The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are designed specifically for the practice of 'entering the dragon and exiting the tiger' to reverse bad karma.
The Confucius Temple at the pond is the largest in Taiwan, spanning over 6 acres of land.
The lake was created in 1951 as a reservoir for irrigation and water supply for local agriculture.
The zigzag bridge at the Spring and Autumn Pavilions is intentionally designed with turns to deter evil spirits, which are believed to only travel in straight lines.
During the Qing Dynasty, this area was known for the 'Fragrance of Lotuses,' a poetic description of the extensive lotus growth that persists today.
Lotus Pond is an artificial lake in the Zuoying District, famous for its high concentration of traditional Chinese temples, pavilions, and pagodas. The area is anchored by the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, where visitors enter the dragon's mouth and exit the tiger's mouth to symbolize turning bad luck into good fortune. The Spring and Autumn Pavilions feature two four-story pagodas connected by a zigzag bridge to a statue of the Goddess of Mercy riding a dragon. The lake is home to the Confucius Temple, modeled after the Song Dynasty style, which is the largest of its kind in Taiwan. Local religious festivals often center around the temples dotting the lake's perimeter. Constructed in 1951, the area serves as both a historical site and a popular recreational space for local residents. The lake's surface is covered with lotus plants that bloom significantly during summer months. The entire perimeter is accessible via a path that allows for a complete loop around the water.
The mid-point of the zigzag bridge leading to the Spring and Autumn Pavilions for a framed view of the structures over the water.
Walk the entire perimeter of the lake to see the smaller, less crowded shrines that sit between the major pagodas.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as the path around the lake offers very little shade during midday.
Look for the local street food vendors near the temple entrances for traditional Taiwanese snacks like oyster omelets.
Feeding the local turtle or fish populations in the pond, as it disrupts the local ecosystem.
Remove hats and sunglasses when inside temple interiors; dress modestly to show respect for active places of worship.
