Zhang Xueliang Cultural Park is a historic memorial site in the Qingquan settlement of Wufeng Township, Hsinchu County, commemorating the years Zhang Xueliang — central figure of the Xi'an Incident — spent under house arrest here. He was sent to Qingquan (then called Inoue Hot Spring) in November 1946 and was not moved to Xizi Bay in Kaohsiung until October 1957, with sources estimating his detention at Qingquan lasted roughly 11 to 13 years. The park preserves his former residence and displays related artifacts, letting visitors reflect on this complex chapter of history amid the mountains and river valley.
Zhang Xueliang was sent to Qingquan (Inoue Hot Spring) in Hsinchu in November 1946 and was relocated to Xizi Bay, Kaohsiung, in October 1957; sources vary on the exact length of his detention at Qingquan, estimating roughly 11 to 13 years. Qingquan Hot Spring itself is a neutral sodium bicarbonate spring with water temperatures of about 43 to 48°C, clear, colorless, and drinkable.
What to see at Zhang Xueliang Cultural Park
The park is set in the Qingquan settlement along the Shangping River. The former residence was built against the hillside with a simple layout, but retains traces of its original furnishings. Exhibits include Zhang Xueliang's letters, photographs, and related historical materials, giving visitors insight into this historical figure's life of confinement in Taiwan. Qingquan itself is the main settlement in Wufeng Township; Atayal Indigenous traditions continue here, adding a layer of Indigenous cultural depth to the park.
Adjacent to the park is the Qingquan Hot Spring area, with sodium bicarbonate springs (see the Qingquan Hot Spring entry). Steep cliffs on both sides of the river valley and a suspension bridge create a serene landscape. Nearby, an Atayal settlement display area offers introductions to traditional crafts, clothing, and food culture, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the local Indigenous cultural background.
Tips for making the most of your visit
Practical information
Getting there and timing
- Qingquan is in a mountain area with infrequent public transport. Driving is recommended: from Zhudong, head toward Wufeng Township along Provincial Highway 122 — about 50 minutes. The mountain road is winding; drive carefully.
- Opening hours and admission fees are subject to the latest official announcements. Check the Hsinchu County Government website or the park's official site before you go.
Nearby connections
- Combine with the Qingquan Hot Spring — the scenery along the way is the same, saving extra travel time.
- You can also extend to other settlements in Wufeng Township or, in winter (weather permitting), mountain snow views. Confirm road conditions in advance.
Source: Text compiled from the Wikipedia article on Qingquan Hot Spring and publicly available historical information. Please refer to the latest official announcements for opening hours. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Zhang Xueliang Cultural Park commemorate?
It commemorates Zhang Xueliang, the central figure of the Xi'an Incident, who was held under house arrest in Qingquan from November 1946 to October 1957; the park preserves his former residence and related artifacts.
How long was Zhang Xueliang held at Qingquan?
Sources estimate roughly 11 to 13 years — he was sent there in November 1946 and relocated to Xizi Bay, Kaohsiung, in October 1957.
What are the qualities of Qingquan Hot Spring?
Qingquan Hot Spring is a neutral sodium bicarbonate spring with water temperatures of about 43 to 48°C, clear and colorless, and safe to drink.
What else is there to see near the former residence?
The park sits next to the Qingquan Hot Spring area and an Atayal settlement display area, so visitors can soak in the hot springs and learn about Atayal crafts and food culture nearby.
Sources
- 清泉溫泉 - 維基百科 — 軟禁起訖年份、泉質數據
- 西安事變後遭蔣介石囚禁59年!揭少帥張學良鮮為人知的軟禁生活 - 風傳媒 — 軟禁清泉時間、遷往高雄年份