Zhecheng Cultural Park (Suantou Sugar Factory)

Suantou Sugar Factory was built in 1906 and was the third largest sugar factory in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. In 2001 (ROC year 90), Typhoon Nari caused severe flooding and damage to the factory's sugar production equipment, leading to the cessation of sugar manufacturing. It gradually transformed into a leisure industry – a tourist sugar factory. Suantou Sugar Factory, combined with Taiwan Sugar's unique Wufenche narrow-gauge trains, developed into the 'Zhecheng Cultural Park.' The century-old sugar refinery within the park is its biggest feature. Although the machinery has ceased operation, the factory has planned a tour route showcasing materials like bagasse boards and molasses. With explanations from tour guides, visitors can clearly understand the sugarcane production process. The Suantou Sugar Factory building itself is a quaint wooden structure, where you can board the Wufenche small train for an excursion. The train departs from the station towards Taibao and Nanjin. Onboard guides will explain the scenic countryside along the way, including the increasingly rare white sugarcane fields. The park also features charming old buildings to admire, where one can deeply appreciate the passage of history and progress. By the end of 2004 (ROC year 93), a new ecological park within the area was completed, also serving as an outdoor classroom. The sugar factory offers many unique and authentic ice products worth trying, such as Suantou Red Bean Popsicle, Zhecheng Red Bean Clear Ice, Job's Tears Popsicle, and Sour Plum Popsicle, among other special flavors that will leave you with an unforgettable aftertaste!