Fir Pond by the Cultural Center

On this day in history – [Fir Pond]: Taiwan's Timber Distribution Hub. During the Japanese colonial period, with the development of the Alishan timber industry, Chiayi City's population doubled and it rapidly prospered, becoming Taiwan's timber distribution hub. The current site of the Municipal Cultural Center was once home to East Asia's largest [Fir Pond]. After the completion of the Alishan Forest Railway, a timber pond was excavated to store lumber, primarily cypress (hinoki), hence it was also known as Hinoki Pond. Trees were planted around the pond, providing dense shade. A gentle breeze often carried the fragrance of hinoki cypress. Fishing beneath the trees offered a tranquil enjoyment akin to Tai Gong fishing by the Wei River, truly a recreational paradise. Currently, the Chiayi City Cultural Affairs Bureau is actively enriching its cultural and artistic activities. It hopes to perpetuate the ancient literary traditions of Zhu-luo (an old name for Chiayi), create a new Chiayi culture, ensure full public participation in cultural development, encourage everyone to enjoy performing arts, and improve the quality of life in the Chiayi area.