The Sicao Bridge in Tainan is located at the intersection of the Yanshui River and the Chianan Canal, a geographically unique area. Due to the mixing of freshwater and seawater, the region has developed into a rich fishing ground, making it a popular spot for anglers. At night, the bridge transforms into a lively night market, with many vendors even setting up stalls directly on the roadway, creating a bustling atmosphere. Originally built as an alternative route for the West Coast Expressway (Provincial Highway 61), the bridge underwent route adjustments following the establishment of Taijiang National Park. The bridge stretches approximately 4.1 kilometers, starting from the intersection of Benten Road and Luerhmen Avenue at its northern end, and serves as a major transportation hub in the Tainan area.
Located near the river mouth, the Sicao Bridge offers broad, open views, making it an ideal place to enjoy sunsets and attracting many visitors for its scenic beauty. Beneath the bridge lies a nearly one-kilometer-long beach, but due to rapid currents and numerous wave-dissipating blocks, dangerous whirlpools often form. As a result, the authorities have explicitly banned swimming in the area. In recent years, the bridge has drawn public attention due to frequent reports of people falling into the water. These incidents have involved not only the general public but also anglers, fueling discussions about its supposed "supernatural legends." Some folklore experts believe this may be related to the area's historical background.
According to local legend, the waters around the Sicao Bridge were once battlefields where the Dutch and Japanese clashed upon entering Taiwan. It is said that the souls of those who perished still linger in the area. From a Taoist perspective, waterways are governed by the "Waterway City God." If the deceased have not been properly laid to rest or received the necessary spiritual documents, their souls cannot depart—possibly explaining the frequent accidents and ghost stories associated with the site.
