Baguashan Great Buddha is a 22-meter reinforced-concrete Buddha statue landmark in Changhua City, completed in 1961 and among central Taiwan's most recognizable landmarks. The scenic area includes a sky walkway from which, on clear days, you can see across the Changhua Plain. The grounds are free to enter, with well-maintained nature trails and rest facilities, making it a common destination for Changhua residents on daily hikes and for visitors from elsewhere seeking mountain views.
Baguashan Great Buddha was completed in 1961, designed by architect Lin Ching-yao in reference to Japan's Great Buddha of Kamakura; the statue is made of reinforced concrete and stands about 22 meters tall. Each year around the spring equinox in March, the grey-faced buzzard migrates north through the Bagua Mountain Range on its return migration, with peak sightings around March 15-25 in 2025; the Changhua County Government and the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Administration jointly hold the annual 'Eagle Watching in Baguashan' event.
Highlights of Baguashan Great Buddha Scenic Area
Baguashan sits on the western foothills of the Bagua Mountain Range, right next to Changhua City — the leading edge where central Taiwan's valley mountains meet the plain. The Great Buddha is positioned at the highest point of the hill; the interior of the base houses an exhibition space with material on Buddhist culture. The hill's sky walkway extends in the form of a glass-deck path, offering a layered view of Changhua City streets and the distant plain. On clear days with good visibility, the view extends toward the Taichung Basin.
The park has several nature trails shaded by dense tree canopy, with interpretive signs identifying native tree species. Each year from March to May, the grey-faced buzzard migrates through the Bagua Mountain Range, and the area around the park becomes a birdwatching hotspot where birders gather to observe — a natural experience entirely different from visiting the landmark Buddha. On weekends the park hosts vendor stalls offering light refreshments and local produce.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Visiting Hours
- About 20 minutes on foot from Changhua Train Station, or take a Changhua city bus to the Great Buddha stop — check real-time bus information for exact schedules.
- The park is free and open year-round. For the raptor season (March–May), early morning or evening is recommended; parking is limited on weekends.
Nearby Connections
- After descending, Changhua Confucius Temple and the Changhua Roundhouse are within walking distance. The three sites can form a Changhua City cultural half-day itinerary.
- Near Changhua Train Station you will find local snacks such as bawan (meat dumpling); a good spot for a meal after visiting.
Sources: Changhua County Tourism Bureau; Changhua City Office. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Baguashan Great Buddha built and how tall is it?
It was completed in 1961, made of reinforced concrete, and stands about 22 meters tall, making it one of central Taiwan's most iconic landmarks.
When is the raptor-watching season at Baguashan?
The grey-faced buzzard's northbound migration through the Bagua Mountain Range peaks around the spring equinox in March, with official eagle-watching events usually held in mid-to-late March.
Sources
- 八卦山大佛風景區－參山國家風景區管理處 — 官方景點介紹，含建成年份與高度
- 啟建60年 八卦山大佛傳奇一甲子－中國時報 — 1961年竣工、建築師林慶堯設計等沿革
- 2025鷹揚八卦賞鷹活動3月22、23日登場－彰化縣政府 — 灰面鵟鷹過境月份與賞鷹活動官方公告