San Keng Natural Ecological Park is located on the picturesque shores of the Dahan River at Shimen Reservoir, covering approximately 7 hectares. Its core features include an expansive ecological lake and surrounding grassy recreational areas. The entire park is constructed using ecological engineering methods, with extensive planting of native flora adapted to the local environment. This integration of ecological design preserves natural scenery while offering facilities such as rest areas, pavilions, wooden arch bridges, and wading canals. Additionally, the park connects with the San Keng Bicycle Trail, creating a space for wellness and leisure activities.
The surrounding environment of San Keng Ecological Park lacks industrial development, and its proximity to Shimen Reservoir offers layered views of lakes and mountains. Gentle slopes of greenery by the shore create a tranquil, leisurely atmosphere. In autumn, the native Chinese honey locust trees (Taiwan栾树) change their appearance, adding delicate red hues that enhance the emerald canopies with striking beauty. The landscape is exceptionally scenic.
San Keng Ecological Park traces its history back to the Japanese colonial era when it served as a bustling ferry terminal. Siltation of the river eventually led to the decline of water transport. Further degradation occurred after illegal sand extraction and arbitrary dumping of waste severely damaged the local landscape. Through efforts by the local community and various stakeholders, the Ministry of the Interior's Public Construction Commission redesigned and revitalized the area. Integrating water sources from the Shimen River Irrigation System, the park gradually restored surrounding greenery to become a shimmering, lush natural ecological sanctuary.
The park showcases a rich aquatic ecosystem and has become a representative attraction of Longtan’s scenic beauty. Located adjacent to Shimen Reservoir and the Dahan River, the park was originally designed to preserve its natural ecology, minimizing human interference. It combines nature with recreational functions, using concrete solely for pavilions and observation bridges. The entire area allows rainwater to naturally permeate the soil. The ecological pool’s perimeter is crafted using local river stones, and its water remains clear and flowing through a continuous supply of groundwater and spring water. Protective embankments are reinforced with treated wooden stakes to provide birds with resting spaces. Fishing is prohibited in the lake, preserving its diverse ecological richness; as the sun sets, the scenery becomes especially serene and captivating. Walking along the wooden boardwalk near the shoreline, visitors can immerse themselves in the view of mountains and lakes and observe birdlife up close. The park not only provides an ideal destination for leisure and relaxation but also serves as a popular spot for wedding photography and ecological education.
Nearby, the park connects with the Dahan River levee. Ascending the stone steps to the river embankment offers distant views of the Shimen Reservoir Dam and the Dahan River’s riverside scenery. Behind the park lies the renowned San Keng Bicycle Trail, a 6-kilometer-long cycling route with a moderate gradient suitable for people of all ages to ride and enjoy together. During the summer, vast fields of green rice paddies create an endless expanse of verdant vistas; after autumn and winter harvesting, Mexican sunflowers are planted as cover crops, transforming the area into a vibrant sea of flowers and adding a visually appealing highlight to the park’s seasonal charm.