The Baopu Irrigation Canal is one of Taiwan's early major water conservancy projects, which introduced water from the Zhuo River to irrigate the Changhua Plain. Hence, the Baopu Irrigation Canal is also known as the Zhuo Shui Irrigation Canal. The "Baopu Irrigation Canal Green Corridor" is nestled in this serene landscape surrounded by water canals and fields.
The Baopu Irrigation Canal Green Corridor has long been a favorite spot for locals to ride bicycles or take leisurely strolls. Along the canal, the small-leaf olive trees on both sides of the road form a dense shaded space. During harvest season, one can gaze out at the golden rice fields swaying gently in the wind, showcasing the classic Taiwanese rural scenery. This route was also part of the Tianzhong Marathon course, and it's easy to imagine the runners racing along the winding canal with comfort and ease.
The folk beliefs developed under the water conservancy heritage are reflected in the "Shi Fang Temple", which is located at the confluence of the first and second Baopu Irrigation Canals. The main deity, Lin Ma Niangniang, is regarded as the guardian goddess of water conservancy. Notably, the temple's devotees offer guavas as a unique characteristic, which was once a taboo fruit for worship.
The "Lin Xianren Temple", located in the same area as the second Baopu Irrigation Canal, honors a Lin family member who assisted in the construction of the Baopu Irrigation Canal. According to legend, he guided the water diversion and then disappeared. The locals built a temple to worship him. Another story suggests that Lin Xianren is an incarnation of Lin Ma Niangniang, reflecting the strong bond between local development and the common people's society.
During the Japanese colonial period, a walking tour of old houses is also recommended. The "Tianzhong Xiao Yunzhang House", located near the second Baopu Irrigation Canal and Dasha Road, was built during the Japanese colonial period. Mr. Xiao Yunzhang served as a village head and was an important leader in the Tianzhong area. The house blends Japanese, Fujian-style, and Western classical architectural elements, making it a rare and distinctive example.