Xiaoli Pond is the first agricultural pond ever constructed in Taoyuan's history, now over 200 years old, with a water surface of approximately 6 jia (about 6 hectares). It is the largest agricultural water body in Bade District. Each winter from November to January, the bald cypress trees planted along the pond bank transition from green to orange-red, and their fallen foliage reflects on the water surface. It is the most closely followed seasonal landscape among Taoyuan's many agricultural ponds, and a quintessential record of Taoyuan's agricultural pond landscape.
What to See at Xiaoli Pond Bald Cypress Grove
The construction of Xiaoli Pond can be traced to the Jiaqing era of the Qing dynasty. It was one of the upstream reservoir ponds in the Taoyuan Irrigation System and has long served agricultural irrigation purposes. The bald cypress trees along the bank were planted later. Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) is native to North America; its flood-tolerant root system is well suited to planting close to the water's edge, and its autumn-to-winter color change is its most distinctive ecological trait.
The pace of color change in the bald cypress depends on temperature. The foliage typically begins turning orange-yellow in mid-to-late November, reaching orange-red from December to January, then progressively dropping. The effective viewing period is about one to two months, with slight variations each year. A simple trail allows visitors to walk around the pond; the mirror reflection on the water surface is clearest on windless mornings. The bare-branch silhouettes after leaf drop have a different kind of spatial quality, though the experience differs markedly from the peak color period.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- Drive from Taoyuan or Zhongli to the Xiaoli area of Bade District and follow the directional signs. Roadside parking is limited and more difficult to find during peak season.
- The pond bank area is open all day with no admission fee; the best light for the bald cypress falls from early morning to before noon.
Nearby Connections
- Bade District has a connected pond walking trail system for exploring other Taoyuan pond landscapes.
- Combine with dining in Taoyuan or Zhongli city center for a half-day winter suburban outing.
Sources: Taoyuan City Irrigation Agency, pond-related materials. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.