Tucked away in the heart of Taijiang National Park in southern Taiwan’s Tainan City, the Sicao Green Tunnel (四草綠色隧道) is a hidden gem revered by locals and travelers alike. Since this natural tunnel-like waterway is so unique, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in this historical city.
Watch the following video for more interesting images of the Scicao Green Tunnel in Tainan, Taiwan.
The Sicao Green Waterway
Over a century ago, the Sicao Green Waterway was an artificial canal that facilitated the transportation of salt, sugar, and other necessities. It was a vital link between Sicao Lake and the present-day Qigu area. Due to its shallow water, only bamboo rafts could pass through, hence the name “Bamboo Raft Pier.”
Stretching approximately 800 meters (2,624 feet) in length and spanning 6 to 10 meters (20-26 feet) in width, this waterway was the very first canal in Taiwan, which was developed more than 200 years ago. Flanked by lush native mangroves over 50 years old on both sides, the waterway is Taiwan’s only aquatic green river.
The Sicao Green Waterway presents visitors with a picturesque green tunnel-like passageway that creates a serene atmosphere reminiscent of the famous Amazon rainforest. The Waterway was therefore referred to as the “Taiwan mini Amazon” (小亞馬遜河).
Exploring the Sicao Green Tunnel on a tube raft
The most exciting highlight of a visit to this attraction is a ride on a sightseeing tube raft to explore the Sicao Green Tunnel. Before boarding the raft, each passenger is given a life jacket and a conical bamboo hat for shade and head protection.
In addition to enjoying the scenery of the amazingly beautiful Sicao Green Tunnel formed by the mangroves, during the 30-minute raft ride, the docent on board will introduce the history of the Sicao Green Tunnel and various birds, plants, crabs, and fish in the mangrove forest. Visitors can also see fiddler crabs, mudskippers, herons, night herons, and other birds.
The Sicao Dazhong Temple
Adjacent to the Sicao Green Tunnel is the historical Sicao Dazhong Temple (四草大眾廟), a cultural landmark steeped in centuries of tradition. Built in 1700, the temple enshrines the Marshal of the Sea, also known as Marshal Zhenhai (鎮海元帥) or Dazhong Ye (大眾爺).
Dazhong Ye was originally a local man known as Chen You (陳酉), who was posthumously given the title of “Marshal Zhenhai” by the Qianlong Emperor (1711-1799) for his remarkable victories in numerous wars. He holds the distinction of being the first person to be deified in Taiwan. The magnificent architecture with ornate decorations offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage and invites visitors to experience the spirituality and awe woven into the fabric of Taiwan’s history.
The Sperm Whale Exhibition Hall
Next to the Sicao Dazhong Temple is a small Sperm Whale Exhibition Hall, which houses one of the largest and most intact sperm whale specimens. This educational facility is dedicated to the 1922 stranding of a mother whale and her calf on the nearby beach. The 14-meter-long mother whale specimen, along with her 4-meter-long calf, is a poignant reminder of the awe-inspiring majesty of these ocean giants.
In addition to the sperm whale specimens, the exhibit features a variety of marine life specimens, shells, fishing equipment, antique tools, ancient Taiwanese traditional musical instruments, etc., providing an enriching experience for children and adults alike. The informative displays highlight the importance of marine conservation efforts and the intricate interplay between human activities and the marine ecosystem.
