The park was created on land previously slated for a dump site, which was repurposed following intense community advocacy.
It was selected as one of the 'Top 10 Parks in the World' by the FIABCI Prix d'Excellence Awards in 2017.
The park serves as a sanctuary for the Luciola cerata firefly, which requires high water quality to thrive.
Dr. Thomas Barclay translated the Bible into Pe̍h-ōe-jī, which is honored by the park's historical designation.
The park utilizes a natural sewage treatment system that filters urban runoff through wetlands before it enters the local creek.
Barclay Memorial Park is a 9.1-hectare ecological park in Tainan's East District known for its intentional preservation of wetlands and firefly habitats. The park is named after Dr. Thomas Barclay, a Scottish missionary who lived in Taiwan for 60 years and played a key role in negotiating the peaceful entry of Japanese troops into Tainan in 1895. The landscape features restored streams, lush forested zones, and wooden footbridges designed to integrate with the natural topography. It serves as a rare urban sanctuary that emphasizes biodiversity, including restored firefly populations and diverse bird species. The area is divided into two phases, with the second phase focusing on expanded wetland corridors. The park emphasizes sustainable environmental management over manicured, traditional landscaping. It acts as a cooling urban lungs for Tainan, providing a natural habitat that requires minimal human intervention. It serves as an educational space highlighting the intersection of local history and modern environmental conservation.
The central wooden footbridge overlooking the reflecting pond during sunset.
Bring mosquito repellent as the natural wetland environment attracts insects.
Visit at dusk during spring and summer months to maximize chances of spotting fireflies.
Keep to the designated wooden footbridges to avoid trampling sensitive habitats.
Do not use flash photography at night, as it disorients the firefly population and disturbs other wildlife.
Maintain silence to observe wildlife, carry out all trash, and do not feed the local bird or fish populations.
