Opening Hours: 0800-1700 No. 10, Niupu, Longqi Dist., Tainan
04｜Huxingshan Park
Standing at an elevation of 113 meters, Huxingshan is a seldom-visited mountain, earning its reputation as the "solitary mountain without crowds for 50 years." This is also the reason why the "Longci Light Festival" derives its name from the concept of an "empty" or secluded mountain.
Due to the limited human activity, the environment has been remarkably well-preserved. Visitors who come during the summer can even spot fireflies.
Huxingshan Park The entrance is located next to Longci Elementary School.
◦ Flying Over Taiwan
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◦ Other Areas in Tainan
➤ Beimen | The Oldest Salt Field Site in Taiwan
➤ Guantian | The Land of Water Caltrops with a Touching Story