Strolling through Bade Pond Ecological Park in Taoyuan feels like stepping into a green sanctuary gently preserved by the passage of time. Covering about 4.5 hectares, this urban oasis not only retains the distinctive pond landscapes unique to Taoyuan but also serves as a relaxing retreat for residents and a paradise for ecological observers.
The pond is the soul of this park. Its mirror-like surface reflects the sky and drifting clouds, while aquatic plants such as yellow water lilies, hornwort, lotus flowers, and water hyacinths sway gently in the breeze, forming a living watercolor painting that changes with the seasons. With a little attention, you can spot common moorhens weaving through the aquatic vegetation, little egrets standing still in shallow waters awaiting their catch, and black-crowned night herons quietly perching in the treetops as they wait for dusk to fall. Visiting in winter offers the chance to see the graceful great egret and grey heron—seasonal visitors that bring a touch of wild charm and surprise to the pond.
A slow walk along the shaded trails soothes both body and mind. Not only do the ecological landscapes harmonize with nature, but the park’s architecture also takes inspiration from it—featuring warm wooden structures and recycled green building materials that reflect an eco-friendly spirit. The management center and observation decks have a simple yet thoughtful design, while a wooden café with handmade bread and freshly brewed coffee made from local ingredients offers comfort to travelers’ taste buds, inviting them to slow down and soak in the greenery.
Another highlight of the park is its artificial ecological pond, designed to mimic natural wetlands. It has become an important habitat for aquatic plants and waterbirds. Whether it’s small fish darting among the duckweed or flocks of ducks foraging along the shore, every life form here is part of a rich wetland ecosystem, offering visitors rare opportunities for close observation.
Bade Pond Ecological Park is also an outdoor classroom that blends education with fun. The park regularly hosts environmental education activities covering the history of the pond, wetland ecology, nature observation, and hands-on science projects. Through interactive experiences, visitors of all ages gain a deeper understanding of the importance and conservation value of this wetland. Walking along the lakeside trail, with informative signs and interpretation facilities along the way, one can’t help but marvel at the biodiversity hidden in the heart of the city—almost as if stepping into the refreshing world of Hualien’s Yunshanshui.
At a secondary entrance, you’ll be greeted by “Four-Eyed Frog,” a large art installation originating from the Taoyuan Land Art Festival. Now a landmark of the park, it blends art with nature, adding a cultural touch and becoming a popular photo spot for visitors of all ages.