The bridge was once the longest railway bridge in Asia at the time of its completion.
It is constructed using a cantilevered iron-truss design which was state-of-the-art for the early 20th century.
The wetland area was transformed from a former riverbed into a systematic bio-filtration zone for local water management.
The bridge survived several major flooding events throughout the 20th century before structural degradation forced its permanent closure to train traffic.
The site remains a primary nesting ground for various species of kingfishers and raptors during the winter migration season.
The Old Railway Bridge & Wetlands Ecological Park features the historic Shimokansai Railway Bridge, originally designed by Japanese engineer Yoichi Oshima and completed in 1913. The structure served as the main artery for the Pingtung sugar industry, connecting Kaohsiung and Pingtung across the Gaoping River. Following a typhoon in 1975, the bridge was retired, leaving behind 24 iron-truss spans that are now preserved as a Grade 2 National Historic Site. The surrounding 113-hectare parkland comprises extensive wetlands that serve as a natural water purification system and a habitat for diverse migratory birds. Visitors can traverse a pedestrian walkway integrated into the historic bridge structure for views of the riverbed. The ecological area includes designated zones for grass cultivation and natural pond ecosystems. This site serves as a significant example of industrial heritage repurposing in Southern Taiwan.
The mid-point of the pedestrian walkway, looking toward the repetitive rhythmic patterns of the steel trusses.
Bring high-SPF sunscreen and a hat, as the bridge span is completely exposed to direct sunlight with no shade.
Carry binoculars if interested in birdwatching, as the wetlands attract diverse avian species near the riverbanks.
Visit during the late afternoon to experience the bridge illuminated by the sunset against the industrial steel trusses.
Do not attempt to climb onto the non-pedestrianized sections of the historic iron-truss bridge for safety and preservation reasons.
Remain on marked paths to protect the wetland ecosystem; do not disturb nesting bird areas.
