by Xu Ting-Wei, project student
On the morning of December 21, the "Cultural and Historical Innovation Community" under the USR program of Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages successfully hosted a cultural walking tour themed around the upper stream of the Love River. Led by lecturer Zhang Shouzhen, the event combined professional explanations with on-site exploration, attracting participants from various backgrounds. The event provided an in-depth understanding of the historical background and cultural significance of the upper stream of the Love River.
On the day of the event, participants gathered at the Minzu First Road entrance of Wenzao Ursuline University and began their route along the Minzu Bridge (Wenzao Bridge), passing landmarks such as Dingxin Bridge and Shihu Park. Guided by Lecturer Zhang Shouzhen, the group visited culturally and historically significant sites, including the Wenzao Heritage Square, Wenzao Gongjian Hall, and the Kaohsiung Dao De Institute. They also learned about the functions and impact of the Cao Gong Irrigation System and the “Xianzilin Reservoir.”
Additionally, the walking tour covered traditional Minnan-style residential architecture and the Fudingjin Baoan Temple. Participants climbed Fudingjin Hill to enjoy scenic views of Lion Head Mountain and Golden Lion Lake. Through the activity, participants not only experienced the diversity of the upper stream of the Love River but also gained insight into the development of the riverbanks and the way of life in early Kaohsiung.
This walking tour provided participants with a rich cultural experience and a deeper appreciation of Kaohsiung's historical culture. During the event, community members shared cultural stories with the public, extending learning beyond the classroom and integrating it into real life, thereby achieving the goal of applying knowledge in practical contexts.
In the future, the Cultural and Historical Innovation Community will continue to focus on Kaohsiung’s local culture, organizing more diverse activities to help the public uncover the city’s unique charm. Through foreign languages, the team also aims to share Kaohsiung’s stories with a broader international audience.
The lecturer introduces the ecological and historical stories of the guided tour location.
The lecturer explained the architectural history of the Wenzao Heritage Square.
The lecturer discusses the plants surrounding Xianzilin Reservoir.
The lecturer elaborated on the early uses and historical significance of cinnamon.
