Hutoupi Scenic Area is a reservoir park in Xinhua District, Tainan, built between 1831 and 1846 during the Qing dynasty's Daoguang reign — the oldest surviving reservoir in Taiwan, often called "Taiwan's first reservoir." Its lake covers about 27 hectares, and a lakeside trail and boat rentals make it a popular weekend destination near Tainan.
Hutoupi Reservoir was initiated by local farmer Ouyang An, who rallied residents to fund construction; work began in 1831 (Daoguang 11) and was completed in 1846 (Daoguang 26), impounding the upper reaches of the Yanshui River for agricultural irrigation. It is the oldest surviving reservoir in Taiwan and is often called "Taiwan's first reservoir." In 1863, Tainan Prefect Zhou Maoqi allocated additional funds for expansion. The lake surface today covers approximately 27 hectares, and the lakeside trail runs roughly 4 to 4.5 km (sources vary slightly).
What to See at Hutoupi Scenic Area
Hutoupi is located in Xinhua District, Tainan City. It was built during the Daoguang reign of the Qing dynasty by local gentry pooling funds for agricultural irrigation; it has a history of over a hundred years. The hills surrounding the reservoir are gently rolling, with good vegetation coverage; the lake surface sits among hills, the scenery serene. It was renovated and expanded during the Japanese colonial period and was later incorporated into Tainan County's scenic area management — one of Tainan's rare suburban attractions combining historical background with natural scenery.
The lakeside trail has pavilions and interpretive signs along the shore, suitable for a leisurely stroll. Pedal boats and rowboats are available for rent on the lake; fees vary by type — enquire on-site. In spring, new growth appears on the lakeside trees; in autumn and winter, the water level is stable and the views are open. Families having picnics and photography enthusiasts gather on weekends; weekdays are comparatively quieter.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- Located in Xinhua District, Tainan City; driving or riding a scooter is most convenient. The grounds have a parking area, though spaces may be tight on weekends.
- There is no direct bus from central Tainan; bring your own transport. For opening hours and admission fees, check the Tainan City Government website or confirm on-site.
Nearby Connections
- Xinhua Old Street (Zhongzheng Road) in the town center has Baroque shophouses — worth a stroll while you are in the area.
- Zuozhen Fossil Park is nearby; those interested in geology or archaeology can combine it in the same day.
Source: Wikipedia entry 'Hutoupi Scenic Area' and Tainan City Government tourism information. Photos pending replacement with Dio's actual shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hutoupi Taiwan's first reservoir?
Yes — built between 1831 and 1846, it is the oldest surviving reservoir in Taiwan and is often called "Taiwan's first reservoir."
How large is Hutoupi's water surface?
The lake currently covers about 27 hectares.
How long does the lakeside trail take?
The trail runs roughly 4 to 4.5 km, taking most visitors about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
What was Hutoupi originally used for?
It was originally built by local farmer Ouyang An, who raised funds to impound the upper Yanshui River for agricultural irrigation.
Sources
- 叫我第一名 臺灣第一的虎頭埤水庫 — 台灣第一水庫、建於清道光年間
- 虎頭埤 - 維基百科 — 1831-1846興建年代、歐陽安集資
- 虎頭埤風景區－台南旅遊網 — 水域面積、環湖步道長度